Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast Auto Ltd. plans to open a car assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, India, by the end of June 2025, according to CEO Pham Sanh Chau. This move is part of the company's strategic pivot to Asia, with an additional plant scheduled to open in Indonesia in October 2025. Despite strong EV sales, VinFast reported a loss of $3.2 billion. The company is positioning itself to expand its manufacturing footprint in key Asian markets amid growing demand for electric vehicles. Tesla, Inc. is mentioned in relation to VinFast's plans, highlighting the competitive landscape in the EV sector.

Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy and a key maritime power, has become a focal point in the escalating trade tensions between the United States and China. The ongoing trade war between the world's two largest economies has placed Indonesia in a challenging position amid competing influences. Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent tour of Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia underscores Beijing's strategic push to strengthen its regional influence beyond merely responding to U.S. tariff threats. During this period, China has indicated a willingness to increase imports from Indonesia, potentially providing Jakarta with greater leverage to navigate the risk of higher U.S. tariffs. This development highlights the importance of intra-regional trade for Southeast Asian countries as they seek to mitigate the impact of the U.S.-China trade conflict. Analysts note that Indonesia is maneuvering quietly to capitalize on the fallout from the trade war, balancing its economic interests amid the broader geopolitical contest in the region.

South Korean company LG Energy Solution has withdrawn from a $7.7 billion (approximately Rp 130 trillion) electric vehicle (EV) battery ecosystem project in Indonesia. The cancellation of the investment, initially reported as LG backing out, was later clarified to be a mutual decision between LG and the Indonesian government, with Indonesia reportedly terminating the contract due to prolonged negotiations. The project was part of Indonesia's broader "Indonesia Grand Package" initiative aimed at developing a downstream EV battery industry. Following LG's exit, Chinese firm Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt is set to replace LG in the $9.8 billion EV battery supply chain project in Indonesia. Indonesian officials, including the Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources and Investment Coordinating Board Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia, affirmed that the overall EV battery project will continue despite LG's departure. Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto expressed confidence that Indonesia will remain an attractive destination for investment.

Indonesia's central bank, Bank Indonesia (BI), has decided to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 5.75 percent during the April 2025 meeting. This decision extends the current pause in the easing cycle as the bank aims to stabilize the rupiah amid ongoing uncertainty caused by escalating US tariffs and a worsening global trade war. The move reflects efforts to support the currency, which has been under pressure due to these external economic challenges.

China and Indonesia held their first joint ministerial 2+2 dialogue involving foreign affairs and defense officials, marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation and strategic ties, with both sides emphasizing the importance of independent foreign policies and mutual trust. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto highlighted the enduring partnership and practical cooperation between the nations. The dialogue took place amid broader reflections on the 70th anniversary of the Bandung Conference, which established principles of peaceful coexistence that continue to influence international relations, especially among Global South countries. Despite progress, unresolved issues such as tensions in the South China Sea and cyber threats remain challenges to long-term trust between China and Indonesia.

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejaksaan Agung) has named Tian Bahtiar, the Director of News at JAK TV, as a suspect in a case of obstruction of justice related to ongoing corruption investigations. Tian Bahtiar is alleged to have received approximately Rp 478.5 million from two lawyers to produce negative content targeting the Attorney General's Office. This action is linked to attempts to hinder investigations into corruption cases involving PT Timah, sugar import irregularities, and a bribery scandal concerning the acquittal of a crude palm oil (CPO) exporter. The Attorney General's Office revealed that the obstruction efforts included organizing paid demonstrations and creating unfavorable media coverage. Alongside Tian Bahtiar, two other suspects, including an advocate and a university lecturer, have been named for their roles in obstructing the investigation, prosecution, and judicial processes. The Attorney General's Office has also conducted extensive investigations, including questioning 12 witnesses and seizing assets such as Rp 5.5 billion found hidden under a judge's bed and 130 helmets and 12 luxury bicycles linked to suspects in the CPO bribery case. The case has drawn attention from the Indonesian Press Council and the Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI), with the latter questioning the procedural aspects of Tian Bahtiar's suspect status, arguing that journalistic work should fall under the Press Council's jurisdiction. The Attorney General's Office maintains that Tian Bahtiar's actions were personal and not representative of JAK TV as a media outlet. Additionally, former Pertamina CEO Karen Agustiawan has been questioned in a separate investigation related to crude oil governance. The ongoing probe into the corruption and bribery scandals continues to uncover complex networks involving judiciary members and media personnel.

During Australia's federal election campaign, reports have surfaced of Russia seeking military access to bases in Indonesia, particularly on Biak Island, about 1,300 kilometers from northern Australia. The Russian ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, wrote in The Jakarta Post that Australia has 'no cards' to play to counter Russian military activity in the Indo-Pacific and referenced a quote from US President Donald Trump, saying, 'you have no cards.' Tolchenov also suggested Australians should be more concerned about the US Typhon medium-range missile system in the Philippines than a potential Russian base in Indonesia.

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The Golkar Party has expressed support for the proposal to designate former Indonesian President Soeharto as a National Hero. This initiative has sparked differing opinions, notably between Golkar and Soeharto's daughter, Titiek Soeharto. Members of the Indonesian House of Representatives, including a Commission VIII member from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), have called for a thorough and careful assessment of the proposal. The Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) has indicated the possibility of formally recommending both Soeharto and former President Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) for National Hero status, stating that the normative requirements for such recognition have been met.

A mass food poisoning incident has affected dozens of students in Cianjur Regency, West Java, following the consumption of meals from the Free Nutritious Food (MBG) program. The number of victims experiencing symptoms has risen to 78 students, including those from MAN 1 Cianjur and SMP PGRI 1 Cianjur. The local health department has temporarily suspended the MBG kitchen and is conducting food sample tests. The Cianjur health authorities have declared an outbreak status (KLB) due to the incident, which has also impacted a total of 176 residents after consuming MBG meals and food served at local events. This incident is part of a series of at least seven suspected food poisoning cases linked to the MBG program in recent weeks. In response, the West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged program organizers to exercise greater caution when preparing food for students. Meanwhile, health officials in Bombana, Southeast Sulawesi, have also intervened after reports of vomiting among elementary school students following MBG consumption. The police are investigating the incident, and the National Food and Drug Agency (BGN) is taking preventive measures. Additionally, unrelated to the food poisoning, there have been reports of alleged sexual harassment cases involving medical professionals in Malang and allegations of abuse by a pesantren leader in Lombok Barat, NTB, with victims seeking protection from authorities.

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasized that there is only one "sun" in the Indonesian government, referring to himself as the sole leader, dismissing the notion of a "dual presidency." This statement came amid ongoing discussions and clarifications regarding government unity, including comments from former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) conveyed by Demokrat Party politician Dede Yusuf, who reiterated that there should be no "twin suns" in governance. The State Secretary and Presidential Spokesperson Prasetyo Hadi explained why the draft of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Law, signed by President Prabowo, has not been publicly released. Meanwhile, the Ministry Secretary requested that Minister Prabowo's visit to former President Joko Widodo not be linked to the "twin suns" issue.

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A significant earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck off the coast of Indonesia's Talaud Islands on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 10:17 am Universal Time. The epicenter was located 269 kilometers southeast of Pondaguitan, Davao, Philippines, at a depth of 117 kilometers.

The German Research Center for Geosciences reported the quake's magnitude as 6.3, while the US Geological Survey measured it at 6.2. No tsunami warning was issued following the event, and there have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

NASA's Juno spacecraft has captured stunning images of Jupiter and its moon Io, including a 4-mile-tall mountain on Io. Meanwhile, Olympus Mons on Mars remains the largest volcano in the solar system, dwarfing even the size of France. On the Sun, an M4-class solar flare recently ejected a large blob of plasma, accompanied by a prominent solar eruption observed by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory. In Indonesia, volcanic activity has intensified with eruptions from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in East Nusa Tenggara and Mount Semeru. Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki erupted on April 22, 2025, at 3:54 PM WITA, producing an ash column approximately 1,300 meters above its summit, impacting five villages in Flores Timur with volcanic ash rain. The eruption included glowing lava ejections and rumbling sounds. Mount Semeru erupted on April 23, 2025, sending an ash column reaching 900 meters into the sky, prompting warnings for local residents to remain cautious.

China and Indonesia have agreed to enhance maritime security cooperation in the South China Sea despite ongoing tensions. The two countries committed to promoting safety and security in the region, including joint security efforts, amid longstanding Indonesian concerns over China's activities near the Natuna Islands, which are waters controlled by Jakarta. The agreement also includes cooperation in infrastructure building and aims to deepen overall bilateral ties and military collaboration in the contested maritime area.

In Indonesia's Central Java province, 55-year-old Pasijah has dedicated the past 20 years to planting mangrove saplings to protect her coastal home from rising ocean waters. Despite the increasing sea levels forcing most families in her village to relocate to higher ground, Pasijah remains, planting approximately 15,000 mangrove saplings annually. Her efforts aim to shield her home from flooding and land erosion caused by climate change. This initiative reflects a broader struggle faced by coastal communities in the region, where women are actively combating the impacts of environmental changes.

Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus in March 2025, continuing a streak of 59 consecutive months of trade surpluses since May 2020. The country's exports increased by 3.2% year-on-year in March, contributing to a trade surplus that exceeded market expectations with a value of $4.3 billion. Meanwhile, Indonesia's imports reached $18.92 billion in the same month. The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported growth in both monthly and yearly export values. Concurrently, the Indonesian government began negotiations on April 18, 2025, in response to the United States' imposition of a minimum 10% tariff on all US imports, an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on April 2, 2025, which took effect on April 5, 2025, with reciprocal tariffs starting April 9, 2025.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Indonesia, has experienced renewed volcanic activity with eruptions occurring on April 20 and April 22, 2025. The eruption on April 20 at 23:59 WITA produced loud explosions but, as confirmed by local authorities, caused no reported damage or casualties. Activity intensified in the days leading up to the eruptions. On April 22 at 15:54 WITA, the volcano emitted an ash column reaching approximately 1,300 meters above the summit, which stands about 2,884 meters above sea level. This eruption resulted in volcanic ashfall affecting five villages in East Flores Regency. Satellite imagery from Sentinel-2 captured the eruption on April 22. Separately, the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island also resumed eruptive activity around the same period.

The Indonesian Navy has inducted its second Bung Karno-class corvette into service, further expanding its domestic naval capabilities. Concurrently, high-level discussions between Tokyo and Jakarta are ongoing regarding the potential joint development and production of advanced frigates for Indonesia. These talks emphasize a growing defense partnership between Indonesia and Japan, focusing on enhancing maritime security and naval strength in Southeast Asia. The collaboration involves key stakeholders, including Indonesia's top envoy and defense officials, and highlights interest in Japan's Mogami-class frigate technology. This development aligns with Indonesia's broader efforts to modernize its naval fleet through both indigenous production and international cooperation.

The Indonesian government is currently considering the proposal to designate former President Soeharto, who ruled for 32 years and is often referred to as the Father of Development, as a national hero. This suggestion originated from Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi, based on inputs from regents, mayors, and the public. The proposal has sparked debate due to Soeharto's controversial legacy involving human rights issues and corruption allegations. The Ministry of Social Affairs, represented by Minister Gus Ipul, has stated that the government will listen to both supporters and critics of the proposal. Political parties such as Golkar have expressed support, while others, including Soeharto's daughter Titiek Soeharto, have welcomed the plan. Meanwhile, the Presidential Secretary and spokesperson for President Prabowo Subianto, Prasetyo Hadi, defended the proposal, urging the public to consider Soeharto's contributions rather than focusing solely on his shortcomings. President Joko Widodo, the seventh president of Indonesia, emphasized that there is only one "sun" in the government, referring to President Prabowo, dismissing rumors of a "twin sun" leadership. Prabowo has also called for unity among his cabinet ministers amid these discussions. Separately, concerns have been raised about the increasing role of the military in civilian areas, including campuses, which some observers view as a regression reminiscent of Soeharto's era. The government and parliament are examining these developments closely. Additionally, the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform announced a postponement of relocating civil servants to the new capital, Nusantara, until further direction from President Prabowo. In Surabaya, the issue of companies withholding employees' diplomas has drawn government attention, with the regional government committing to reissue diplomas for affected workers. Former employees of UD Sentosa Seal, owned by Jan Hwa Diana, have reported labor abuses, including withheld diplomas and salary deductions, to authorities. President Joko Widodo has announced plans to file reports against four individuals related to renewed allegations of fake diplomas aimed at undermining his reputation. The draft of the new Indonesian National Military Law, signed by President Prabowo, remains unpublished to the public pending procedural steps. The government continues to address multiple governance and social issues amid these ongoing political and administrative developments.

China's Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of opposing unilateralism and trade protectionism during a press conference on April 21, 2025. He highlighted the shared commitment between China and Indonesia to defend economic globalization and free trade. In a meeting with his Indonesian counterpart, the Chinese minister expressed China's willingness to increase imports of Indonesian products and urged the Indonesian government to protect China's legitimate rights and interests. These statements underscore the collaborative stance of both countries against unilateral economic measures and their support for open trade policies.

The increased presence and role of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in civilian spaces, particularly university campuses, has sparked public debate and concern among academics and activists. Critics view this development as a regression in Indonesia's democratic progress, drawing parallels to the authoritarian era under former President Soeharto. The phenomenon gained further attention following President Prabowo Subianto's signing of a revised TNI law, which some observers argue undermines democratic principles and challenges civil supremacy. The Ministry of State Secretariat, represented by Minister Prasetyo Hadi, explained that the draft of the TNI law has not been immediately released to the public due to procedural stages that must be followed. Meanwhile, the military district commander of Depok denied allegations of interference with students at the University of Indonesia, stating that the military's presence was by invitation. The House of Representatives' Commission X has announced plans to question the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology regarding the TNI's involvement in campuses. The situation has raised alarm among activists who fear a return to Indonesia's authoritarian roots, with ongoing discussions about the implications of the revised military law on the country's democratic institutions.

Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast Auto Ltd. plans to open a car assembly plant in Tamil Nadu, India, by the end of June 2025, according to CEO Pham Sanh Chau. This move is part of the company's strategic pivot to Asia, with an additional plant scheduled to open in Indonesia in October 2025. Despite strong EV sales, VinFast reported a loss of $3.2 billion. The company is positioning itself to expand its manufacturing footprint in key Asian markets amid growing demand for electric vehicles. Tesla, Inc. is mentioned in relation to VinFast's plans, highlighting the competitive landscape in the EV sector.

Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy and a key maritime power, has become a focal point in the escalating trade tensions between the United States and China. The ongoing trade war between the world's two largest economies has placed Indonesia in a challenging position amid competing influences. Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent tour of Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia underscores Beijing's strategic push to strengthen its regional influence beyond merely responding to U.S. tariff threats. During this period, China has indicated a willingness to increase imports from Indonesia, potentially providing Jakarta with greater leverage to navigate the risk of higher U.S. tariffs. This development highlights the importance of intra-regional trade for Southeast Asian countries as they seek to mitigate the impact of the U.S.-China trade conflict. Analysts note that Indonesia is maneuvering quietly to capitalize on the fallout from the trade war, balancing its economic interests amid the broader geopolitical contest in the region.

South Korean company LG Energy Solution has withdrawn from a $7.7 billion (approximately Rp 130 trillion) electric vehicle (EV) battery ecosystem project in Indonesia. The cancellation of the investment, initially reported as LG backing out, was later clarified to be a mutual decision between LG and the Indonesian government, with Indonesia reportedly terminating the contract due to prolonged negotiations. The project was part of Indonesia's broader "Indonesia Grand Package" initiative aimed at developing a downstream EV battery industry. Following LG's exit, Chinese firm Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt is set to replace LG in the $9.8 billion EV battery supply chain project in Indonesia. Indonesian officials, including the Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources and Investment Coordinating Board Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia, affirmed that the overall EV battery project will continue despite LG's departure. Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto expressed confidence that Indonesia will remain an attractive destination for investment.

Indonesia's central bank, Bank Indonesia (BI), has decided to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 5.75 percent during the April 2025 meeting. This decision extends the current pause in the easing cycle as the bank aims to stabilize the rupiah amid ongoing uncertainty caused by escalating US tariffs and a worsening global trade war. The move reflects efforts to support the currency, which has been under pressure due to these external economic challenges.

China and Indonesia held their first joint ministerial 2+2 dialogue involving foreign affairs and defense officials, marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation and strategic ties, with both sides emphasizing the importance of independent foreign policies and mutual trust. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto highlighted the enduring partnership and practical cooperation between the nations. The dialogue took place amid broader reflections on the 70th anniversary of the Bandung Conference, which established principles of peaceful coexistence that continue to influence international relations, especially among Global South countries. Despite progress, unresolved issues such as tensions in the South China Sea and cyber threats remain challenges to long-term trust between China and Indonesia.

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejaksaan Agung) has named Tian Bahtiar, the Director of News at JAK TV, as a suspect in a case of obstruction of justice related to ongoing corruption investigations. Tian Bahtiar is alleged to have received approximately Rp 478.5 million from two lawyers to produce negative content targeting the Attorney General's Office. This action is linked to attempts to hinder investigations into corruption cases involving PT Timah, sugar import irregularities, and a bribery scandal concerning the acquittal of a crude palm oil (CPO) exporter. The Attorney General's Office revealed that the obstruction efforts included organizing paid demonstrations and creating unfavorable media coverage. Alongside Tian Bahtiar, two other suspects, including an advocate and a university lecturer, have been named for their roles in obstructing the investigation, prosecution, and judicial processes. The Attorney General's Office has also conducted extensive investigations, including questioning 12 witnesses and seizing assets such as Rp 5.5 billion found hidden under a judge's bed and 130 helmets and 12 luxury bicycles linked to suspects in the CPO bribery case. The case has drawn attention from the Indonesian Press Council and the Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI), with the latter questioning the procedural aspects of Tian Bahtiar's suspect status, arguing that journalistic work should fall under the Press Council's jurisdiction. The Attorney General's Office maintains that Tian Bahtiar's actions were personal and not representative of JAK TV as a media outlet. Additionally, former Pertamina CEO Karen Agustiawan has been questioned in a separate investigation related to crude oil governance. The ongoing probe into the corruption and bribery scandals continues to uncover complex networks involving judiciary members and media personnel.

During Australia's federal election campaign, reports have surfaced of Russia seeking military access to bases in Indonesia, particularly on Biak Island, about 1,300 kilometers from northern Australia. The Russian ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, wrote in The Jakarta Post that Australia has 'no cards' to play to counter Russian military activity in the Indo-Pacific and referenced a quote from US President Donald Trump, saying, 'you have no cards.' Tolchenov also suggested Australians should be more concerned about the US Typhon medium-range missile system in the Philippines than a potential Russian base in Indonesia.

Read more

The Golkar Party has expressed support for the proposal to designate former Indonesian President Soeharto as a National Hero. This initiative has sparked differing opinions, notably between Golkar and Soeharto's daughter, Titiek Soeharto. Members of the Indonesian House of Representatives, including a Commission VIII member from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), have called for a thorough and careful assessment of the proposal. The Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) has indicated the possibility of formally recommending both Soeharto and former President Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) for National Hero status, stating that the normative requirements for such recognition have been met.

A mass food poisoning incident has affected dozens of students in Cianjur Regency, West Java, following the consumption of meals from the Free Nutritious Food (MBG) program. The number of victims experiencing symptoms has risen to 78 students, including those from MAN 1 Cianjur and SMP PGRI 1 Cianjur. The local health department has temporarily suspended the MBG kitchen and is conducting food sample tests. The Cianjur health authorities have declared an outbreak status (KLB) due to the incident, which has also impacted a total of 176 residents after consuming MBG meals and food served at local events. This incident is part of a series of at least seven suspected food poisoning cases linked to the MBG program in recent weeks. In response, the West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged program organizers to exercise greater caution when preparing food for students. Meanwhile, health officials in Bombana, Southeast Sulawesi, have also intervened after reports of vomiting among elementary school students following MBG consumption. The police are investigating the incident, and the National Food and Drug Agency (BGN) is taking preventive measures. Additionally, unrelated to the food poisoning, there have been reports of alleged sexual harassment cases involving medical professionals in Malang and allegations of abuse by a pesantren leader in Lombok Barat, NTB, with victims seeking protection from authorities.

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasized that there is only one "sun" in the Indonesian government, referring to himself as the sole leader, dismissing the notion of a "dual presidency." This statement came amid ongoing discussions and clarifications regarding government unity, including comments from former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) conveyed by Demokrat Party politician Dede Yusuf, who reiterated that there should be no "twin suns" in governance. The State Secretary and Presidential Spokesperson Prasetyo Hadi explained why the draft of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Law, signed by President Prabowo, has not been publicly released. Meanwhile, the Ministry Secretary requested that Minister Prabowo's visit to former President Joko Widodo not be linked to the "twin suns" issue.

Read more

A significant earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck off the coast of Indonesia's Talaud Islands on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 10:17 am Universal Time. The epicenter was located 269 kilometers southeast of Pondaguitan, Davao, Philippines, at a depth of 117 kilometers.

The German Research Center for Geosciences reported the quake's magnitude as 6.3, while the US Geological Survey measured it at 6.2. No tsunami warning was issued following the event, and there have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

NASA's Juno spacecraft has captured stunning images of Jupiter and its moon Io, including a 4-mile-tall mountain on Io. Meanwhile, Olympus Mons on Mars remains the largest volcano in the solar system, dwarfing even the size of France. On the Sun, an M4-class solar flare recently ejected a large blob of plasma, accompanied by a prominent solar eruption observed by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory. In Indonesia, volcanic activity has intensified with eruptions from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in East Nusa Tenggara and Mount Semeru. Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki erupted on April 22, 2025, at 3:54 PM WITA, producing an ash column approximately 1,300 meters above its summit, impacting five villages in Flores Timur with volcanic ash rain. The eruption included glowing lava ejections and rumbling sounds. Mount Semeru erupted on April 23, 2025, sending an ash column reaching 900 meters into the sky, prompting warnings for local residents to remain cautious.

China and Indonesia have agreed to enhance maritime security cooperation in the South China Sea despite ongoing tensions. The two countries committed to promoting safety and security in the region, including joint security efforts, amid longstanding Indonesian concerns over China's activities near the Natuna Islands, which are waters controlled by Jakarta. The agreement also includes cooperation in infrastructure building and aims to deepen overall bilateral ties and military collaboration in the contested maritime area.

In Indonesia's Central Java province, 55-year-old Pasijah has dedicated the past 20 years to planting mangrove saplings to protect her coastal home from rising ocean waters. Despite the increasing sea levels forcing most families in her village to relocate to higher ground, Pasijah remains, planting approximately 15,000 mangrove saplings annually. Her efforts aim to shield her home from flooding and land erosion caused by climate change. This initiative reflects a broader struggle faced by coastal communities in the region, where women are actively combating the impacts of environmental changes.

Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus in March 2025, continuing a streak of 59 consecutive months of trade surpluses since May 2020. The country's exports increased by 3.2% year-on-year in March, contributing to a trade surplus that exceeded market expectations with a value of $4.3 billion. Meanwhile, Indonesia's imports reached $18.92 billion in the same month. The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported growth in both monthly and yearly export values. Concurrently, the Indonesian government began negotiations on April 18, 2025, in response to the United States' imposition of a minimum 10% tariff on all US imports, an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on April 2, 2025, which took effect on April 5, 2025, with reciprocal tariffs starting April 9, 2025.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Indonesia, has experienced renewed volcanic activity with eruptions occurring on April 20 and April 22, 2025. The eruption on April 20 at 23:59 WITA produced loud explosions but, as confirmed by local authorities, caused no reported damage or casualties. Activity intensified in the days leading up to the eruptions. On April 22 at 15:54 WITA, the volcano emitted an ash column reaching approximately 1,300 meters above the summit, which stands about 2,884 meters above sea level. This eruption resulted in volcanic ashfall affecting five villages in East Flores Regency. Satellite imagery from Sentinel-2 captured the eruption on April 22. Separately, the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island also resumed eruptive activity around the same period.

The Indonesian Navy has inducted its second Bung Karno-class corvette into service, further expanding its domestic naval capabilities. Concurrently, high-level discussions between Tokyo and Jakarta are ongoing regarding the potential joint development and production of advanced frigates for Indonesia. These talks emphasize a growing defense partnership between Indonesia and Japan, focusing on enhancing maritime security and naval strength in Southeast Asia. The collaboration involves key stakeholders, including Indonesia's top envoy and defense officials, and highlights interest in Japan's Mogami-class frigate technology. This development aligns with Indonesia's broader efforts to modernize its naval fleet through both indigenous production and international cooperation.

The Indonesian government is currently considering the proposal to designate former President Soeharto, who ruled for 32 years and is often referred to as the Father of Development, as a national hero. This suggestion originated from Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi, based on inputs from regents, mayors, and the public. The proposal has sparked debate due to Soeharto's controversial legacy involving human rights issues and corruption allegations. The Ministry of Social Affairs, represented by Minister Gus Ipul, has stated that the government will listen to both supporters and critics of the proposal. Political parties such as Golkar have expressed support, while others, including Soeharto's daughter Titiek Soeharto, have welcomed the plan. Meanwhile, the Presidential Secretary and spokesperson for President Prabowo Subianto, Prasetyo Hadi, defended the proposal, urging the public to consider Soeharto's contributions rather than focusing solely on his shortcomings. President Joko Widodo, the seventh president of Indonesia, emphasized that there is only one "sun" in the government, referring to President Prabowo, dismissing rumors of a "twin sun" leadership. Prabowo has also called for unity among his cabinet ministers amid these discussions. Separately, concerns have been raised about the increasing role of the military in civilian areas, including campuses, which some observers view as a regression reminiscent of Soeharto's era. The government and parliament are examining these developments closely. Additionally, the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform announced a postponement of relocating civil servants to the new capital, Nusantara, until further direction from President Prabowo. In Surabaya, the issue of companies withholding employees' diplomas has drawn government attention, with the regional government committing to reissue diplomas for affected workers. Former employees of UD Sentosa Seal, owned by Jan Hwa Diana, have reported labor abuses, including withheld diplomas and salary deductions, to authorities. President Joko Widodo has announced plans to file reports against four individuals related to renewed allegations of fake diplomas aimed at undermining his reputation. The draft of the new Indonesian National Military Law, signed by President Prabowo, remains unpublished to the public pending procedural steps. The government continues to address multiple governance and social issues amid these ongoing political and administrative developments.

China's Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of opposing unilateralism and trade protectionism during a press conference on April 21, 2025. He highlighted the shared commitment between China and Indonesia to defend economic globalization and free trade. In a meeting with his Indonesian counterpart, the Chinese minister expressed China's willingness to increase imports of Indonesian products and urged the Indonesian government to protect China's legitimate rights and interests. These statements underscore the collaborative stance of both countries against unilateral economic measures and their support for open trade policies.

The increased presence and role of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in civilian spaces, particularly university campuses, has sparked public debate and concern among academics and activists. Critics view this development as a regression in Indonesia's democratic progress, drawing parallels to the authoritarian era under former President Soeharto. The phenomenon gained further attention following President Prabowo Subianto's signing of a revised TNI law, which some observers argue undermines democratic principles and challenges civil supremacy. The Ministry of State Secretariat, represented by Minister Prasetyo Hadi, explained that the draft of the TNI law has not been immediately released to the public due to procedural stages that must be followed. Meanwhile, the military district commander of Depok denied allegations of interference with students at the University of Indonesia, stating that the military's presence was by invitation. The House of Representatives' Commission X has announced plans to question the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology regarding the TNI's involvement in campuses. The situation has raised alarm among activists who fear a return to Indonesia's authoritarian roots, with ongoing discussions about the implications of the revised military law on the country's democratic institutions.