Today’s Highlights

Economy/Business

📰 Economists Question Effectiveness of Indonesia’s Tax Holiday Policy - Jakarta Globe

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMioAFBVV95cUxOeTR3Nk1COWV4UkpaT…

Source Region: Other

Economists are reportedly questioning the effectiveness of Indonesia’s tax holiday policy, according to the Jakarta Globe.

Why it matters: The debate over tax holidays could lead to changes in investment incentives, impacting foreign direct investment and economic growth strategies.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia targets 3 million tons of sugar output by 2026 - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMimgFBVV95cUxQbU03QkNyMjZyMkhXU…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia is aiming to achieve a sugar output of 3 million tons by 2026, according to ANTARA News.

Why it matters: Increased sugar production could reduce reliance on imports and stabilize domestic prices.

Confidence: low

📰 Kaleidoskop 2025: Deretan Brand Mobil Baru Panaskan Pasar Otomotif Indonesia - iNews.ID

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMisAFBVV95cUxNNGZfTWE2aGgxT1h3e…

Source Region: Other

iNews.ID reports that a range of new car brands are set to invigorate the Indonesian automotive market in 2025.

Why it matters: The entry of new brands could intensify competition and offer consumers more choices, potentially impacting market share and pricing strategies.

Confidence: low

📰 Bangkitnya Investor Ritel di Bursa Efek Indonesia 2025 - CNBC Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiuwFBVV95cUxOYkYyYklQckF4ekJ3e…

Source Region: Other

CNBC Indonesia reports on the rise of retail investors in the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2025.

Why it matters: A surge in retail investors could increase market liquidity and influence stock valuations.

Confidence: low

📰 7 Bank di Indonesia Bangkrut Sepanjang 2025 - detikFinance

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMikAFBVV95cUxOQ3VJcncyV0JfVmZtW…

Source Region: Other

The article reports that 7 banks in Indonesia went bankrupt throughout 2025.

Why it matters: Bank failures can destabilize the financial system and erode public confidence.

Confidence: low

📰 トヨタの世界販売11カ月ぶり前年割れ、中国やインドネシア減速－11月 - Bloomberg.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMid0FVX3lxTE9XOEpuc0IzTkliLVR3N…

Source Region: Other

Toyota’s global sales fell year-on-year for the first time in 11 months, with sales slowing in China and Indonesia in November.

Why it matters: This indicates a potential slowdown in key automotive markets and could impact Toyota’s financial performance.

Confidence: medium

Politics/Society

📰 Indonesia to disburse $2.1 million in disaster aid for educators - ANTARA News

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiogFBVV95cUxPSU5ZOGxkeGpIaXBiX…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia will disburse $2.1 million in disaster aid for educators, according to ANTARA News.

Why it matters: This aid is crucial for supporting the education sector in disaster-affected areas, ensuring that learning can continue despite challenging circumstances.

Confidence: low

📰 North Sumatra’s Air Pollution Tonight (27/12) is the Worst in Indonesia - Databoks

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi4AFBVV95cUxPaUdpZ1VQX1pqdTlXV…

Source Region: Other

Databoks reports that North Sumatra experienced the worst air pollution in Indonesia on the night of December 27th.

Why it matters: High pollution levels can lead to health issues and decreased productivity, impacting the local economy.

Confidence: low

📰 Raih Wonder Mom Awards 2025, Dian Siswarini Ingin Perempuan Indonesia Melek Digital - MetroTVNews.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiwgFBVV95cUxNOW14ZEZ4QnhpTmFua…

Source Region: Other

Dian Siswarini, recipient of the Wonder Mom Awards 2025, aims to empower Indonesian women with digital literacy, according to MetroTVNews.com.

Why it matters: Increased digital literacy among women can boost their participation in the digital economy and entrepreneurship.

Confidence: low

📰 Malang’s Air Quality Cleanest in Indonesia This Morning (28/12) - Databoks

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMi1gFBVV95cUxNWlhXU1g2aDBMQ3NZR…

Source Region: Other

According to Databoks, Malang had the cleanest air quality in Indonesia this morning, December 28th.

Why it matters: Good air quality can boost tourism and improve the health and productivity of the local workforce.

Confidence: low

📰 Kebijakan Iklim Indonesia: Hijau di Atas Kertas - Tempo.co

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMimgFBVV95cUxNb05WY043cFRpUUJBT…

Source Region: Other

Tempo.co discusses Indonesia’s climate policies, with the headline suggesting they are “green on paper.”

Why it matters: The effectiveness of climate policies is crucial for sustainable development and international commitments.

Confidence: low

📰 Bencana Sumatera dan Dilema Diplomasi Indonesia - Kompas.com

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMirgFBVV95cUxOZ1UxOXdXdWR1bTl2T…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses the disasters in Sumatra and the dilemma of Indonesian diplomacy.

Why it matters: This highlights challenges in disaster response and international relations.

Confidence: low

🇮🇩 Dalil Perintah Dzikir dalam Alquran |Republika Online

Source: iqra.republika.co.id/…/dalil-perintah-dzikir-dalam-…

Source Region: Indonesia

The article discusses the religious practice of ‘dzikir’ (remembrance of God) in Islam, citing verses from the Quran that encourage Muslims to remember and draw closer to Allah in all circumstances. It explains the meaning and significance of ‘dzikir,’ emphasizing its importance in expressing gratitude and seeking guidance.

Why it matters: Understanding religious practices can provide insights into cultural values and social behaviors within Muslim communities.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Toleransi bukan Hanya Ucapan, Hormati Perbedaan dan Kedepankan Persamaan |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/toleransi-bukan-hanya-ucapan…

Source Region: Indonesia

Prof Zainal Abidin, Ketua Forum Kerukunan Umat Beragama (FKUB) Sulawesi Tengah, menyatakan bahwa toleransi harus diwujudkan dalam tindakan nyata untuk menjaga hubungan sosial antarumat manusia. Ia menekankan kesamaan ajaran damai dalam semua agama dan pentingnya menghormati perbedaan pendapat. Zainal juga menyoroti isu ucapan Natal, menyarankan sikap dewasa dalam perbedaan pandangan ulama. Agama seharusnya membahagiakan pemeluknya melalui sikap moderat, menghormati perbedaan, dan mengedepankan persamaan.

Why it matters: Promoting tolerance and understanding between different religious groups can lead to a more harmonious and stable society, which is essential for economic growth and development.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Putri Puan Maharani Jadi Wakil Ketua, Berikut Susunan Pengurus DPD PDIP Jateng |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/putri-puan-maharani-jadi-wak…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Regional Conference (Konferda) of the Regional Management Board (DPD) of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) of Central Java (Jateng) has appointed Dolfie Othniel Frederic Palit as chairman of the DPD PDIP Jateng for the 2025-2030 period. The conference, led by PDIP Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri, also appointed Puan Maharani’s daughter, Diah Pikatan Orissa Putri Haprani, as Deputy Chair of the DPD PDIP Jateng for the Political Affairs. Dolfie’s main task is to lead PDIP to victory in future elections, including the gubernatorial election.

Why it matters: The appointment of key figures in regional political organizations can influence policy decisions and resource allocation, impacting businesses and the overall economic landscape of the region.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Khidmat di Sekumpul, Kala Cinta Menyatukan Jutaan Jiwa |Republika Online

Source: khazanah.republika.co.id/…/khidmat-di-sekumpul-kala…

Source Region: Indonesia

Millions of people gathered in Martapura, Banjar Regency to attend the 21st haul of KH Muhammad Zaini bin Abdul Ghani, also known as Guru Sekumpul. The event draws attendees from across Indonesia and abroad, honoring the charismatic cleric’s teachings of morality and compassion. Authorities and volunteers provided support, including public kitchens and water treatment facilities, to ensure the well-being of the massive crowd. Security measures were also implemented to maintain order during the event.

Why it matters: Large religious gatherings can have a significant economic impact on local businesses, including increased demand for transportation, accommodation, and food services.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Megawati Tunjuk Dolfie Frederic Palit Jadi Ketua DPD PDIP Jateng |Republika Online

Source: khazanah.republika.co.id/…/megawati-tunjuk-dolfie-f…

Source Region: Indonesia

Dolfie Othniel Frederic Palit has been appointed as the chairman of the Central Java Regional Management Board (DPD) of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) for the 2025-2030 period, succeeding Bambang Wuryanto. The decision was made during the Regional Conference (Konferda) of DPD PDIP Jateng, led by PDIP Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri. Megawati conveyed messages to the cadres, urging them to remain solid and close to the people, and also requested Central Java’s contribution to assist victims of disasters in Sumatra.

Why it matters: Changes in leadership within political parties can influence policy decisions and government priorities, potentially impacting various sectors of the economy.

Confidence: high

🇮🇩 Menjemput Mimpi di Temanggung University Expo 2025 |Republika Online

Source: news.republika.co.id/…/menjemput-mimpi-di-temanggun…

Source Region: Indonesia

The Temanggung University Expo 2025 was held to help students determine their study paths, offering try-out exams and consultations with universities. The event featured both domestic and international institutions, including UGM, UI, ITB, Universitas Airlangga, University of Queensland (UQ), NUS, and QUT. Bupati Temanggung, Agus Setiawan, emphasized the importance of preparation for college and the role of the expo in motivating students. The expo also provided information on scholarships to encourage students to pursue higher education.

Why it matters: University expos can influence students’ choices of study and career paths, which in turn affects the future workforce and the skills available to businesses.

Confidence: high

International/Other

📰 Danantara in Talks with U.S. on Access to Indonesia’s Critical Minerals - Tempo.co English

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipAFBVV95cUxOU2VJbTN5V0M3OFNqS…

Source Region: Other

Danantara is reportedly in talks with the U.S. regarding access to Indonesia’s critical minerals, according to Tempo.co English.

Why it matters: Access to these minerals could bolster the U.S. supply chain for key industries.

Confidence: low

📰 Indonesia Expresses Concern Over Military Escalation in Eastern Yemen - RRI.co.id

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMisgFBVV95cUxOZnYyWTQ0ZG8wWGQ5e…

Source Region: Other

Indonesia has voiced its concern over the military escalation in eastern Yemen, as reported by RRI.co.id.

Why it matters: Escalation in Yemen could impact regional stability and international trade routes.

Confidence: low

📰 Sebagian besar Indonesia diprakirakan berawan pada Minggu - ANTARA News Sulteng

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipAFBVV95cUxONkxXMzdveGhrWjEtc…

Source Region: Other

ANTARA News Sulteng reports that most of Indonesia is expected to be cloudy on Sunday.

Why it matters: Cloudy weather conditions can affect various sectors, including agriculture, transportation, and tourism.

Confidence: low

📰 Jadwal Indonesia vs Thailand di Final Piala AFF Futsal U-19 2025 - CNN Indonesia

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiyAFBVV95cUxObUJiUU55OGxTQUZSS…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses the schedule for the Indonesia vs. Thailand final match in the AFF Futsal U-19 2025 tournament.

Why it matters: The match is significant for sports enthusiasts and could impact related businesses.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア豪雨被害、森林破壊が誘発か 疑惑の10社超に営業停止令 - 日本経済新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMibEFVX3lxTE9PWVBobUlVdXRyTEpvb…

Source Region: Other

The article reports that deforestation may have triggered the torrential rain damage in Indonesia, and more than 10 suspected companies have been ordered to suspend operations.

Why it matters: This could lead to increased scrutiny of environmental practices and potential business disruptions.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシア・コモド島付近で観光船が沈没 スペイン人家族4人が行方不明（TBS NEWS DIG Powered by JNN） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE1DQ2NCaXFuNHVQT0ROS…

Source Region: Other

A tourist boat sank near Komodo Island, Indonesia, and a Spanish family of four is missing.

Why it matters: This incident may affect tourism and safety regulations in the area.

Confidence: low

📰 バレンシア女子Bチーム監督と3人の子供が死去…インドネシアの観光船沈没事故で（GOAL） - Yahoo!ニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMif0FVX3lxTE9tZmhlTUxTd2lQMkIte…

Source Region: Other

The coach of Valencia’s women’s B team and her three children have died in a tourist boat accident in Indonesia.

Why it matters: This tragedy highlights the risks associated with tourism and water transport safety.

Confidence: low

📰 インドネシアで観光船沈没 4人不明（TBS NEWS DIG） - ｄメニューニュース

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiiwFBVV95cUxPVE82MHoyRGtYYmJNc…

Source Region: Other

A tourist boat sank in Indonesia, and four people are missing.

Why it matters: The incident raises concerns about safety standards for tourist vessels.

Confidence: low

📰 【インドネシア豪雨１カ月】無数の流木、消えた集落 嘆く住民「避難いつまで」 - 沖縄タイムス社

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiXkFVX3lxTE4yaUUzYnUzaHB5Qk4yT…

Source Region: Other

One month after the torrential rain in Indonesia, numerous driftwood and vanished villages are seen, and residents are lamenting, “How long will the evacuation last?”

Why it matters: The disaster has caused significant displacement and economic disruption.

Confidence: low

📰 豪雨１カ月、被災地に渦巻く不満 インドネシア・スマトラ島 - 朝日新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMiXEFVX3lxTE91UnFkV2Q1VnlFUU1qR…

Source Region: Other

A month after the heavy rain, dissatisfaction is swirling in the disaster-stricken areas of Sumatra, Indonesia.

Why it matters: This could lead to social unrest and political instability.

Confidence: low

📰 〈アジア発ヒット〉高さ385メートルの展望台（インドネシア） 絶景、SNSで話題 - 日本経済新聞

Source: news.google.com/…/CBMipgFBVV95cUxQUnJQTGVKSWpDblVxV…

Source Region: Other

The article discusses a 385-meter-high observation deck in Indonesia that has become a hit in Asia, with its stunning views becoming a hot topic on social media.

Why it matters: This highlights the growing tourism industry in Indonesia and the impact of social media on travel trends.

Confidence: low

🌍 Palestinians suffer flooded tents and debris as cold and rain lash Gaza

Source: aljazeera.com/…/palestinians-suffer-flooded-tents-a…

Source Region: International

Tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians in Gaza are enduring severe winter conditions, including heavy rains and strong winds, which have flooded tents and damaged makeshift shelters. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing effects of Israeli bombardment, which has destroyed much of the infrastructure. Aid organizations are calling for increased humanitarian assistance, including shelters, to address the dire conditions. Ceasefire talks are ongoing, but progress has been slow, and the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen.

Why it matters: The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza have significant implications for regional stability and international relations, potentially impacting business and investment in the region.

Confidence: high

🌍 Nigeria let three goal lead slip before edging past Tunisia

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/nigeria-let-three-goal-lead-s…

Source Region: International

Nigeria secured a narrow 3-2 victory over Tunisia in the Africa Cup of Nations, ensuring their place in the last 16. Nigeria initially took a 3-0 lead with goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman, but Tunisia mounted a late comeback with goals from Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi. Nigeria’s win secures their top position in Group C. Egypt had previously secured their place in the last 16 with a win over South Africa.

Why it matters: The Africa Cup of Nations is a major sporting event that can impact national morale and potentially influence economic activity in participating countries.

Confidence: high

🌍 Spanish family missing after tourist boat sinks near Labuan Bajo in Indonesia

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/indonesia-padar-labuan-bajo-s…

Source Region: International

A Spanish man and three of his children are missing after a tourist boat sank near Labuan Bajo in Indonesia due to rough seas. The vessel was carrying 11 people, including the missing man’s wife and another daughter who were rescued along with four crew members and a tour guide. The search for the missing individuals is ongoing but has been hampered by difficult weather and sea conditions. Maritime accidents are common in Indonesia due to lax safety standards and bad weather.

Why it matters: Accidents involving tourists can negatively impact the tourism industry, leading to decreased visitor numbers and potential economic losses for local businesses.

Confidence: high

🌍 Thailand and Cambodia halt fierce border conflict with second ceasefire

Source: channelnewsasia.com/…/thailand-cambodia-second-ceas…

Source Region: International

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a second ceasefire to end weeks of border clashes, which have resulted in numerous casualties and displacements. The agreement, signed by the defense ministers of both countries, aims to maintain current troop deployments and prevent further escalation. ASEAN will monitor the truce, and bilateral talks will continue to address the border situation. The ceasefire follows previous failed attempts and will be monitored by an ASEAN observer team.

Why it matters: Border conflicts can disrupt trade, investment, and economic development in the affected regions, impacting businesses and livelihoods.

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, leveraging the initiative to boost business opportunities. Nuctech, a security inspection equipment producer, exports its products to numerous foreign ports and customs, with exports accounting for 60% of its sales volume in 2016. OriginWater, a water treatment company, provides safe water solutions to countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka, utilizing nano-membrane filters. These companies are finding it easier to cooperate with overseas partners due to the Belt and Road Initiative.

Why it matters: The Belt and Road Initiative facilitates the expansion of Chinese companies into international markets, promoting technology transfer and economic cooperation.

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, aims to leverage the free trade agreement (FTA) between Thailand and China to sell Thai rice in the Chinese market. She believes there is significant market potential due to the duty exemption on agricultural products under the FTA. Nontipa, who studies at Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, is familiar with Chinese culture and policies and speaks fluent Chinese, giving her advantages in procurement and market entry. She plans to start her business in Yangling, Shaanxi Province.

Why it matters: The story highlights the potential for increased trade and economic cooperation between Thailand and China, particularly in the agricultural sector, driven by the FTA and the Belt and Road Initiative.

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 to discuss strengthening China-Thailand friendship. Zhang expressed appreciation for the princess’s efforts in promoting ties between the two countries. He noted Thailand’s leading role among ASEAN nations in developing relations with China. Both sides expressed a commitment to deepening pragmatic cooperation and achieving mutual benefit and common development, particularly in science, education, and agriculture.

Why it matters: High-level meetings between Chinese and Thai leaders underscore the importance of bilateral relations and can lead to increased economic cooperation and investment opportunities.

Confidence: high