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Indonesian kids brace themselves for social media ban

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Indonesia will start enforcing a ban on social media access for children under 16 on Saturday, a move impacting an estimated 70 million young people. The government hopes to shield children from risks including cyberbullying, pornography, and internet addiction.

A Growing Global Trend

The ban, which will deactivate underage accounts on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox, follows a similar measure implemented in Australia in December. Several other countries are now considering similar restrictions.

Did You Know? Indonesia’s communications minister, Meutya Hafid, stated that “Parents no longer have to fight alone against the giants of the algorithm” when announcing the ban three weeks ago.

The Indonesian government is placing the responsibility for enforcing the ban on the social media platforms themselves, with potential fines or suspension for non-compliance. However, details on how implementation will be monitored have not been released.

Concerns and Reactions

Eleven-year-old Bradley Rowen Liu, who spends up to five hours a day on TikTok, expressed worry that the ban would leave him “driftless.” He indicated he may ask his parents for help accessing the app. Fifteen-year-old Maximillian, however, supports the ban, stating he feels “unproductive” from spending too much time on social media.

Some educators believe the ban doesn’t go far enough. Randi Putra Chaniago, a teacher, expressed concern over “brain rot” content and suggested a complete ban on cellphones in classrooms. The P2G Indonesian Teachers’ Association supports this more comprehensive approach.

Expert Insight: The Indonesian ban reflects a growing global concern about the impact of social media on young people’s wellbeing. Placing the onus on platforms to regulate access is a common approach, but its effectiveness will depend on robust implementation and ongoing monitoring.

Social media companies are responding to the ban. YouTube’s parent company, Google, stated it will launch AI technology in Indonesia next year to verify user ages, while TikTok pledged to work with the government to ensure “teens can continue to access safe online spaces.” Roblox also committed to introducing additional controls for minors.

Educational psychologist Karina Adistiana noted that intensive social media use – defined as it becoming a child’s “main world” – can lead to depression, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What platforms are included in the ban?

YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox are all included in the ban.

How will the ban be enforced?

The Indonesian government is placing the onus on social media platforms to regulate access for users under 16, with potential fines or suspension for non-compliance.

What are some of the concerns about social media use among young people?

Concerns include cyberbullying, pornography, internet addiction, depression, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and anxiety.

As Indonesia implements this ban, it remains to be seen how effectively it will be enforced and whether it will achieve its goal of protecting young people from the potential harms of social media.

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Toward a four-day workweek: The Jakarta Post

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

JAKARTA – As Indonesia faces a potential energy crisis fueled by disruptions to oil shipments in the Strait of Hormuz and rising global prices – now exceeding US$100 a barrel – officials are considering measures to reduce national fuel consumption. A one-day-a-week work from home (WFH) plan is among the ideas being discussed, building on experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Energy Crisis and Potential Solutions

The situation is particularly urgent following the recent Idul Fitri holidays, during which national fuel reserves were likely depleted faster than anticipated, despite government assurances of a 28-day supply based on average consumption rates. More drastic measures, including a potential increase in gasoline prices, may also be necessary.

Did You Know? Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines are the first countries worldwide to introduce a four-day workweek nationwide, primarily in response to the emerging energy crisis.

Beyond WFH, a four-day workweek – already implemented in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines – is being considered as a potential option. This approach could offer more significant savings in fuel consumption, benefiting both employers and employees.

Previous Trials and Considerations

Indonesia’s state-owned enterprises ministry previously ran a pilot program for a four-day workweek, compressing the standard 40-hour workweek into four days. The results of this pilot have not been publicly shared, but could inform future decisions.

Trials in the United States and the United Kingdom have explored a “100-80-100” model – 100 percent pay for 80 percent of the time, with the expectation of maintaining 100 percent productivity. These trials reportedly showed improved employee wellbeing, productivity, and recruitment, as well as reduced carbon footprints and lower overhead costs for companies.

Expert Insight: The current energy crisis, compounded by geopolitical factors like the US-Israeli war on Iran, is forcing governments to reconsider previously dismissed strategies like the four-day workweek. Although challenges exist, particularly for 24/7 industries, the potential benefits of reduced fuel consumption and improved employee wellbeing are becoming increasingly attractive.

However, compressing the workweek also presents challenges, including increased work intensity and operational difficulties for industries requiring continuous coverage, such as healthcare and emergency services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is being considered to address the energy crisis?

A one-day-a-week work from home plan and a four-day workweek are being considered, along with the possibility of raising gasoline prices.

Have other countries experimented with a four-day workweek?

Yes, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia have run pilot programs, and Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines have implemented it nationwide.

What were the reported benefits of the four-day workweek trials?

Reported benefits included improved employee wellbeing, higher productivity, better recruitment and retention, reduced carbon footprints, and lower utility bills for companies.

As Indonesia navigates this evolving situation, will the government prioritize immediate cost-saving measures or explore more comprehensive, long-term solutions to address the energy crisis?

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Military intelligence chief steps down following acid attack on activist – Politics

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A senior officer in the Indonesian Military (TNI) has stepped down following an acid attack on an activist who opposes the expanded role of the military, a spokesperson announced Thursday.

Leadership Change Amid Investigation

Military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Aulia Dwi Nasrullah confirmed to Reuters a “handing over of position” by Lt. Gen. Yudi Abrimantyo, the military’s intelligence unit (BAIS) chief, as a matter of responsibility related to the attack.

The Attack and Its Aftermath

Andrie Yunus, a deputy coordinator with the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), sustained burns to 20 percent of his face and body when attacked with acid by assailants on a motorcycle on March 12. The attack drew condemnation both locally and internationally, with UN human rights chief Volker Turk calling it a “cowardly act of violence.”

Did You Know? The TNI has arrested four officers, all members of the intelligence unit, in connection with the attack.

TNI previously stated that if found guilty, the arrested officers face punishments ranging from disciplinary action to dishonorable discharge. Lt. Gen. Yudi Abrimantyo was not among those arrested.

Growing Concerns and Political Context

The incident occurs amid growing concern over the erosion of democratic values in Indonesia, with increased military involvement in civilian areas and state-run businesses under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto, a retired general.

Expert Insight: The resignation of a high-ranking military intelligence official in response to an attack on a civilian activist signals a potential acknowledgement of institutional responsibility, even if indirect. The call for an independent investigation highlights a lack of trust in the military’s ability to self-regulate in this case.

President Prabowo Subianto has described the attack as “terrorism,” pledging a thorough investigation and promising no impunity. He vowed to “uphold the law” regardless of who is responsible.

Calls for Independent Investigation

Hundreds of civil society groups, including Amnesty International, have alleged the attack on Andrie Yunus was attempted murder. KontraS has urged Prabowo to form an independent team to investigate the case, advocating for it to be handled by civil courts rather than a military court, a position echoed by Human Rights Watch.

Andrie Yunus remains hospitalized in Jakarta, currently in intensive care following surgery on Wednesday to treat injuries to his right eye, and skin grafts to his eye, chest, and shoulder areas, according to KontraS.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Andrie Yunus?

Andrie Yunus, a deputy coordinator with KontraS, suffered burns to 20 percent of his face and body in an acid attack on March 12.

Who has taken responsibility for the attack?

Lt. Gen. Yudi Abrimantyo, the military’s intelligence unit chief, stepped down as a form of responsibility for the attack.

What is the current status of the investigation?

The TNI has arrested four officers from the intelligence unit in connection with the attack. KontraS is urging the formation of an independent investigation team.

What implications will this case have for the relationship between the military and civilian society in Indonesia?

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Indonesia military officer steps down following acid attack on activist

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Jakarta – A senior Indonesian military officer has stepped down in the wake of an acid attack on an activist who publicly opposed the increasing role of the military in civilian life, a spokesperson confirmed Thursday.

Acid Attack and Military Response

Andrie Yunus, a deputy coordinator with the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence – known as KontraS – sustained burns to 20% of his face and body when he was attacked by assailants on a motorcycle on March 12. The attack prompted widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally, with UN human rights chief Volker Turk calling it a “cowardly act of violence.”

Did You Know? Andrie Yunus had recently recorded a podcast episode discussing the expansion of the military’s role prior to the attack.

Military spokesperson Aulia Dwi Nasrullah stated that Yudi Abrimantyo, the chief of the military’s intelligence unit, relinquished his position as a demonstration of responsibility for the attack. Four officers from the intelligence unit have been arrested in connection with the incident. Punishments for those found guilty could range from disciplinary action to dishonorable discharge.

Growing Concerns Over Military Expansion

The incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing concern regarding democratic values in Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy. Under the administration of President Prabowo Subianto, a retired general, the military’s involvement in civilian areas and state-run businesses has reportedly increased significantly.

Expert Insight: The handover of position by a high-ranking intelligence officer, while presented as a matter of responsibility, signals the gravity of the situation and the potential for broader implications regarding civilian oversight of the military.

President Subianto himself described the attack on Andrie Yunus as “terrorism” and pledged a thorough investigation with no impunity. Hundreds of civil society groups, including Amnesty International, have characterized the attack as attempted murder.

Andrie Yunus remains hospitalized in Jakarta, currently in intensive care after undergoing surgery on Wednesday to address injuries to his right eye and to receive skin grafts to his eye, chest, and shoulder.

Calls for Independent Investigation

KontraS has urged President Subianto to establish an independent team to investigate the case, advocating for prosecution in civil courts rather than military courts. This call echoes a similar demand made earlier this week by Human Rights Watch. KontraS and other groups emphasized that the crime occurred in a civilian space, separate from military operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is KontraS?

KontraS is the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence, a rights group in Indonesia. Andrie Yunus is a deputy coordinator with the organization.

What was the response from the Indonesian military?

The Indonesian military arrested four officers from the intelligence unit in connection with the attack. Yudi Abrimantyo, the chief of the military’s intelligence unit, relinquished his position as a demonstration of responsibility.

What is the condition of Andrie Yunus?

Andrie Yunus is currently hospitalized in Jakarta in intensive care, recovering from surgery to treat injuries to his right eye and skin grafts to his eye, chest, and shoulder areas.

As investigations continue, will the pursuit of justice for Andrie Yunus lead to broader reforms regarding the role of the military in Indonesian society?

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World

Prabowo hits back at criticism of his frequent overseas trips, says they reap economic gains for Indonesians

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Rise of Presidential Economic Diplomacy: Why Leaders Are Hitting the Road

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s recent defense of his extensive international travel highlights a growing trend: heads of state taking a more direct, hands-on approach to economic negotiations. He argues that securing favorable trade deals, like the recently completed Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA), requires more than just the operate of trade ministers and diplomats. It demands direct engagement with counterparts at the highest levels.

Breaking Through the Bureaucracy: The Limits of Traditional Negotiation

President Subianto’s experience underscores a common frustration in international trade talks. Negotiations frequently stall at the technical level, requiring strategic interventions from national leaders to overcome impasses. He explained that often, negotiators need to “report to their top leader,” necessitating direct communication between heads of state to resolve critical issues. This isn’t simply about politeness; it’s about the ability to make swift decisions and offer concessions that lower-level officials may not be authorized to provide.

The IEU-CEPA as a Case Study in High-Level Intervention

The successful conclusion of the IEU-CEPA serves as a prime example. Without President Subianto’s direct engagement with European leaders – including meetings with the King of Belgium and key EU officials – Indonesia’s key export sectors, such as textiles and footwear, might have continued to face significant trade barriers. The agreement now provides these industries with zero-tariff access to the European market, a crucial win for Indonesia’s manufacturing base. This success mirrors similar gains achieved through cooperation with Canada.

Did you know? The IEU-CEPA negotiations began in 2016, highlighting the lengthy and complex nature of these agreements. President Subianto credited his predecessor, Joko Widodo, with laying the groundwork for the deal.

Economic Strength as National Security: A Shifting Global Paradigm

President Subianto frames this increased presidential involvement as a response to a changing global landscape. He believes that economic strength is paramount to a nation’s standing and ability to resist external pressure. “If our economy is strong, we cannot be pushed around,” he stated. This reflects a broader trend of nations prioritizing economic diplomacy as a core component of their foreign policy.

Beyond Trade: The Broader Implications of Direct Engagement

Although trade agreements are a key focus, this trend extends to other areas of economic cooperation. Direct leader-to-leader discussions can facilitate investment deals, technology transfers, and collaborative projects that might otherwise be hampered by bureaucratic hurdles. The warmth of the reception President Subianto received in Brussels – including meetings scheduled outside of normal working hours – demonstrates the value placed on these high-level interactions.

Pro Tip: For businesses looking to expand internationally, understanding the personal relationships between national leaders can provide valuable insights into potential opportunities and challenges.

The European Union’s Perspective: A Commitment to Strategic Partnerships

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has echoed the sentiment of strengthening strategic partnerships, particularly with nations like Indonesia. She unveiled three pillars of the EU-Indonesia agreement, signaling a commitment to deeper cooperation. This mutual desire for collaboration underscores the importance of direct engagement in fostering trust and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are presidents getting more involved in trade negotiations?
A: Presidents are intervening to break through bureaucratic roadblocks and make strategic decisions that require high-level authorization.

Q: What is the IEU-CEPA?
A: The Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement is a trade agreement designed to strengthen economic ties between Indonesia and the EU.

Q: What sectors in Indonesia benefit from the IEU-CEPA?
A: Key sectors like textiles and footwear now have zero-tariff access to the European market.

Q: Is this trend limited to Indonesia?
A: No, What we have is a global trend reflecting the increasing importance of economic diplomacy and the need for strong leadership in international negotiations.

What are your thoughts on the increasing role of heads of state in economic diplomacy? Share your comments below!

Explore more articles on international trade and economic policy.

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Building trust in the algorithm: Indonesia’s emerging AI framework

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Indonesia is rapidly establishing itself as a key player in the regional digital economy and is increasingly focused on adopting artificial intelligence (AI). The Indonesian government outlined its long-term vision for AI with the Artificial Intelligence National Strategy for Indonesia 2020-2045: AI Towards Indonesia Vision 2045. A 2023 Kearney report projected that AI could contribute USD366 billion to Indonesia’s GDP by 2030.

Despite this ambition, Indonesia’s AI governance framework is still in its early stages, reflecting the challenges of aligning legal and institutional responses with the country’s rapid technological development. This gap in regulation presents both opportunities and challenges to strengthen accountability, enhance legal certainty and build public trust in AI technologies.

Framework and Governance

Currently, Indonesia does not have specific laws or regulations addressing AI. Instead, the operation and use of AI are governed by existing laws, including those related to electronic systems under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law, amended by Law No.1 of 2026 on Criminal Adjustment (EIT Law) and Government Regulation No.71 of 2019 on the Provision of Electronic Systems and Transactions. Under this framework, AI can be considered an “electronic agent,” defined as a device within an electronic system operated by a person.

However, this definition may be inadequate for modern AI systems, which often operate autonomously and exhibit complex problem-solving capabilities. In the absence of detailed AI-specific regulations, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (MOCD) issued Circular Letter No.9 of 2023 on Artificial Intelligence Ethics (CL9), providing general guidelines on the ethical values and control of AI-based activities.

These ethical values include inclusivity, security, accessibility, transparency, credibility, and accountability. AI operators are expected to safeguard society, prevent discrimination, and consider risk and crisis management. Sector-specific regulations also apply, such as the Financial Service Authority (OJK)’s Indonesian Banking Artificial Intelligence Governance, which focuses on reliability, accountability, and human oversight.

Did You Know? The MOCD published the National AI Roadmap White Paper in August 2025, which includes establishing a National AI Co-ordination Task Force to harmonize laws and regulations.

The OJK has also introduced a Code of Conduct for Responsible and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence in the Financial Technology Industry, emphasizing fairness, transparency, and explainability.

Emerging AI-Specific Policies and Development

While a comprehensive legal framework is still under development, the MOCD published the National AI Roadmap White Paper in August 2025. This roadmap covers the conceptual framework of AI, issues analysis, and government policy direction, including establishing a National AI Co-ordination Task Force. It also introduces an AI lifecycle with principles to minimize risks at each stage and outlines key principles of AI governance, including dignity, justice, and accountability.

Complementing the roadmap, the MOCD also published AI Ethical Guidelines to strengthen the ethical framework in CL9, providing a self-assessment questionnaire for businesses. The government is also preparing a presidential regulation on AI to address accountability and security concerns and align AI initiatives across ministries and agencies.

Key Legal Challenges

Despite recent developments, several legal and institutional issues remain. Indonesia currently lacks a unified legal definition of AI, leading to uncertainty about how it should be regulated. The regulatory landscape is fragmented, potentially leading to overlapping authorities and inconsistent standards. This also raises concerns about personal data protection, as AI development often involves collecting and processing large datasets.

Indonesian law does not currently recognize AI as a separate legal subject, leaving liability for AI-related harm to be determined based on existing legal frameworks. To date, You’ll see no court decisions or specific legal provisions clarifying liability arising from the use of AI.

Expert Insight: Indonesia’s main challenge isn’t a lack of technological capability, but rather a need for governance readiness. Addressing the legal gaps and establishing clear frameworks for accountability and security will be crucial for realizing the full potential of AI in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Indonesia’s long-term vision for AI?

The Indonesian government set out its long-term AI vision through the Artificial Intelligence National Strategy for Indonesia 2020-2045: AI Towards Indonesia Vision 2045.

What is the role of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (MOCD) in AI governance?

The MOCD issued Circular Letter No.9 of 2023 on Artificial Intelligence Ethics (CL9) and published the National AI Roadmap White Paper in August 2025, indicating a growing policy-driven approach to AI governance.

What are some of the key legal challenges facing AI governance in Indonesia?

Key legal challenges include the lack of a unified legal definition of AI, a fragmented regulatory approach, privacy risks, and unclear liability and accountability frameworks.

As Indonesia continues to integrate AI across sectors, will the country be able to effectively balance innovation with the need for robust legal and ethical safeguards?

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Palestinian president warns of dangerous situation in West Bank, demands completion of Gaza ceasefire deal-Xinhua

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas issued a stark warning Monday regarding the deteriorating conditions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, while also calling for the full implementation of the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The remarks came during a phone conversation with Indonesian counterpart Prabowo Subianto.

Concerns Over Regional Stability

According to the Palestinian news agency WAFA, Abbas expressed concern that plans by Israeli authorities to implement a “Greater Israel” project represent a threat not only to the region but to the wider world. He stated that such plans undermine the political process and violate international law and UN resolutions.

Did You Know? Since October 7, 2023, the death toll in Gaza has reached 72,263, with 171,944 wounded, according to Gaza’s health authorities.

Abbas urged an international response to compel Israel to change course, and advocated for a comprehensive international conference aimed at achieving lasting peace, stability, and security. He specifically called for an end to the occupation and the realization of Palestinian freedom and independence.

Support for Ceasefire and Reconstruction

The Palestinian President welcomed the Gaza peace plan and UN Security Council Resolution 2803, which aims to halt the war and alleviate Palestinian suffering. He also expressed gratitude for Indonesia’s commitment to supporting stability and reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip, reiterating that Gaza is an integral part of the State of Palestine.

Expert Insight: President Abbas’s call for international intervention highlights the ongoing fragility of the ceasefire and the deep-seated concerns regarding the long-term political future of the region. The emphasis on a comprehensive international conference suggests a belief that a broader, multilateral approach is necessary to address the core issues driving the conflict.

Subianto, for his part, reaffirmed Indonesia’s support for the Palestinian people and their cause, and pledged continued coordination with Palestine on Gaza’s reconstruction. Abbas also called for an end to Israeli violations targeting civilians in Gaza.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of the ceasefire in Gaza?

A ceasefire came into effect in October 2025, and since then, 687 Palestinians have been killed and 1,845 injured, according to Gaza’s health authorities.

What concerns did Abbas raise with the Indonesian President?

Abbas warned of the dangerous situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem and expressed concern over Israeli plans to implement the “Greater Israel” project, which he believes threatens regional and global stability.

What did Indonesia offer in response?

Prabowo Subianto affirmed Indonesia’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people and their cause, and voiced Indonesia’s willingness to continue coordinating with Palestine regarding Gaza’s reconstruction.

How might the international community respond to President Abbas’s call for a comprehensive peace conference?

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World

Malaysia, Indonesia top global poll on ‘obedient’ wives

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Southeast Asia’s Gender Dynamics: Tradition, Modernity, and the Path Forward

Recent findings from a study conducted by Ipsos and the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London reveal a complex picture of gender roles in Malaysia and Indonesia. The study, published on March 5th, indicates that a significant portion of the population in both countries still holds traditional views regarding the roles of women in society, particularly within marriage.

Traditional Views Persist: The Numbers

The research, encompassing over 23,000 individuals across 29 countries, found that 66% of Indonesian respondents and 60% of Malaysian respondents agreed with the statement that “a wife should always obey her husband.” 67% of Indonesians and 58% of Malaysians believe husbands should have the final say in key household decisions. These figures represent the highest proportions among the countries surveyed, including Singapore, India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Brazil.

Cultural Context and Nuance

Mohd Faizal Musa, a research fellow at the National University of Malaysia, suggests these attitudes aren’t entirely surprising. He points to the deep-rooted Eastern cultural norms and customs prevalent in Indonesia and Malaysia, often interwoven with Islamic teachings. However, he cautions against directly comparing these societies to Western ideals of conservativeness and modernity, highlighting the limitations of applying universal standards to diverse cultural contexts.

Beyond Obedience: Emerging Trends in Southeast Asian Gender Roles

While traditional views remain strong, a more nuanced understanding of evolving gender dynamics is emerging. Recent Ipsos research indicates growing optimism for young women’s futures across Southeast Asia, with Malaysia showing increased acceptance of women in leadership and decision-making roles. This suggests a potential shift, albeit gradual, towards greater gender equality.

The Rise of Women in Leadership

Ipsos’s findings show that women are increasingly perceived as having greater freedom of self-expression. This is coupled with a growing recognition of their capabilities in professional settings. However, the study also notes that traditional breadwinner norms still persist, indicating a need for continued efforts to address the imbalance in household responsibilities.

Happiness and Well-being: A Gendered Perspective

Interestingly, a separate Ipsos study released on March 19th, 2026, reveals that Malaysians report strong levels of happiness despite global uncertainties. This happiness is strongly linked to close relationships and meaningful social connections. While financial factors influence happiness globally, strong social ties remain key anchors of well-being in Malaysia. It remains to be seen how these factors intersect with evolving gender roles and women’s empowerment.

Challenges and Opportunities for the Future

Narrowing the gender gap in Malaysia and Indonesia requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing deeply ingrained cultural norms, promoting economic empowerment for women, and fostering inclusive leadership are crucial steps. Further research is needed to understand the specific challenges and opportunities within each country, taking into account the diverse socio-economic and religious contexts.

Pro Tip:

When discussing gender equality, it’s vital to avoid generalizations and acknowledge the diversity of experiences within each country. Focus on promoting inclusivity and empowering individuals to challenge traditional norms.

FAQ

Q: What did the Ipsos study specifically measure?
A: The study measured attitudes towards gender roles, specifically focusing on beliefs about wives obeying husbands and husbands having the final say in household decisions.

Q: Are these findings representative of all of Southeast Asia?
A: The study focused specifically on Malaysia and Indonesia, with data also collected from Singapore. While insights can be drawn for the region, generalizations should be made cautiously.

Q: What factors contribute to these traditional views?
A: Deep-rooted cultural norms, customs, and religious teachings are significant contributing factors.

Q: Is there any evidence of changing attitudes?
A: Ipsos research indicates growing optimism for young women’s futures and increased acceptance of women in leadership roles, suggesting a gradual shift in attitudes.

Did you know? Indonesia recorded the highest level of happiness globally, according to Ipsos research.

Explore further: Visit the Ipsos website to learn more about their research methodologies and findings.

What are your thoughts on these findings? Share your perspective in the comments below!

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Entertainment

Jumbo Viewership: 30 Days in Korean Cinemas | Korea Box Office

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Indonesian Animation ‘Jumbo’ Continues to Charm Korean Audiences

The Indonesian animated film Jumbo has demonstrated remarkable staying power in the South Korean box office, exceeding expectations and captivating viewers for over a month. Since its debut on February 18th, the film has attracted more than 52,000 moviegoers in South Korea.

A Month of Success in a Competitive Market

According to data from the Korean Film Council, Jumbo has sold 52,546 tickets in its first 30 days of release. Even as the film’s performance has softened from its initial peak, it remains a notable achievement for an Indonesian animated feature in a highly competitive market.

On March 20th, Jumbo was screened in four theaters, attracting four ticket sales, equivalent to US$20. This indicates a decline in viewership, but the film’s initial success is undeniable.

Initial Breakthrough and Box Office Rankings

Jumbo initially surprised audiences by reaching the sixth and seventh positions in the daily Korean box office rankings upon its release. Despite facing challenges and briefly dropping to the teens in terms of ranking, the film managed to climb back into the top 10 at times.

The film achieved its highest ranking in the monthly box office charts, securing the 15th position in February 2026 with a total of 49,753 tickets sold. This placed Jumbo just below the global animated blockbuster, Zootopia 2, for that month.

Year-to-Date Performance

As of March 21st, Jumbo currently ranks as the 33rd highest-grossing film in South Korea for the year, trailing behind Hamnet (58,084 tickets) and Even If This Love Disappears from the World Tonight (54,687).

Success at Home and Abroad

Domestically, Jumbo has become the second-highest-grossing Indonesian film of all time, with an impressive 10,233,002 tickets sold, surpassed only by Agak Laen: Menyala Pantiku! which sold 10,959,123 tickets.

Jumbo tells the story of Don, a boy who attempts to revive a fairytale book left by his parents, embarking on a magical adventure with his grandmother and friends, Nurman and Mae, and encountering Meri, a girl from another world.

What Does This Mean for Indonesian Animation?

The success of Jumbo in South Korea signals a growing international appetite for Indonesian animation. This achievement could pave the way for increased distribution deals and greater recognition for Indonesian filmmakers on the global stage.

The film’s appeal to a diverse audience in Korea, with a majority of viewers aged 40 and over and a higher percentage of female attendees, suggests a broad demographic reach for Indonesian animated content.

FAQ

Q: How many tickets did Jumbo sell in South Korea?
A: Jumbo sold 52,546 tickets in South Korea within its first 30 days of release.

Q: What was Jumbo’s highest box office ranking in Korea?
A: Jumbo reached as high as 6th and 7th place in the daily Korean box office rankings.

Q: Is Jumbo still showing in Korean cinemas?
A: Yes, as of March 20th, Jumbo was still screening in four Korean cinemas.

Q: What is Jumbo about?
A: Jumbo is an animated film about a boy named Don who goes on a magical adventure to revive a fairytale book.

Did you understand? Jumbo outperformed the Oscar-nominated film Sentimental Value in the Korean box office during the same release period.

Pro Tip: Preserve an eye out for more Indonesian animated films as international distribution increases!

Want to learn more about the growing animation scene in Indonesia? Explore our other articles on Indonesian cinema.

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Indonesia plans to expand domestic social assistance due to impact of Middle East tensions-Xinhua

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Jakarta – The Indonesian government is preparing to bolster its social assistance programs in anticipation of potential economic consequences stemming from escalating tensions in the Middle East. The move, announced Wednesday, aims to mitigate the risk of inflation and decreased purchasing power within the country.

Preparing for Economic Impact

Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf, emphasized the need for proactive government intervention, warning that the ongoing conflict abroad could create ripple effects on both inflation and household consumption. These economic pressures are anticipated to disproportionately impact lower-income groups, necessitating stronger social protection measures.

Did You Know? Indonesia has previously utilized social assistance programs to buffer against economic shocks, and authorities are continually working to improve how aid is targeted and delivered.

To address these potential risks, Minister Yusuf proposed increasing social assistance through additional spending and a possible temporary expansion of the number of beneficiaries. He underscored the importance of having accurate and current data to ensure aid effectively reaches those who need it most.

Potential Next Steps

the government will allocate additional funds to existing social assistance programs. Expanding the number of beneficiaries could too be a step taken, though this would likely depend on available resources and the evolving economic situation. Analysts expect that ongoing monitoring of economic indicators will be crucial in determining the scale and scope of future interventions.

Expert Insight: Proactive measures like these demonstrate a recognition of the interconnectedness of global events and domestic economic stability. Strengthening social safety nets is a common strategy for governments facing potential external economic shocks, but the effectiveness hinges on efficient targeting and delivery of aid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Indonesian government preparing for?

The Indonesian government is preparing to strengthen social assistance programs to mitigate potential domestic fallout from escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Who is expected to be most affected by these potential economic pressures?

The anticipated economic pressures are expected to disproportionately affect lower-income groups.

What steps is the Minister of Social Affairs proposing?

The Minister of Social Affairs proposed increasing social assistance through additional spending and possibly expanding the number of beneficiaries on a temporary basis.

As global events continue to unfold, how might international conflicts reshape domestic economic policies in Indonesia?

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