Today’s Highlights

Economy/Business

📰 Indonesia’s Investor Base Doubles in Five Years, Crosses 20 Million Mark - Jakarta Globe

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipgFBVV95cUxQY0ZRYURZd2pwOThZY…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia’s investor base has doubled in the last five years, surpassing 20 million. No further information was given in the snippet.

Why it matters: A larger investor base can lead to more capital available for Indonesian companies and government projects.

Confidence: low

📰 Jumlah BUMN Indonesia Terus Berkurang hingga 2024 - Databoks

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiuwFBVV95cUxPdG9BdTRDZ29BY1JrO…

Source Region: Other

The number of Indonesian state-owned enterprises (BUMN) continues to decrease through 2024. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This trend could indicate privatization efforts or restructuring of the state-owned sector, impacting investment opportunities.

Confidence: low

📰 China Sampai India Tertarik Investasi Industri Garam Indonesia Timur - CNBC Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMixgFBVV95cUxPUnp4SXlxX2FjNElPW…

Source Region: Other

China and India are interested in investing in the salt industry in Eastern Indonesia. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Foreign investment in this sector could boost production and create jobs in the region.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia - AS Sepakati Substansi Perundingan Perdagangan Resiprokal (Agreements on Reciprocal Trade) - - Kementerian Koordinator Bidang Perekonomian Republik Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi2gFBVV95cUxQOEwwakNVWnk3THk5N…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia and the United States have agreed on the substance of reciprocal trade negotiations. Further details about the agreements were not provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This agreement could increase trade between the two countries. Specific business sectors that will benefit are not mentioned.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシアとベトナムで「大ヒット車」誕生「絶対に妥協しない」痛恨の失敗で芽生えた覚悟 - 朝日新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiTkFVX3lxTE4wNDVDRHZ2WnFvZGRRQ…

Source Region: Other

A “smash hit car” has been born in Indonesia and Vietnam. The article discusses the determination that sprouted from a painful failure to “never compromise.”

Why it matters: This suggests a successful automotive venture in the region. The specific brand and its impact on the market are not detailed.

Confidence: low

📰 米国との貿易協定、来年早々にも署名の可能性＝インドネシア閣僚 - Reuters

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiiAFBVV95cUxQa3l2aEFWOWNvaTdPX…

Source Region: Other

An Indonesian minister says a trade agreement with the United States could be signed early next year. Details of the agreement were not provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This agreement could boost trade between the two countries. Specific sectors that will benefit are not mentioned.

Confidence: low

📰 阪急阪神不動産／インドネシアの商業施設「デリパークモール」を約170億円で取得へ - 流通ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiVkFVX3lxTE83TVRaZHRlVjl0Z3NSN…

Source Region: Other

Hankyu Hanshin Properties will acquire the DeliPark Mall in Indonesia for approximately 17 billion yen. Further details about the acquisition were not provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This represents an investment in Indonesian commercial real estate. The impact on the company’s portfolio is not clear.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Penerapan EPR Dinilai Berpotensi Percepat Pengentasan Kemiskinan Nasional |Republika Online

Source: esgnow.republika.co.id/…/penerapan-epr-dinilai-berp…

Source Region: Indonesia

The implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is considered to have great potential to contribute to accelerating poverty reduction in Indonesia. This can be achieved through strengthening the informal sector, which has been the backbone of the circular economy ecosystem. The government aims to eliminate extreme poverty by 2026 and reduce the national poverty rate to 4-5% by 2029. The involvement of the private sector is considered crucial, not only through producer obligations but also through corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.

Why it matters: EPR implementation could significantly impact businesses by requiring them to take greater responsibility for the waste generated from their products, potentially leading to increased costs and the need for innovative waste management solutions.

Confidence: high

🌍 Indonesia tightens second-hand clothing import ban, hitting sellers and thrifty shoppers

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/indonesia-secondhand-clothes-…

Source Region: International

Indonesia is stepping up enforcement of its ban on second-hand clothing imports, threatening the country’s thrifting trade. The move aims to address economic and health concerns, but sellers face an uncertain future and buyers lose access to affordable fashion. While Indonesia officially banned such imports in 2022, enforcement has been inconsistent. Authorities have warned of strict action against illegal importers and ordered online thrift stores to shut down.

Why it matters: The ban could impact the livelihoods of sellers and access to affordable clothing for consumers, while also potentially affecting the domestic textile industry.

Confidence: high

🌍 Tesla sales fall across Europe again as BYD surges; Ryanair to appeal €256m fine from Italy’s competition authority – business live

Source: theguardian.com/…/tesla-sales-fall-europe-byd-surge…

Source Region: International

Tesla’s electric car sales fell across Europe again last month, with registrations tumbling by 34.2% in the European Union year-on-year in November. The company has faced increased competition from rivals including China’s BYD, who had a strong November with sales growth of 221%. The overall electric car market grew, accounting for 16.9% of the EU market share in the first 11 months of 2025. Copper hit a fresh all-time high above $12,000 a ton in London trading, driven by supply disruptions and a bullish demand outlook.

Why it matters: Tesla’s declining sales and BYD’s surge indicate a shift in the European electric car market, while the rising copper price reflects strong demand for infrastructure and energy networks.

Confidence: high

Politics/Society

📰 Age Group of “Female Breadwinners” in Indonesia 2024, The Majority are Elderly - Databoks

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi4gFBVV95cUxNWVdqZ3BQZnNJTVJua…

Source Region: Other

In 2024, the majority of female breadwinners in Indonesia are elderly. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This may reflect changing demographics and economic pressures on older women in Indonesia.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia, FAO push youth role in farming for food security - Antaranews Jatim

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipAFBVV95cUxQOVdyNzNmOXh5V1o2R…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia and the FAO are promoting the role of youth in farming to improve food security. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Encouraging youth involvement in agriculture can help ensure a sustainable food supply for the future.

Confidence: low

📰 Yearender: Climate extremes expose Indonesia’s disaster vulnerabilities - The Jakarta Post

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMixAFBVV95cUxOMFZfZ2sycXJvb2xza…

Source Region: Other

Climate extremes in the past year have highlighted Indonesia’s vulnerability to disasters. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Increased disaster vulnerability can disrupt business operations and supply chains, leading to economic losses.

Confidence: low

📰 Banjir Aceh: Bayang-bayang kekecewaan masyarakat Aceh dan GAM - BBC

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiYEFVX3lxTE5DZV8yaEJPUXd2RUhTd…

Source Region: Other

The Aceh floods have brought back memories of the disappointment felt by the Acehnese people and GAM. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: The floods may reignite social and political tensions in the region.

Confidence: low

📰 Pakar Tanyakan Alasan Indonesia Tolak Bantuan Asing untuk Korban Banjir Sumatera - Kompas.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMizgFBVV95cUxPbVRFS0FMd01vdUFrc…

Source Region: Other

Experts are questioning Indonesia’s decision to refuse foreign aid for flood victims in Sumatra. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: The decision may impact the speed and effectiveness of disaster relief efforts.

Confidence: low

📰 DMDI Indonesia Terjunkan Tim dan Bantuan ke Daerah Terdampak Bencana - VIVA.co.id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMitgFBVV95cUxQWnpvc0JlNGgxZHBme…

Source Region: Other

DMDI Indonesia has deployed a team and aid to disaster-affected areas. The specific areas and type of assistance were not detailed in the snippet.

Why it matters: This is a humanitarian effort to help those affected by disasters. The impact on business is not clear from the snippet.

Confidence: low

📰 Kompas TV Gelar Anugerah Srikandi Indonesia 2025, Berikut Daftar Para Penerima Penghargaannya - Kompas.tv

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi1gFBVV95cUxQandKeFdYM0pscGx0W…

Source Region: Other

Kompas TV is holding the 2025 Srikandi Indonesia Awards, and the article lists the recipients. The specific achievements of the awardees are not detailed in this snippet.

Why it matters: The awards recognize Indonesian women. The business impact is not clear.

Confidence: low

📰 Video: Aksi Bonnie Blue yang Diduga Lecehkan Bendera Indonesia - 20detik

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiswFBVV95cUxQSnRrb1VodVNVQ1NtV…

Source Region: Other

A video shows Bonnie Blue allegedly insulting the Indonesian flag. Details of the incident are not provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This could cause diplomatic issues. The business impact is not clear.

Confidence: low

📰 日本のＮＧＯが医療支援 豪雨死者１１００人超に―インドネシア - 時事ドットコム

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiY0FVX3lxTE53d3k1UUxUNnRXUTA2T…

Source Region: Other

A Japanese NGO is providing medical support in Indonesia, where heavy rain has caused over 1,100 deaths. Details of the support were not provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This is a humanitarian effort to help those affected by the heavy rain. The business impact is not clear.

Confidence: low

📰 日インドネシア防衛相、中ロの軍事挑発巡り協議 小泉氏「強い懸念」 - 日本経済新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMibEFVX3lxTE9uc0Y4RUNwSld5Y2Q3c…

Source Region: Other

The defense ministers of Japan and Indonesia discussed military provocations by China and Russia. Koizumi expressed “strong concerns.”

Why it matters: This highlights security concerns in the region. The business impact is not clear.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア・ジャワ島でバス横転事故 少なくとも16人死亡 - TBS NEWS DIG

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMidEFVX3lxTFBSaGRkN05ZaUJkWkxTR…

Source Region: Other

A bus overturned in Java, Indonesia, killing at least 16 people. Further details about the accident were not provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This is a tragic accident. The business impact is not clear.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Sempat Dikabarkan Diambil Alih KPK, Kasus Korupsi Petral Tetap Diusut di Kejagung |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/sempat-dikabarkan-diambil-al…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Attorney General’s Office (Kejagung) has refused to hand over the investigation of the Petral corruption case to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The Jampidsus investigation team is continuing the investigation related to the export-import and management of crude oil and refinery products at the former subsidiary of PT Pertamina. Jampidsus examined former Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Sudirman Said in connection with the case. The KPK had requested the case in November 2025, but the Attorney General’s Office declined, fearing the case would be shelved.

Why it matters: The case involves alleged corruption in the management of a former subsidiary of a state-owned oil company, and the outcome could have implications for corporate governance and accountability.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Pemerintah Dorong Uji Tuntas HAM untuk Bisnis, Ini Tahapannya |Republika Online

Source: esgnow.republika.co.id/…/pemerintah-dorong-uji-tunt…

Source Region: Indonesia

The government is targeting the implementation of human rights due diligence (HAM) for businesses to be widely socialized in 2026. The Ministry of Human Rights has prepared a Human Rights Due Diligence policy throughout 2025 and is preparing gradual implementation stages. In 2028–2029, business actors are expected to be required to carry out Human Rights Due Diligence in their business activities. The policy is a foundation for aligning national business practices with global human rights standards.

Why it matters: The policy aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesian companies in the global market, as many international trade schemes now require products and services to come from companies that respect human rights.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Ridwan Kamil Tiba-tiba Muncul di Medsos, Warganet Ramai-ramai Buat Pantun Bertema Aura Kasih |Republika Online

Source: rejabar.republika.co.id/…/ridwan-kamil-tibatiba-mun…

Source Region: Indonesia

Former Governor of West Java, Ridwan Kamil, has reappeared on social media after a long absence, issuing an apology to all parties affected by his actions, including his wife, Atalia Praratya, and his children. He admitted to making many mistakes and sins during his 29 years of marriage with Atalia Praratya. The post garnered attention from netizens, who flooded the comments section with humorous pantun (a traditional Indonesian poetic form) themed around Aura Kasih, a celebrity often used in Ridwan Kamil’s speeches.

Why it matters: This event highlights the intersection of personal matters and public perception for political figures, showcasing how social media can amplify both apologies and public reactions.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Waketum Pastikan PAN Selalu Setia dan Loyal ke Prabowo |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/waketum-pastikan-pan-selalu-…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Deputy Chairperson of the PAN DPP, Mohammad Eddy Dwiyanto Soeparno, believes that the idea of a permanent coalition is part of a healthy democratic process. According to Eddy, the main goal of this idea is to maintain the quality of representation for the people and national political stability. PAN has proven to always be with Prabowo Subianto in the last three presidential elections.

Why it matters: This reaffirms PAN’s commitment to Prabowo, suggesting continued political alignment and potential influence in future policy decisions.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Akui Banyak Khilaf dan Dosa, Ridwan Kamil Unggah Ucapan Permintaan Maaf ke Atalia Praratya |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/akui-banyak-khilaf-dan-dosa-…

Source Region: Indonesia

Former Governor of West Java, Ridwan Kamil, has reappeared on social media after a long absence. He issued a public apology to his wife, Atalia Praratya, and his family, admitting to making many mistakes and sins during their 29 years of marriage. He acknowledged that a separation would be Atalia’s right to find happiness. Ridwan Kamil is currently facing several issues, including allegations of infidelity, divorce proceedings, and a corruption case.

Why it matters: This event highlights the intersection of personal matters and public perception for political figures.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Air Bersih Jadi Kebutuhan Mendesak di Aceh Tamiang |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/air-bersih-jadi-kebutuhan-me…

Source Region: Indonesia

Thousands of residents in Aceh Tamiang are still in temporary shelters more than a week after a disaster struck the region. Limited access to clean water, sanitation, and food has become the most pressing issue amid damaged basic infrastructure. Danone Indonesia and Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center (MDMC) are distributing humanitarian aid to Aceh Tamiang, focusing on basic needs, especially drinking water, clean water, and child nutrition.

Why it matters: The disaster and resulting aid efforts highlight the importance of corporate social responsibility and disaster preparedness for businesses operating in vulnerable regions.

Confidence: high

🇯🇵 Slow aid, rising anger: Jakarta’s missing disaster response reigniting Aceh

Source: asia.nikkei.com/…/slow-aid-rising-anger-jakarta-s-m…

Source Region: Japan

This article discusses the slow disaster response in Aceh, Indonesia, and the potential for rising anger among the population. Prabowo rejects international aid that helped pacify the rebellious province after the 2004 tsunami. Residents remove mud from their home in Pidie Jaya district, in Indonesia’s Aceh province on Dec. 13.

Why it matters: The slow disaster response could have political and social consequences, potentially reigniting tensions in the region.

Confidence: low

International/Other

📰 Indonesia, US reach agreement on reciprocal trade deal substance - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiowFBVV95cUxQZEpYelphRW9NN2IzM…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia and the United States have reached an agreement on the substance of a reciprocal trade deal. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: A reciprocal trade deal could reduce barriers and increase trade between the two countries.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia, US Aim to Sign Reciprocal Trade Agreement by Late January 2026 - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMitAFBVV95cUxNbkxHSFl3NU5JUFRNd…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia and the United States are aiming to sign a reciprocal trade agreement by late January 2026. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This agreement could have a significant impact on trade relations and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Trade Negotiator Says All Substantial Issues Settled with U.S. - KONTAN

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipwFBVV95cUxQQjRhRFNETDJwZFZoe…

Source Region: Other

An Indonesian trade negotiator stated that all substantial issues have been settled with the U.S. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: This suggests that a trade agreement between Indonesia and the U.S. may be nearing completion.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Calls for Immediate End to Cambodia–Thailand Conflict - RRI.co.id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiqgFBVV95cUxQOWZMM1N4MDdORTkzc…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is calling for an immediate end to the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. No further details were provided in the snippet.

Why it matters: Escalation of the conflict could destabilize the region and disrupt trade.

Confidence: low

📰 山本雄大主審が1年5か月契約でインドネシアリーグ担当審判員に就任「ロールモデルになることを期待」（ゲキサカ） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE9pa01CRE91RXNyYU96X…

Source Region: Other

Yudai Yamamoto has been appointed as a referee in the Indonesian league for a 1-year and 5-month contract. He is expected to be a role model.

Why it matters: This is a personnel development in Indonesian sports. The business impact is not clear.

Confidence: low

📰 とべ動物園にインドネシアから“嫁入り”オランウータン「ジェニファー」報道公開「ミカン大好き」【愛媛】 - ｄメニューニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMid0FVX3lxTFBHSWlxZDFkcF9NM29TN…

Source Region: Other

Jennifer, an orangutan from Indonesia, has arrived at Tobe Zoo in Ehime, Japan. She loves mandarin oranges.

Why it matters: This is an international animal transfer. The business impact is not clear.

Confidence: low

🌍 Thailand-Cambodia border meeting in doubt over venue row

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/thailand-cambodia-border-meet…

Source Region: International

A planned meeting between Thailand and Cambodia to negotiate an end to deadly border clashes is in doubt after Thailand rejected Cambodia’s request to hold the talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Cambodia requested a neutral venue due to ongoing fighting along the border. Thailand insisted the meeting would proceed as planned in Chanthaburi province, guaranteeing its safety. The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of their 800km border and ancient temple ruins.

Why it matters: The ongoing border conflict and stalled negotiations could impact regional stability and trade relations between Thailand and Cambodia.

Confidence: high

🇯🇵 Indonesia says it has reached US tariff deal, aims for January signing

Source: asia.nikkei.com/…/indonesia-says-it-has-reached-us-…

Source Region: Japan

Indonesia and the U.S. have reached a deal on tariffs that exempts some key Indonesian commodities, with the sides intending to formally sign it by the end of January. The US gets access to critical minerals by exempting palm oil, coffee, cocoa from levies. Airlangga Hartarto, Indonesia’s chief economic minister, said in Washington on Monday that the latest tariff agreement with Washington is “mutually beneficial for both economies."

Why it matters: The agreement could boost trade between Indonesia and the U.S., providing economic benefits for both countries.

Confidence: high

📰 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