The Banten Provincial Government has warned the public to be cautious of brokers promising admission to public high schools and vocational schools in exchange for payments, vowing to impose severe sanctions on any involved school officials or teachers. Education Chief Jamaluddin emphasised that the pre-SPMB process for 2026 is strictly monitored to ensure fairness, urging parents to report any irregularities via official channels for investigation. This initiative aims to uphold integrity in the student admission system amid concerns over corrupt practices.

PT Tempo Inti Media Tbk is set to launch an AI platform that aggregates all data, including information, photos, and events from its reporting since Majalah Tempo's inception in 1971, targeting corporations and B2B clients through a subscription model, with a launch planned for this year. The platform will function similarly to ChatGPT, allowing users to query Tempo's extensive archives for relevant information, leveraging the media company's over half-century of valuable historical content for researchers and stakeholders. Additionally, Tempo is introducing a special Rp47,000 monthly subscription package for students, accessible via university emails, aiming to boost its digital subscribers to 100,000 by 2027 and tap into the young reader demographic.

Approximately 2.3 million children in Indonesia remain unvaccinated, categorised as zero-dose, primarily due to parental concerns over side effects, misinformation, and religious issues, exacerbating outbreaks of diseases like measles. The Health Ministry highlights a drop in immunisation coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing challenges from hoaxes, while local governments in areas like Bandung are strengthening community health centres to reduce these numbers. This situation underscores the need for community immunity to prevent the resurgence of preventable diseases, with recent data showing declines in zero-dose cases in West Java.

Approximately 2.3 million children in Indonesia remain completely unvaccinated, contributing to outbreaks of measles in several regions, as revealed by the Ministry of Health. Factors such as misinformation about vaccine side effects, including false claims linking immunisation to autism, and religious concerns have deterred parents, exacerbating the issue that worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Local governments, including in Bandung, are intensifying community-based efforts and involving religious leaders to boost immunisation rates and achieve herd immunity.

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has arrested Laode Sinarwan Oda, the President Director of PT Toshida Indonesia, suspected of bribing inactive Ombudsman Chairman Hery Susanto in a corruption case involving nickel mining governance in Southeast Sulawesi. The arrest followed Oda's three failures to appear for questioning, leading to a forced apprehension at his Jakarta home and his subsequent designation as a suspect with sufficient evidence. This development comes amid ongoing legal proceedings against Hery Susanto, who was recently named a suspect in the same nickel mining corruption scandal spanning 2013 to 2025, highlighting persistent issues in Indonesia's resource sector oversight.

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) Indonesia reports a significant decline in condominium demand from 2020 to 2025, attributed to developers' cautious approach in launching new products and consumers' focus on accessibility to infrastructure and public transport. While new unit launches remain limited, sales of ready-to-occupy units have boosted cumulative sales to 83% in 2026, supported by government incentives on Value-Added Tax. Condominium prices remain stable with slight increases in the luxury segment, as developers offer promotions to maintain market interest.

Presidential Chief of Staff General (Ret.) Dudung Abdurachman visited SMP Muhammadiyah 16 in Central Jakarta to inspect the School Revitalisation Programme, a key presidential initiative aimed at upgrading educational facilities nationwide. The government has already revitalised 16,167 schools with Rp1.2 trillion in funding directly allocated to school heads, sourced from efficiency measures and assets seized from corrupt officials, with plans to cover 71,744 schools this year using Rp14 trillion. This effort extends to both public and private institutions, including madrasahs, targeting improvements in classrooms, laboratories, sanitation, and other infrastructure to enhance learning environments.

Chery Indonesia is set to introduce its new compact electric vehicle, the Chery Q, to the public following its positive reception in China and Thailand, with digital searches for the model surging by 80% in the past week. The vehicle, designed for urban mobility with a fun and energetic aesthetic, offers practical features like a spacious boot and comfortable interior, targeting the needs of city dwellers for efficient and stylish transport. This launch, scheduled for 18 May at the Indonesian Idol event, is expected to bring fresh innovation to Indonesia's growing electric vehicle market and reshape perceptions of eco-friendly mobility.

The Tabanan Regency Government will commence imposing sanctions on waste management violators starting Wednesday, 13 May 2026, ranging from verbal warnings to minor criminal charges. These measures target both residents and businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, with administrative penalties potentially affecting business permits, while emphasising education and community guidance prior to enforcement. Additionally, traditional village regulations are encouraged to apply social sanctions to enhance local compliance.

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has strongly protested the Indonesian National Armed Forces' (TNI) disbandment of public screenings of the documentary film 'Pesta Babi: Colonialism in Our Time' in Ternate and other areas, labelling it a serious violation of citizens' constitutional rights to freedom of expression and artistic enjoyment. The legislator from the PDIP faction questioned the military's motives, arguing that such actions excessively stifle criticism of government policies and may inadvertently heighten public interest in the film, potentially leading to international acclaim. This incident underscores ongoing tensions between military intervention and democratic freedoms in Indonesia.

The Indonesian rupiah closed at a historic low of Rp 17,529 against the US dollar on Tuesday, weakening by 0.66% amid fragile US-Iran peace negotiations that are reigniting geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. These tensions threaten global energy supply chains, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, exacerbating market uncertainty. In response, the Trump administration announced the release of 53.3 million barrels of crude oil from the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve to stabilise global oil markets.

Vocational high school students undertaking internships or field work practice (PKL) are eligible for the Work Accident Insurance (JKK) programme under BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, provided they pay regular contributions and maintain active participant status. This coverage includes comprehensive medical services, cash benefits for various accident-related scenarios, and support for returning to work, extending to risks during commutes and official duties. The regulation underscores the importance of social security protections for young trainees, aligning with Indonesia's broader labour and education policies.

The MPR RI Secretariat has deactivated the judging panel and MC of the Four Pillars LCC at the West Kalimantan provincial level following public outcry over a scoring error in the final round. The incident involved a dispute where a team's correct answer on the selection of BPK members was penalised due to unclear articulation, prompting an apology and a commitment to comprehensive evaluation of the competition's technical aspects. This response underscores the MPR's emphasis on transparency and accountability in educational initiatives promoting national ideology.

International relations expert Teuku Rezasyah emphasises the need for in-depth research on energy positions in ASEAN countries amid geopolitical uncertainties and global supply disruptions, particularly following US actions against Iran. He highlights varying energy dependencies across the region and anticipates challenges in ratifying the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security (APSA), which aims to enable mutual assistance during fuel shortages. Indonesia, as a major consumer, may leverage the agreement for better negotiations with oil exporters, while also considering peaceful nuclear development to bolster its energy security.

The United States is experiencing a surprising surge in economic productivity, growing at around 2% annually over the past five years—double the rate of the 2010s—driven by business efficiencies, cheap energy, and economic flexibility rather than artificial intelligence. This resurgence, which began in the early 2020s, has been particularly strong in professional services and management sectors through the adoption of digital tools like cloud computing and videoconferencing. Factors such as the shale-fracking revolution making the US a major energy exporter and flexible labour policies during the Covid-19 pandemic have further bolstered this productivity boom, positioning the economy for even greater gains as AI integration advances.

Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin, has set a target of 70,000 to 80,000 vocational school graduates from the poorest regions to participate in the SMK Go Global programme by the end of this year, with an overall goal of 500,000 by 2029. The initiative, which provides overseas job opportunities in countries including Japan, South Korea, and the Middle East, is a key focus of President Prabowo Subianto's administration aimed at poverty alleviation and job creation. During a meeting at the Presidential Palace, Cak Imin also reported on efforts to boost MSMEs through expanded access to People's Business Credit (KUR), training subsidies, and initiatives like 1,001 people's markets to enhance market access and productivity.

In Jakarta, only 167 out of 607 operational SPPG units currently hold the mandatory SLHS certification, with 440 still in the process, as stated by Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency Nanik S Deyang. While full certification is required under Presidential Regulation 115, temporary tolerance is granted to those that have registered with local health authorities, acknowledging the time-intensive nature of inspections and verifications. The Jakarta Provincial Government is accelerating mass certification efforts in coordination with the BGN and Ministry of Health to ensure safe, nutritious, and hygienic food distribution under the free nutritious meals programme.

The Jakarta DPRD's Special Committee on Parking has uncovered allegations of a Rp 50 billion state loss from the 15-year management of Blok M parking by Best Parking, due to discrepancies between reported revenues and actual turnover, including suspected illegal levies in recent years. The committee suspects data manipulation and tax evasion, urging investigations by the Regional Revenue Agency, the Financial Audit Board, and the Jakarta Attorney General's Office. As a follow-up, the parking gates have been sealed, with direct management shifting to the Transportation Department's Parking Management Unit using a real-time integrated non-cash payment system to enhance transparency and prevent future irregularities.

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN), Indonesia's state-owned gas company, is marking its 61st anniversary by bolstering its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments via a corporate social responsibility programme that transforms plastic waste into value-added products. The initiative involves integrated waste management, including sorting by employees, collection with Kertabumi Recycling Centre, and processing with Bank Sampah Al-Bustaniyah, supported by partnerships with Kompas, National Geographic Indonesia, and others to promote environmental awareness and circular economy practices. This effort addresses pressing issues like pollution and microplastic health risks, emphasising collaborative action for sustainable waste management and societal behavioural change.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured foreign investors that the Indonesian government is committed to swiftly resolving investment and business barriers to foster a more conducive business environment. He highlighted the critical role of the private sector, which contributes 90% to the national economy, in achieving the 8% growth target by 2029, and outlined the debottlenecking task force that has already resolved 45 out of 142 reported cases through transparent weekly sessions. This initiative, backed by Presidential Regulation No. 4 of 2026, aims to enhance policy implementation and investor confidence, potentially transforming Indonesia's business climate within the next year.

The Presidential Chief of Staff, Dudung, announced that 71,000 schools will be revitalised in 2026, with initial funding already secured for 11,000, sourced from presidential efficiencies and assets seized from corrupt officials, aiming to benefit Indonesian students. Additionally, 9,000 madrasahs are slated for revitalisation this year, following the 2,120 completed in 2025, in line with President Prabowo's vision for safe, comfortable learning environments equipped with air conditioning and proper sanitation. The process will be conducted transparently, with audits from multiple institutions including the Muhammadiyah organisation, relevant ministries, and the BPKP to ensure accountability.

The modern warehousing sector in Jabodetabek demonstrated consistent positive performance in the first quarter of 2024, maintaining a stable occupancy rate of 96 per cent, driven by strong investments from Chinese manufacturers seeking ready-to-use facilities to accelerate operations. Rental growth continued moderately, with premium projects commanding higher prices and influencing surrounding areas, while demand remains dominated by logistics and delivery services alongside expansions in other sectors. Overall, this segment stands as the strongest performer in the property market, with emerging demand in cities like Bandung, Subang, and Surabaya, further boosted by needs for industrial zones and data centres.

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined BD, the Deputy Chairman of the Rejang Lebong branch of the National Mandate Party (PAN), as a witness in a bribery case involving the suspended Regent of Rejang Lebong, Muhammad Fikri Thobari. The case stems from a 9 March 2026 sting operation that led to the arrest of the regent, his deputy, and 11 others over alleged bribes for public works projects in Bengkulu province. KPK alleges Thobari demanded 10-15% kickbacks from three private companies, with funds intended for purposes including Eid bonuses, highlighting ongoing corruption issues in local government procurement.

The Soekarno-Hatta International Airport's Main Health Quarantine Office has intensified surveillance on international passengers to enhance vigilance against Hantavirus, effective Tuesday (12/5). Thermal scanners have been installed at the international arrivals area, with extra checks for passengers from countries reporting cases, and special evacuation routes prepared for those showing symptoms. This measure underscores Indonesia's proactive approach to preventing the spread of emerging infectious diseases through air travel.

PT Tempo Inti Media Tbk (TMPO) reported a 17.7 percent increase in comprehensive profit to Rp 2.57 billion for 2025, despite a 17 percent decline in revenue to Rp 210.95 billion amid challenges like reduced advertising income and the loss of non-recurring election-related printing revenue. The company maintained profitability through strategic cost discipline, expense optimisation, and diversification of income sources, with positive growth in digital circulation, TV content, and other units offsetting declines in printing and events. This resilience highlights Tempo's adaptive response to digital disruptions and shifting consumer information habits in Indonesia's media industry.

The Pamekasan Education and Culture Office has issued a circular urging all schools under its jurisdiction to refrain from organising graduation ceremonies and study tours for final-year students starting in 2025, aiming to alleviate financial burdens on parents. Instead, schools are encouraged to hold alternative activities such as art performances, which align with the curriculum and foster students' creativity without imposing additional costs. This policy underscores a broader commitment to prioritising educational development over expensive farewell events, ensuring equitable access to learning opportunities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to end Israel's financial dependence on the United States, aiming to reduce American financial support in military cooperation to zero over the next decade. This comes amid declining public support for Israel in the US, which Netanyahu attributes to social media propaganda rather than the Gaza conflict. The statement highlights shifting dynamics in the longstanding US-Israel alliance, with ongoing debates in the US Congress over arms sales to Israel.

PT Invetra Teknologi Berjangka, a locally licensed broker regulated by Bappebti, has introduced a global-standard trading platform for forex and commodities, powered by Exinity's infrastructure, to meet the growing demands of active Indonesian traders. This launch aligns with the booming digital finance sector in Indonesia, where commodity futures trading volumes reached Rp33.214 trillion in 2024, and the digital economy is projected to hit US$360 billion by 2030. By prioritising stability, speed, and user-centric innovation, Invetra aims to enhance portfolio diversification and accessibility across web, Android, and iOS devices.

The eruption of Mount Dukono on 8 May 2026 tragically killed three hikers—one Indonesian and two Singaporeans—despite the area being officially closed to climbing due to the volcano's alert level II status. Search and rescue teams recovered the bodies over the following days from under volcanic ash and debris, highlighting the dangers of illegal ascents. Authorities are investigating the guides and porters involved for negligence, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety regulations in volcanic regions.

PT Sompo Insurance Indonesia achieved a 10% year-on-year increase in net profit to Rp 135.3 billion in 2025, alongside a 12% rise in net written premiums to Rp 1.87 trillion and a 13% growth in assets to Rp 4 trillion, despite a 25% surge in claims payouts to Rp 853 billion. The company's solvency ratios significantly exceeded regulatory minimums, with vehicle, property, and health insurance lines contributing 79% of total premiums, while its Sharia business also showed strong performance with underwriting surpluses and high capital adequacy. This success underscores Sompo's adaptive strategies and commitment to innovative protection solutions in a competitive market, positioning it for sustained growth and long-term value creation.

Legal practitioner Yosi Mulyadi explains that inheritance distribution in Indonesia is governed by strict legal norms rather than mere agreements among heirs, making wills insufficient to prevent disputes. For non-Muslims, civil law applies, while Muslims follow Islamic principles codified in the Compilation of Islamic Law, with heirs required to accept their portions without negotiation unless all parties unanimously agree otherwise. A Kompas.com survey reveals that 73% of respondents have been involved in family inheritance matters, with 71% viewing disputes as a major issue, highlighting the cultural taboo surrounding pre-death discussions.

The Attorney General's Office has confirmed that former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim is now serving house arrest following a court ruling granting the request to change his detention status in a corruption case involving Chromebook procurement. Strict conditions include remaining at home 24 hours a day, obtaining permission for any absences, reporting twice weekly to prosecutors, and surrendering travel documents like his passport, with potential electronic monitoring and security oversight. Violation of these terms could revert his status to state detention, underscoring the judiciary's balance between leniency and accountability in high-profile corruption probes.

Indonesian House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has urged consistent and ongoing supervision of online gambling practices following the exposure of a cross-border syndicate in West Jakarta involving hundreds of foreign nationals. She emphasised the need to strengthen anticipatory measures to prevent Indonesia from becoming a hub for international online gambling networks. Puan also praised the National Police for their efforts in uncovering the case.

Presidential Chief of Staff General (Ret.) Dudung Abdurachman conducted a surprise inspection of two kitchens for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in West Jakarta, uncovering serious hygiene and food safety issues, including the presence of maggots and unclean facilities. He demanded immediate improvements or suspension and closure of the non-compliant kitchens, coordinating with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to address the findings. This oversight underscores the KSP's commitment to ensuring the presidential priority programme delivers real benefits by upholding high standards of health, cleanliness, and nutrition to enhance Indonesian children's global competitiveness.

Acting Secretary General of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Siti Fauziah, shared her personal experience with early breast health detection during an event in Jakarta, emphasising the importance of routine check-ups to prevent fear and ensure timely treatment. The event, titled 'Modern Kartini: Cultivating Early Detection', was a collaboration between MPR, Rhemedi Medical Services, and Siloam Hospitals Group, aiming to promote preventive health practices among MPR staff through screenings and education on breast cancer and abdominal issues. Siloam Hospitals highlighted their SELANGKA programme, which has served 55,000 women and targets an additional 22,000 screenings in 2026, underscoring how early detection significantly improves survival rates.

President Prabowo Subianto met with Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar at the Presidential Palace to receive a report on his ministry's progress in poverty alleviation, job creation, and UMKM support. Muhaimin highlighted initiatives such as establishing 1,001 people's markets, training subsidies, affordable financing access, and the SMK Go Global programme to facilitate vocational graduates' employment abroad, targeting the poorest regions. The previous day, Prabowo had virtually received a similar update from Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono on priority projects like the three million housing programme and post-disaster rehabilitation.

Presidential Chief of Staff General (Ret.) Dudung Abdurrachman has expressed confidence that the government's school revitalisation budget is immune to corruption due to direct allocation to school principals for self-management. In 2025, 2,120 madrasahs were revitalised, with plans to revamp 9,000 more in 2026 and a total of 71,000 schools targeted, funded through presidential efficiencies and seizures from corrupt officials. This initiative under President Prabowo aims to provide Indonesian children with safe, comfortable, air-conditioned classrooms.

Israel has sent Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and personnel to the United Arab Emirates to bolster its defence against potential Iranian retaliation, as revealed by US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, highlighting the deepening defence ties under the Abraham Accords. Huckabee expressed optimism that more regional countries will join the accords, contrasting Israel's supportive role with Iran's threats, amid ongoing Arab anger over Israel's actions in Gaza and broader Middle East conflicts. Reports also suggest the UAE has secretly bombed Iran during the Israel-US led war, marking a significant escalation in Gulf states' involvement.

Chicken egg prices at the farm level in Indonesia have dropped below the government-set reference price of Rp26,500 per kg, leading to losses for farmers amid a national surplus of around 800,000 tons. The Ministry of Agriculture is addressing the issue by urging farmers to maintain unity against price undercutting by middlemen and planning a circular to ensure minimum purchase prices of Rp25,000 per kg, while also reorganising the distribution chain. This intervention highlights the government's efforts to stabilise the poultry sector and protect producers from exploitative practices that keep consumer prices high despite farm-level declines.

DPR RI Speaker Puan Maharani has called on the government to implement stricter prevention and anticipation measures to ensure Indonesia does not become a hub for online gambling syndicates. This follows a major police operation in Hayam Wuruk, Jakarta, where 320 foreign nationals and one Indonesian were arrested for operating illegal online gambling activities, with authorities seizing evidence including 75 suspected domains. PPATK reported Rp 40.3 trillion in illicit gambling turnover from January to March 2026, emphasising the need for ongoing crackdowns to protect Indonesian citizens and curb the spread of such crimes.

The Ministry of Public Works is advancing the construction of the Bitung Underpass in Tangerang Regency, Banten, to alleviate chronic traffic congestion on the North Coast (Pantura) route between Serang and Tangerang. This 350-metre single-cell underpass, designed for one-way traffic from Tangerang to Serang, addresses key bottlenecks during peak hours and supports economic mobility for logistics and industrial access in the region. With land acquisition progressing and a completion target of 2027, the project incorporates updated designs to safeguard national strategic utilities like Pertamina Gas pipelines.

The National Nutrition Agency's (BGN) deputy head, Nanik Sudaryati Deyang, conducted an inspection at SPPG 15 Pulo Gebang in East Jakarta, revealing that the facility serving free nutritious meals lacks a Hygiene and Sanitation Certificate (SLHS), a wastewater treatment installation (IPAL), and proper facilities for cleaning cooking utensils, contributing to 147 children suffering from digestive issues after consuming Javanese noodles on 8 May. The inspection also found non-compliance with BGN recommendations, such as using non-SNI standard water gallons and inadequate cooking practices for noodles, highlighting broader issues in the implementation of Indonesia's free nutritious meal programme. While 33 affected students were briefly hospitalised, they have since been discharged, prompting BGN to reiterate guidelines for safe food preparation.

Indonesia's economy grew by 5.61% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, driven primarily by robust domestic consumption, accelerated government spending, and resilient investment, marking the highest growth since Q3 2022 despite a quarterly contraction. The Permata Institute for Economic Research highlights that while household consumption and public expenditure remain key supports, external risks such as trade wars and geopolitical conflicts pose threats to stability, with manufacturing and mining sectors showing moderation. PIER forecasts full-year growth at 5.1-5.3%, emphasising the need for coordinated fiscal and monetary policies to balance growth and macroeconomic stability.

A new presidential regulation reducing the commission charged by ride-hailing apps to 8 percent aims to protect online transport workers but has raised concerns among academics that it may lead to job cuts and increased unemployment if operators scale back operations. Djoko Setijowarno, an academic and transport expert, argues that the core issue lies in the oversupply of drivers relative to market demand, advocating for a gradual reduction in driver numbers and redirecting some to delivery roles rather than passenger transport. He urges the government to prioritise formal job creation and safety, proposing a state-owned app to focus on public service over profits.

Meta is facing a lawsuit in California accusing it of earning approximately US$7 billion (Rp 121 trillion) annually from fraudulent ads on Facebook and Instagram, platforms widely used by Indonesians and others globally. The suit alleges violations of false advertising and unfair business practices laws, claiming Meta tolerates and even facilitates scam ads through intermediaries, AI tools, and lax enforcement. While Meta denies the claims and vows to defend itself, the case highlights the massive scale of online fraud and its profitability for tech giants.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has pledged to bolster financial services in Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara (IKN), to accelerate the formation of a new economic growth centre. During an audience with the IKN Authority, OJK's Deputy Chairman Hernawan Bekti Sasongko announced that preparations for land allocation for the OJK office have been communicated, alongside plans for a special task force to expedite construction and coordination. The IKN Authority, through its Secretary Bimo Adi Nursanthyasto, committed full support, including temporary offices and housing for OJK staff, highlighting collaborative efforts to integrate financial sector operations into the capital's development.

The Indonesian government's policy to implement work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN) every Friday starting 1 April 2026 aims to save fuel but has sparked debates over its effectiveness in reducing energy use and potential hindrance to public services. Public policy expert Trubus Rahardiansyah warns that the initiative could foster social jealousy, not only among ASN but also from the public who feel they pay high taxes yet face reduced service availability on Fridays, especially amid planned annual PNS salary increases. He emphasises the need for clear regulations to mitigate envy and notes challenges like inadequate home internet and workspaces for effective WFH.

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has filed an appeal against the acquittal of several former regional bank executives accused of corruption in granting credit facilities to PT Sritex. The appeal, submitted under the old Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), challenges the Semarang Corruption Court ruling that found no evidence of intervention or abuse of authority by the executives, attributing the loan defaults to the company's financial manipulations. Meanwhile, two other defendants, Iwan Setiawan Lukminto and Iwan Kurniawan Lukminto, received prison sentences of 14 and 12 years respectively, along with substantial fines and restitution orders, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of corporate lending practices in Indonesia.

Dozens of students from the Muhammadiyah Student Association (IMM) in East Nusa Tenggara protested outside the regional prosecutor's office in Kupang on Tuesday, burning tyres to denounce the alleged criminalisation of former Kupang Mayor Jonas Salean in a corruption case involving city assets. They demanded respect for the Supreme Court's 2021 acquittal, citing prior court rulings that upheld Salean's ownership of the disputed land, but prosecutors maintain the proceedings follow standard procedures without political motives, with Salean facing a six-year sentence demand in an ongoing trial. The demonstration highlights tensions between student activists and law enforcement over perceived inconsistencies in judicial processes related to public asset mismanagement, potentially influencing public discourse on corruption accountability in regional governance.

Indonesia's Forestry Minister, Raja Juli Antoni, has urged the international community at the 21st United Nations Forum on Forests in New York not to let complex global geopolitics overshadow the urgent need to address the climate crisis. He emphasised the importance of renewed multilateralism, stronger solidarity, and collective action to protect the world's forests for future generations, transcending administrative and political boundaries. Additionally, he highlighted Indonesia's commitment to biodiversity conservation through innovative financing for national parks and iconic species, as well as enhanced management of conservation areas.