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 … Read more
The Evolving Battle for Women’s Rights: From Physical Violence to Digital Threats Despite advancements in women’s representation in leadership roles – including national governments, businesses, and even monarchies – the fight for gender equality remains far from over. A significant, and increasingly concerning, dimension of this struggle is the rise of online harassment and exploitation, … Read more
JAKARTA – Indonesia is pressing the European Union to adhere to a World Trade Organization (WTO) ruling concerning discriminatory policies impacting Indonesian palm oil exports, following the expiration of a 12-month implementation period on Tuesday. Trade Dispute Escalates Trade Minister Budi Santoso confirmed the finish of the “reasonable period of time” (RPT) granted by the … Read more
The Rising Tide of Corporate Accountability: Modern Slavery in Global Supply Chains For too long, the term “modern slavery” conjured images of historical perbudakan – outright ownership of people. Today, the reality is far more insidious: a lack of genuine choice for workers, driven by threats, coercion, deception, or crippling debt. This evolving understanding is … Read more
JAKARTA – The Indonesian Forestry Ministry has revoked the operating permit for Bandung Zoo following a protracted dispute between factions vying for control of the facility, a situation that jeopardized the welfare of the zoo’s 700+ animals. Zoo Closure and Management Transition The decision, announced on February 12, 2026, was made to ensure the protection … Read more
JAKARTA – President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to travel to the United States next week, with the inaugural Board of Peace meeting and a reciprocal tariff agreement poised to be central to his agenda. Board of Peace Meeting and Indonesian Role Dozens of world leaders from 21 member states are expected to convene in Washington … Read more
Jakarta – Indonesia’s pursuit of an 8 percent economic growth rate, a key ambition of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, is raising concerns about potential environmental damage and increased social inequality, according to the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi). Growth Target and Economic Realities President Subianto, who took office in October 2024, has publicly stated … Read more
The latest consumer craze isn’t a luxury item, but a surprisingly sought-after collectible: the blind box toy. From glitter dumplings to popular characters like Labubu, consumers are spending significant sums for the chance to unbox a rare find. The Rise of the Mystery Toy What began as a niche market has exploded in recent years. … Read more
Jakarta authorities are continuing large-scale weather modification efforts as the region grapples with intense rainfall and the aftermath of recent flooding. The Jakarta provincial administration extended its cloud seeding operation through February 2nd, expanding the area of focus to include satellite cities surrounding the capital. Weather Modification Efforts Expand The Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) … Read more
Jakarta’s Endurance: Navigating Megacity Challenges and the Future of Urban Life Jakarta, recently surpassed as the world’s most populous urban agglomeration by Tokyo, continues to grapple with the pressures of rapid growth. While the Indonesian government pushes forward with the relocation of the capital to Nusantara, the ‘Big Durian’ remains a powerful draw for millions … Read more