Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 May 2026

Showing 401-450 of 1,617 articles

Bahlil Reports to Prabowo: Fuel and LPG Stocks Above National Minimum Standards

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia's stocks of fuel oil (BBM), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and crude oil exceed national minimum standards, ensuring no immediate supply issues. Bahlil also updated the President on the ongoing evaluation of mining permits, particularly those in forest areas that remain unused despite being issued. Recent shortages in regions like Palangka Raya and Labuan Bajo have disrupted transportation and small-scale fishing operations, highlighting vulnerabilities in subsidized fuel access that could ripple through coastal economies.

BYD Atto 1 Becomes More Expensive, BYD Indonesia Says "Not a Price Increase"

BYD Indonesia has adjusted the prices of its entry-level electric vehicle, the Atto 1, by up to Rp 10 million, with the Dynamic variant now at Rp 205 million and the Long Range at Rp 245 million. The company attributes this change to upcoming product refreshes, including a facelift and new variants to broaden consumer choices in the accessible EV segment. Launched in Indonesia in July 2025, the Atto 1 features a 30 kWh battery offering up to 300 km range in the Dynamic model, highlighting BYD's efforts to expand its presence in the growing electric vehicle market.

Number of BSI (BRIS) Gold Customers Surpasses 1 Million Despite Fluctuating Prices

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BRIS) has reported that its gold savings customer base exceeded 1 million by April 2026, reaching nearly 900,000 in the first quarter, driving a remarkable 2,700% annual growth in gold-related fee-based income, which constitutes 10.63% of the bank's total fee-based income of Rp2.09 trillion for the quarter, up 22.30% year-on-year. Despite gold price volatility, BSI's strategy focuses on educating customers about long-term savings discipline through accessible features in its BYOND super app, starting from just Rp50,000, to build future financial security rather than short-term speculation. This growth underscores the rising popularity of sharia-compliant gold investments amid declining purchasing power in Indonesia.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Inspects Pondok Gede Hajj Dormitory, Ensures Smooth Hajj Services

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, visited the Pondok Gede Hajj Dormitory in Jakarta to verify the smooth operation of services for departing pilgrims, confirming that facilities including health services, elderly-friendly rooms, and catering meet standards with no major issues reported. He highlighted ongoing improvements in hajj management under the new ministry and noted appreciation from Saudi Arabian authorities for the dedication of Indonesian hajj officials, though vigilance remains high for the critical pilgrimage phases from 26 to 31 May. This inspection underscores Indonesia's commitment to enhancing the welfare and safety of its pilgrims during the hajj season.

Procurement of Washing Machines and Stoves for People's Schools Reaches Billions of Rupiah

The Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) is under scrutiny for procuring washing machines and stoves worth billions of rupiah for its People's Schools programme, following controversies over shoes, socks, and photo frames of President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran. Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf has acknowledged the purchases and promised a detailed press conference, assuring that all expenditures will be audited. This comes amid public concerns over the transparency and necessity of such government spending on educational initiatives.

Accused by Netanyahu of Aiding Iran's Missile Production, China Strongly Denies!

China has vehemently denied accusations from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Beijing is supporting Iran's missile production with specific components, labelling the claims as baseless. Amid escalating Middle East tensions, including recent US-Israel strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliations causing thousands of casualties, China reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and de-escalation in the region. The denial comes as the US has previously imposed sanctions on Chinese entities for alleged support to Iran, highlighting broader geopolitical frictions.

11 Babies Left in Care of Midwife in Pakem, Yogyakarta, Are Students' Children

Police in Sleman are investigating the discovery of 11 babies being cared for in a single home by three caregivers in Pakem, Yogyakarta, following concerns raised by local residents. The infants, born out of wedlock to parents including university students and workers, were placed there due to the parents' busyness and unreadiness to raise them, with a daily fee of Rp50,000 per child; while the midwife's practice is licensed, the childcare arrangement is not. Three babies required hospital treatment for congenital conditions, highlighting child welfare issues, as authorities prioritize the infants' health and probe potential criminal elements like neglect or trafficking.

10 provinces strengthen cooperation in energy to waste management

Ten provinces, including Central Java, have agreed to bolster collaboration in three new clusters: energy resilience, the giant sea wall, and waste management, as decided during a working meeting of the Forum for Inter-Regional Cooperation of Primary Partner Regions (FKD-MPU) in Semarang. This builds on six existing clusters signed by the governors in June 2025, covering food security, tourism, disaster management, public order, social welfare, and electronic-based public services. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto highlighted the group's 62% contribution to national economic growth and urged follow-through on prior action plans while praising the new proposals.

Meeting Vice President Gibran, World Mosque Youth Asked to Unite the Younger Generation

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met with leaders of the World Mosque Youth organisation in Jakarta, urging them to serve as a unifying force for Indonesia's younger generation and to advance national unity. He praised their efforts in cleaning hundreds of thousands of places of worship across various religions, highlighting their role in promoting interfaith harmony. The organisation, active in 31 countries, aligns its initiatives, including an international Quran recitation competition to be held in Indonesia for the first time with the Vice President's Cup, with President Prabowo Subianto's vision for a golden Indonesia by 2045.

TP PKK Expert Staff Yane Ardian Monitors Zero Dose Immunisation Intervention in Lampung

Yane Ardian Bima Arya, Expert Staff for Strengthening Family Food Resilience at the Central TP PKK, visited Lampung Province to monitor and evaluate the zero dose immunisation intervention programme, aimed at ensuring no children remain unvaccinated against basic immunisations. He praised the provincial government's commitment, led by the Governor, to achieve 100% coverage within one and a half months, noting that reaching over 90% would be exceptional. The initiative highlights the strategic role of TP PKK cadres in collaborating with the Ministry of Health to deliver grassroots education and interventions, bolstering national efforts to improve child health and reduce social issues.

Former Kemendikbud Consultant from Nadiem Era Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison

Ibrahim Arief, alias Ibam, a former consultant for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) during Nadiem Makarim's tenure, has been sentenced to four years in prison for corruption in the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management systems. The ruling also imposes a fine of Rp 500 million, with an additional 120 days in jail if unpaid, and requires repayment of Rp 16.92 billion in graft funds. Two other former ministry officials received similar sentences, highlighting ongoing corruption probes within the education sector under the previous administration.

Stocks and Gold Can Now Be Tokenised, Market Surpasses Rp 693.67 Trillion

The tokenisation of real-world assets (RWA), including stocks and gold, has experienced rapid growth, with the market capitalisation reaching $39.6 billion (approximately Rp 693.67 trillion) as of 8 May 2026, a significant surge from $1.8 billion at the start of 2024. Major financial institutions like BlackRock, JPMorgan, and Goldman Sachs are entering the space, positioning tokenisation as a new foundation for global financial infrastructure, enabling retail investors to access global assets with minimal capital starting from Rp 11,000. This blockchain-based mechanism offers instant, 24/7 trading with enhanced transparency and self-custody options, democratising investment in assets like Apple and Nvidia shares or physical gold via tokens such as PAXG.

Investors from 10 Countries Eye Potential of Cocoa and Coconut Industries in North Kolaka

Representatives from 10 countries are exploring investment opportunities in the cocoa and coconut sectors of North Kolaka, Indonesia, as highlighted in a recent forum attended by central government officials. The government is pushing for national economic growth of up to 8% through industrial downstreaming, which is expected to contribute nearly 30% to total investment realisation by early 2026. North Kolaka's strong plantation potential, including 78,000 hectares of cocoa producing over 58,000 tonnes annually, positions it for significant growth in export-oriented processing industries.

KPK Proposal for Presidential and Vice-Presidential Candidates from Party Cadres Deemed Mistaken, Narrows Democracy

Legal and political observer Pieter C Zulkifli has criticised the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) proposal requiring presidential and vice-presidential candidates to be party cadres, arguing it dangerously restricts the emergence of alternative leaders amid public distrust in political parties. He highlights the irony given parties' history of corruption scandals and asserts that integrity is not guaranteed by party membership, but rather depends on robust oversight of power. Quoting Lord Acton, Pieter emphasises that the core issue in Indonesian democracy is limiting and supervising authority, not mandating party affiliation.

Cambodia extends conscription term after Thailand clashes

Cambodian lawmakers have approved a new military conscription law that extends mandatory service from 18 months to two years for men aged 18 to 25, increases penalties for evasion, and will begin enforcement this year, following deadly border clashes with Thailand last year. The move, supported unanimously in parliament, aims to bolster troop numbers amid ongoing territorial disputes and heightened tensions between the two nations, with Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasising the need to protect national sovereignty. This development underscores the persistent legacy of colonial-era border conflicts in Southeast Asia, potentially straining regional stability despite a recent truce.

Finance Minister Purbaya Reveals Government's New Strategy to Attract Investors Amid Global Uncertainty

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has unveiled a new government strategy focused on de-bottlenecking to eliminate real investment barriers faced by businesses, aiming to bolster the private sector's role in driving national economic growth. Speaking at a seminar in Jakarta, he emphasised that achieving the 8% growth target by 2029 is nearly impossible without significant private sector participation, given that government spending contributes only about 10% to the economy. The approach prioritises flexible investment policies, legal certainty, consistent rule enforcement, and practical, transparent mechanisms to maintain investor confidence.

Police Uncover Illegal Pertalite Business Practices in West Denpasar

Police in West Denpasar have busted an illegal operation involving the misuse of subsidised Pertalite fuel, arresting two men and seizing hundreds of litres of the fuel along with cash proceeds. The suspects were allegedly buying the subsidised fuel from petrol stations in Tabanan and reselling it at a markup to shops in Denpasar, profiting from the price differential. This case highlights ongoing efforts to curb the illegal trade of subsidised fuels, with the perpetrators facing charges under Indonesia's oil and gas regulations.

Nusantara Five Satellite Strengthens Connectivity and Accelerates Indonesia's Digital Transformation

Sinar Mas has inaugurated the operational phase of the Nusantara Five (N5) satellite in Jakarta, aiming to enhance digital connectivity across Indonesia, particularly in remote and frontier regions. Managing Director Ferry Salman emphasised that this initiative will promote equitable internet access, boosting public services, regional economic growth, innovation, and education. The event, attended by key government officials including the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, underscores Indonesia's push for technological self-reliance and broader societal benefits through improved digital infrastructure.

Indonesia's Egg Production Boom Floods Farmers' Stock with Surplus

Indonesia's egg production has surged to 7.3 million tonnes in 2026, exceeding national demand by about 800,000 tonnes, primarily due to a nearly 30% increase in laying hen populations driven by the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and improved poultry genetics. This oversupply has driven farm-level prices below the government's reference price of Rp26,500 per kg, with national averages at Rp24,500 per kg and even lower in key production areas like East Java at Rp22,500 per kg, prompting government calls for stabilising measures to prevent farmer losses. Officials emphasise the need for coordinated efforts among breeders and enhanced MBG absorption to balance supply and maintain profitability in the sector.

Government Prepares Contingency Plan for Returning TNI Troops to Lebanon

The Indonesian government is preparing a contingency plan as part of four key considerations for redeploying TNI personnel to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The plan prioritises troop safety through options like early withdrawal if UNIFIL cannot ensure protection, repositioning forces for better security, and ensuring UN accountability for past incidents. Foreign Minister Sugiono has urged the soldiers to prepare diligently for the high-risk mission, highlighting Indonesia's commitment to international peacekeeping.

Deputy Interior Minister Wiyagus Urges Regional Governments to Strengthen Collaboration in Facing Global Challenges

Deputy Interior Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has emphasised the need for regional governments in Indonesia to enhance inter-regional collaboration to address global challenges such as energy crises, climate change, and geopolitical uncertainties. Speaking at an event in Semarang, he highlighted the strategic role of the ten MPU provinces, which contribute significantly to national economic growth, particularly Java's over 57% share, and called for leveraging comparative advantages in areas like logistics, trade, energy, and digital governance. Wiyagus urged the MPU forum to develop adaptive and innovative strategies for national resilience, including food security, inflation control, disaster management, and security stability.

Nadiem Makarim Under House Arrest Since Monday Night

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Nadiem Anwar Makarim, has been placed under house arrest since Monday night (11 May 2026) in connection with an alleged corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management (CDM) for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology between 2019 and 2022. The detention, effective from 12 May 2026, is monitored through collaboration with police, requiring judicial and prosecutorial approval for any movements outside the residence, and includes the fitting of an electronic monitoring bracelet as per standard procedures. This development highlights ongoing scrutiny of high-level officials in Indonesia's public sector digitalisation initiatives.

Deputy Health Minister: Bandung's strategy can be replicated to reduce Indonesia's zero-dose rate

Indonesia's Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono has praised Bandung's innovative use of posyandu community health centres to combat the zero-dose child immunisation issue, suggesting it as a model for nationwide replication to achieve herd immunity. With approximately 2.3 million children in Indonesia still unvaccinated despite an 80% coverage rate, the strategy leverages the extensive network of 300,000 posyandu to reach remote areas more effectively than the 10,000 puskesmas clinics. Bandung's efforts, supported by the Health Ministry through incentives and awards, have already reduced zero-dose cases in West Java from 102,000 to 67,000 in a year, emphasising immunisation as the foundation for healthy and productive future generations.

Finance Minister Purbaya on Rupiah Weakness: That's the Central Bank's Business...

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated his readiness to attend a summons from the House of Representatives (DPR) regarding the ongoing depreciation of the rupiah against the US dollar, which hit a historic low of Rp17,529 per dollar on Tuesday. He emphasised that exchange rate stability falls under the exclusive purview of Bank Indonesia, with the Ministry of Finance adopting a passive role, while DPR Chair Puan Maharani urged the government and central bank to promptly address the issue to prevent adverse impacts on the national economy. The DPR plans to discuss the Macro Economic Policy and Fiscal Policy Principles as part of preparations for the 2027 state budget.

Kiai Abdul Muhaimin Criticises PBNU, Claims Deviation from AD/ART and Khittah

KH Abdul Muhaimin, an A'wan of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), has sharply criticised the current leadership of the Pengurus Besar Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), accusing it of deviating from its foundational qonun, khittah, and AD/ART, leading to a loss of social advocacy and bargaining power with the government. He highlighted NU's absence in key advocacy roles, such as the Wadas and PSN PIK 2 cases, which were handled by Muhammadiyah's legal aid, and lamented the centralised "one man show" structure stifling cadre development. Muhaimin warned that this trajectory amounts to "mass suicide" for the organisation, weakening traditional institutions like pesantren amid political-economic policies.

Ministry of Agriculture and National Food Agency Stabilise Falling Chicken Egg Prices at Farmer Level

The Ministry of Agriculture (Kementan) and the National Food Agency (Bapanas) have collaborated with poultry associations, cooperatives, and industry players to stabilise chicken egg prices, which have recently dropped below the government's reference price of Rp26,500 per kilogram at the farmer level. This initiative follows a national poultry meeting addressing the price decline, influenced by high national production projected to reach 7.3 million tonnes in 2026, creating a 13% surplus over domestic needs. The government aims to manage the surplus through promoting exports and improving distribution from surplus to deficit regions, ensuring market stability.

Regarding Constitutional Court Ruling, Attorney General's Office Assures BPKP Can Still Audit State Losses, Not Just BPK

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has clarified that the Badan Pemeriksa Keuangan (BPK) is not the sole authority to audit state financial losses in corruption cases, following a Constitutional Court (MK) ruling, by issuing a circular affirming the continued role of institutions like the Badan Pengawasan Keuangan dan Pembangunan (BPKP). This directive aims to ensure uniform interpretation among prosecutors and counter misinformation on social media, allowing audits by internal government watchdogs, inspectorates, and certified public accountants. The move underscores the importance of comprehensive reading of the MK's decision to avoid partial misinterpretations that could hinder anti-corruption efforts.

Ministry of Forestry Introduces Red Frog as Environmental Health Indicator in Gunung Ciremai National Park

The Ministry of Forestry has highlighted the habitat of the endemic red frog (Leptophryne javanica) in Gunung Ciremai National Park as a key indicator of environmental health, during a forum on women's synergy for Indonesia's FOLU NET SINK 2030 goals. Participants engaged in forest healing activities to foster emotional connections with nature and appreciate sustainable tourism's role in conservation efforts. With 90% vegetation rehabilitation achieved, the park maintains vital ecological functions, including 97 pure mountain water sources, underscoring the ministry's commitment to biodiversity preservation.

Commission II Affirms that Revision of Election Law is Drafted by DPR, PT Scheme Options Under Discussion

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission II has reaffirmed that the revision of the Election Law remains an initiative of the DPR, included in this year's priority national legislative programme, covering elections for the legislature, president, and regional heads. Deputy Chairman Aria Bima highlighted the challenges in forming a working committee due to the need for consensus on a single inventory of issues across factions, particularly regarding the parliamentary threshold, where differing views persist despite the Constitutional Court's ruling for zero per cent. The commission is incorporating expert input from academics and NGOs to refine the draft, including proposals for post-election mergers of small parties to meet threshold requirements for the 2034 elections.

Heartbreaking! Kelingking Beach and Broken Beach in Nusa Penida Yet to Be Supplied with Clean Water

Two popular tourist destinations in Nusa Penida, Bali—Kelingking Beach and Broken Beach—currently lack access to clean water supply despite their significance to local tourism. The Klungkung PDAM has extended services to surrounding villages but faces challenges in extending infrastructure to these sites, with planned investments of around Rp 700 million for Kelingking Beach this year and similar plans for Broken Beach pending resolution of road ownership issues. This delay highlights the need for better coordination between local authorities and utilities to support tourism-driven economic growth in the region.

Ministry of Agriculture and Kadin Clarify Rumours of Chinese Investors Entering Indonesia's Egg Business

The Ministry of Agriculture and the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) have clarified that reports of major Chinese investment in Indonesia's layer chicken farming sector are premature and overstated, with discussions still in the early exploratory stage. Officials emphasised that any potential collaboration would focus on technology transfer to enhance local production efficiency, particularly in Aceh, without displacing domestic farmers, amid a current surplus in egg supply. This comes as national egg demand is projected to rise significantly due to the Free Nutritious Meals programme, with an estimated investment of Rp1.4 trillion aimed at building facilities in partnership with local farmers.

TP PKK Expert Staff Praises South Lampung Regency's Efforts in Addressing Zero Dose

Yane Ardian Bima Arya, an expert staff member of the TP PKK, commended the South Lampung Regency government's rapid progress in the zero-dose immunisation programme, achieving 92% coverage of the target 4,967 children within five weeks. This initiative aims to ensure no child is left without basic health rights, potentially boosting the Human Development Index and serving as a national model. Collaboration among local government, health workers, PKK cadres, religious and community leaders is urged to overcome barriers and reach remaining families.

Prabowo Calls AHY and Danantara for Meeting on "Giant Sea Wall"

President Prabowo Subianto convened key officials, including Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani and Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), at the Palace in Jakarta to discuss the Giant Sea Wall project. AHY emphasised that the initiative, mandated through the establishment of the North Java Coast Management Authority, requires meticulous planning, appropriate technology, and sufficient funding, and cannot be rushed. This meeting underscores the new administration's commitment to addressing coastal protection and infrastructure challenges in Indonesia.

Promoting Sustainable Growth Through Long-Term Investment, PTFI Strengthens the Economic Foundation of Central Papua

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) has significantly transformed the socio-economic landscape of Central Papua over the past 5-10 years by creating jobs, enhancing education and healthcare access, and fostering local businesses. With 40.9% of its workforce now comprising local Papuans, PTFI's long-term investments in training and scholarships have diversified roles from technical to managerial positions. These initiatives, including partnerships with over 400 local entrepreneurs and support for health and education programmes, are building a more independent and sustainable economic ecosystem in the region.

Monitoring the Movements of Thousands of Hajj Pilgrims from the Control Room in Mecca

In Mecca, a compact 24-hour control room oversees the mobility of thousands of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims transitioning from Medina to the holy city via a fleet of 132 buses carrying 7,838 individuals from the first wave. Equipped with large monitors displaying real-time GPS coordinates, staff like Arudi coordinate via handheld radios to ensure seamless hotel and catering preparations upon arrival. The integration of GPS technology and specialised applications highlights Indonesia's efforts to enhance logistical precision in managing the annual Hajj pilgrimage, adapting to real-time variables beyond fixed schedules.

Google Reveals New Threat: Hackers Use AI to Find Security Vulnerabilities

Google's Threat Intelligence Group has identified a new cyber threat where hackers employed generative AI to develop a zero-day exploit targeting a popular open-source web-based system administration tool. This marks the first time such AI-assisted exploits have been detected, featuring neatly structured Python code indicative of large language model generation, including AI "hallucinations" like fake CVSS scores. Google intervened promptly by notifying developers to patch the vulnerability, preventing widespread exploitation and underscoring the evolving risks of AI in cybersecurity.

Residents Deemed Unaware of Waste Sorting, Field Officers Request Intensified DKI Provincial Government Socialisation

Waste collectors at a sorting facility in North Jakarta have urged the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government to ramp up public education on waste separation, as residents often mix organic and non-organic waste, complicating the household waste management process. Field workers report that despite initial sorting efforts by collectors and scavengers, mixed waste still requires repeated separation at the site, highlighting the need for direct household-level awareness campaigns. The initiative, part of the provincial government's waste sorting programme, receives support from workers who remain optimistic about its long-term effectiveness in improving environmental management.

CNN: Trump Plans to Suspend Federal Petrol Tax

US President Donald Trump announced plans to suspend the federal petrol tax amid surging fuel prices driven by the US-Iran conflict, though the proposal requires Congressional approval which has historically been denied in similar situations. Petrol prices have risen to a national average of $4.52 per gallon, up from $2.98 before the conflict began on 28 February, exacerbated by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. While the suspension could provide some relief, it is unlikely to significantly lower costs for drivers and would severely impact the Highway Trust Fund, potentially reducing its revenue by $17 billion over five months.

BJU Group Executive Faces 8-Year Prison Sentence in LPEI Corruption Case

Prosecutors from Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have demanded an eight-year prison term for Hendarto, director and beneficial owner of companies within the Bara Jaya Utama (BJU) Group, in a corruption case involving the Indonesia Eximbank (LPEI). The charges stem from alleged joint corrupt practices that caused state losses exceeding Rp1.6 trillion and USD 14.95 million, with Hendarto accused of enriching himself and others through misused credit facilities intended to boost national exports. This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption in state financial institutions, potentially undermining public trust and export promotion initiatives.

South Sumatra Police Dissect Homes of Underprivileged Residents in Ogan Ilir

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) initiated a housing improvement programme for underprivileged residents in Ogan Ilir by laying the foundation stone for a decent home for 63-year-old farmer Mawarni, led by the Deputy Chief of Ogan Ilir Police. This initiative, part of the precise Polri spirit championed by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, combines house construction with the distribution of 60 staple food packages to support vulnerable communities amid economic challenges. The collaborative effort with the local Baznas aims to enhance rural living standards, foster social stability, and demonstrate the police's commitment to humanitarian services beyond security duties.

Pertagas Strengthens World-Class Occupational Health and Safety Culture to Maintain National Energy Infrastructure Reliability

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas), a subsidiary of PT Pertamina, has received the Gold (Level 4) award in the WSO Indonesia Safety Culture Award (WISCA) 2026 for its exemplary implementation of occupational health and safety (K3) culture, aligning with government efforts to enhance productivity and national competitiveness. CEO Indra P. Sembiring was also honoured with the 'Concerned CEO – Top Leadership' award for his role in promoting sustainable HSSE practices across the company. This recognition underscores Pertagas's commitment to reliable and safe energy operations, supporting Indonesia's energy security through robust infrastructure management.

PPIH: Aceh Hajj pilgrims begin receiving Baitul Asyi endowment funds of 2,000 riyals

Hajj pilgrims from Aceh have started receiving endowment funds from Baitul Asyi, amounting to 2,000 riyals (approximately Rp9.3 million) per person, with the second batch distributed yesterday at their accommodation in Mecca. Established in the early 1800s by Habib Bugak Al-Asyi, the productive waqf institution manages a luxury hotel whose proceeds compensate Aceh-origin pilgrims. Additionally, pilgrims received living cost allowances of 750 riyals upon arrival at the Hajj dormitory, and all are reported to be in good health while performing umrah and resting.

Budi Djiwandono Emphasises Gerindra Cadres' Continued Oversight of Food Security

Budi Djiwandono, a Gerindra party cadre, has reaffirmed the party's commitment to monitoring food security during a visit to Bulog facilities in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, highlighting the state-owned enterprise's crucial role in maintaining national rice stocks and affordability. He expressed satisfaction with current stock levels sufficient to meet public needs but identified areas for improvement in infrastructure and policy to enhance distribution efficiency. This initiative follows Indonesia's anticipated rice self-sufficiency by December 2025 and aims to support effective implementation of government food programmes.

RS Adhyaksa Bali Boasts Modern Standards with Neo-Vernacular Design

PT Hutama Karya is constructing RS Adhyaksa Bali, a type C hospital with 100 beds in Jembrana, Bali, featuring a Neo-Vernacular design that blends local Balinese architecture with modern medical standards. The four-storey facility, spanning 16,528 square metres, will include outpatient services, emergency care, inpatient wards, laboratories, radiology, and pharmacy, supported by advanced technologies like BIM and CDE for quality control. This project not only enhances healthcare infrastructure but also boosts the local economy through employment and collaboration with small businesses.

World's Gaming King Falters, 2026 Crisis Already Alarming

Nintendo's performance is deteriorating amid a memory chip crisis driving up prices for electronics like smartphones, laptops, and game consoles, with shares dropping 7% on Monday. Analysts highlight concerns over a lack of blockbuster game titles and a confirmed price hike for the Switch 2 console, potentially alienating price-sensitive casual gamers. While Sony appears better positioned to pass on higher costs, Nintendo's decision could significantly impact its market position in the competitive gaming industry.

Full List of Judges and Hosts for the 2026 MPR RI Four Pillars Quiz Competition in West Kalimantan That Has Attracted Netizen Attention

The controversy surrounding the final of the 2026 MPR RI Four Pillars Quiz Competition in West Kalimantan has intensified, with netizens now focusing on the identities of the judges and hosts following a viral video showing a participant from SMAN 1 Pontianak being penalised for unclear articulation despite a correct answer. In response, the MPR RI General Secretariat has deactivated all judges and hosts involved, issued an apology, and promised a thorough evaluation of the competition mechanisms. Key figures highlighted include judges Indri Wahyuni, Dra. Triyatni, and Dyastasita Widya Budi from the MPR RI bureaucracy, as well as hosts Shindy Luthfiana and Said Akmad, underscoring public scrutiny of official conduct in educational events tied to constitutional awareness.

Central Java MPU 2026 Governor's Working Meeting Agrees on Six Strategic Steps

The Central Java Provincial Government hosted the 2026 Rakergub FKD-MPU meeting in Semarang, bringing together leaders from 10 member provinces to enhance regional connectivity and support national food self-sufficiency and energy resilience amid projected El Niño impacts. Key discussions focused on national strategies for food and energy security, including early warning systems, local food diversification, renewable energy development, and inter-provincial cooperation on surplus distribution. The forum culminated in six strategic agreements, such as integrated food resilience measures, BUMD collaborations, energy strengthening initiatives, and support for national infrastructure priorities like the Giant Sea Wall, underscoring a collective commitment to sustainable national goals.

Jogja Financial Festival Set to Explore Directions for Financial Sector Development

The Jogja Financial Festival 2026, organised by the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) and CNBC Indonesia, will convene key financial stakeholders including representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Bank Indonesia, the Financial Services Authority, and LPS to discuss the resilience and growth of Indonesia's financial sector amid global uncertainties. Featuring educational sessions like 'Financial Survival for Young Generation', business talks with prominent figures such as UGM Rector Prof. Ova Emilia and Yogyakarta Sultan Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, the event aims to enhance financial literacy and foster economic contributions. Scheduled for 22-23 May 2026 at Jogja Expo Center, the festival also includes entertainment, career opportunities, and a fun run to engage the public.

Finance Minister Purbaya Urged to Realise Madura Tobacco SEZ

Indonesian cigarette entrepreneur Gus Lilur has praised Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's plan for a new excise tax layer on tobacco products, viewing it as a positive step towards reforming the national tobacco industry to better support small farmers and businesses in entering the legal pathway. He advocates for the establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Madura tobacco to create a structured ecosystem integrating farmers, industry, trade, and oversight, which could strengthen the local economy, boost state revenues, and expand the legal sector. This push aligns with ongoing aspirations from Madura tobacco farmers and aims to address challenges like illegal cigarettes through adaptive policies and business transformation programmes rather than mere enforcement.

Bandung Mayor Ensures Transparent and Child-Rights-Focused New Student Admission System for 2026

The Bandung City Government is refining the implementation of the 2026/2027 New Student Admission System (SPMB) through public socialisation events, with Mayor Muhammad Farhan emphasising that it is more than mere administration but a vital step in ensuring equitable educational rights for all children. He highlighted key principles including justice, transparency, integrity, and humane service, while advocating for digital enhancements to prevent data manipulation and calling for active societal participation to disseminate accurate information. This initiative aims to foster a fair, high-quality education system that supports the development of competitive and character-building generations in line with Bandung's vision of excellence, openness, trustworthiness, progress, and piety.