Muddy yet clear-cut: How Chinese investors are turning jungle into Indonesia’s new capital

Indonesia is in the process of shifting its seat of government from the gridlocked and sinking metropolis of Jakarta to a brand latest city carved out of the Borneo jungle. Known as Ibu Kota Nusantara, or IKN, the project aims to establish a new administrative center for an archipelago of 287 million people. A Strategic … Read more

Indonesia’s finance minister suggests Strait of Malacca toll before immediately backtracking

The Rise of “Geographical Monetization” in Global Trade In the high-stakes world of global logistics, geography is more than just a map—it is leverage. A recent suggestion by Indonesia’s Finance Minister, Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, regarding the imposition of tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Malacca, highlights a growing trend: the desire of strategic … Read more

Indonesia military officer steps down following acid attack on activist

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 … Read more

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

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 … Read more

Acid attack on Indonesian activist raises fears for democracy under Prabowo

An Indonesian human rights activist was seriously injured in an acid attack in Jakarta late Thursday, prompting calls for a thorough investigation. Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of the KontraS rights group, sustained injuries to his face, an eye, hands, and chest. Details of the Attack According to KontraS coordinator Dimas Bagus Arya, Andrie Yunus was … Read more

Prabowo Holds Series of Cabinet Meetings at Hambalang Residence

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto convened a series of five meetings with members of his cabinet on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, West Java. The meetings, which spanned the afternoon and evening, focused on a range of strategic domestic and international issues, according to Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya. Focus … Read more

Why Indonesia’s lead role in Gaza peacekeeping force carries high political risk

Indonesia has accepted the position of deputy commander within the United States-led International Stabilisation Force (ISF) for Gaza, signaling a significant role in the mission as it prepares to potentially deploy up to 8,000 troops. A Key Role for Indonesia The decision came during the inaugural meeting of US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace … Read more

The Role of Prabowo’s Relative in Pushing Through the Domestic Workers Bill

Wina Ningsih Kuswadi, a 43-year-old domestic worker, anticipated improved working conditions following a speech by President Prabowo Subianto in 2025. President Subianto promised the passage of the Domestic Workers Protection Bill during the Labor Day commemoration. Hopes Diminish as Bill Stalls Wina, who has been following the bill’s progress, believes it contains provisions for working … Read more

Indonesia to deploy Gaza force starting in April

Indonesia to Lead Initial Gaza Stabilization Force Indonesia is preparing to deploy an initial contingent of 1,000 troops to Gaza in April, with a full force of approximately 8,000 soldiers expected by June. This deployment, part of the International Stabilization Force (ISF) under the Trump administration’s Phase II ceasefire plan, marks a significant step towards … Read more

Extractive-led economic growth fuels environmental crisis – Society

President Prabowo Subianto’s administration’s ambition to achieve 8 percent economic growth by 2029 through expanded extractive industries is raising concerns about potential environmental damage and increased social inequality, according to the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi). Growth Targets and Economic Realities Since taking office in October 2024, President Subianto has publicly stated his goal … Read more