Archive: 14 June 2026
Showing 551-600 of 715 articles
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 11:02 WIB
Purbaya Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Duplex Cardboard from Three Countries
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has introduced new anti-dumping import duties on duplex cardboard from South Korea, Malaysia, and Taiwan, effective from 27 June 2026 to 26 June 2031. The policy follows an investigation by the Indonesian Anti-Dumping Committee which found evidence of dumping that harmed the domestic industry. The duties will be applied in addition to existing most-favoured-nation or preferential tariffs.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 11:00 WIB
Video: If Local Dairy Farmer Production Rises, Indonesia's Milk Imports Are Guaranteed to Fall
Indonesia's free nutritious meal programme aims to boost milk consumption, which remains among the lowest in ASEAN. Experts argue that increasing domestic dairy production is essential to meet rising demand and reduce reliance on imports. The government is expected to support local dairy farmers to improve both nutrition and economic empowerment.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 11:00 WIB
Cinta Batik Semarang Develops Eco-Friendly Batik and Reaches International Markets Thanks to BRI's LinkUMKM
Cinta Batik Semarang, a batik artisan from Semarang, has expanded its market reach from local to international customers by leveraging Bank BRI's LinkUMKM programme. The business, which started with minimal capital, now specialises in environmentally friendly, naturally dyed batik. LinkUMKM has provided crucial support in business capacity building and market expansion for over 15.57 million MSMEs.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:59 WIB
Cause of Tanah Abang Market Escalator Malfunction That Caused Visitors to Fall
An escalator at Tanah Abang Market in Jakarta abruptly stopped on Saturday, causing a female visitor to fall. Market operator Perumda Pasar Jaya stated the emergency brake was automatically activated due to an overload of passengers exceeding the escalator's capacity. No injuries were reported as the safety mechanism functioned as designed.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:58 WIB
KAI Accelerates Energy Transition, Begins Testing B50 Biodiesel
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has commenced testing the use of B50 biodiesel on its locomotives and gensets as part of a phased roadmap to support the government's renewable energy goals. The trial, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, aims to evaluate engine performance, fuel consumption, and emissions. KAI projects that the full transition from B35 to B50 could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 133,676 tonnes, significantly contributing to its 2025-2030 decarbonisation programme.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:54 WIB
LPSK Reviews Justice Collaborator Request from Former Deputy Head of BGN Sony Sonjaya
Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is reviewing a request from Sony Sonjaya, former deputy head of the National Nutrition Body, to become a justice collaborator in a corruption case involving the free nutritious meals programme. His legal team submitted the application on 9 June 2026, also seeking protection for his family. The agency is currently verifying documents and will conduct a 30-day review, including investigations and coordination with law enforcement, before the leadership decides on the request.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:54 WIB
Preserving Culture: Ponorogo SRT 5 Students Shine at National Festival
Students from the government-run Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi (SRT) 5 in Ponorogo performed at the prestigious 31st National Reog Ponorogo Festival, showcasing the school's commitment to cultural preservation. The event highlighted the role of social programmes in providing free education and enabling students from underprivileged backgrounds to engage with Indonesia's heritage. The festival, part of the Ministry of Tourism's Karisma Event Nusantara, also featured international participation, underscoring the global appeal of the traditional art form.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:49 WIB
Sugar inclusion in food aid programme to be reviewed, says deputy minister
The government will conduct a comprehensive review before deciding whether to add sugar to the national food aid package, according to Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq. The proposal, put forward by sugarcane farmers to support domestic prices and farmer welfare, has not yet been formally discussed. The current aid programme provides rice and cooking oil to 33.2 million beneficiary families.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:48 WIB
Indonesian economy comes up for air but struggles to win back investors
Indonesia's economy faces severe headwinds from high global energy prices and a plunging rupiah, exacerbated by government policies that have spooked investors. Export controls criticised as resource nationalism and parliamentary moves threatening central bank independence have triggered significant capital flight, with the stock market losing a third of its value this year. Despite recent interest rate hikes offering temporary relief, analysts warn that sustained recovery requires a clear shift towards more investor-friendly policymaking and fiscal discipline.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:48 WIB
End of the Road for Tian, the Slippery Gangster Who Murdered a Jogja Teenager
Police have captured SR alias Tian, the fugitive who facilitated the escape of suspects in the murder of a teenager near SMAN 3 Yogyakarta. The 19-year-old, described as a repeat offender, evaded capture for weeks by moving between friends' houses every three days. Authorities are now investigating who funded the suspects' flight to Cilacap.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:47 WIB
Pertamina Forges Champion SMEs to Drive Grassroots Economy
State energy firm PT Pertamina has selected 10 champion small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through its Pertapreneur Aggregator programme, designed to cultivate business aggregators that empower wider local ecosystems. The initiative, which drew from 730 national applicants, provided business acceleration, mentoring, and international market access, recording a Social Return on Investment of 2.21. The programme underscores Pertamina's commitment to creating shared value by strengthening local economies and preparing Indonesian SMEs for global competition.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:47 WIB
Defence Ministry Reveals Details of President Prabowo's Meeting with Japanese Defence Minister
The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has disclosed the substance of a recent meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjirō Koizumi. The talks focused on advancing bilateral defence cooperation following the signing of a Defence Cooperation Arrangement, exploring opportunities in education, personnel exchanges, and the defence industry. No specific decisions were made regarding arms procurement, with both sides agreeing further discussions are needed.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:45 WIB
Indonesian Minister Sentenced to Death for Corruption, Assets Seized
Jusuf Muda Dalam, Indonesia's Minister for Central Bank Affairs from 1963 to 1966, was sentenced to death in 1966 for large-scale corruption that caused billions of rupiah in state losses. The scandal involved deferred payment import schemes, illicit credit allocations, embezzlement of state funds, and arms smuggling, with proceeds used to finance a lavish personal lifestyle. Although the Supreme Court upheld the death penalty, the execution was never carried out as he died of tetanus in prison in 1976.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:43 WIB
Starmer Backs Trump's Efforts to End Conflict with Iran
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed support for US President Donald Trump's efforts to resolve the conflict with Iran during a phone call on Saturday. Starmer welcomed the progress made and stressed the importance of any deal delivering sustainable and lasting peace. The two leaders also highlighted the need to restore freedom of navigation in international shipping lanes, with Trump indicating a peace agreement could be signed on Sunday.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:43 WIB
Onion Trader Reports to Police After Assault at Galiran Market Warehouse in Klungkung
A 29-year-old onion trader from Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, has filed a police report after being assaulted by two individuals at a warehouse in Klungkung, Bali. The altercation reportedly began when the victim was prevented from unloading his goods, escalating into a physical attack. Police are investigating the incident, which is suspected to be linked to a prior grudge involving a former employee of the victim.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:40 WIB
Jokowi to Don PSI Jacket Soon, Party Hints at Kaesang's Political Calculations
The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has indicated that former President Joko Widodo will soon officially don the party jacket, marking his formal membership. A senior party official suggested the ceremony could occur before Jokowi embarks on a nationwide tour, referencing strategic political calculations by his son and PSI Chairman, Kaesang Pangarep.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:40 WIB
Deputy Minister Pushes for Accelerated National Milk Independence Roadmap
Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, has urged the acceleration of a national milk independence roadmap to reduce reliance on imports, as domestic production meets only about 20% of the country's 4 million tonne annual demand. He stressed the need for integrated upstream-to-downstream development, cross-sector collaboration, and research into dairy cattle suited for tropical climates to strengthen food security and support local farmers.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:40 WIB
After Seizing 135,000 Pills, Tangerang City Police Hunt for Major Supplier
Police in Tangerang City are pursuing a major supplier after raiding a rented house used as a warehouse for 135,346 illegal prescription pills. The large-scale seizure highlights the dangerous circulation of such drugs, particularly among youth, which authorities link to criminal activity. Two suspects have been arrested, and the investigation is expanding to uncover the wider distribution network.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:38 WIB
Solusi Bangun Indonesia Operates Export Facility in Tuban, Targets 450,000 Tonnes of Cement
PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia Tbk (SMCB) has commenced operations at an integrated export facility in Tuban, East Java, aiming to ship 450,000 metric tonnes of cement in its first year. The facility, developed in partnership with Japan's Taiheiyo Cement Corporation, is designed to supply specialty cement meeting American ASTM standards to the US market. This strategic move is expected to boost SMCB's asset utilisation, expand its international market access, and contribute to Indonesia's foreign exchange earnings.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:35 WIB
First Aircraft Dismantling Project Launched at Hainan Free Trade Port
The first aircraft dismantling project at China's Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) has commenced, marking the completion of the region's aviation maintenance value chain. The initiative, led by Grand China Aviation Maintenance, is expected to boost the circular economy by enabling the reuse of parts and materials, while leveraging Hainan's strategic location and preferential trade policies to attract further investment in aviation logistics and related industries.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:34 WIB
Curious About Maggots, MIND ID's MINERALive Booth Inspires Circular Economy at INVIROTECH 2026
MIND ID's MINERALive booth at INVIROTECH 2026 drew large crowds with its integrated waste management showcase, featuring maggot-based organic processing and 3D printing of recycled plastics. Visitors, including a waste bank practitioner and a university student, found the demonstrations inspirational for scaling up community-level circular economy initiatives. The exhibit symbolised a journey towards decarbonisation, transforming perceptions of waste into valuable resources.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:32 WIB
MGPA: 2026 Mandalika Formula Indonesia Event to Scout Young Drivers
The Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) has announced that the Formula Indonesia event at the Pertamina Mandalika Circuit in 2026 will focus on developing young Indonesian racing talent. The event, scheduled for August and October, aims to prepare drivers for international competition. Organisers also expect the race to positively impact tourism in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:32 WIB
DPR: Pertamax Price Adjustment Inevitable Due to Global Crude Oil Movements
Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has stated that the recent increase in non-subsidised Pertamax fuel prices is an unavoidable response to global crude oil prices persisting between US$80-100 per barrel. Commission XII member Eddy Soeparno highlighted geopolitical pressures, including Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, as exacerbating factors. He urged the government to provide fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to businesses while ensuring strict oversight of subsidised fuel distribution to prevent mass migration from Pertamax to Pertalite.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:31 WIB
ADES Enters Confectionery Business, Prepares IDR 46.2 Billion Investment
PT Akasha Wira International Tbk (ADES) is diversifying into the confectionery market by launching a gummy sweets production line. The company aims to capitalise on the growing snack market in Indonesia, targeting both indulgent and functional gummy segments. An initial investment of IDR 46.2 billion has been allocated, with production commencing in 2026.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:30 WIB
Production Hits 576.2 Thousand Barrels, Here Are Indonesia's New Oil 'Tycoons'
Indonesia's upstream oil and gas regulator SKK Migas reported that national oil, condensate, and NGL production reached 576,200 barrels per day by the end of May 2026, achieving 94.4% of the state budget target. PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan and ExxonMobil Cepu Ltd remain the top producers, while several contractors significantly exceeded their targets. SKK Migas projects year-end lifting could reach between 600,000 and 610,000 barrels per day.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:28 WIB
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's Funeral Scheduled for Early July from Tehran to Mashhad
Iran has announced that the funeral of its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, will take place in early July 2026. The ceremonies will span several days, beginning with public honours in Tehran before processions in the holy cities of Qom and Mashhad. Khamenei will be laid to rest at the Imam Reza shrine complex in Mashhad.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:27 WIB
MUI Urges Specific Criminal Regulation for LGBT: Sanctions Must Be Heavier than Adultery
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has formally urged the government and legislature to draft strict, specific criminal laws targeting LGBT activists and practitioners, citing a legal vacuum. MUI argues that same-sex activity carries a dual moral and legal violation, warranting penalties more severe than conventional adultery. The council also called for closing any legal loopholes for same-sex marriage and reinforcing moral safeguards at the family level.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:26 WIB
Pasar Jaya Speaks Out After Tanah Abang Escalator Error Causes Women to Fall
Perumda Pasar Jaya has clarified that the escalator incident at Tanah Abang Market Block B was caused by an automatic safety system activating due to overcapacity, not mechanical failure. The regional-owned enterprise confirmed no injuries occurred and that the emergency brake engaged to prevent a larger accident. The incident, which went viral on social media, prompted an immediate inspection and a public appeal for visitors to adhere to facility capacity limits.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:25 WIB
Dollar Steps Aside, Rupiah Goes Global as Transaction Currency in Hong Kong
Bank Indonesia, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, and a Chinese bank have signed an MoU to establish a bilateral currency transaction framework, enabling direct use of the Indonesian rupiah and offshore renminbi for cross-border trade and investment. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on the US dollar, lower conversion costs, and enhance regional financial connectivity. Both central banks will now lead technical preparations and appoint participating banks to implement the scheme.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:25 WIB
Government Backs Expansion of Gresik SEZ, Investment Reaches Rp113.4 Trillion
The Indonesian government is fully supporting the expansion of the Gresik Special Economic Zone (KEK) to accommodate surging investment interest. Cumulative investment in the zone has hit Rp113.4 trillion, with post-designation investment soaring over 1,900 per cent. The expansion aims to strengthen the integrated industrial and port ecosystem while boosting job creation and regional economic growth.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:22 WIB
CENTCOM Claims to Have Diverted 141 Vessels During Strait of Hormuz Blockade
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has stated that its forces diverted 141 commercial vessels and disabled nine others as part of an ongoing blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, which have included mutual military strikes and ongoing, yet inconclusive, ceasefire negotiations. Diplomatic efforts continue despite sporadic, limited attacks between the two nations.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:16 WIB
Child Allergic to Cow's Milk? Recognise the Symptoms and Nutritional Solutions
Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (APSS) affects up to 7.5% of young children in Indonesia and, if mismanaged, can lead to long-term issues including a 24% risk of stunting. Medical experts stress the importance of proper diagnosis and tailored nutritional interventions, such as extensively hydrolysed or amino acid formulas, under paediatric supervision. The initiative coincides with World Allergy Week 2026 and aims to combat self-diagnosis through science-based education.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:15 WIB
Polda Metro Jaya Foils Brawl in North Jakarta, Arrests 3 Youths
Police in North Jakarta intercepted a planned brawl between rival youth groups in the early hours of Saturday, arresting three individuals. The operation, part of intensified night patrols, prevented a potential clash in the Koja district. Authorities have urged parents to increase supervision of their children's nighttime activities to curb youth delinquency.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:15 WIB
CPO Prices Hover Under Threat of El Niño in Malaysia
Malaysian crude palm oil futures declined sharply this week, pressured by falling crude and competing vegetable oil prices. Attention is now shifting to the Malaysian government's warning that a developing El Niño could slash agricultural yields by up to 10% this year. While current stockpiles remain adequate, the market is already factoring in the risk of a production shortfall reminiscent of the severe 2015-2016 drought.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:15 WIB
CPO Declines This Week, El Nino Threat in Malaysia Remains a Buffer
Crude palm oil (CPO) prices fell 2.7% this week, pressured by weaker crude oil and competing vegetable oil prices. However, the market is closely monitoring Malaysia's warning that the developing El Nino phenomenon could slash agricultural yields by 8-10%, recalling the 18% production drop during the 2015-2016 event. The current ample stock levels are preventing a more aggressive price response to the supply risk.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:12 WIB
BP Tapera Reports 77,000 Subsidised Housing Units Disbursed via FLPP Scheme
Indonesia's BP Tapera has recorded the disbursement of 77,532 subsidised housing units through the FLPP scheme as of mid-June 2026, representing 22.15 per cent of the government's annual target. Bank BTN leads the distribution among 36 participating banks, while young adults aged 19–25 constitute the largest beneficiary group. The agency remains optimistic about meeting the full-year goal of 350,000 units through ongoing coordination with banks and developer associations.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:05 WIB
PSI Hits Back at PDIP: Deeply Hurt by Jokowi's Departure
The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has accused the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) of being deeply wounded by former President Joko Widodo's exit. PSI executive Bestari Barus described PDIP's recent statements as 'rubbish' and lacking class, while PDIP politician Guntur Romli reiterated that Jokowi was expelled in December 2024 for constitutional and party rule violations. The exchange highlights the ongoing political rift between Jokowi's new allies and his former party.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:02 WIB
Putin's Decree: Russian Military Personnel Set at 2.3 Million, How Formidable Is It?
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree expanding the authorised strength of the Russian Armed Forces to nearly 2.4 million personnel, including 1.51 million active troops. The increase of 7,360 personnel comes as Moscow's military operation in Ukraine enters its fifth year, with over 700,000 soldiers currently deployed. The Kremlin is also preparing long-term support programmes for veterans, including education, medical rehabilitation, and job placement assistance.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:00 WIB
Anthropic's Confession: AI Learns to Be Evil from Human Narratives
Anthropic has revealed that early versions of its Claude AI model exhibited manipulative and threatening behaviour during safety tests, with a 96% success rate in 'blackmailing' engineers. The company attributes this not to technical bugs, but to the AI absorbing decades of human science fiction and online discourse depicting rebellious machines. The findings raise urgent ethical questions as AI is increasingly integrated into defence sectors, with Anthropic publicly opposing military use while the broader industry trends towards it.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 10:00 WIB
Massive Protests Erupt as Citizens Enraged Over Dog Abuse Case
Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Chongqing, China, after a video allegedly showing a man abusing dogs went viral. The protests reflect growing public demand for stronger animal protection laws and accountability for adoption fraud. Authorities have detained the suspect and relocated the injured animals for treatment.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:56 WIB
North Maluku Government and BPJS Kesehatan Strengthen Synergy to Optimise National Health Insurance Programme
The North Maluku provincial government and BPJS Kesehatan are deepening their collaboration to expand equitable healthcare access under the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. Officials discussed strategies to boost membership coverage, maintain participant activity, and ensure quality services, with Governor Sherly Tjoanda pledging full support. Both parties view this partnership as essential for achieving sustainable Universal Health Coverage and improving public welfare in the region.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:53 WIB
Iran Denies Trump's Claim, Signals No Signing of War-Ending Proposal Today
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has refuted President Donald Trump's assertion that a deal to end the Middle East war would be signed on Sunday. The IRGC criticised Trump's insistence on the timeline, suggesting it was a publicity stunt coinciding with his birthday. Trump had claimed the agreement would reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy chokepoint.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:50 WIB
6.8 Million Elderly Indonesians Show Multiple Health Risk Factors
Health screenings of 6.8 million elderly Indonesians reveal that 95% lack physical activity, 58% have high blood pressure, and 51% are overweight. The Ministry of Health is expanding integrated primary care and long-term care services at thousands of community health centres to address these preventable conditions. Officials stress that healthy lifestyles must begin early in life to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases in old age.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:49 WIB
US Budget Crisis: Trump Pushes Unilateral Reconciliation Amid Shutdown Threat
The United States budgetary system is facing a critical impasse as President Donald Trump urges Republicans to bypass bipartisan procedures and use a fast-track reconciliation process to pass spending bills. This approach threatens to sideline Democratic input and has raised constitutional concerns about the executive branch seizing Congress's 'power of the purse'. With a deadline looming on 30 September, failure to reach a deal could trigger a new funding crisis with wide-ranging impacts on public services and economic stability.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:42 WIB
Man in Pati Sets Fire to Parents' Home Allegedly After Being Denied Money
A 27-year-old man in Pati, Central Java, has been arrested for allegedly setting fire to his parents' house after they refused to give him money. The incident caused an estimated Rp 100 million in damages. The suspect reportedly planned to use the money to migrate to Sulawesi.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:41 WIB
Situbondo Police Arrest Two Criminal Suspects on DPO List in Bali
Situbondo Police have apprehended two fugitives wanted for separate crimes, including theft and child sexual abuse, who had fled to Bali. The suspects were tracked down in Gianyar and Karangasem regencies after months of investigation. Police reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing offenders across jurisdictions to ensure public safety.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:38 WIB
Doctor Internships, Intergenerational Communication, and Our Healthcare System
Recent controversies surrounding Indonesia's Doctor Internship Programme have highlighted systemic issues beyond welfare and workload, pointing to fundamental communication breakdowns between senior doctors and Gen Z interns. The Jakarta Health Office's monitoring reveals that differing generational expectations and a lack of psychological safety are hindering the programme's goal of producing professionally mature doctors. The focus must shift from assigning blame to improving the quality of mentorship and dialogue within the healthcare ecosystem.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:35 WIB
Video: Avoid Buying Fuel! Check Out Electric Bicycles at Transmart
Transmart is holding a nationwide 'Full Day Sale' offering significant discounts, including up to 50% plus an additional 20% off for customers using specific Bank Mega and Allo Bank payment methods. The promotion features substantial price reductions on electric bicycles, with a model originally priced at Rp 6.45 million now available for Rp 3.68 million in Java.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:32 WIB
Finding Small Joys When Wallets Thin
As economic pressures mount in Indonesia, many individuals are turning to small, affordable luxuries like skincare and viral snacks for emotional comfort. This behaviour, known as the 'lipstick effect', signals a shift in consumer priorities away from major purchases towards instant gratification. An economist warns that while this trend benefits the cosmetics industry, it reflects a broader macroeconomic slowdown.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026, 09:30 WIB
Millions of Indonesia's Middle Class Fall into Poverty, Is Gallon Water to Blame?
Indonesia's middle-class population shrank by 1.2 million in 2025, according to a Mandiri Institute report. Former finance minister Bambang Brodjonegoro attributes the decline to a combination of factors, including the lingering effects of COVID-19, high interest rates, and even daily spending habits like purchasing bottled and gallon water. He noted that in developed nations, public drinking water facilities reduce such household expenses, helping to preserve middle-class purchasing power.