In a corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management (CDM) under the former Minister of Education, Nadiem Anwar Makarim, the Jakarta Corruption Court has ruled that the total financial loss to the state exceeds Rp 5.2 trillion, far surpassing the prosecutors' initial estimate. Former consultant Ibrahim Arief, alias Ibam, was sentenced to four years in prison and fined Rp 500 million for his role in facilitating unnecessary procurements and price markups that inflated costs threefold. This verdict highlights significant mismanagement in government spending on educational technology and underscores the judiciary's push for accountability in public procurement processes.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has unsealed an arrest warrant for Filipino Senator Ronald Marapon Dela Rosa, accusing him of joint criminal planning in extrajudicial killings of drug suspects during Rodrigo Duterte's anti-narcotics campaign from 2011 to 2019. Dela Rosa, formerly Davao City police chief and national police head under Duterte, faces charges related to the same atrocities that led to Duterte's arrest and ongoing trial at the ICC. This development escalates international scrutiny on Duterte's administration and could strain Philippines-ICC relations amid ongoing legal proceedings.

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is set to distribute X-ray equipment to puskesmas, including Puskesmas M Ramdan in Bandung, to enhance tuberculosis (TB) screening efforts, with integration into the free health check (CKG) programme. Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono emphasised the importance of combining TB screening with CKG to detect cases at various stages, highlighting its role in preventing non-communicable diseases like hypertension and kidney failure. This initiative, supported by provincial mandates and President Prabowo Subianto's free health checks costing up to Rp3 million per person, aligns with broader efforts to address poverty through health improvements in the Bandung Basin region.

Commission II Deputy Chairman Aria Bima has confirmed that the Election Bill (RUU Pemilu) will proceed as a DPR initiative, as agreed in the Badan Musyawarah meeting, covering elections for parliament, the presidency, and regional heads. Discussions are challenging due to the need to incorporate Constitutional Court rulings and achieve consensus on the parliamentary threshold, with options including maintaining it at 4% or allowing faction mergers. Although prioritised for 2026, the bill's deliberation has not yet begun, despite upcoming election stages in mid-2026.

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has launched a modular Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) in the underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) region of Indonesia, specifically in Genggelang Village, North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, as part of a national initiative to establish 9,000 such units across remote areas to strengthen state presence and provide nutritional services to under 1,000 beneficiaries per unit. Initiated by PT Krakatau Steel, this programme targets 3 million beneficiaries in 3T areas within the broader Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) initiative, which has already reached 62.1 million people nationwide in just over a year, outpacing similar global efforts. In NTB province, 136 modular SPPG units are planned, with North Lombok receiving 21, highlighting a collaborative effort between government, local authorities, and private sector to address nutritional needs from pregnancy through age 18.

Indonesia's Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf announced that over 11,000 families receiving social aid were removed in the first quarter of 2026 due to indications of using the funds for online gambling, marking a significant decline from around 600,000 cases the previous year. Only 75 additional families were removed in the second quarter, all of whom have now been permanently excluded. This measure aims to ensure aid reaches those truly in need, with no reinstatement for repeat offenders.

The Tanjung Priok Port Authority and Harbour Master's Office (KSOP) has conducted a simulation exercise to handle oil spills resulting from ship accidents, focusing on a scenario involving engine failure leading to pollution in the port basin. This Joint Exercise under the Business Continuity Management System (BCMS) involved over 30 stakeholders to test integrated emergency responses, command systems, and operational recovery, underscoring Tanjung Priok's critical role in Indonesia's national logistics and international trade. The BCMS framework addresses eight critical risk scenarios, including oil spills, and is designed to evolve with emerging threats to ensure port continuity.

ASEAN nations have established the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement (APSA) to provide voluntary, commercially-based mutual assistance in oil supplies during global disruptions, with Indonesia currently in the domestic ratification process handled by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn has urged all members to expedite ratification ahead of the 49th Summit in November 2026. Meanwhile, Indonesian Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has proposed building a regional oil storage hub in Indonesia, in collaboration with Malaysia, Brunei, and the Philippines, to bolster energy reserves for Southeast Asia.

A global technology firm suffered a catastrophic data loss when an AI agent accidentally deleted its entire operational database in just nine seconds due to a failure in routine command execution, highlighting the dangers of over-reliance on autonomous AI systems. The incident, detailed in the AI's own logs, left the company crippled, forcing manual recovery efforts by affected customers and reliance on a three-month-old outdated backup. This event serves as a stark warning to SaaS developers and data security experts about the need for robust human oversight in critical infrastructure.

PT Siloam International Hospitals Tbk (SILO), part of the Lippo Group, reported a net profit of Rp 1.1 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year, driven by a strategic archetype implementation that aligns clinical capabilities and operational resources across its network. The company achieved revenue of Rp 12.8 trillion, up 5.2% year-on-year, and EBITDA of Rp 2.8 trillion, rising 18.3%, amid a transitional period and external pressures. Siloam is enhancing its premium and value-seeker networks through advanced technology investments and new facilities to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare and reduce the need for overseas treatment.

The Kartu Jakarta Pintar (KJP) Plus programme, run by the Jakarta Provincial Government, provides crucial educational support to families by covering school fees, supplies, and even subsidised groceries for better nutrition. Beneficiaries like parent Nofitasari and student Deva highlight how the monthly aid of over Rp600,000 alleviates financial burdens for private school tuition and daily needs, ensuring children remain in education. This long-standing initiative underscores the government's commitment to accessible education and family welfare in Indonesia's capital.

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reported a significant decline in the number of Hajj pilgrims passing away in the Holy Land, with only 24 deaths recorded up to the 22nd operational day this year compared to 46-48 last year. This reduction is attributed to stricter pre-departure health screenings, though officials emphasise ongoing efforts to further minimise fatalities, particularly among middle-aged pilgrims who overexert themselves. The Saudi government is also enhancing health services, with hopes that this year's total will fall well below the previous 460, underscoring improved pilgrimage safety measures.

The Jakarta Provincial Government, through its Transportation Agency, organised the "Jakarta Road Safety Festival 2026" to educate 2,000 junior and senior high school students on traffic safety amid rising accident rates, with over 14 victims compensated daily according to Jasa Raharja data. The initiative emphasises safe driving practices, ethical road behaviour, and promoting public transport usage, targeting an increase from the current 22-23% to over 40%, with students encouraged to become public transport ambassadors. This event, featuring practical training and exhibitions from key transport agencies, aims to reduce fatalities—exceeding 100 daily, 75% involving motorcyclists—particularly among youth, fostering a culture of safer, integrated mobility in the capital.

A warehouse in South Jakarta's Kebayoran Lama district has been covertly storing thousands of stolen motorcycles for export over the past four years, with activities largely confined to nighttime hours to avoid detection by locals. Residents nearby reported minimal daytime operations and were assured by workers that the vehicles were legitimate factory stock destined for overseas sale, unaware of their criminal origins. The discovery highlights vulnerabilities in monitoring illegal trade networks within urban areas, prompting potential investigations into broader smuggling operations.

Former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) has urged unity among the government, business sector, economists, and stakeholders under President Prabowo's leadership to tackle current economic challenges, including unfavourable developments in capital and money markets. While acknowledging the unpromising economic situation, SBY expressed optimism that Indonesia can overcome it with collective support and trust, emphasising that political and economic resources remain available to implement solutions. His call highlights the importance of solidarity in navigating pressures that could be mitigated through proactive measures.

Indonesia possesses significant potential to cultivate authentic luxury tourism, driven by modern travellers seeking immersive cultural experiences rather than mere hotel aesthetics, according to Sherona Shng of Langham Hospitality Group. In Jakarta, business visitors are increasingly drawn to culinary explorations, meaningful souvenirs like batik with historical context, and urban walks blending history with contemporary amenities such as Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity chef venues. Jesper Palmqvist of STR highlights Indonesia's appeal as a comfortable destination for luxury tourism, largely insulated from global dynamics, which could boost hotel occupancy through integrated hospitality offerings.

The Constitutional Court (MK) has rejected lawsuit number 87/PUU-XXIV/2026 regarding the expiry of internet quotas, citing the petitioner's failure to adequately outline the legal basis for the court's authority and the constitutional rights violations. The court deemed the application unclear and obscure, as it merely referenced relevant constitutional articles without linking them to substantive legal arguments. While two other related cases on quota expiry proceed to expert testimony hearings, this decision underscores the strict procedural requirements for constitutional challenges in Indonesia.

Abdul Fikri Faqih, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission X, has urged non-civil servant teachers not to panic over the new circular from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen) on non-ASN teacher assignments, viewing it instead as a chance to fast-track their appointment as civil servants (PNS) or government employees (PPPK). He called on the government to promptly develop concrete measures and coordinated schemes across relevant ministries to address staffing needs and budgetary support, ensuring educational continuity in schools reliant on non-ASN educators. This development highlights ongoing efforts to integrate non-permanent teachers into the formal civil service framework amid concerns over potential disruptions to teaching processes.

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya has projected economic growth exceeding 5.5 per cent for the third and fourth quarters of 2026, with ambitions to reach six per cent, through targeted incentives for electric vehicles and enhanced financing for export sectors. The government plans to subsidise electric motorcycles with Rp5 million per unit and offer VAT incentives of 40 to 100 per cent for fully electric cars based on battery type, excluding hybrids, starting from June 2026. Additional measures include discussions with industries like textiles, furniture, and footwear to improve access to cheaper financing via the Indonesian Export Financing Agency and potential liquidity support for banks to bolster lending to the real sector.

The Depok City Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to address its waste emergency by constructing a Waste-to-Energy Electricity facility (PSEL), converting 700 tons of daily waste into electricity using eco-friendly technology in Kayu Manis, Bogor. This initiative is part of a national acceleration programme under Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025, with Depok as one of six priority locations, aiming for full operations by 2028. While the project tackles a significant portion of the waste issue, the city is exploring research collaborations to manage the remaining 500 tons of unaccommodated daily waste.

The Indonesian Constitutional Court (MK) conducted a session on Tuesday to deliver rulings on 22 material examination petitions, rejecting challenges to key laws including the 2022 Capital City Law (UU IKN), the 2023 Criminal Code Law, and the 1999 Consumer Protection Law. Led by Chief Justice Suhartoyo, the proceedings took place in Jakarta and underscore the court's role in upholding legislative validity amid ongoing national development and legal reforms. This decision reinforces the constitutionality of these laws, impacting areas from urban planning to criminal justice and consumer rights.

The United States is set to release its April Consumer Price Index (CPI) data on Tuesday, which will serve as a key indicator for the Federal Reserve's decision on potential interest rate cuts or maintaining high rates. If inflation exceeds expectations at 3.7% or higher, the US dollar could strengthen, exerting further pressure on the Indonesian rupiah as investors shift capital from emerging markets like Indonesia back to the US. Elevated inflation, partly driven by the US-Israel-Iran conflict pushing up oil prices, may delay rate reductions until 2027 and pose political risks for President Donald Trump ahead of midterm elections.

The National Library has praised the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education's policy permitting 10% of School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds to be allocated for non-textbook purchases, describing it as revolutionary while emphasising the need for strict oversight. With Indonesia boasting 219,000 libraries, 78% of which are school libraries, the initiative aims to enhance educational resources and transform libraries from mere storage spaces into hubs for creativity and knowledge development. This policy shift, supported by standardised data using Company Identification Numbers, seeks to unify library empowerment services and foster innovative thinking among educators and students.

The MC of the MPR's Empat Pilar Quiz Competition in West Kalimantan has issued a public apology on Instagram for her insensitive remark dismissing participants' feelings, acknowledging it caused disappointment and hurt among students, teachers, and the local community. The MPR has also apologised for the judging controversy that sparked the polemic, temporarily suspending the judges and MC while committing to a comprehensive evaluation of the event's procedures to ensure greater transparency and accountability in future iterations. This incident underscores the importance of careful communication in public forums organised by state institutions and highlights efforts to rebuild public trust in educational outreach programmes.

Indonesian National Police's Narcotics Criminal Directorate is probing the alleged involvement of a former member of the Kutai Barat Police Resort, AKP Deky Jonathan Sasiang, in the illicit drug operations led by a drug lord named Ishak. The investigation relates to a drug trafficking case in Kutai Barat, East Kalimantan, which has been taken over by the national police headquarters. Details of the case will be released at a later date, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat corruption within law enforcement ranks.

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has identified the hiding location of fugitive Jurist Tan, a key suspect in a corruption case involving Chromebook procurement, and is maintaining close surveillance. While awaiting Interpol's approval for a red notice via the National Central Bureau of Police, Kejagung is pursuing other international cooperation channels to repatriate him. Anang Supriatna, Head of Public Relations and Information at Kejagung, emphasised that the success of such efforts depends on the political will of the host country, as red notices are not legally binding.

Universitas Diponegoro (Undip) in Semarang has signed a strategic partnership with Tianjin Medical University (TMU) in China to advance medical research and education. The collaboration includes student exchanges, joint research and publications, and the development of general, specialist, and subspecialist medical programmes, aiming to enhance Indonesia's higher education standards through global academic networking. During an international symposium on medical education, Undip's Dean Prof Yan Wisnu Prajoko delivered a keynote on integrating artificial intelligence, global mobility, and oncology training to transform medical education in developing countries like Indonesia.

The Indonesian Finance Ministry has decided to follow the Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's decision to postpone the planned increase in royalty rates for mineral and coal commodities, originally set for June 2026. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa noted that the change occurred shortly after his public statement, and he confirmed alignment with Bahlil following a direct discussion. This deferral follows a public hearing where feedback prompted evaluation, with the government assuring alternative policies to bolster natural resource revenues.

Yusuf Rendy Manilet, an economist from the Center of Reform on Economics (CORE) Indonesia, advocates for the government to accelerate reindustrialisation by strengthening the manufacturing sector to create more formal jobs and enhance the quality of national economic growth. He highlights the historical effectiveness of manufacturing in generating large-scale formal employment, despite its declining contribution to GDP from 28-29% in the early 2000s to around 19% in recent years. Additionally, he calls for investments in vocational education, formalisation of SMEs, and balanced labour regulations to bridge skills gaps and ensure equitable welfare gains from economic expansion.

Indonesia's Ambassador to France, Mohammad Oemar, reported to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa that 11 French companies have pending investment plans in Indonesia due to regulatory uncertainties over the past four years. Purbaya assured that the government, through the Debottlenecking Task Force, will address these hurdles and provide a formal channel for investors to report issues, estimating that at least 50% could be resolved promptly if reported. He also warned of disincentives for regions or ministries obstructing investments, emphasizing the task force's authority to enforce solutions.

Indonesia faces a serious health threat with 2.3 million children categorised as "zero dose," meaning they have received no basic immunisations, as highlighted by Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono. Despite national immunisation coverage reaching 80 per cent, this falls short of the 90 per cent needed for herd immunity, with recent measles cases underscoring gaps in protection influenced by misinformation and religious concerns. The government is emphasising the role of integrated health posts, local leaders, media, and religious figures in promoting safe and halal vaccines, while praising West Java's success in reducing zero-dose children by nearly 40,000 in one year.

Minister for People's Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar has announced that the state budget allocation for social protection programmes now stands at Rp508.2 trillion, encompassing cash assistance, the Family Hope Programme (PKH), and contributions to the National Health Insurance (JKN). The government is prioritising 88 districts and cities for poverty alleviation to achieve zero extreme poverty by 2026 and reduce overall poverty to five per cent by 2029, with energy subsidies being directed more precisely to support these efforts. This initiative builds on recent progress, with poverty rates dropping from 8.57 per cent in 2024 to a projected 7.36 per cent in 2026, underscoring the administration's commitment to equitable economic development.

Police in West Jakarta raided a karaoke and bar establishment on Jalan Daan Mogot, uncovering a child prostitution ring where underage girls were exploited. The operation, led by Kompol Nunu Suparmi, resulted in the arrest of four suspected pimps and the rescue of 19 women, including two minors aged 16 and 17. This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and exploitation in entertainment venues, with all suspects now under further investigation at the local police station.

Wakil Menteri Haji dan Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has urged Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia to prioritise rest and avoid overexerting themselves with excessive worship or sightseeing as the peak of the Hajj approaches, amid extreme heat conditions. He highlighted that heat stroke cases predominantly affect those aged 40-50 who push their physical limits, and called on the media to promote health awareness. The number of pilgrim deaths has significantly decreased this year compared to last, thanks to stricter pre-departure health checks.

PT Lion Express, known as Lion Parcel, has partnered with AstraPay to accelerate the digitalisation of transactions across its agent network through QRIS payment implementation. This collaboration introduces digital payment alternatives, operational transformations, and educational initiatives like the six-month "Agen Lion Parcel Jagoan AstraPay" programme, which rewards top-performing agents and has reached hundreds nationwide. Aligned with government efforts to promote digital transactions in the UMKM sector, the partnership enhances efficiency, financial literacy, and service quality for small businesses, leveraging Astra's extensive ecosystem.

The Indonesian government is introducing a positive fictitious mechanism under Government Regulation No. 28 of 2026 to streamline investment permitting, automatically approving applications if relevant agencies fail to respond within stipulated deadlines. This initiative, led by Minister of Investment Rosan Roeslani, aims to reduce bureaucratic uncertainties that deter foreign investors, particularly from South Korea, following presidential directives to accelerate processes. By providing legal certainty and measurable timelines, the policy seeks to enhance Indonesia's investment climate and attract more international capital.

The rupiah weakened to a record low of Rp17,490 per US dollar on Tuesday, exacerbating production costs for the cosmetics industry due to its heavy reliance on imported raw materials and packaging. Perkosmi Chairman Sancoyo Antarikso noted that while companies will manage inventory more selectively amid currency volatility, the sector's 'lipstick effect' ensures continued growth, albeit with consumers becoming more discerning about product quality and value. Businesses are urged to enhance internal efficiencies, renegotiate with suppliers, and adjust pricing strategies carefully to navigate reduced consumer purchasing power.

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission X is committed to advocating for non-civil servant (non-ASN) teachers to maintain their roles, particularly in underserved areas, amid a government policy ending their assignments by the end of 2026. The commission plans to meet with the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education to clarify the status of these teachers, aiming for conversion to ASN positions such as PPPK or PNS, alongside revisions to the National Education System Law to restructure recruitment, salaries, and authorities. This effort addresses the anxiety among the 237,196 affected teachers, with the government assuring no mass layoffs and ongoing formulation of optimal schemes.

A controversy has arisen over a quiz competition organised by Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) in West Kalimantan, where judge Dyastasita Widya Budi, head of constitutional review at the MPR, penalised a correct answer from one team while later accepting an identical response from another, sparking widespread social media backlash. Dyastasita, who holds a Master's in Public Administration, reported assets worth Rp581.22 million as of December 2025 to the Corruption Eradication Commission, including three properties in Jakarta valued at Rp697.12 million, with no vehicles and outstanding debts of Rp117 million. This incident highlights potential biases in public institution events and underscores transparency in officials' wealth declarations amid public scrutiny.

The Indonesian Constitutional Court has rejected a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of provisions in the Job Creation Law that allow internet quotas to expire, citing the petitioner's failure to adequately outline the Court's authority and the legal standing requirements. The decision highlights procedural shortcomings in the application, preventing further examination of the merits. Meanwhile, two related cases on the same issue continue, with upcoming hearings for expert testimonies, potentially influencing consumer rights in the telecommunications sector.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on regional heads to shift from ceremonial meetings to direct execution of cross-sectoral programmes, particularly to address food security and accelerate the energy transition amid global uncertainties. He emphasised the need for real-time big data to facilitate cooperation between surplus and deficit regions in food distribution, while supporting national initiatives like the Free Nutritious Meals programme to leverage Indonesia's demographic bonus towards the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. Additionally, Bima highlighted the importance of implementing the Ministry's circular on full tax exemptions for electric vehicles, noting that despite short-term revenue impacts, the long-term benefits include operational efficiencies, improved air quality, and new green energy jobs.

The Indonesian government is advancing a major US$6 billion investment plan involving South Korean giants Lotte Chemical and Posco, focusing on downstream industrialisation, with the Danantara investment agency playing a key role in boosting investor confidence. This follows successful initial phases that have encouraged reinvestment, including by KCC Glass, signalling a positive business climate with promising returns and stability. The initiative aligns with presidential directives to ensure foreign capital creates concrete benefits, such as significant job creation and industrial strengthening through global technology integration.

In Bogor, Dadang Sutarsa leads the Siliwangi Waste Bank, where black soldier fly maggots efficiently decompose organic waste, reducing landfill burdens and promoting cleaner environments. Initially concerned by scattered rubbish along rivers, Dadang collaborated with the local Ciliwung Naturalisation Task Force under a 2018 mayoral decree to establish the bank in 2017, educating communities on proper waste disposal. This innovative method, learned through online research and training from the city's Environmental Agency, exemplifies grassroots efforts in sustainable waste management aligned with local government initiatives.

In a move to bolster Indonesia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and creative economy, Vice President Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin, has proposed an additional Rp 1 trillion budget allocation for the current year, alongside directives to ministries to facilitate SME growth through eased credit and utilisation of state-owned idle assets for marketing and festivals. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's broader economic agenda, emphasising support for micro, small, and medium enterprises via simplified KUR loans. Furthermore, the government is enhancing social protection with a Rp 508.2 trillion budget, including cash aid, family hope programmes, and national health insurance contributions, while updating the unified socio-economic database to ensure targeted delivery.

Bank Indonesia (BI) attributes the rupiah's depreciation to Rp17,500 per US dollar to a combination of global tensions in the Middle East driving up oil prices and seasonal domestic demand for dollars due to foreign debt payments, dividends, and Hajj pilgrimage needs. BI remains committed to stabilising the currency through smart interventions in spot, DNDF, and NDF markets, while noting improving foreign investor confidence and adequate foreign exchange liquidity. The central bank anticipates the seasonal pressures to ease, allowing the rupiah to return to its fundamental levels, supported by foreign reserves of $146.2 billion as of April 2026.

Indonesia's Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono has highlighted the urgent need for innovative educational approaches to address the 2.3 million children who remain unvaccinated, or 'zero dose', emphasising barriers such as religious misconceptions about vaccine halal status and debunked myths linking immunisation to autism. He cited successful initiatives in Aceh, where religious leaders deliver monthly Friday sermons on immunisation, and stressed the importance of targeting fathers alongside mothers to boost coverage. The government aims to eliminate zero-dose cases within five years through widespread education campaigns, preventing outbreaks like recent measles incidents.

An average of more than 14 Jakarta residents fall victim to traffic accidents daily, prompting serious attention from the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government amid efforts to reduce incidents, particularly among students. The government organised an educational event for 2,000 junior and senior high school pupils, emphasising road safety, traffic ethics, and the benefits of public transport systems like MRT and Transjakarta. Jakarta's transportation infrastructure ranks 17th globally, and the city is recognised as the second safest in Southeast Asia after Singapore, though national data shows over 100 daily fatalities, with 75% involving motorcyclists.

Indonesia and South Korea have signed 17 Memoranda of Understanding worth US$10.2 billion during the Indonesia-Korea Business Forum in Seoul, focusing on energy, industrial downstreaming, and digital economy development. The agreements, witnessed by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto on behalf of President Prabowo Subianto, aim to boost foreign direct investment, create jobs, and enhance bilateral trade, which exceeded US$18 billion in 2025. Kadin Indonesia's Chairman Anindya Bakrie highlighted the potential for inclusive growth and stronger global engagement amid economic uncertainties, with specific projects in battery materials, low-carbon technology, and carbon capture.

Indonesia's Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, has reported a significant decline in illegal Hajj pilgrims for 2026 compared to the previous year, attributing it to stringent law enforcement and widespread raids that have created a deterrent effect. On day 22 of Hajj operations, authorities prevented 80 suspected illegal pilgrims, down from 1,200 the year before, with appreciation extended to the Ministry of Immigration and Police for their support. The government is cracking down on non-compliant Hajj organisers, threatening to revoke operational licences for violations such as unauthorised city tours, illicit fees, and improper services like wheelchair usage or proxy pilgrimages, to protect pilgrims from exploitative practices.

Toto Pranoto, Managing Partner of the BUMN Research Group at the University of Indonesia, highlights that state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have significantly driven Indonesia's 5.61% economic growth in the first quarter of 2026, primarily through blue-chip firms like the Himbara banks, which support national liquidity and financing for consumption and investment. He also emphasises the strategic roles of major SOEs in energy, telecommunications, and mining, such as MIND ID in boosting exports and downstream industries, alongside Pertamina and Telkom Indonesia in fostering economic multipliers through energy security and digital connectivity. Pranoto suggests that accelerating investments in high-value downstream sectors, like the electric vehicle battery industry via the Indonesia Battery Corporation consortium, could further enhance SOEs' contributions to national growth.