Today’s Highlights

Economy/Business

📰 Indonesia Prepares 500,000 Skilled Migrant Workers, Moves Away From Domestic Sector - Jakarta Globe

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirwFBVV95cUxPMUNMTFVTY2dqbmh1e…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is preparing 500,000 skilled migrant workers, shifting away from the domestic sector, according to the Jakarta Globe.

Why it matters: This move aims to boost remittances and enhance Indonesia’s competitiveness in the global labor market.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia sends first direct shipment of frozen durian to China - The Jakarta Post

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiuwFBVV95cUxPOHRhdVBnMXNSSGV1d…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has sent its first direct shipment of frozen durian to China, according to The Jakarta Post.

Why it matters: This marks a significant step in expanding Indonesia’s agricultural exports and tapping into the growing Chinese market for tropical fruits.

Confidence: low

📰 MAKI duga sistem kuota sebabkan monopoli harga daging kerbau India di Indonesia - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiugFBVV95cUxQa3JJdTF3Z213dkZPU…

Source Region: Other

ANTARA News reports that MAKI suspects the quota system is causing a monopoly in the price of Indian buffalo meat in Indonesia.

Why it matters: This could lead to market distortions and higher prices for consumers.

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 a competitive advantage over Chinese companies.

Why it matters: This collaboration strengthens the Indonesian railway industry and showcases Japan’s technological contributions.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア発「RegTech」スタートアップのGani.AI、日本市場での展開を加速(ASEAN、インドネシア) | ビジネス短信 - jetro.go.jp

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMibkFVX3lxTE9HbEdZaUFrSkYtVEZXc…

Source Region: Other

Gani.AI, a RegTech startup from Indonesia, is accelerating its expansion into the Japanese market.

Why it matters: This move indicates growing interest in Indonesian tech companies in Japan.

Confidence: low

📰 【インドネシア】イオンがスラバヤに初出店 巨大食品スーパー、地方で３店目（NNA） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE5tVnlqWjlGOGRNSkE5e…

Source Region: Other

AEON has opened its first store in Surabaya, Indonesia, marking its third regional store.

Why it matters: This expansion indicates AEON’s growing presence in the Indonesian retail market.

Confidence: low

📰 キッズスター[248A]：子ども向け社会体験アプリ「Gokko World」インドネシア・タイ進出！ 2025年12月19日(適時開示) ：日経会社情報DIGITAL - 日本経済新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiakFVX3lxTFBETW12a09uQ3pwZkRJU…

Source Region: Other

Kidsstar [248A] is expanding its social experience app for children, “Gokko World,” into Indonesia and Thailand.

Why it matters: This expansion reflects the company’s growth strategy in Southeast Asia.

Confidence: low

📰 透水性コンクリでインドネシア進出へ 北海道ポラコン、現地企業と連携 雨水被害に対応 - 北海道新聞デジタル

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiWkFVX3lxTE1YZ3BpUk1GQzJrYzU2c…

Source Region: Other

Hokkaido Polacon is entering the Indonesian market with permeable concrete, partnering with a local company to address rainwater damage.

Why it matters: This collaboration aims to mitigate flood risks in Indonesia using Japanese technology.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア初、日本企業が自動車整備特定技能トレーニングセンター開校…アプティグローバル - レスポンス（Response.jp）

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiX0FVX3lxTE03Vndlb2pkWUM2cVVoO…

Source Region: Other

Aptiglobal, a Japanese company, has opened the first specialized skills training center for automobile maintenance in Indonesia.

Why it matters: This initiative aims to develop skilled automotive technicians in Indonesia.

Confidence: low

📰 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 strong performance of Indonesian stocks due to robust resource exports.

Why it matters: This highlights the importance of the resource sector to the Indonesian economy.

Confidence: low

Politics/Society

📰 Indonesia says disaster management funds for Sumatra are ready - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiogFBVV95cUxQR0k1d0xSd0VUcExYQ…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has announced that disaster management funds for Sumatra are ready, according to ANTARA News.

Why it matters: This readiness is crucial for timely response and mitigation of potential disasters, safeguarding communities and infrastructure.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesian govt pledges continued aid amid white flag protests in Aceh - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirAFBVV95cUxPWDBMSWdROTZwbVpWM…

Source Region: Other

The Indonesian government has pledged continued aid amid white flag protests in Aceh, as reported by ANTARA News.

Why it matters: The pledge addresses potential social unrest and highlights the government’s commitment to supporting the region.

Confidence: low

📰 MoEF: Hotspots in Indonesia Reach 99 in Last 24 Hours (Friday, December 19, 2025) - Databoks

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi5gFBVV95cUxOTVlHRkdfOHhqYk5wV…

Source Region: Other

Databoks reports that hotspots in Indonesia reached 99 in the last 24 hours, as of Friday, December 19, 2025, according to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MoEF).

Why it matters: This increase in hotspots raises concerns about potential deforestation and air quality issues.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Intensifies Lobbying to Establish Hajj Village in Saudi Arabia - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMitAFBVV95cUxNODhyV2Q3SFNWOWo4a…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is intensifying its lobbying efforts to establish a Hajj village in Saudi Arabia, reports MetroTVNews.com.

Why it matters: The establishment of a Hajj village would improve the accommodation and logistics for Indonesian pilgrims performing the Hajj.

Confidence: low

📰 ジャワ原人の化石返還／オランダからインドネシア - 四国新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMic0FVX3lxTE05amRkYXVNTzhSRGhLa…

Source Region: Other

The Netherlands is returning fossils of Java Man to Indonesia.

Why it matters: This repatriation is significant for Indonesia’s cultural heritage.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Libur Panjang Nataru, Sebanyak 528 Personel Gabungan Dikerahkan Amankan Cimahi dan Bandung Barat |Republika Online

Source: rejabar.republika.co.id/…/libur-panjang-nataru-seba…

Source Region: Indonesia

A total of 528 joint personnel have been prepared to secure Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 in Cimahi City and West Bandung Regency, West Java. Routes in tourist areas and places of worship for Christmas celebrations are the focus of security. The joint personnel will be on standby to secure the long Christmas and New Year holidays for the next 14 days during the 2025 Lodaya Candle Operation. There are 11 posts that have been prepared.

Why it matters: This deployment aims to ensure the safety and security of residents and visitors during the holiday season, potentially minimizing disruptions to local businesses and tourism.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 FPIK Unpad Harus Garap Hilirisasi Perikanan dan Kelautan Turut Sukseskan Program Prabowo |Republika Online

Source: rejabar.republika.co.id/…/fpik-unpad-harus-garap-hi…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Padjadjaran University (FPIK Unpad) is expected to support President Prabowo Subianto’s program in fisheries and marine affairs. There are four commodities that are prioritized in the downstreaming of fisheries and marine affairs in West Java: shrimp farming, fish processing, salt industry and seaweed industry. A member of DPRD hopes that these four commodities will get more support from the government, because it will create new jobs and economic growth.

Why it matters: This initiative aims to boost the local economy by focusing on key commodities and aligning with the central government’s development plans.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Jalan Darurat di Batu Busuk Padang Mulai Beroperasi Kembali |Republika Online

Source: visual.republika.co.id/…/jalan-darurat-di-batu-busu…

Source Region: Indonesia

The emergency road in Batu Busuk, Padang, West Sumatra, has been reopened for motorbikes and cars. The road was previously cut off due to flash floods, isolating the affected area. The Padang City Government, volunteers, and private parties are working to restore damaged infrastructure and public facilities, including repairing river channels to prevent further flooding.

Why it matters: The reopening of the road improves access to the area, facilitating the distribution of aid and the recovery process for residents affected by the disaster.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Program MBG Dorong Perbaikan Gizi dan Perilaku Makan Siswa |Republika Online

Source: ameera.republika.co.id/…/program-mbg-dorong-perbaik…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) has shown positive changes in the consumption behavior of school children. This transformation in eating habits has directly impacted the improvement of students’ health profiles, as reflected in the improved nutritional status and normalization of the Body Mass Index (BMI) of MBG beneficiaries in various regions. MBG helps balance the BMI of students and reduces their desire to snack on unhealthy foods.

Why it matters: The program addresses the issue of unhealthy eating habits among school children and contributes to improved health outcomes.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 BNPB Imbau Warga Waspadai Risiko Listrik Selama Pemulihan Pascabencana Sumatera |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/bnpb-imbau-warga-waspadai-ri…

Source Region: Indonesia

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is urging people in disaster-affected areas in Sumatra to be aware of electrical risks during the recovery process. The focus is on ensuring no new safety risks arise as community activities resume. The post-disaster environment is still considered risky due to wet and muddy conditions, which can increase the potential for danger when electricity is used.

Why it matters: This advisory aims to prevent additional casualties during the recovery phase by highlighting potential electrical hazards.

Confidence: high

🌍 Indonesia government plans daily living allowance, compensation for families hit by Sumatra floods

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/indonesia-sumatra-flood-compe…

Source Region: International

The Indonesian government is planning to provide support to victims of the recent floods in Sumatra, including a daily living allowance, household replacement aid, and compensation for families of those killed. The death toll has reached 1,068 people, with over 190 people still missing and about 7,000 injured. About 577,600 residents have been displaced and more than 147,000 homes were destroyed.

Why it matters: The government’s support aims to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the floods and help them rebuild their lives.

Confidence: high

International/Other

📰 Indonesia received replica of Nalanda Inscription from Indian govt - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipwFBVV95cUxPVnVYVUxIZXA3WVFwb…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has received a replica of the Nalanda Inscription from the Indian government, according to ANTARA News.

Why it matters: This exchange signifies strengthening cultural ties between Indonesia and India.

Confidence: low

📰 SEA Games 2025 Medal Standings: Indonesia Nears Securing Second Place - Website Resmi Polri

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiogFBVV95cUxOOVdzS3hkVENLQWo2W…

Source Region: Other

According to Website Resmi Polri, Indonesia is close to securing second place in the SEA Games 2025 medal standings.

Why it matters: This reflects Indonesia’s growing strength in regional sports.

Confidence: low

📰 Potensi Kekayaan Laut Indonesia Dibeberkan lewat Expo - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMimwFBVV95cUxQWXZJUElMcDhxRWN4Z…

Source Region: Other

MetroTVNews.com reports that the potential of Indonesia’s marine wealth was revealed through an expo.

Why it matters: This highlights the economic opportunities in Indonesia’s maritime sector.

Confidence: low

📰 SEA GAMES 2025: Futsal Putra Indonesia Rebut Emas Usai Gasak Thailand - detikSport

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMixgFBVV95cUxOMXNPcFQtaGM0cjRfU…

Source Region: Other

detikSport reports that Indonesia’s men’s futsal team won gold after defeating Thailand at the SEA Games 2025.

Why it matters: This victory marks a significant achievement for Indonesian futsal.

Confidence: low

📰 Hasil Timnas Futsal Indonesia Vs Thailand 6-1, Emas Perdana Futsal di SEA Games! - Kompas.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMixgFBVV95cUxPQ1dsa3BYeEdSTmZhR…

Source Region: Other

Kompas.com reports that the Indonesian national futsal team defeated Thailand 6-1, winning their first futsal gold medal at the SEA Games!

Why it matters: This historic win signifies the growth and potential of futsal in Indonesia.

Confidence: low

📰 Raih Emas, Timnas Futsal Indonesia Catat Sejarah di SEA Games 2025 - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiqwFBVV95cUxOaW92b2J4ZlB3bXZSW…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s national futsal team won a gold medal at the SEA Games 2025.

Why it matters: This win marks a historic achievement for the team.

Confidence: low

📰 Hasil Final Voli: Dramatis, Indonesia Raih Perak Usai Dihajar Thailand - CNN Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMizgFBVV95cUxQX2l2NDlzRVVwei14d…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s volleyball team won a silver medal after losing to Thailand in the final.

Why it matters: The team’s performance still marks a significant achievement.

Confidence: low

📰 Jadwal Final Voli Putra SEA Games 2025: Indonesia Vs Thailand Sore Ini - detikSport

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMitAFBVV95cUxPc29vd0YtcDFOVmdwd…

Source Region: Other

The article announces the schedule for the SEA Games 2025 men’s volleyball final between Indonesia and Thailand.

Why it matters: The match is highly anticipated.

Confidence: low

📰 Hasil Voli Putra SEA Games 2025: Indonesia Lakukan Reverse Sweep atas Vietnam di Semifinal - Kompas.tv

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi0gFBVV95cUxOXzFnZ0E1WEVsMml2R…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s men’s volleyball team won against Vietnam in the SEA Games 2025 semifinal with a reverse sweep.

Why it matters: This victory secured their place in the final.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Tinju Sumbang Satu Emas, Empat Perak, dan Empat Perunggu di SEA Games 2025 |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/tinju-sumbang-satu-emas-empa…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian boxing team concluded its campaign at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand with a total of one gold, four silver, and four bronze medals. Vicky Tahumil Junior won the gold medal in the men’s 51 kg class. Other Indonesian boxers secured silver and bronze medals in various weight categories. The achievement is better than the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia.

Why it matters: This result reflects Indonesia’s performance in boxing and contributes to the country’s overall medal count in the SEA Games.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Dominasi Voli Putra Indonesia Terhenti di SEA Games, Raih Perak Usai Dikalahkan Thailand di Final |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/dominasi-voli-putra-indonesi…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian men’s volleyball team’s dominance at the SEA Games has ended after losing to Thailand in the final. After winning gold in the last three editions, Indonesia had to settle for a silver medal at the 2025 SEA Games. Thailand won the final match with a score of 3-2. This result ends Indonesia’s gold streak in men’s volleyball at the SEA Games.

Why it matters: The loss signifies a shift in regional volleyball power and highlights the increasing competition in the sport.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Timnas Hoki Es Indonesia Catat Sejarah Emas di SEA Games 2025

Source: skor.republika.co.id/…/timnas-hoki-es-indonesia-cat…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Indonesian Men’s Ice Hockey National Team won a gold medal at the 2025 SEA Games.

Why it matters: This marks a historic achievement for Indonesian ice hockey.

Confidence: low

🌍 Rogue tankers in Singapore: What are shadow fleets and who uses them?

Source: aljazeera.com/…/rogue-tankers-in-singapore-what-are…

Source Region: International

Singapore has reported a growing number of “rogue” or “shadow fleet” tankers operating off its shores, which are used to avoid Western sanctions on Russian, Iranian and Venezuelan oil. These ships often use false flags and falsify registration details to evade detection. The Singapore Strait is a vital artery for global maritime trade, but international law limits what action can be taken once ships move into international waters, allowing shadow fleets to thrive in regulatory grey zones.

Why it matters: The presence of shadow fleets raises concerns about sanctions evasion and potential safety and environmental risks due to risky ship-to-ship transfers of cargo.

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 Belt and Road countries, offering security inspection equipment and water purification solutions. Nuctech’s exports make up a significant portion of its sales volume, and its products are used in many foreign ports and customs. OriginWater is working on an agreement in Oman to provide nano-membrane filters for water purification. The Belt and Road Initiative has facilitated business opportunities for these companies by fostering cooperation with overseas partners.

Why it matters: This highlights how the Belt and Road Initiative is enabling Chinese companies to expand their global reach and contribute to development in other countries through technology transfer.

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 studying the free trade agreement (FTA) between Thailand and China with the goal of selling Thai rice in China. She believes there is market potential due to the price margin between rice imported through regular channels and rice that could be imported under the FTA. She hopes to use her knowledge of Chinese culture and policies, as well as her fluent Chinese, to her advantage.

Why it matters: This story illustrates how individuals are seeking to capitalize on trade opportunities created by international agreements, potentially boosting agricultural exports.

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 on strengthening China-Thailand friendship. He stated that China is ready to deepen cooperation with Thailand to achieve mutual benefit and common development. Sirindhorn thanked China’s support and hoped that the two sides would enhance cooperation in science, education and agriculture.

Why it matters: The meeting indicates a continued effort to strengthen ties between China and Thailand, potentially leading to increased trade and investment opportunities.

Confidence: high