Today’s Highlights

Economy/Business

📰 Indonesia banks on resource downstreaming for economic ascension - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipAFBVV95cUxNT1lKOFdsblRXWkZ0U…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is relying on resource downstreaming to boost its economic growth.

Why it matters: This strategy could increase the value of exports and create more jobs.

Confidence: low

📰 Tapping the Recreational Economy to Fuel Indonesia’s Growth - Tempo.co English

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMilgFBVV95cUxQTWlwd2VzSUNNdy1yN…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is looking to the recreational economy to drive economic growth.

Why it matters: This could lead to increased tourism revenue and job creation in the leisure sector.

Confidence: low

📰 Unlocking the full value of green power in Indonesia - The Jakarta Post

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirAFBVV95cUxPeUNzd1dKZnRINW5RV…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is exploring ways to unlock the full potential of green power.

Why it matters: This could attract investment in renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Confidence: low

📰 Video: Bahlil: Tahun Depan Indonesia Tak Lagi Impor Solar - CNBC Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMitAFBVV95cUxOeVdPYjVmZGlzdkFKM…

Source Region: Other

Bahlil states that Indonesia will no longer import diesel next year.

Why it matters: This could reduce reliance on foreign energy sources and boost the domestic energy industry.

Confidence: low

📰 【技人国・建設業】インドネシアにて施工管理・外国人人材の現地面接を実施 - 札幌経済新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiVEFVX3lxTFBNOWJGT25yN3pCZGxEO…

Source Region: Other

A company conducted on-site interviews in Indonesia for construction management and foreign human resources. The interviews focused on technical, engineering, and construction roles.

Why it matters: This indicates a demand for skilled workers in Indonesia’s construction sector and highlights the role of foreign talent in meeting that demand.

Confidence: medium

🇮🇩 Jelang Nataru Harga Komoditas di Pasar Naik, Cuaca dan MBG Disebut jadi Biang Keroknya |Republika Online

Source: rejabar.republika.co.id/…/jelang-nataru-harga-komod…

Source Region: Indonesia

Commodity prices in Cimahi, West Java, are rising ahead of Christmas and New Year’s, with bad weather and the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) program cited as causes. Red chili prices have more than doubled, while shallots and chicken eggs have also increased. Traders attribute the price hikes to disrupted supplies due to bad weather and high demand from SPPG companies producing MBG meals. Local traders are negatively impacted as the MBG program sources directly from outside the traditional markets.

Why it matters: The rising commodity prices could impact consumer spending and business costs, particularly for food-related industries, during the holiday season.

Confidence: medium

Politics/Society

📰 Indonesia establishes National Crisis Center after floods, landslides - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiqgFBVV95cUxNMzBSbmdRYWgyTUx3O…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has established a National Crisis Center in response to recent floods and landslides.

Why it matters: This aims to improve disaster response and coordination, potentially reducing economic losses and social disruption.

Confidence: low

📰 Video: Prabowo Singgung Pihak yang Tak Suka Indonesia Kuat saat Hadapi Bencana - 20detik

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiyAFBVV95cUxPb25wTWR6WkF1RHZTc…

Source Region: Other

Prabowo Subianto mentioned parties who do not want Indonesia to be strong when facing disasters. The statement was made in a cabinet meeting. Further details were not provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: The comment suggests potential geopolitical tensions or external influences impacting Indonesia’s disaster response, but the specific implications are unclear without more context.

Confidence: low

📰 Di Sidang Kabinet, Prabowo Sebut Ada Pihak Luar yang Tidak Suka Indonesia Kuat - Kompas.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiwwFBVV95cUxOeU1jaDNwbnFuOWQyN…

Source Region: Other

Prabowo stated during a Cabinet meeting that there are external parties who do not want Indonesia to be strong. The reasons for this sentiment were not elaborated upon in the provided snippet.

Why it matters: This could indicate potential foreign interference or geopolitical challenges impacting Indonesia’s growth and stability, but further information is needed.

Confidence: low

📰 Presiden Prabowo Sebut Indonesia Kuat Tangani Bencana Sumatera - Kompas.id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMilwFBVV95cUxOclFkQ0N1cS1yM0Uzd…

Source Region: Other

President Prabowo stated that Indonesia is strong in handling the Sumatra disaster. Details about the disaster and the specific measures being taken were not provided in this snippet.

Why it matters: The statement suggests Indonesia’s capability in disaster management, but the economic impact and specific strategies are unclear.

Confidence: low

📰 Mahkamah Agung Republik Indonesia - Mahkamah Agung

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi0AFBVV95cUxQUDUza2ZVeHNzTGJKO…

Source Region: Other

This article is from the Supreme Court of the Republic of Indonesia. No further information was provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Without additional context, the significance of this article is unclear.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Ribuan Desa Belum Terkoneksi Internet, Pemerintah Luncurkan Program Kampung Internet |Republika Online

Source: ameera.republika.co.id/…/ribuan-desa-belum-terkonek…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian government has launched the Kampung Internet program to address the lack of internet access in 2,333 villages across the country. The program aims to provide fixed broadband access to these villages, starting with 20 villages and expanding to include additional locations. The government is partnering with local internet service providers and vocational schools to ensure the sustainability and development of digital skills in these areas. The program seeks to improve access to information, public services, and economic opportunities for rural communities.

Why it matters: This initiative could bridge the digital divide, enabling rural businesses to access wider markets and improve operational efficiency through online tools and services.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Jangan Tunda Tobat, Ini Doa Memohon Ampunan atas Segala Dosa |Republika Online

Source: khazanah.republika.co.id/…/jangan-tunda-tobat-ini-d…

Source Region: Indonesia

The article discusses the importance of seeking forgiveness from Allah and highlights that Allah is the Most Forgiving. It emphasizes that Allah loves those who repent and purify themselves, and that no one should despair of His forgiveness, regardless of the sins they have committed. The article presents a prayer taught by Prophet Muhammad SAW for seeking forgiveness for all sins. The prayer asks for forgiveness for mistakes, ignorance, extravagance, and all that Allah knows better than the individual.

Why it matters: This article is about religious guidance and does not have a direct business impact.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Kembangkan Drone untuk Bencana, Tiga Pelajar Indonesia Raih Penghargaan Internasional |Republika Online

Source: visual.republika.co.id/…/kembangkan-drone-untuk-ben…

Source Region: Indonesia

Three Indonesian students have developed the Drone Rajawali, an autonomous AI-powered disaster response UAV, and won two international awards. The drone can map areas, move independently, and detect indicators of damage such as cracks and hazards. The team won 4th place in the Drone Disaster Challenge at the World Robot Summit in Japan and 1st place in the Innovation AI Robot category at the World Robot Games in Taipei.

Why it matters: This innovation could lead to more efficient and effective disaster response strategies, potentially creating new business opportunities in disaster management technology.

Confidence: medium

🇮🇩 Ringgo Agus Rahman Ungkap Konflik Ayah-Anak di Film Esok Tanpa Ibu |Republika Online

Source: ameera.republika.co.id/…/ringgo-agus-rahman-ungkap-…

Source Region: Indonesia

Actor Ringgo Agus Rahman discusses the father-son conflict in the upcoming film “Esok Tanpa Ibu” (Mothernet), where his character, Hendi, struggles to express affection towards his son and relies on his wife for communication. The film explores the central role of mothers in families and the challenges men face in expressing emotions. The story revolves around a son who uses AI to connect with his comatose mother. The film is scheduled for release on January 22, 2026.

Why it matters: This article is about entertainment and family dynamics, and does not have a direct business impact.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Raja Juli: 22 Izin Pemanfaatan Hutan Dicabut |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/raja-juli-22-izin-pemanfaata…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian government has revoked 22 forest utilization permits (PBPH) covering 1,012,016 hectares, following President Prabowo Subianto’s directive. The revocation, effective since February 3, 2025, is part of a broader effort to regulate forest areas, with approximately 1.5 million hectares of problematic PBPH now under government control. A task force is also pursuing legal action against companies involved in illegal logging, particularly those linked to recent flooding in Sumatra.

Why it matters: This action signals a stricter stance on forest management, potentially impacting companies in the forestry and related industries, requiring them to ensure compliance and sustainable practices.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Puluhan Tahun Warga Guwa Lor Cirebon tak Miliki Akses Air Bersih, ITB Buat Program Tirta Masjid |Republika Online

Source: rejabar.republika.co.id/…/puluhan-tahun-warga-guwa-…

Source Region: Indonesia

Residents of Guwa Lor, Cirebon, who have lacked access to clean water for decades, now have a clean water supply thanks to the Tirta Masjid program, a collaboration between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and ITB. The program uses modified active filter technology to treat water from newly discovered sources, addressing high iron content and turbidity. The system, managed by the Al Muhtadin Mosque Cooperative, distributes water to 54 homes with plans to expand to 300.

Why it matters: This initiative demonstrates a model for sustainable community development, potentially creating opportunities for businesses involved in water treatment and distribution technologies.

Confidence: medium

🇮🇩 Anjuran Islam Dalam Mencari Jodoh |Republika Online

Source: khazanah.republika.co.id/…/anjuran-islam-dalam-menc…

Source Region: Indonesia

The article discusses the Islamic perspective on finding a spouse, emphasizing that marriage partners are divinely ordained. It advises those seeking a partner to draw closer to Allah through increased prayer and worship, especially during prostration in prayer. The article suggests that consistent and sincere supplication is the best way to seek a life partner.

Why it matters: This article is about religious guidance and does not have a direct business impact.

Confidence: low

International/Other

📰 Indonesia Holds Second Place in SEA Games 2025 Medal Standings with 43 Golds - Website Resmi Polri

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirAFBVV95cUxNYkhtWE9oT1l5Sjkxb…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is currently in second place in the SEA Games 2025 medal standings with 43 gold medals.

Why it matters: Prestige for the country and potential economic benefits from sports-related activities.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia climbs to second in SEA Games medal standings - The Jakarta Post

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirgFBVV95cUxNMjVhajA2SEg2Zk9zS…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has climbed to second place in the SEA Games medal standings.

Why it matters: This could lead to increased national pride and potentially boost the sports economy.

Confidence: low

📰 Thailand Pulls Away as Indonesia Overtakes Vietnam at SEA Games 2025 - Jakarta Globe

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMingFBVV95cUxPbmVmSExTYlVOc1hDd…

Source Region: Other

Thailand is pulling away in the SEA Games 2025, while Indonesia has overtaken Vietnam.

Why it matters: The games can impact national morale and potentially influence investment in sports programs.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Condemns Bondi Beach Shooting in Australia - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMimgFBVV95cUxNZFBLQTlOMHpLbU5Eb…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has condemned the Bondi Beach shooting in Australia.

Why it matters: This could affect diplomatic relations and tourism between the two countries.

Confidence: low

📰 Klasemen Medali SEA Games 2025 Senin Pagi: Indonesia Jauhi Vietnam - CNN Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiygFBVV95cUxQRjBYYW9BV3k3QVd0O…

Source Region: Other

As of Monday morning, Indonesia is further ahead of Vietnam in the SEA Games 2025 medal standings.

Why it matters: This reflects Indonesia’s performance in the games and can boost national pride.

Confidence: low

📰 Menpora minta atlet Indonesia jangan lengah di sisa hari kompetisi - Antaranews Jatim

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirwFBVV95cUxOd2RWekhOT3IwZkZiN…

Source Region: Other

The Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) has urged Indonesian athletes not to be complacent in the remaining days of competition.

Why it matters: This is to encourage athletes to maintain their performance and strive for more medals, which can impact national prestige.

Confidence: low

📰 Raih 43 Medali Emas, Indonesia Kokoh di Peringkat Dua Klasemen Sementara SEA Games 2025 Thailand - Https://Kemenpora.Go.Id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi0AFBVV95cUxNVC1qVXpnX2FQN0dhM…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is firmly in second place in the provisional standings of the SEA Games 2025 Thailand with 43 gold medals.

Why it matters: This achievement can boost national pride and potentially attract investment in sports development.

Confidence: low

📰 【密着】インドネシア・バリ島 家事・育児・宗教のしきたりで26年間帰国できない娘へ届ける母の想い（読売テレビ） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTFBNdW9mUkw0RVBqemczV…

Source Region: Other

This article is about a mother’s feelings for her daughter who has been unable to return from Bali, Indonesia for 26 years due to housework, childcare, and religious customs. It is a report from Yomiuri Television.

Why it matters: This is a personal story, and the business impact is not apparent.

Confidence: low

📰 【インドネシア】スマトラ豪雨、死者千人超え 災害の死者ら、通年で1700人に（NNA） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE5GTzlydllEYmowclVjN…

Source Region: Other

The article reports that the death toll from the torrential rain in Sumatra, Indonesia has exceeded 1,000, with the total number of disaster-related deaths reaching 1,700 for the year. There are calls for overseas support due to delays in recovery efforts.

Why it matters: The disaster is causing significant human and economic loss, potentially impacting supply chains and requiring international aid.

Confidence: medium

📰 アダルトコンテンツ制作の疑い…英女性がインドネシアで逮捕、直前にも「下品な映像」で挑発 - ニューズウィーク日本版 オフィシャルサイト

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMicEFVX3lxTE9SNEg5XzNUNWRwN3VOS…

Source Region: Other

A British woman has been arrested in Indonesia on suspicion of producing adult content. The article mentions provocative “obscene videos” preceding the arrest.

Why it matters: This incident highlights the legal and cultural differences regarding adult content production in Indonesia, which could affect individuals and businesses operating in the digital space.

Confidence: medium

📰 「インドネシア・バリ島で集団万引き」京都の名門「大谷中学・高等学校」の評判 - ニフティニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMib0FVX3lxTFBZTVZjZTNadU1YdS1uU…

Source Region: Other

This article discusses a group shoplifting incident in Bali, Indonesia, involving students from the prestigious Otani Junior and Senior High School in Kyoto. The article focuses on the school’s reputation.

Why it matters: This incident could negatively impact the school’s reputation and potentially affect international relations, but the direct business impact is limited.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア豪雨、死者千人超に - 山陰中央新報デジタル

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiWkFVX3lxTFB6cWZhN1pPZm1fb2M4R…

Source Region: Other

The article reports that the death toll from the heavy rain in Indonesia has exceeded 1,000. No further details were provided.

Why it matters: The disaster represents a significant humanitarian crisis and will likely have economic repercussions for the affected regions.

Confidence: low

📰 豪雨被害のインドネシア支援へ 宮城県が募金開始 「気持ち届ける」（朝日新聞） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE9rYzRIVDAzUlcxWkUyS…

Source Region: Other

Miyagi Prefecture has started a fundraising campaign to support Indonesia, which has been affected by heavy rain. The campaign aims to “deliver feelings” to those affected.

Why it matters: This initiative highlights the international community’s response to the disaster and could encourage further aid and investment in the affected areas.

Confidence: medium

📰 バリ島に嫁いだ邦人 26年帰国せず - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiUEFVX3lxTE5TVHFfV3htZHF6RTJBV…

Source Region: Other

This article is about a Japanese citizen who married and moved to Bali, Indonesia, and has not returned to Japan for 26 years. No further details were provided.

Why it matters: The business impact is not apparent.

Confidence: low

🌍 Indonesia to revoke 22 forestry permits after deadly floods

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/indonesia-flash-floods-sumatr…

Source Region: International

Indonesia will revoke 22 forestry permits covering over 1 million hectares, including 100,000 hectares in Sumatra, after deadly floods and landslides. The decision follows criticism that forest loss contributed to the disaster, which killed over 1,000 people. The forestry minister stated that this action, combined with previous revocations, brings the total regulated forest area to 1.5 million hectares.

Why it matters: This move signals increased scrutiny of forestry practices, potentially impacting companies in the sector and requiring greater emphasis on sustainable land management.

Confidence: high

🌍 Philippines to protest China’s actions that injured Filipino fishermen in South China Sea

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/philippines-protest-china-act…

Source Region: International

The Philippines will protest China’s coast guard’s actions in the South China Sea after Filipino fishermen were injured and their vessels damaged by water cannon and anchor line cutting near Sabina Shoal. The Philippines condemns the “harassment and endangerment” and will file a demarche to the Chinese embassy. The United States has also criticized China’s actions, reaffirming its support for the Philippines.

Why it matters: Escalating tensions in the South China Sea could disrupt trade routes and impact businesses operating in the region, increasing geopolitical risk.

Confidence: high

🇯🇵 Cambodia says Thailand bombed Siem Reap province, home to Angkor Wat

Source: asia.nikkei.com/…/cambodia-says-thailand-bombed-sie…

Source Region: Japan

Cambodia has accused Thailand of bombing an area 70 kilometers from their border, near Siem Reap province, where Angkor Wat is located. This attack signifies an escalation of the conflict between the two countries, despite calls for a ceasefire.

Why it matters: Increased conflict between Thailand and Cambodia could destabilize the region, impacting tourism and cross-border trade.

Confidence: medium

🇯🇵 Indonesia’s Aceh appeals to UN for help with flood disaster recovery

Source: asia.nikkei.com/…/indonesia-s-aceh-appeals-to-un-fo…

Source Region: Japan

The administration of Aceh, Indonesia, has requested assistance from the United Nations Development Program and UNICEF for post-flood and landslide disaster recovery. This appeal comes despite the Indonesian government’s general policy of not accepting foreign aid.

Why it matters: The appeal for international aid highlights the scale of the disaster and potential opportunities for businesses involved in disaster relief and reconstruction efforts.

Confidence: medium

📰 China Focus: Beijing firms bring tech to Belt and Road countries

Source: xinhuanet.com/…/c_136263471.htm

Source Region: Other

Several Beijing-based technology companies have expanded their operations in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. Nuctech, a security inspection equipment producer, has seen increased export opportunities. OriginWater, a water purification company, is working on agreements in water-scarce countries. Xiaomi, a smartphone maker, is localizing production in Indonesia.

Why it matters: The Belt and Road Initiative is helping Chinese companies expand internationally, creating new markets and opportunities for growth in technology and other sectors.

Confidence: medium

📰 Feature: A Thai student dreams of selling rice to China

Source: xinhuanet.com/…/c_136224369.htm

Source Region: Other

Nontipa Kla-ngam, a Thai student in China, is studying the free trade agreement between Thailand and China and sees an opportunity to sell Thai rice in China. She believes that by utilizing the FTA, Thai rice can be more competitively priced in the Chinese market. Nontipa aims to leverage her knowledge of Chinese culture and policies to succeed in this venture.

Why it matters: The story highlights how trade agreements can create opportunities for individuals and businesses to capitalize on market gaps and cultural understanding to foster international trade.

Confidence: medium

📰 Chinese vice premier meets Thai princess

Source: xinhuanet.com/…/c_136191136.htm

Source Region: Other

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli met with Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand in Beijing. Zhang acknowledged Thailand’s leading role among ASEAN nations in developing ties with China, attributing it to the Thai royal family’s efforts. Both parties expressed a commitment to deepening cooperation in various sectors, including science, education, and agriculture, to achieve mutual benefit and common development.

Why it matters: The meeting underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between China and Thailand, potentially leading to increased trade and investment opportunities.

Confidence: high