When job hugging becomes a way of survival

When job hugging becomes a way of survival

he measure of development success should not stop at lower unemployment, it also must include the improvement of job quality.

<When job hugging becomes a way of survival - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia’s World Cup hopes dashed after defeat to Iraq

Indonesia's World Cup hopes dashed after defeat to Iraq

Soccer Association of Indonesia (PSSI) chair Erick Thohir apologized for the abrupt end of the national men's soccer team's World Cup campaign following a 1-0 defeat to Iraq in the fourth round of the Asian qualifier.

<Indonesia’s World Cup hopes dashed after defeat to Iraq - Sports - The Jakarta Post>

Deadly collapse at Indonesia Islamic school draws scrutiny on old tradition

Deadly collapse at Indonesia Islamic school draws scrutiny on old tradition

Influence of institutions on local communities, national politics raises doubts about building codes' enforcement

<Deadly collapse at Indonesia Islamic school draws scrutiny on old tradition - Nikkei Asia>

ASEAN's power grid dream gathers pace after decades of inertia

ASEAN's power grid dream gathers pace after decades of inertia

Decarbonization drive and industrial shift add urgency to integration

<ASEAN's power grid dream gathers pace after decades of inertia - Nikkei Asia>

Govt insists on keeping free meals program running

Govt insists on keeping free meals program running

The government insists on keeping the free nutritious meal program running and will only close problematic kitchens temporarily for investigation, despite numbers of food poisoning cases continuing to increase among school students.

<Govt insists on keeping free meals program running - Society - The Jakarta Post>

Prabowo hails 'gamechanging' trade deal with Canada

Prabowo hails 'gamechanging' trade deal with Canada

With the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries, Indonesia became the first Southeast Asian nation to have such a trade deal with Canada amid the United States' transformation of its trade ties

<Prabowo hails ‘gamechanging’ trade deal with Canada - Americas - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia, EU sign long-awaited trade deal

Indonesia, EU sign long-awaited trade deal

The EU is Indonesia's fifth-largest trading partner with bilateral trade reaching $30.1 billion last year

<Indonesia, EU sign long-awaited trade deal - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

Purbayanomics and the Rp 200 trillion question

Purbayanomics and the Rp 200 trillion question

Stimulus drawn from reserves can jolt the economy today, but it also narrows Indonesia's room for maneuver tomorrow. 

<Purbayanomics and the Rp 200 trillion question - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

Haj and umrah ministry: Caring for the faithful

Haj and umrah ministry: Caring for the faithful

The formation of a haj and umrah ministry reflects a domestic commitment to improving religious services and a broader diplomatic effort to elevate Indonesia's role in global religious affairs.

<Haj and umrah ministry: Caring for the faithful - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

Jakarta's 'invisible' lives: Undocumented coastal children denied basic rights

Jakarta's 'invisible' lives: Undocumented coastal children denied basic rights

The fewer children are left out, the more society gets healthy!

<Jakarta’s ‘invisible’ lives: Undocumented coastal children denied basic rights - Jakarta - The Jakarta Post>

Taiwan raises alert over cancer-causing chemical in Indomie

Taiwan raises alert over cancer-causing chemical in Indomie

Taiwan's Center for Food Safety (CFS) is reviewing all related product lines to determine whether other Indomie variants have been affected.

<Taiwan raises alert over cancer-causing chemical in Indomie - Companies - The Jakarta Post>

Social media as town square, battleground in Indonesia’s protests

Social media as town square, battleground in Indonesia's protests

From viral videos of a young man's death to the rise of green and pink protest symbols, social media has emerged as the frontline in Indonesia's recent nationwide demonstrations.

<Explainer: Social media as town square, battleground in Indonesia’s protests - Politics - The Jakarta Post>

New finance minister signals budget continuity

New finance minister signals budget continuity

Entering office just weeks before the 2026 state budget is to be passed into law, newly appointed Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa vows to make no major changes to the draft and to maintain fiscal discipline. He also said he would learn the ins and outs of his new post from his well-regarded predecessor, Sri Mulyani Indrawati.

<New finance minister signals budget continuity - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

No shortcuts for traffic jams

No shortcuts for traffic jams

Jakarta's ambition to stand equal with the world's major cities is being undermined by the absence of a comprehensive traffic plan and persistent policy inconsistencies.

<No shortcuts for traffic jams - Editorial - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia protests expose economic divide threatening Prabowo programs

Indonesia protests expose economic divide threatening Prabowo programs

President urged to reduce spending on defense and free meals, prioritize cash transfers to the poor

<Indonesia protests expose economic divide threatening Prabowo programs - Nikkei Asia>

Indonesian economy suffers heavy losses from riots

Indonesian economy suffers heavy losses from riots

Retailers have suffered an estimated Rp 500 billion (US$33 million) in lost sales over five days of unrest, while small businesses saw revenue plunge by up to 90 percent as demonstrations disrupted operations and supply chains.

<Indonesian economy suffers heavy losses from riots - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

Rupiah, stocks tumble as riots rattle market

Rupiah, stocks tumble as riots rattle market

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite index fell as much as 3.6 percent to 7,551 points at the open on Monday, as a week of political unrest in Jakarta rattled investor sentiment, before trimming losses to 7,612 within 10 minutes of trade.

<Rupiah, stocks tumble as riots rattle market - Markets - The Jakarta Post>

Fatty bureaucracy

Fatty bureaucracy

Bureaucratic "fat" can strengthen implementation if managed well, yet too much of it risks clogging the system

<Fatty bureaucracy - Editorial - The Jakarta Post>

Protests break out against lawmakers’ excessive salaries

Protests break out against lawmakers' excessive salaries

Hundreds of people marched in the streets around the House of Representatives complex in Central Jakarta on Monday in protest.

<Protests break out against lawmakers’ excessive salaries - Politics - The Jakarta Post>

AI will replace most humans, but then what?

AI will replace most humans, but then what?

As robotics and artificial intelligence technology races ahead, it appears that human workers will be inevitably left not just behind, but also without jobs.

<AI will replace most humans, but then what? - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

How Muslims are powering environmental action across the world

How Muslims are powering environmental action across the world

In a time of mounting ecological challenges, all sources of wisdom are vital – including Islamic teachings that offer guidance for living in harmony with nature.

<How Muslims are powering environmental action across the world - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

Piracy and armed robbery quadruples in Strait of Malacca region

Piracy and armed robbery quadruples in Strait of Malacca region

Congestion slows ships as Mideast tensions push more traffic through Southeast Asia choke point

<Piracy and armed robbery quadruples in Strait of Malacca region - Nikkei Asia>

2026 budget ripe with politics, somewhat thinner on strategy

2026 budget ripe with politics, somewhat thinner on strategy

A lack of satisfying answers on how to reach growth goals set forth in the freshly unveiled 2026 state budget has led economists to conclude that the fiscal document is based more on political ambition rather than on technocratic calculation.

<2026 budget ripe with politics, somewhat thinner on strategy - Regulations - The Jakarta Post>

Tariff jitters, rising rivals threaten RI's foreign investment charm

Tariff jitters, rising rivals threaten RI's foreign investment charm

Analysts suggested that Indonesia scale up production to attract more manufacturers seeking new destinations, which could spur corporate investment and growth in the country.

<Tariff jitters, rising rivals threaten RI's foreign investment charm - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

Indirect election push sparks democratic concerns

Indirect election push sparks democratic concerns

Opposition is intensifying in response to renewed efforts by government officials and the political elite to scrap direct regional head elections and return to an indirect voting system, with critics warning that such a move would represent a serious regression in Indonesia’s democratic development.

<Indirect election push sparks democratic concerns - Politics - The Jakarta Post>

Malls are full, but shopping bags are empty

Malls are full, but shopping bags are empty

According to QRIS transaction data from Bank Mandiri, the Rojali-Rohana phenomenon is evident and reflects changing spending patterns within mall ecosystems.

<Malls are full, but shopping bags are empty - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

Analysis: Jakarta sacrifices domestic market for slight US tariff relief

Analysis: Jakarta sacrifices domestic market for slight US tariff relief

The deal's agricultural component has drawn strong backlash, particularly from local dairy and poultry egg producers that are already struggling to compete with the scale and efficiency of US agribusiness.

<Analysis: Jakarta sacrifices domestic market for slight US tariff relief - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

With war in mind, Thai military rolls out battle plans on Cambodia front

With war in mind, Thai military rolls out battle plans on Cambodia front

Show of force is designed to deter Phnom Penh from escalating conflict, analysts say

<With war in mind, Thai military rolls out battle plans on Cambodia front - Nikkei Asia>

Layoffs surge in manufacturing, retail, govt data suggest

Layoffs surge in manufacturing, retail, govt data suggest

The latest release of manpower data shows that the manufacturing, retail and mining sectors recorded the sharpest rise in job losses over the six months to June, with Central Java leading the provinces most affected by layoffs.

<Layoffs surge in manufacturing, retail, govt data suggest - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

As users surge, Indonesia falls short on AI talent

As users surge, Indonesia falls short on AI talent

Indonesia is among the top countries globally in the number of artificial intelligence (AI) users but lags far behind in AI development, revealing a yawning digital talent gap. 

<As users surge, Indonesia falls short on AI talent - Tech - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia's modest fashion makers ramp up overseas push

Indonesia's modest fashion makers ramp up overseas push

Oversaturated market and plagiarism at home fuel brands' expansion

<Indonesia's modest fashion makers ramp up overseas push - Nikkei Asia>

Trump says Indonesia to face 19 percent tariff under trade deal

Trump says Indonesia to face 19 percent tariff under trade deal

Goods that have been transshipped to avoid higher duties will face steeper levies

<Trump says Indonesia to face 19 percent tariff under trade deal - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

Java airports grounded by low demand, poor planning

Java airports grounded by low demand, poor planning

Experts slammed the lack of infrastructure in Kertajati Airport in West Java, calling it "a symbol of megaproject failure." 

<Java airports grounded by low demand, poor planning - Companies - The Jakarta Post>

Malaysia calls for stronger inter-ASEAN trade amid tariffs uncertainty

Malaysia calls for stronger inter-ASEAN trade amid tariffs uncertainty

Anwar described tariffs, export restrictions and investment barriers as "the sharpened instruments of geopolitical rivalry". He did not mention the United States specifically.

<Malaysia calls for stronger inter-ASEAN trade amid tariffs uncertainty - Asia & Pacific - The Jakarta Post>

Prabowo touts South-South cooperation at BRICS summit

Prabowo touts South-South cooperation at BRICS summit

Prabowo made the call in his speech at the second session of the BRICS summit in the Brazilian coastal city of Rio de Janeiro to discuss finance, artificial intelligence and multilateralism.

<Prabowo touts South-South cooperation at BRICS summit - Asia & Pacific - The Jakarta Post>

ASEAN nations pledge to buy more from US as tariff zero-day nears

ASEAN nations pledge to buy more from US as tariff zero-day nears

Vietnam and Indonesia ahead in negotiations; Thai turmoil takes toll on deal attempt

<ASEAN nations pledge to buy more from US as tariff zero-day nears - Nikkei Asia>

Prabowo's efficiency drive takes toll on Jakarta starred hotels

Prabowo's efficiency drive takes toll on Jakarta starred hotels

Industry revenues slide as bureaucrats see meeting budgets squeezed

<Prabowo's efficiency drive takes toll on Jakarta starred hotels - Nikkei Asia>

Indonesian islanders lose ground as islets put on sale

Indonesian islanders lose ground as islets put on sale

Once a private firm enters a small island to build its business, local residents often lose access to the island where they usually fish or dock their ships. The issue has become a complaint of local islander communities amid the brouhaha surrounding Indonesian islands being sold online.

<Indonesian islanders lose ground as islets put on sale - Society - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia's Pertamina NRE preparing country's first nuclear energy project

Indonesia's Pertamina NRE preparing country's first nuclear energy project

State-owned firm also linking up with Chinese, Philippine partners for solar power

<Indonesia's Pertamina NRE preparing country's first nuclear energy project - Nikkei Asia>

Indonesia's geothermal push buoyed by Sumitomo-backed expansion plan

Indonesia's geothermal push buoyed by Sumitomo-backed expansion plan

Jakarta aims to triple nation's capacity with eye on energy self-sufficiency

<Indonesia's geothermal push buoyed by Sumitomo-backed expansion plan - Nikkei Asia>

Aceh-North Sumatra dispute triggers wider border tensions

Aceh-North Sumatra dispute triggers wider border tensions

Days after the Aceh-North Sumatra dispute was settled, other regions stepped forward with unresolved claims of their own and challenged the same ministerial decree, which they say fails to reflect spatial plans of the regions and historical administrative boundaries.

<Aceh-North Sumatra dispute triggers wider border tensions - Politics - The Jakarta Post>

Prabowo shores up ties with Putin

Prabowo shores up ties with Putin

Pesident Prabowo Subianto shored up ties with Russia in a bilateral talk with President Vladimir Putin in the northern Russian city of Saint Petersburg on Thursday, exploring ways to deepen partnership amid deepening conflict in the region.

<Prabowo shores up ties with Putin - Europe - The Jakarta Post>

Trump tariffs shine spotlight on Chinese targeting Southeast Asian consumers

Trump tariffs shine spotlight on Chinese targeting Southeast Asian consumers

Trade war with US prompts businesses to focus more on ASEAN region

<Trump tariffs shine spotlight on Chinese targeting Southeast Asian consumers - Nikkei Asia>

Indonesian academics raise concern over government's rewriting of history

Indonesian academics raise concern over government's rewriting of history

Project draft omits major events, including many human rights violations

<Indonesian academics raise concern over government's rewriting of history - Nikkei Asia>

At least 265 dead in India plane crash, one passenger survives

At least 265 dead in India plane crash, one passenger survives

Experts said it was too early to speculate on what may have caused Thursday's crash.

<At least 265 dead in India plane crash, one passenger survives - Asia & Pacific - The Jakarta Post>

'Jumbo' leads the way as Indonesian films flip the script on Hollywood

'Jumbo' leads the way as Indonesian films flip the script on Hollywood

Record-smashing animated feature defies the nation's horror flick addiction

<'Jumbo' leads the way as Indonesian films flip the script on Hollywood - Nikkei Asia>

Air quality worsens in Greater Jakarta as govt yet to curb pollution

Air quality worsens in Greater Jakarta as govt yet to curb pollution

Worsening air quality in Greater Jakarta has brought to light the government's unfulfilled responsibility to ensure citizens' right to clean air and to curb emissions from coal-fired power plants and motor vehicles.

<Air quality worsens in Greater Jakarta as govt yet to curb pollution - Jakarta - The Jakarta Post>

South Korea's new President Lee vows to revive democracy from 'near demise'

South Korea's new President Lee vows to revive democracy from 'near demise'

Lee has expressed more conciliatory plans for ties with China and North Korea, in particular singling out the importance of China as a major trading partner while indicating reluctance to take a firm stance on security tensions in the Taiwan strait.

<South Korea's new President Lee vows to revive democracy from 'near demise' - Asia & Pacific - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia backs global push to save glaciers

Indonesia backs global push to save glaciers

As Papua's Carstensz Pyramid snowcap melts, Indonesia calls for multilateral efforts to slow the pace of warming at the inaugural glaciers conference.

<Indonesia backs global push to save glaciers - Archipelago - The Jakarta Post>

Luhut confirms Jakarta-Surabaya high-speed rail project will continue

Luhut confirms Jakarta-Surabaya high-speed rail project will continue

Despite regulatory delays, National Economic Council head Luhut Pandjaitan said the Jakarta–Surabaya high-speed railway project is set to move forward.

<Luhut confirms Jakarta-Surabaya high-speed rail project will continue - Society - The Jakarta Post>

ASEAN agrees to lower barriers to boost regional trade

ASEAN agrees to lower barriers to boost regional trade

Bloc to sign key new agreement in October amid global economic tension

<ASEAN agrees to lower barriers to boost regional trade - Nikkei Asia>

Local films outshine foreign ones in home market

Local films outshine foreign ones in home market 

Major cinema chains tend to prioritize well-performing titles, often at the expense of smaller, independent productions that struggle to attract viewers

<Local films outshine foreign ones in home market - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

Rise in military, police involvement in civil governance draws scrutiny

Rise in military, police involvement in civil governance draws scrutiny

The growing presence of active police and military officers in executive and legislative posts under President Prabowo has sparked concerns among analysts.

<Rise in military, police involvement in civil governance draws scrutiny - Politics - The Jakarta Post>

Reform era draws to a close

Reform era draws to a close

Twenty-seven years after Indonesia emerged from the shadow of authoritarian rule, the nation now stands at a crossroads, as it reaches what some pro-democracy advocates describe as "the end of political reform," marked by the dismantling of democratic institutions and the return of authoritarian tendencies.

<Reform era draws to a close - Politics - The Jakarta Post>

Dubai real estate group keen to invest in Nusantara, says IKN Authority

Dubai real estate group keen to invest in Nusantara, says IKN Authority

An integrated property development and construction firm from Dubai has become the first company in months to express an interest in developing the new capital city in East Kalimantan, and is looking to invest in 10 hectares of Nusantara's mixed-use commercial zone.

<Dubai real estate group keen to invest in Nusantara, says IKN Authority - Regulations - The Jakarta Post>

Bogor declares health emergency after mass food poisoning linked to free meal program

Bogor declares health emergency after mass food poisoning linked to free meal program

A total of 171 students and teachers from nine schools in Bogor, West Java, reported symptoms of food poisoning, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and fever, after consuming packaged meals consisting of sunny-side-up eggs, stir-fried tofu, bean sprouts and bananas. Subsequent investigations revealed that the eggs and stir-fried vegetables were contaminated with harmful E. coli and Salmonella bacteria.

<Bogor declares health emergency after mass food poisoning linked to free meal program - Archipelago - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia seeks to stitch competing interests to boost textile sector

Indonesia seeks to stitch competing interests to boost textile sector

Prospect of Trump tariffs adds to industry's deep-rooted challenges

<Indonesia seeks to stitch competing interests to boost textile sector - Nikkei Asia>

Journalist groups urge stronger protections after mass layoffs

Journalist groups urge stronger protections after mass layoffs

Global tech giants control 'over 75 percent of ads' in Indonesia, putting local media firms and news organizations in a tight position financially, leading to recent mass layoffs, according to professional journalist associations.

<Journalist groups urge stronger protections after mass layoffs - Society - The Jakarta Post>

ASEAN falls short again

ASEAN falls short again

Tariffs, South China Sea and Myanmar show regional bloc still lacks teeth

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Opinion/ASEAN-falls-short-again>

Indonesia's silvermen beg to make ends meet

Indonesia's silvermen beg to make ends meet

On a rainy day in Jakarta, three men coated in metallic paint known as the "manusia silver", or silvermen, brave the elements at an intersection near a mall to ask drivers for change.

<Indonesia's silvermen beg to make ends meet - Jakarta - The Jakarta Post>

Explore nearby, spend wisely: intra-provincial travel boom

Explore nearby, spend wisely: intra-provincial travel boom

Many households are now exploring destinations closer to home to reduce expenditures.

<Explore nearby, spend wisely: intra-provincial travel boom - Companies - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesia risks becoming a net coffee importer as harvests fall

Indonesia risks becoming a net coffee importer as harvests fall

Rising popularity of local coffee shops boosts consumption at home

<Indonesia risks becoming a net coffee importer as harvests fall - Nikkei Asia>

Free meal program faces hurdles on food safety, funds management

Free meal program faces hurdles on food safety, funds management

Calls have grown for President Prabowo Subianto's administration to suspend and reevaluate its flagship free nutritious meals program amid cases of food poisoning and a report of embezzlement of funds earmarked for the initiative.

<Free meal program faces hurdles on food safety, funds management - Society - The Jakarta Post>

Addressing urban challenges by protecting indigenous peoples

Addressing urban challenges by protecting indigenous peoples

If governments have their own people's interest as a priority, then deliberative practices at the ground level should be seen as the biggest opportunity to manage urban spaces. 

<Addressing urban challenges by protecting indigenous peoples - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

Indonesians of all faiths mourn Pope Francis’ passing

Indonesians of all faiths mourn Pope Francis' passing

Catholics remember the late Pope Francis for his message to build bridges of hope and peace, while leaders of non-Catholic organizations vow to carry on the pontiff's work to nurture humanity.

<Indonesians of all faiths mourn Pope Francis’ passing - Society - The Jakarta Post>

Wang Yi calls on Indonesia to oppose unilateralism

Wang Yi calls on Indonesia to oppose unilateralism

The two sides should jointly accelerate regional economic integration and maintain the stability of industrial chain and supply chain, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said.

<Wang Yi calls on Indonesia to oppose unilateralism - Asia & Pacific - The Jakarta Post>

Who stands to win or lose when Grab takes over Gojek

Who stands to win or lose when Grab takes over Gojek

Analysts say a merger is increasingly likely. While institutional backers set to gain, millions of drivers and retail investors will likely lose out.

<Who stands to win or lose when Grab takes over Gojek - Tech - The Jakarta Post>

RI delegation jets off to Washington for tariff negotiations

RI delegation jets off to Washington for tariff negotiations

The US is Indonesia's second largest export market after China. Experts have warned US trade policy could weigh on the archipelago's gross domestic product growth and to some extent lead to layoffs in impacted industries.

<RI delegation jets off to Washington for tariff negotiations - Economy - The Jakarta Post>

Airlangga to Lead Indonesian Delegation in US Tariff Talks

Airlangga to Lead Indonesian Delegation in US Tariff Talks

A high-level Indonesian delegation will travel to the United States this week to hold discussions with the administration of President Donald Trump regarding the recently imposed tariff hikes on Indonesian goods.

<Airlangga to Lead Indonesian Delegation in US Tariff Talks>

Two nations, one vision: Indonesia and Turkey's growing partnership

Two nations, one vision: Indonesia and Turkey's growing partnership

During his a reciprocal visit to Turkey this week following an invitation from president Erdoğan, President Prabowo is aiming to strengthen relations between their two countries that share many commonalities, including their commitment to multilateralism and an aspiration to provide prosperity to their peoples through strategic agreements.

<Two nations, one vision: Indonesia and Turkey's growing partnership - Academia - The Jakarta Post>

ASEAN urges 'boldly' integrating region's economies amid US tariff worries

ASEAN urges 'boldly' integrating region's economies amid US tariff worries

The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which count on the United States as their main export market, were among those slapped with the toughest levies by President Donald Trump.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/world/2025/04/09/asean-urges-boldly-integrating-regions-economies-amid-us-tariff-worries.html>

Indonesia prepares to respond to US tariffs

Indonesia prepares to respond to US tariffs

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed his cabinet to deregulate and remove "restricting regulations" particularly with regard to nontariff barriers.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/04/04/govt-to-take-strategic-steps-on-us-tariffs.html>

South Korea's impeached president is removed from office, four months after declaring martial law

South Korea's impeached president is removed from office, four months after declaring martial law

South Korea's highest court has removed embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol from office, ending months of uncertainty and legal wrangling after he briefly declared martial law in December and plunged the nation into political turmoil.

<https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/03/asia/yoon-impeachment-verdict-south-korea-intl-hnk/index.html>

Chinese EVs chip away at Japan automakers' dominance in Indonesia

Chinese EVs chip away at Japan automakers' dominance in Indonesia

Government efforts to build industry prompt entry by Chinese carmakers

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Electric-vehicles/Chinese-EVs-chip-away-at-Japan-automakers-dominance-in-Indonesia2>

A modest Idul Fitri

A modest Idul Fitri

Unless the President can empathize with people's grievances and burdens, public discontent will persist. 

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/opinion/2025/03/28/a-modest-idul-fitri.html>

Myanmar, Thailand hit by deadly 7.7-magnitude earthquake

Myanmar, Thailand hit by deadly 7.7-magnitude earthquake

Three fatalities reported in Bangkok after high-rise condo under construction collapses

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Natural-disasters/Myanmar-Thailand-hit-by-deadly-7.7-magnitude-earthquake>

Rupiah drops to multiyear low ahead of Trump's tariffs, domestic uncertainty

Rupiah drops to multiyear low ahead of Trump's tariffs, domestic uncertainty

The national currency temporary hit its lowest rate since the 1998 Asian Financial before inching back up to Rp 16,580 per dollar on Tuesday evening, the depreciating trend caused by investors jittery about the incoming US tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty, as well as domestic pressures

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/03/25/rupiah-drops-to-multiyear-low-ahead-of-trumps-tariffs-domestic-uncertainty.html>

Southeast Asia's homegrown pop music surges in popularity

Southeast Asia's homegrown pop music surges in popularity

In Indonesia, local content outpaces U.S. artists in streaming share

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Datawatch/Southeast-Asia-s-homegrown-pop-music-surges-in-popularity>

Protests break out as House passes TNI bill

Protests break out as House passes TNI bill

House of Representatives lawmakers and government officials insist that the revision of the Indonesian Military (TNI) Law is based on "democratic principles, civilian supremacy and human rights" and necessary due to the current geopolitical situation.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2025/03/21/protests-break-out-as-house-passes-tni-bill.html>

Indonesia holds rates at 5.75% amid weak rupiah, stock slump

Indonesia holds rates at 5.75% amid weak rupiah, stock slump

Indonesia's central bank on Wednesday left its seven-day reverse repo rate unchanged at 5.75% as the rupiah depreciates and after the country's benchmark index plunged to a multi-year low on Tuesday.

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Markets/Indonesia-holds-rates-at-5.75-amid-weak-rupiah-stock-slump>

Jokowi’s influence casts shadow on Prabowo administration

Jokowi's influence casts shadow on Prabowo administration

Jokowi, who left office in October 2024 after a decade as president, has been receiving ministers and other top government figures at his private residence in his hometown of Surakarta, Central Java.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2025/03/13/jokowis-influence-casts-shadow-on-prabowo-administration.html>

Tzuyang Babi Guling Mukbang

쯔양 발리 통돼지구이 먹방

구독자 1,160만명을 자랑하는 유튜버 쯔양(Tzuyang)의 인도네시아 바비 굴링(Babi Guling) 먹방. 통돼지구이를 닮은 바비 굴링은 힌두교도가 대다수인 발리를 대표하는 전통 요리. 현지 레스토랑 종업원에게 '고마워요'를 뜻하는 발리어 'Suksma(쑥쓰마)'로 인사를 건네는 모습이 흐뭇하네요~

<https://youtu.be/f0BKifSh51A?si=VmtzNemPbeFQDFRC>

Indonesia beauty brands struggle in battle with Chinese rivals

Indonesia beauty brands struggle in battle with Chinese rivals

Rise of Skintific, The Originote and others fuel downfall of homegrown products

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Consumer/Indonesia-beauty-brands-struggle-in-battle-with-Chinese-rivals>

Prabowo's Merah Putih Cooperatives Aim to Cut Middlemen in Food Distribution

Prabowo's Merah Putih Cooperatives Aim to Cut Middlemen in Food Distribution

President Prabowo Subianto's goal of setting up tens of thousands of village-level cooperatives aims to stabilize food prices by cutting the middlemen out in its distribution, according to Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman.

<https://jakartaglobe.id/business/prabowos-merah-putih-cooperatives-aim-to-cut-middlemen-in-food-distribution>

Affinity-backed Yupi said to be nearing Indonesia IPO at around $1.2b valuation

Affinity-backed Yupi said to be nearing Indonesia IPO at around $1.2b valuation

PT Yupi Indo Jelly Gum, which owns one of Southeast Asia's largest gummy bear brands, is gearing up for an imminent initial public offering that may take place in Jakarta in the coming months, according to the people familiar with the matter.

<https://www.dealstreetasia.com/stories/yupi-nearing-ipo-432179>

Why Indonesian batik continues to fascinate

Why Indonesian batik continues to fascinate

From the practical to the exquisite, unique patterned cloth is symbol of national character

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Editor-s-Picks/Tea-Leaves/Why-Indonesian-batik-continues-to-fascinate>

Prabowo's economic policies put investors on edge

Prabowo's economic policies put investors on edge

National Economic Council (DEN) member Chatib Basri acknowledges that the current administration has little room to boost growth through monetary or fiscal policy, making structural reform the only viable option.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/02/27/prabowos-economic-policies-put-investors-on-edge.html>

China cosmetics brands target growing Southeast Asian market

China cosmetics brands target growing Southeast Asian market

Skintific and Judydoll gain momentum with products tailored to local skin concerns

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Consumer/China-cosmetics-brands-target-growing-Southeast-Asian-market>

Indonesia launches sovereign wealth fund aiming to hold $900 bn in assets

Indonesia launches sovereign wealth fund aiming to hold $900 bn in assets

Prabowo on Monday inaugurated the new fund, known as Daya Anagata Nusantara or Danantara, which is modeled partly on Singapore's investment arm Temasek.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/02/24/indonesia-launches-sovereign-wealth-fund-aiming-to-hold-900-bn-in-assets.html>

Diversity within unity

Diversity within unity 

The regional governments, and their elected leaders, represent this diversity, and they are the only political institution to do so.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/opinion/2025/02/21/diversity-within-unity.html>

'Dark Indonesia' protests erupt nationwide with students taking to streets

'Dark Indonesia' protests erupt nationwide with students taking to streets

Thousands of students march across Indonesia as the Dark Indonesia movement gains traction both on the streets and on social media.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2025/02/18/dark-indonesia-protests-erupt-nationwide-with-students-taking-to-streets.html>

K-fashion wave: How Korean style is taking over Jakarta’s wardrobes

K-fashion wave: How Korean style is taking over Jakarta's wardrobes

From celebrity-endorsed must-haves to drama-inspired elegance, the Hallyu wave is reshaping how Indonesians dress, one trend at a time.

<https://weekender.thejakartapost.com/life/2025/02/15/k-fashion-wave-how-korean-style-is-taking-over-jakartas-wardrobes.html>

Indonesia makes $1bn health care bet to keep rich patients at home

Indonesia makes $1bn health care bet to keep rich patients at home

Red tape delays rollout of upscale medical tourism facilities

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/ASEAN-Money/Indonesia-makes-1bn-health-care-bet-to-keep-rich-patients-at-home?utm_campaign=GL_editor_in_chief_picks&utm_medium=email&utm_source=NA_newsletter&utm_content=article_link&del_type=2&pub_date=20250214163000&seq_num=6&si=__MERGE__user_id__MERGE__>

Apple suppliers exploring iPhone production in Indonesia

Apple suppliers exploring iPhone production in Indonesia

U.S. company in talks with government to have iPhone 16 sales ban lifted

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Supply-Chain/Apple-suppliers-exploring-iPhone-production-in-Indonesia>

Concerns mount over Prabowo’s reliance on military in civilian affairs

Concerns mount over Prabowo's reliance on military in civilian affairs

President Prabowo Subianto has, once again, shown reliance on the Indonesian Military (TNI) to make his administration's priority programs a success, stoking concerns of military overreach into civilian affairs that could regress the country's democracy and human rights.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2025/02/10/concerns-mount-over-prabowos-reliance-on-military-in-civilian-affairs.html>

Trump’s ethnic cleansing plan

Trump's ethnic cleansing plan

As a leader who wants to bring his country to the center of global political affairs, Prabowo should be more forthright in defending the rights of Palestinians. 

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/opinion/2025/02/07/trumps-ethnic-cleansing-plan.html>

Grab shares jump 13% after reports of GoTo merger talks

Grab shares jump 13% after reports of GoTo merger talks

GoTo says there is 'no agreement' between ride-hailing rivals

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-deals/Grab-shares-jump-13-after-reports-of-GoTo-merger-talks>

After 100 days, little to show for Prabowo's energy, food security plans

After 100 days, little to show for Prabowo's energy, food security plans

President Prabowo Subianto kicked off his term with promises to make Indonesia less dependent on fuel and food imports by ramping up renewable energy supply and building massive agricultural estates.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/02/02/after-100-days-little-to-show-for-prabowos-energy-food-security-plans.html>

Indonesia FDI reached $55.3bn in 2024

Indonesia FDI reached $55.3bn in 2024

Singapore, China and Hong Kong were the biggest fourth-quarter investors

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Indonesia-FDI-reached-55.3bn-in-2024>

Modi, Prabowo agree to cooperate in defense sector, maritime security

Modi, Prabowo agree to cooperate in defense sector, maritime security

Indian prime minister and Indonesian president hold extensive talks

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/Modi-Prabowo-agree-to-cooperate-in-defense-sector-maritime-security>

Govt considers additional funding for free meals program

Govt considers additional funding for free meals program

The government is considering seeking additional funding to achieve this year's full recipient target for President Prabowo Subianto's flagship free nutritious meals program amid struggles to cover ballooning costs.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/01/21/govt-considers-additional-funding-for-free-meals-program.html>

Indonesian cities cease public transport amid funding shortage

Indonesian cities cease public transport amid funding shortage

Bali and other cities in Indonesia have either ceased or reduced their transportation services due to a lack of funding from central and local governments. 

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/01/17/bali-other-regions-cease-public-transport-citing-funding-shortage.html>

BPJS raises pension age to ensure its long-term solvency

BPJS raises pension age to ensure its long-term solvency

Pension age hike could result in a longer "waiting period" for workers who retired before the age of 59, delaying their access to the state-run pension program's benefits.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2025/01/17/bpjs-raises-pension-age-to-ensure-its-long-term-solvency.html>

Investigators scale barbed wire to arrest S Korea's impeached president

Investigators scale barbed wire to arrest S Korea's impeached president

South Korea's Yoon Suk Yeol has become the country's first sitting president to be arrested, ending a weeks-long standoff between investigators and his personal security.

<https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg45zqz225vo>

Indonesia's vast resources and population could be its bane

Indonesia's vast resources and population could be its bane

Country needs to develop manufacturing to achieve its economic ambitions

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Comment/Indonesia-s-vast-resources-and-population-could-be-its-bane>

'Indonesia is Too Big to Lean on Any Country': Luhut Defends BRICS Membership

'Indonesia is Too Big to Lean on Any Country': Luhut Defends BRICS Membership

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, a senior economic advisor to President Prabowo Subianto, said Thursday that BRICS newcomer Indonesia is "too big" to lean on any country, saying that Jakarta should not worry about ruffling US’ feathers by joining the alliance that includes China.

<https://jakartaglobe.id/news/indonesia-is-too-big-to-lean-on-any-country-luhut-defends-brics-membership>

ASEAN's interest in BRICS is a hedge against Trump

ASEAN's interest in BRICS is a hedge against Trump

De-dollarization makes sense for major Southeast Asian economies

<https://asia.nikkei.com/Opinion/ASEAN-s-interest-in-BRICS-is-a-hedge-against-Trump>

Indonesia’s downstreaming policy inspires Asian, African countries: Binus research

Indonesia's downstreaming policy inspires Asian, African countries: Binus research

The success of Indonesia's mineral downstreaming policy in increasing added value of natural resources is encouraging several developing countries in Asia and Africa to follow suit, a Binus University study has found.

<https://www.thejakartapost.com/adv/2024/12/30/indonesias-downstreaming-policy-inspires-asian-african-countries-binus-research.html>