Archive: 24 June 2026
Showing 501-550 of 1,678 articles
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:50 WIB
Indonesia and UK boost biodiversity and conservation funding
Indonesia and the United Kingdom have renewed their commitment to biodiversity conservation, focusing on innovative financing and the newly established Landscape and Iconic Species Conservation Task Force. The partnership includes an initial £2 million in UK funding and aims to support Indonesia's 2030 FOLU Net Sink targets through pilot projects like the Peusangan Elephant Conservation Initiative in Sumatra. Minister Raja Juli Antoni emphasised that new funding models will complement state budgets without privatising national parks, ensuring ecological integrity and community benefits.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:49 WIB
Indonesian Navy Foils Smuggling of 1.8 Tonnes of Tin Ore in Bangka
The Indonesian Navy intercepted an attempt to smuggle 1.8 tonnes of dry tin ore on the coast of Central Bangka Regency. Four suspects were arrested after personnel discovered the illicit cargo aboard a vessel during a patrol. The operation follows a recent seizure of 6,165 tonnes of tin sand valued at approximately Rp5.93 billion in the same region.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:49 WIB
Woman's Body Found in Government Vehicle Parked for Four Days at Juanda Airport
The discovery of a deceased woman inside a government-registered vehicle at Surabaya's Juanda International Airport has sparked a police investigation. The Toyota Kijang Innova had been parked at Terminal 1 for four days before security noticed blood seeping from the car. Authorities are working to confirm the identity of the victim, believed to be from Bangkalan, Madura, and determine the cause of death.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:49 WIB
West Bangka KONI Chairman and Treasurer Detained for Alleged Grant Fund Corruption
Police in Bangka Belitung have detained the chairman and treasurer of the West Bangka Regency chapter of the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) for the 2020-2024 period. The two officials are accused of misusing grant funds for personal gain, causing state losses estimated at Rp835.4 million. The case was escalated to the investigation stage after authorities examined 72 witnesses.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:48 WIB
Little Aresha Foundation Head and Principal Face Over a Decade in Prison
The head of the foundation and the principal of the Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta are facing multiple charges, including violations of the national education system law, consumer protection law, and child protection law. Prosecutors have separated their cases from 11 caregivers, who are charged solely under child protection laws for allegedly following instructions. The foundation head and principal could face a cumulative maximum sentence of up to 13.5 years in prison.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:48 WIB
National Police Hold Pilgrimage to Strengthen Bhayangkara Devotion
The Indonesian National Police (Polri) conducted a simultaneous national pilgrimage and flower-laying ceremony at five locations to reinforce the spirit of service ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara Day on 1 July 2026. The event served as a moment of reflection for personnel to honour past heroes and reaffirm their commitment to professional, humane, and community-oriented duties. A total of 1,037 personnel participated in the ceremonies, which included sites such as the Kalibata National Heroes' Cemetery and the grave of General Hoegeng.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:48 WIB
How to Obtain Free Assistive Devices for Persons with Disabilities: Requirements and Procedures
The Indonesian government provides free assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and prosthetic limbs to support the mobility and independence of persons with disabilities. Applicants must meet specific requirements, including holding valid identity documents and being registered in the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN) or having BPJS Health membership. Assistance can be accessed through three main channels: BPJS Health, the Ministry of Social Affairs, or local government social services.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:48 WIB
PRR Task Force Secures Two Permanent Housing Sites for Survivors in Padang Pariaman
The Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force has secured two plots of state-owned land in Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra, for the construction of permanent housing. The sites, currently used for temporary shelters, belong to PLN and the Ministry of Public Works. The agreement aims to expedite the relocation of disaster survivors into more adequate homes while resolving land ownership challenges.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:48 WIB
Over 60 Percent of Indonesian Brides- and Grooms-to-Be Skip Premarital Medical Check-ups: Why?
Data from Indonesia's National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN) reveals that only 39.7% of prospective couples of reproductive age underwent premarital health screening in 2023, far below the 80% national target. The low uptake is attributed to a perceived lack of need, fear of adverse results, cost concerns, and a misunderstanding of the screening's preventive purpose. Health professionals recommend check-ups three to six months before the wedding to allow time for any necessary medical interventions or lifestyle changes.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:48 WIB
Prabowo Reveals Why Teacher and Civil Servant Salaries Cannot Be Improved
President Prabowo Subianto has attributed the government's inability to raise teacher and civil servant salaries to massive annual state revenue leakages estimated at Rp2,500 trillion. He highlighted widespread under-invoicing by business actors as a key cause of these losses. The government is pursuing reforms, including centralising strategic commodity exports and closing loss-making state-owned enterprises, to plug the gaps.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:46 WIB
Pramono to Build 11 New Flats Next Year, Promoting Vertical Housing in Jakarta
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has approved the construction of 11 new large-scale public housing blocks (rusun) next year to expand access to affordable living in the capital. He emphasised that vertical housing is essential due to land scarcity and soaring property prices. Pramono also acknowledged rising economic migration to Jakarta and stressed the need to balance the city's openness with maintaining public order.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:45 WIB
Under MSCI Spotlight: Here Are the 13 Latest High Share Concentration Stocks
MSCI has retained Indonesia's emerging market status but warned of potential reclassification to frontier market status by November 2026 if transparency reforms are not effectively implemented. The index provider highlighted persistent concerns over opaque share ownership and coordinated trading behaviour. It acknowledged recent reforms by OJK, IDX, and KSEI, including the new High Share Concentration (HSC) framework, and published a list of 13 stocks currently flagged under this category.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:45 WIB
TASPEN Praises Return of Rp153.6 Billion in State Confiscated Funds by KPK
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has returned an additional Rp153.6 billion in recovered assets to the state-owned pension fund TASPEN, bringing the total restitution to over Rp1 trillion. The handover follows a final court ruling in a corruption case and is seen as a crucial step in strengthening corporate governance and protecting pension participants. TASPEN reaffirmed its commitment to clean governance in line with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita vision.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:45 WIB
House Commission IX Demands Physical and Mental Recovery of Bandung Captivity Victim Be Prioritised
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the government to prioritise the comprehensive physical and psychological rehabilitation of a woman allegedly held captive and tortured for three years in Bandung. The victim, identified as YTR, suffered severe injuries including blindness and requires long-term medical and mental health support alongside the ongoing criminal investigation. The Health Ministry has pledged to cover her treatment, including facial reconstruction, while police continue to hunt the suspect.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:44 WIB
PPKGBK Targets Completion of Hotel Sultan Evacuation Within One Month
The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) has commenced clearing the contents of Hotel Sultan in Central Jakarta, aiming to complete the process within a month. Items are being transported to two warehouses in Bekasi, West Java, where they will be stored for six months as mandated by the court. The execution follows a Central Jakarta District Court ruling that handed over the land and 15 buildings to the government.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:44 WIB
KLRI outlines four pillars of battery circularity system in Korea
A researcher from the Korea Legislation Research Institute (KLRI) presented four key pillars of Korea's battery circularity system at a forum in Jakarta, offering a potential model for Indonesia's sustainable battery industry. The pillars include extended producer responsibility for collection, comprehensive safety regulations, a battery passport for end-of-life evaluation, and policy instruments to boost recycled material use. The framework aims to secure resource independence, enhance industrial value, and meet global carbon and recycled content standards.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:44 WIB
PPATK Reveals Greater Jakarta as National Hub for Online Gambling Activity
Indonesia's Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) has identified the Greater Jakarta area (Jabodetabek) as the largest cluster of online gambling activity in the country. Data for 2025 shows Bogor Regency, West Jakarta, and East Jakarta leading in player numbers, with total deposits in the top three areas alone exceeding Rp 1.4 trillion. The agency warns that the phenomenon predominantly affects productive males aged 20 to 40, jeopardising not only their finances but also their future.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:44 WIB
Iran Proposes Islamic NATO, Invites Saudi Arabia and Turkey
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for the formation of a unified security front among Muslim nations, proposing a new regional security architecture. During a state visit to Pakistan, he extended invitations to countries including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar, emphasising dialogue over external intervention.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:44 WIB
South Tangerang City Government Prepares Education Aid for Students at 94 Private Junior High Schools for 2026/2027 Academic Year
The South Tangerang City Government is allocating education grants of Rp1.8 million per student for those unable to secure places in state junior high schools. The programme aims to uphold compulsory education and ensure access to schooling despite limited public school capacity. Aid will be distributed to eligible students enrolled at 94 affiliated private junior high schools.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:44 WIB
Two Hajj Pilgrims from West Sumatra Return to Padang, Five Still Hospitalised
Two Indonesian Hajj pilgrims from West Sumatra have safely returned home after being delayed in Saudi Arabia for medical treatment. Five pilgrims from the same embarkation point remain hospitalised, with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah pledging continued care and monitoring until they are fit to fly back.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:43 WIB
Server Error Strikes Again, New Student Registration in Mataram Extended Until Night
The online new student admission system (SPMB) in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, suffered repeated server outages on the final day of registration for achievement and affirmation pathways. The city's Education Department has extended the deadline until 10 p.m. local time to accommodate affected parents and schools. Officials attributed the technical issues to high access loads and have set up a special command post to ensure transparency in the process.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:43 WIB
Economist Reveals Factors Behind Continuing Layoff Trend This Year
An economist from CORE Indonesia has warned that the wave of layoffs will persist this year, driven by rising producer inflation, a weakening rupiah, and geopolitical disruptions. Sectors with high import dependency and energy costs, such as textiles and ceramics, are most vulnerable. The surge in gas prices to around US$23 per MMBtu is placing severe pressure on production costs.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:43 WIB
Cybercrime Grows More Complex, AI Becomes the New Guardian of Digital Wallet Security
As digital transaction activity surges, Indonesian digital financial service provider OVO is deploying artificial intelligence to combat increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. The AI system detects suspicious transactions, identifies document manipulation, and maps fraud networks, working alongside user authentication and a Fraud Detection System. OVO's multi-layered security approach, backed by international ISO certifications, aims to bolster user confidence in digital financial services.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:42 WIB
BNPT Declares South Korea a Key Partner in Maintaining Peace and Stability
Indonesia's National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) has affirmed South Korea as a vital partner in preserving regional peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The two nations solidified their commitment by signing a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance counterterrorism collaboration. The agreement aims to foster concrete, adaptive, and sustainable joint efforts to combat terrorism.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:41 WIB
Elderly Residents in Bantul Develop Tech- and Solar-Powered Goat Farming
A community programme in Bantul, Yogyakarta, is empowering elderly residents to build a circular economy through goat farming, integrating IoT air quality monitoring and solar-powered lighting. The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, aims to boost the income and well-being of older citizens while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. It transforms livestock waste into organic fertiliser and positions the elderly as active contributors to modern, tech-driven village development.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:41 WIB
Indonesia urges retailers to boost food rescue efforts
Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) is calling on retailers to play a greater role in food rescue and redistribution to strengthen national food security. The retail sector currently represents 8.8 percent of registered food rescue partners, and the government is pushing for stronger collaboration with food banks and structured data reporting. Industry leaders from Aprindo acknowledge that reducing food waste should be integrated into corporate strategy, offering economic, social, and environmental benefits while preparing for future regulations.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:41 WIB
Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Prioritises Recovery of Abuse Victim in Bandung
Minister Arifah Fauzi has expressed deep concern over the alleged confinement and abuse of a woman in Bandung, emphasising that the victim's physical and psychological recovery is the government's top priority. The Ministry is coordinating with local authorities to ensure the victim receives comprehensive protection, healthcare, and psychological support. The Minister also commended the swift police action in apprehending the suspect and called for a transparent legal process focused on the victim's rights.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:40 WIB
Airbus to Inspect 16 A380s After Wing Cracks Found on Emirates and Qantas Jets
Airbus will inspect 16 A380 superjumbo aircraft after cracks were discovered in a key structural component of the wing. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) ordered urgent checks, primarily affecting Emirates and Qantas fleets. This is not the first wing-related issue for the A380, which previously underwent a major repair programme in 2012.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:40 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya Says No Plans Yet for Government Stake in Indonesia Stock Exchange
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudi Sadewa has stated that the government currently has no plans to acquire shares in the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), despite a newly passed law permitting it. The revised Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law (UU P2SK), enacted on 4 June 2026, allows the Ministry of Finance, Bank Indonesia, and the Danantara sovereign wealth fund to become shareholders. The legislation also transforms the BEI from a member-based self-regulatory organisation into a limited liability company.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:39 WIB
PLN: 1,208 Villages in Central Papua Now Electrified
State electricity company PLN reports that all 1,208 villages in Central Papua Province now have access to electricity, achieving a 100 percent village electrification ratio. Power sources include PLN's grid, local government-built solar and micro-hydro plants, and a central government solar lamp programme. Despite this milestone, household electrification still stands at 94.66 percent, prompting ongoing surveys to connect remaining remote homes.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:37 WIB
Prabowo reveals call from Australian PM Albanese requesting Indonesia sell fertiliser
President Prabowo Subianto disclosed that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese personally called to request Indonesia sell its surplus fertiliser to Australia. The President also announced that Indonesia has achieved food self-sufficiency, particularly in rice, with record production levels. He credited the nation's farmers, fishermen, and even the military and police for their roles in this agricultural success.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:37 WIB
Tax Office: Seller Tax Calculated from Total Turnover Across All Marketplace Platforms
Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that the taxable income of online sellers will be calculated based on their accumulated turnover across all marketplace platforms, not per platform. Sellers whose total annual turnover remains below Rp500 million can submit a declaration to avoid tax deductions, but those exceeding the threshold will be subject to a 0.5% final income tax. The DJP is currently coordinating with various platforms to prepare their systems for tax collection, reporting, and remittance.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:35 WIB
Presidential Palace Launches Public Poll to Choose Logo for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
The Indonesian government has opened a public poll for citizens to select the official logo for the 81st Independence Day anniversary on 17 August 2026. Five shortlisted designs, curated from a national competition, are available for voting via a dedicated website from 24 to 28 June 2026. The initiative aims to foster a sense of national ownership and pride, with prizes including invitations to the proclamation ceremony and educational grants for selected participants.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:35 WIB
WhatsApp and Telegram Blocked by Governments, VPN Downloads Surge
Governments in Russia and India have imposed total blocks on popular messaging apps WhatsApp and Telegram, citing digital sovereignty and security concerns. The aggressive restrictions have triggered a mass panic among users, leading to an explosive surge in Virtual Private Network (VPN) downloads as citizens seek to circumvent the bans. The crackdowns highlight a growing global trend of tightening digital spaces in authoritarian and developing nations.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:32 WIB
Home Minister Tito: House Renovation Programme Strengthened as Tangible Proof of Government's Pro-Poor Stance
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has highlighted the expansion of the government's self-help housing stimulus programme (BSPS) as a concrete strategy to reduce poverty. During a visit to Gorontalo, he linked the provision of liveable housing directly to poverty alleviation, noting President Prabowo Subianto's strong commitment to low-income citizens. The initiative is also being reinforced with land certification to ensure legal certainty for beneficiaries.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:31 WIB
Data Security Key to AI Adoption, Strong Authentication Deemed Crucial
As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in Indonesian society, the urgency of robust data protection grows. Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria highlighted that the AI challenge now encompasses digital literacy and public trust, while VIDA's CEO stressed that strong authentication is essential, noting that 95% of global data breaches stem from weak authentication systems.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:30 WIB
Attorney General's Office Establishes Adhyaksa Chambers as Non-Litigation Dispute Mediation Hub
The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has launched the Adhyaksa Chambers, a dedicated facility designed to serve as a mediation, arbitration, and conciliation centre for public sector disputes. The initiative aims to prevent strategic project conflicts from hindering national development by providing a credible, structured forum for resolving disagreements between government entities and business partners. The chambers will offer technical support and facilities for dispute resolution without acting as a decision-making body.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:30 WIB
Australian Scaleups Explore Partnerships to Support Indonesia's Climate Goals
Seven Australian technology scaleups are showcasing climate and sustainability solutions in Jakarta to help Indonesia achieve its 2060 net-zero target. The initiative, part of Austrade's Landing Pad programme, focuses on carbon accounting, ESG reporting, and supply chain optimisation. The partnership builds on the Australia-Indonesia Climate and Infrastructure Partnership (KINETIK) to accelerate commercial opportunities in the green transition.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:30 WIB
Islamic Investment Ethics: Seeking Profit Without Losing Blessings
As Indonesia's investor base surpasses 20 million, dominated by young people, the ethical alignment of investment practices with Islamic principles is often overlooked. Islam provides clear guidance on wealth management, prohibiting riba (usury), gharar (uncertainty), and maysir (gambling), while promoting profit-and-loss sharing. Sharia-compliant banking offers practical alternatives through schemes like mudharabah and musyarakah, emphasising that the right to profit must be balanced with the willingness to bear risk.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:30 WIB
Two SPPI Kopdes Merah Putih Members Die During Military Training, Palace Responds
Two candidates for the Kopdes Merah Putih village cooperative programme have died during basic military training, prompting a response from the Presidential Palace. Deputy Minister of State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro stated the Ministry of Defence has provided an explanation and that the incident will be handled properly without disrupting the programme's continuation. He confirmed the Kopdes Merah Putih and Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih initiatives will proceed as planned.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:30 WIB
As More Indonesians Travel by Sea, Pelni Gradually Renews Its Fleet
State-owned shipping company PT Pelni has exceeded its passenger and cargo targets, driven by a sustained rise in mobility and logistics demand across Indonesia. The company is prioritising fleet renewal, noting many vessels are over 40 years old and increasingly inefficient. Pelni aims to revitalise all passenger ships by 2029 while enhancing onboard security technology.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:27 WIB
Gerindra Faction Denies Budisatrio Ordered Monitoring of VP Gibran
The Gerindra faction in Indonesia's House of Representatives has dismissed reports that its chairman, Budisatrio Djiwandono, instructed staff to monitor Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's activities. A magazine report claimed the directive was given during an April 2026 meeting, but faction secretary Bambang Haryadi insists the claim is a hoax and that meetings only discuss routine constituency matters.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:27 WIB
DPR Urges Use of Ministry Data as Basis for Free Nutritious Meals for Mothers and Toddlers
The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has requested that family data from the Ministry of Population and Family Development be used as the primary basis for distributing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. The move aims to ensure the programme accurately targets beneficiaries and accelerates coordination with the National Nutrition Agency. The ministry outlined plans to train family support teams and strengthen community kitchens to support distribution, particularly in underdeveloped regions.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:26 WIB
President Prabowo Allocates Rp 5.41 Trillion for Regional Roads, Here's Kuningan's Share
President Prabowo Subianto has launched a Rp 5.41 trillion regional road programme for 2025, covering 1,151 kilometres across 37 provinces. Kuningan Regency in West Java received Rp 10.8 billion to upgrade a 2.8-kilometre road segment. The initiative aims to accelerate equitable development, improve accessibility, and reduce logistics costs nationwide.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:26 WIB
KPK Imprisons Former Deputy Minister Immanuel Ebenezer and 10 Others in Sukamiskin for K3 Certificate Extortion
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has executed the imprisonment of former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan and ten other convicts at Sukamiskin Prison in Bandung. The group was found guilty of extortion related to the processing of occupational safety and health (K3) certificates at the Ministry of Manpower. The execution follows a final and binding court verdict, with Ebenezer receiving a 4.5-year prison sentence.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:26 WIB
Government Communications Body Denies Orchestrating Pro-MBG Demonstrations
The Government Communications Body has refuted allegations that the administration orchestrated demonstrations supporting the free nutritious meals programme (MBG). The denial comes amid reports that some participants in a pro-MBG rally in Jakarta were paid to attend, while the official declined to comment on the payments or a separate case involving a student leader allegedly paid by police.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:25 WIB
West Jakarta Government Holds Job Interview Sessions with 19 Companies
The West Jakarta Manpower, Transmigration and Energy Sub-department is conducting walk-in interview sessions across four sub-districts, involving 19 companies. The initiative aims to demonstrate that the job fair is a genuine recruitment process, not merely a formality, following a hybrid event that offered over 4,200 vacancies. Organisers expect to receive selection results from participating companies within one month.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:25 WIB
Prabowo sees Indonesia emerging as global food power
President Prabowo Subianto expressed confidence that Indonesia will soon become a global food supplier, citing the adoption of advanced farming technologies and innovations. He stressed the need for sustained momentum through long-term policies, improved farmer welfare, and expansion of production beyond rice and corn to crops like cassava and sorghum. The government aims to scale these agricultural technologies nationwide to achieve self-sufficiency and bolster resilience against global uncertainties.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:25 WIB
5 Top International News Stories Today
Today's top international stories are dominated by US-Iran tensions, including a pilot's account of Iranian drones forming a 'jellyfish' formation, Israel's threat to act alone against Iran, and the US Senate passing a symbolic resolution to end the war. Other key developments involve Denmark deploying conscripts to Greenland amid US interest and Washington's firm rejection of Iranian tariffs over the Strait of Hormuz.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 17:24 WIB
Greater Jakarta Housing Market Yet to See Even Recovery
The Greater Jakarta housing market shows a two-speed recovery in 2026, with strong demand for landed houses in suburbs like Tangerang, while condominium sales in Jakarta remain sluggish. Developers are keeping prices stable to match limited purchasing power, and government VAT incentives are still seen as crucial to sustaining sales momentum.