Carbon Apps and Indonesia’s Net-Zero Future
In the midst of a deepening climate crisis, Indonesia is entering a new phase of its carbon emission mitigation strategy: the adoption of digital applications. What was once considered a complex task—calculating carbon footprints, often reserved for scientists or major corporations—has now become more accessible, measurable, and affordable thanks to web and mobile apps. Two standout initiatives in this landscape are Actia Carbon and JejakKarbonku.id.
State Budget 2026 & The Free Meal Program
Ministry of finance has started discussions about macro economic framework and fiscal policy principles for 2026 State Budget with the House of Representatives (DPR), wherein the National Nutritional Agency (BGN) will get the biggest fund allocation among ministries/central government agencies.
Uncertainty of online transportation
Thousands of online taxi drivers held simultaneous mass protests in several cities across Indonesia on Tuesday (20/05). They mainly demanded ride-hailing service companies to lower the unfavourable cut in commission rate and urged the government to issue a proper regulation for online taxi drivers. Today, the House of Representatives (DPR) is scheduled for a meeting with the drivers and the companies to discuss this matter.
Reality check on Harum Energy
Shares of Harum Energy (HRUM), one of coal players investing heavily in nickel smelting, ended slightly higher by 0.61% to Rp825 on Monday (May 19). At the last quoted price, however, Harum Energy was worth Rp11.2 trillion only, not even half of its equity (around Rp30 trillion).
Why royalty on bauxite-alumina should rise (2)
Cita Mineral (CITA), the largest bauxite ore miner in Indonesia, which is co-owned by Harita Group (a diversified business group controlled by Lim Haryanto family) and Glencore Plc (one of the world’s largest mining companies), booked net profit of Rp1.03 trillion in the first quarter of 2025, surged by 162% from the corresponding period of 2024.
Pressures on coal
Data from two of China’s largest coal miners suggested more pressures on Indonesian thermal coal, which already suffered 12% decline in export volume in the first four months of the year. Higher domestic production might lead to further reduction in the country’s import.
Power Plays Behind Ride-Hailing Policy Debate
The proposal to cap ride-hailing app commissions at a maximum of 10 percent—down from the current 20 percent—put forward by House of Representatives (DPR) member Adian Napitupulu (PDI-P) may seem pro-driver at first glance. However, who truly benefits from this narrative?
Demand-side crisis
PT Fast Food Indonesia Tbk (FAST), operator of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) outlets, was forced to close further down eight outlets in the first quarter of 2025, leading to dismissal of 188 workers. The company’s sales revenues expanded only by 1.8% in the quarter, but managed to cut 81% of its losses.
The Controversy of Shipping Fee Regulation
Ministerial Regulation No. 8 of 2025 on Commercial Postal Services issued by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs marks a significant move in the government’s effort to reform Indonesia’s logistics industry. On one hand, this regulation stems from the intention to build a courier service ecosystem that is healthy, fair, and sustainable. On the other hand, it raises concerns about its impact on consumers and e-commerce players who have long been the driving force behind Indonesia’s digital economy.
Intensified competition in the coffee chains
Shares of Fore Kopi (FORE) gained 2.79% to Rp368 to make a market capitalization of Rp3.28 trillion this morning, already bigger than MAP Boga Adiperkasa (MAPB), operator of Starbucks coffee outlets.