Slow return of common sense

The most important thing is not the answer, but the question itself. In the world of check-and-balances, it is the fiduciary responsibility of lawmakers to raise questions, while those in the executive branch are expected to provide answers. Unfortunately, less...

Recurring problems in the MBG program

Another day, another problem in the implementation of MBG. Reports of raw, marinated catfish appearing on its Ramadan menu in Pamekasan, East Java, are the most recent example. Although technical guidelines from the BGN are already in place, it seems like partners...

Crony capitalism in BAZNAS

Badan Amil Zakat Nasional (BAZNAS), has long been positioned as a bridge between Islamic philanthropy and national welfare policy. Yet the composition of its newly installed leadership for the 2026–2031 term raises an uncomfortable question: Is the country’s largest...

Social media becomes a bargaining tool in ride-hailing economy

In recent weeks, many users have taken to social media to complain that it has suddenly become harder to get an ojek online (ojol) driver. Screenshots showing long waiting times for rides or food deliveries have circulated widely, often accompanied by frustrated...

Danantara & Lippo’s Meikarta

Mochtar Riady, tsar of Lippo Group, was seen standing next to Hashim Djojohadikusumo, younger brother of President Prabowo Subianto, who is also head of the public housing task force (is it a State institution?), in the ‘groundbreaking’ of subsidized homes at...

Impulsive reactions

Responding to economic implications of Middle East tensions, President Prabowo Subianto instructed his administration to speed up development of 100 GW solar power capacity, basically doubling the country’s total generating capacity (105 GW).  “Renewable energy from...

GOTO in red still

GOTO Gojek Tokopedia booked net loss of Rp1.19 trillion last year, dropped significantly from Rp5.15 trillion in 2024. The company, once a decacorn, reported strong sales revenue growth of 15.3% to Rp18.3 trillion, but costs and expenses also increased, whilst...

Social media restrictions

The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) is set to enact social media restrictions for children under 16 starting March 28, 2026. Presented as a measure to protect vulnerable groups from harmful content, the policy has gained notable support, particularly...

Who really controls financial watchdog?

Indonesia’s financial sector stands at a critical juncture as the House of Representatives (DPR) conducts fit and proper tests for candidates to lead the Financial Services Authority (OJK). While the process is formally designed to select the most capable technocrats,...
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