Today’s Highlights

Economy/Business

📰 Indonesia brings 14.7 mln micro enterprises into formal economy - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiogFBVV95cUxObHdSeGFDNE9LQVRtV…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has brought 14.7 million micro enterprises into the formal economy, according to ANTARA News.

Why it matters: Formalizing micro-enterprises can lead to increased access to credit and other financial services, boosting economic growth.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia formalises 14.6 mln micro enterprises in 2025 drive - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMinwFBVV95cUxOYkZuai1wSFA3RFhTQ…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is formalizing 14.6 million micro enterprises in a 2025 drive, according to ANTARA News.

Why it matters: Formalizing these enterprises could lead to greater economic stability and growth, as well as increased tax revenue for the government.

Confidence: low

📰 Hajj Village: Indonesia Invests $500 Million in Novotel Makkah Deal - Jakarta Globe

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMinwFBVV95cUxPNDZ0cUZad1dqMEpaQ…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is investing $500 million in a Novotel Makkah deal for a Hajj Village, according to the Jakarta Globe.

Why it matters: This investment could significantly improve the accommodation and services provided to Indonesian Hajj pilgrims, while also boosting Indonesia’s economic ties with Saudi Arabia.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Secures Strategic Mecca Hotel to Serve Thousands of Hajj Pilgrims - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiuAFBVV95cUxPZmc2b2JveGhNTHRsU…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has secured a strategic Mecca hotel to serve thousands of Hajj pilgrims, according to MetroTVNews.com.

Why it matters: Securing accommodation for pilgrims is crucial for Indonesia, as it ensures the comfort and safety of its citizens during the Hajj pilgrimage, while also strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia.

Confidence: low

📰 Video: Daftar 10 Negara dengan Gaji Tertinggi di Asia, Ada Indonesia Kah? - 20detik

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMivwFBVV95cUxOYnFYVlVxV0pRbjdUN…

Source Region: Other

A video from 20detik lists the top 10 countries with the highest salaries in Asia, and questions whether Indonesia is among them.

Why it matters: Salaries are a key factor in attracting and retaining talent, and can impact a company’s competitiveness.

Confidence: low

📰 Pelaku Industri Didorong Terus Berkontribusi Memajukan Pariwisata Indonesia - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiuAFBVV95cUxNS3FWbThxZ2gtQUhyZ…

Source Region: Other

Industry players are being encouraged to contribute to the advancement of Indonesian tourism. The article does not specify what kind of contributions are expected or what initiatives are being promoted.

Why it matters: The snippet does not provide enough information to assess the business impact.

Confidence: low

📰 ｢インドネシア国産電車｣安全を支える日本の技術 見えない部分で貢献､中国勢にない｢強み｣は何か - 東洋経済オンライン

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiX0FVX3lxTE5uUFBFNmJFbUdrcGVTe…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses how Japanese technology supports the safety of Indonesian-made trains, highlighting unseen contributions and strengths that Chinese companies lack. No specific technologies or companies are mentioned.

Why it matters: This suggests a competitive advantage for Japanese firms in the Indonesian railway sector.

Confidence: medium

📰 THE MARKET：《インドネシア株》資源輸出が好調 今井正之 - 週刊エコノミスト Online

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE1FRzMyakNvQTlQQlNXQ…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses the favorable performance of Indonesian stocks due to strong resource exports, according to Masayuki Imai in the Weekly Economist Online. No specific details about the resources or companies involved are provided.

Why it matters: This indicates a positive trend for companies involved in resource extraction and export in Indonesia.

Confidence: medium

📰 イオンがスラバヤに初出店 - nna.jp

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiRkFVX3lxTE91Y0lzTlIzNTZDT2dEc…

Source Region: Other

AEON is opening its first store in Surabaya. The article provides no further details.

Why it matters: This represents an expansion of AEON’s retail presence in Indonesia.

Confidence: low

📰 「インドネシア国産電車」安全を支える日本の技術 見えない部分で貢献、中国勢にない「強み」は何か（東洋経済オンライン） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiiAFBVV95cUxPeUtldzQ1eWVncVV5T…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses how Japanese technology supports the safety of Indonesian-made trains, highlighting unseen contributions and strengths that Chinese companies lack. The article originates from Toyo Keizai Online.

Why it matters: This suggests a competitive advantage for Japanese firms in the Indonesian railway sector.

Confidence: medium

🇮🇩 Stok Melimpah, Warning Harga Pangan Tak Boleh Naik |Republika Online

Source: ekonomi.republika.co.id/…/stok-melimpah-warning-har…

Source Region: Indonesia

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman has warned food businesses against selling commodities above the Highest Retail Price (HET) during the Christmas and New Year period. He stated that the government will take firm action against any violations, emphasizing that the period for appeals has ended. According to Amran, the national food supply is sufficient, with strategic commodities secured, eliminating any justification for price increases. He affirmed that all food associations have committed to maintaining stable supplies and prices during the holiday season.

Why it matters: Maintaining stable food prices is crucial for controlling inflation and ensuring affordability for consumers during peak demand periods.

Confidence: high

🌍 Beauty and wellness giant Mannings closes all stores in mainland China

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/hong-kong-mannings-guardian-e…

Source Region: International

Mannings, a Hong Kong-based beauty and wellness retailer, is closing all its physical stores in mainland China by January 15, 2026, due to a “strategic reset” and changing consumer behavior. The company will focus on its online platform to serve mainland Chinese customers with products from Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. Mannings will also integrate operations across Hong Kong and Macau with mainland China’s cross-border e-commerce model. The retailer’s online stores on Tmall, JD.com and Pinduoduo will begin ceasing operations between Dec 24 and Dec 28.

Why it matters: Mannings’ exit reflects the challenges of brick-and-mortar retail in China’s competitive market and the growing importance of e-commerce and cross-border sales.

Confidence: high

🌍 Indonesia will issue investment instruments for export earnings of natural resources

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/indonesia-will-issue-investme…

Source Region: International

Indonesia will issue investment instruments for earnings from natural resource exports to improve exporters’ compliance with rules requiring them to keep foreign currency proceeds in the country. The new regulation, effective January 1, requires natural resource exporters to retain all foreign currency earnings in state banks for at least a year and limits their use. The new instruments will include new competitive series of domestically issued FX bonds. The planned rule has received complaints from palm oil and mining associations.

Why it matters: This policy aims to increase onshore U.S. dollar liquidity and stabilize the rupiah exchange rate, but it could also impact the profitability and operational flexibility of exporters.

Confidence: high

🇯🇵 Mizuho-Avendus deal heralds growing Japan-India investment

Source: asia.nikkei.com/…/mizuho-avendus-deal-heralds-growi…

Source Region: Japan

Mizuho Financial Group’s 47 billion-rupee ($516 million) acquisition of Indian investment bank Avendus Capital signifies a new phase in the Tokyo-based bank’s globalization strategy. Japan Inc. is seeking to build a stronger presence in India amid Indian authorities’ efforts to attract more foreign investors. The deal, expected to be completed by July, will give Japan’s third-largest banking group a stake of over 60% in Avendus Capital.

Why it matters: This acquisition highlights the increasing investment ties between Japan and India, reflecting the growing importance of the Indian market for Japanese companies.

Confidence: high

Politics/Society

📰 Indonesia conducts intensive lobbying for Hajj Village : Roeslani - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiowFBVV95cUxQV0NESXFKZHdWRWItV…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is conducting intensive lobbying for a Hajj Village, according to Roeslani and ANTARA News.

Why it matters: Lobbying efforts for the Hajj Village reflect the government’s commitment to improving services for its citizens undertaking the pilgrimage, potentially strengthening political ties with Saudi Arabia.

Confidence: low

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiugFBVV95cUxPSGVGeVM0c3Rqd3N4V…

Source Region: Other

The Jakarta Post reports on the looming legal challenges and concerns surrounding unchecked military power in Indonesia.

Why it matters: This raises concerns about potential impacts on business and investment due to instability.

Confidence: low

📰 Presiden Prabowo Terima Laporan KEPP OKP: Papua sebagai Masa Depan Strategis Indonesia - Presiden RI

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMixgFBVV95cUxOZTRXSjVkZ2hkcWVOZ…

Source Region: Other

President Prabowo received a report stating that Papua is Indonesia’s strategic future. The article provides no details on the report’s contents or the reasons for this strategic importance.

Why it matters: The snippet does not provide enough information to assess the business impact.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Tambahkan ‘Sayyidina’ pada Nama Nabi saat Doa Tasyahud dalam Shalat, Bolehkah? |Republika Online

Source: khazanah.republika.co.id/…/tambahkan-sayyidina-pada…

Source Region: Indonesia

The article from Republika Online discusses the permissibility of adding the title ‘Sayyidina’ to the name of Prophet Muhammad during the Tasyahud prayer. Dar al-Ifta, the Egyptian Fatwa Authority, deems it permissible and highly recommended as a sign of respect. However, the Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta of Saudi Arabia prohibits it, arguing that it was not practiced by the Prophet himself.

Why it matters: This is a religious matter with implications for Islamic practice and potentially social discourse.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Presiden Prabowo Didorong Pecat TNI-Polri Terlibat Penyelundupan dan Tambang Ilegal |Republika Online

Source: rejogja.republika.co.id/…/presiden-prabowo-didorong…

Source Region: Indonesia

An expert of constitutional law, Feri Amsari, urged President Prabowo Subianto to take action against TNI-Polri personnel involved in illegal mining activities. This call comes in response to Prabowo’s statement about receiving reports of TNI-Polri members supporting smuggling and illegal mining. Feri believes Prabowo should immediately dismiss those involved to show his commitment. He also commented on the disasters in Sumatra, emphasizing the need for accountability regarding deforestation’s role in exacerbating floods.

Why it matters: The involvement of law enforcement in illegal activities undermines the rule of law and can lead to significant financial losses for the state.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Disebut Terima Rp 10 Juta untuk Edarkan 100 Gram Narkotika, Ammar Zoni Ngaku dalam Tekanan |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/disebut-terima-rp-10-juta-un…

Source Region: Indonesia

Ammar Zoni, a defendant in a drug trafficking case at Salemba Detention Center, addressed allegations of receiving Rp 10 million for distributing 100 grams of narcotics. He claimed he was under pressure and challenged the prosecution to provide transaction records as evidence. Ammar also dared the prosecutor to prove his involvement in distributing 100 grams of narcotics. Randi Iswahyudi, a police officer handling the case, testified that Ammar received Rp 10 million for distributing drugs in the detention center.

Why it matters: This case highlights the ongoing issue of drug trafficking within correctional facilities, raising concerns about security and potential corruption.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Tembus 80 Emas, Indonesia Penuhi Target di SEA Games 2025 |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/tembus-80-emas-indonesia-pen…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian contingent has surpassed its target of 80 gold medals at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand. The achievement was secured after the Indonesian women’s kabaddi team won the women’s three stars event. Menpora Erick Thohir expressed gratitude for the achievement, attributing it to the hard work and dedication of the athletes. He also acknowledged the contributions of officials, coaches, and federation leaders.

Why it matters: This success in the SEA Games can boost national pride and potentially lead to increased investment in sports development.

Confidence: high

🌍 Prabowo says Indonesia should appoint, not elect local leaders - what are the implications?

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/prabowo-idea-cancel-direct-el…

Source Region: International

President Prabowo Subianto has suggested that regional Indonesian leaders should be appointed by local parliaments instead of being directly elected, citing high costs and problems like vote buying. This proposal has sparked debate among political parties, with some warning it could be a setback for democracy. Critics argue that appointed leaders may lack legitimacy and that the move would not address corruption risks. Political parties are split on the issue, with some favoring direct elections and others supporting the appointment system.

Why it matters: The potential shift from direct elections to appointments could significantly alter Indonesia’s political landscape, impacting regional autonomy and democratic participation.

Confidence: high

🌍 Thai queen wins SEA Games gold in sailing

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/thailand-queen-suthida-sea-ga…

Source Region: International

Queen Suthida of Thailand won a gold medal in sailing at the Southeast Asian Games in the mixed keelboat SSL47 category. She served as tactician and helmswoman, leading the Thai team to victory in Pattaya. The Queen’s gold medal was presented to her by King Vajiralongkorn. This is not the first time a member of the Thai royal family has won gold in sailing, as King Bhumibol Adulyadej won a gold medal in 1967.

Why it matters: The Queen’s participation and victory in the SEA Games can boost national pride and promote sports in Thailand.

Confidence: high

International/Other

📰 Indonesia urges global action against online scam networks: govt - Antaranews Jatim

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiqwFBVV95cUxPQmhjcUFDU1g4YS04V…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is urging global action against online scam networks, according to Antaranews Jatim.

Why it matters: Online scams can have significant financial and social impacts, necessitating international cooperation to combat them.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Extends Lead Over Vietnam in SEA Games 2025 Medal Race - Website Resmi Polri

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMinAFBVV95cUxQVUJ6bFJOQ3pvY3c4V…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is extending its lead over Vietnam in the SEA Games 2025 medal race, according to Website Resmi Polri.

Why it matters: This is not business news.

Confidence: low

📰 Tembus 80 Emas, Indonesia Capai Target SEA Games 2025 Thailand - Https://Kemenpora.Go.Id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiowFBVV95cUxNc1ZMaldpNC1acjV1Y…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has reached its target of 80 gold medals for the SEA Games 2025 in Thailand, according to Kemenpora.Go.Id.

Why it matters: This is not business news.

Confidence: low

📰 Klasemen Medali SEA Games 2025 Kamis Pagi: Vietnam Ancam Indonesia - CNN Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiygFBVV95cUxORjlWYWhPWHFmUVFNe…

Source Region: Other

Vietnam is threatening Indonesia in the SEA Games 2025 medal standings as of Thursday morning, according to CNN Indonesia.

Why it matters: This is not business news.

Confidence: low

📰 Pentatlon modern Indonesia warnai hari kedua dengan satu emas - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipgFBVV95cUxPNWJmSElld3RWVHY3U…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s modern pentathlon team won a gold medal on the second day of competition, according to ANTARA News.

Why it matters: This is not business news.

Confidence: low

📰 Australia Terapkan Aturan Indonesia, Negara Lain Mulai Ikut Berubah - CNBC Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMixAFBVV95cUxOaGxiY3dFendtNnlGU…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses Australia implementing Indonesian regulations, potentially leading to changes in other countries. No specific details are provided about the regulations or their impact.

Why it matters: The snippet does not provide enough information to assess the business impact.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia, Chile Celebrate 60 Years of Diplomatic Ties - RRI.co.id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMinAFBVV95cUxNWldQYTJWSkt5OVBPe…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia and Chile are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations. The article does not provide details on the specific events or the nature of the relationship.

Why it matters: The snippet does not provide enough information to assess the business impact.

Confidence: low

📰 ジャワ原人の化石返還 オランダからインドネシア - 東京新聞デジタル

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiU0FVX3lxTFB4MzluNDRYUGM0aFZYT…

Source Region: Other

Fossils of Java Man are being returned to Indonesia from the Netherlands. The article provides no further details.

Why it matters: The snippet does not provide enough information to assess the business impact.

Confidence: low

📰 ジャワ原人の化石返還 オランダからインドネシア - au Webポータル

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMie0FVX3lxTE82LUpiSEx2Z0F3Qk5aN…

Source Region: Other

Fossils of Java Man are being returned to Indonesia from the Netherlands. The article provides no further details.

Why it matters: The snippet does not provide enough information to assess the business impact.

Confidence: low

📰 ジャワ原人の化石返還 オランダからインドネシア - nnn.co.jp

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiUEFVX3lxTE9ITF9jNTBHTWY2aTREe…

Source Region: Other

Fossils of Java Man are being returned to Indonesia from the Netherlands. The article provides no further details.

Why it matters: The snippet does not provide enough information to assess the business impact.

Confidence: low

🌍 UK police arrest four people for pro-Palestine ‘Intifada’ calls

Source: aljazeera.com/…/uk-police-arrest-four-people-for-pr…

Source Region: International

UK police have arrested four people at pro-Palestinian protests outside the Ministry of Justice in Westminster for allegedly chanting slogans involving calls for “intifada.” The arrests mark the first since police announced their intent to crack down on public calls to “globalise the Intifada.” The arrests occurred at a demonstration supporting imprisoned hunger strikers connected to the Palestine Action group. Critics argue that the Arabic word “intifada” means “shaking off or uprising against injustice” and refers to civil uprising against military occupation.

Why it matters: The arrests highlight the tension between freedom of speech and concerns about inciting violence in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, potentially impacting future protests and political discourse.

Confidence: high

🌍 Thailand strikes building in Cambodia’s border casino hub

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/cambodia-says-thailand-bombs-…

Source Region: International

Thailand bombed a building in Poipet, a Cambodian casino town on the border, amid ongoing clashes between the two nations. Thai fighter jets dropped three bombs, damaging a warehouse and other property, and causing minor injuries to two civilians. Thailand claimed the strike destroyed a “logistics centre” used to store rockets. The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of their border and ancient temple ruins.

Why it matters: Escalating border conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia can disrupt regional stability, trade, and tourism, potentially impacting economic growth in the region.

Confidence: high

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

Source: xinhuanet.com/…/c_136263471.htm

Source Region: Other

Beijing-based companies like Nuctech and OriginWater are expanding into countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, bringing their technology and services. Nuctech, a security inspection equipment producer, exports its products to various foreign ports and customs. OriginWater, a water treatment company, provides safe water solutions and nano-membrane filters to countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka. These companies are leveraging the Belt and Road Initiative to find business opportunities and cooperate with overseas partners.

Why it matters: The expansion of Chinese tech firms into Belt and Road countries can facilitate infrastructure development and technology transfer, but also raises questions about competition and market access for other international players.

Confidence: high

📰 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 writing her master’s thesis on the free trade agreement (FTA) between Thailand and China. She hopes to capitalize on the FTA to sell Thai rice in China, noting the price margin advantage. She believes her familiarity with Chinese culture, policies, and language gives her an edge. She intends to start her career in China and eventually return to Thailand.

Why it matters: This reflects growing trade ambitions between Thailand and China, and the potential for individuals to capitalize on these opportunities. Increased trade could lead to greater economic cooperation and development in both countries.

Confidence: high

📰 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 expressed appreciation for Sirindhorn’s work in strengthening China-Thailand friendship, noting Thailand’s leading role among ASEAN nations in developing ties with China. He stated China’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Thailand for mutual benefit. Sirindhorn thanked China for its support and expressed hope for enhanced cooperation in science, education, and agriculture.

Why it matters: The meeting underscores the ongoing diplomatic and economic ties between China and Thailand. Further cooperation in science, education, and agriculture could lead to new opportunities and advancements in these sectors for both countries.

Confidence: high