Google vs KPPU: Defending competition or asserting digital sovereignty?
After a lengthy legal battle, the Supreme Court of Indonesia rejected the cassation filed by Google, effectively upholding the ruling of the Business Competition Commission (KPPU) that the tech giant engaged in monopolistic practices through its Google Play Billing system.
AI in classrooms: policy ambition meets fiscal reality
Recently, the government issued a joint decree signed by seven ministries that provides guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in the education sector. The policy is intended to ensure that the technology is used responsibly while protecting children from potential digital risks.
Bracing for more pressures (3)
Composite index of Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) opened substantially lower than regional peers Monday (Mar 16) morning as market participants are bracing for more pressures before seeing possible recovery in the economy.
Sugar labels in court: A turning point for food policy
A petition filed with the Constitutional Court seeking clearer information on sugar content in food and beverage packaging may appear technical at first glance. Yet the case could become a defining moment in Indonesia’s broader debate over public health regulation, consumer rights and the influence of the food and beverage industry.
Quiet (mass) layoffs (11)
The closure of marketplace at bukalapak.com (BUKA) in the first quarter of 2025 led to dismissal of 594 employees or 58% of the company’s total workforce last year. This one didn’t go unnoticed. But, there are so many companies quietly dismissed employees last year.
AirAsia improved, but still in red
PT Airasia Indonesia Tbk (CMPP) reported net loss of Rp1.3 trillion last year, down 15.1% from 2024. Weak air travel demand led to 0.9% decline in sales revenues, while operating expenses eased off 2.5% to cut the airline’s operating losses by 18.4% to Rp645 billion.
Between conservation and commercialization
A few weeks ago, as I sat basking in the beauty of a public garden in a neighboring country, a question came to mind. Indonesia’s nature is no less beautiful–arguably even more so in many places–but why does it rarely feel as inviting? Yesterday, the media reported that President Prabowo is planning to form a task force to seek new funding for Indonesia’s national parks, potentially opening the door to their commercialization. And, suddenly, that small question no longer felt so small.
Adjusted valuation of BankJago
Shares of digital bank Jago (ARTO) ended significantly lower by 6.51% to Rp1,435 on Thursday (Mar 12) even when it reported 114% jump in net profit to Rp276 billion last year, while total assets expanded by 28% to Rp36.5 trillion.
When Mr. DIY > 3x AZ.KO
Shares of home improvement retailer Mr. DIY ended substantially higher by 7.7% Thursday (Mar 12) as it reported an impressive sales revenue growth of 16.7% to Rp7.92 trillion last year. The company is now valued Rp23 trillion, more than three times the value of AZ.KO (previously ACE Hardware). Seriously?
Poco Leok’s victory
The legal battle between the residents of Poco Leok in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, and the Manggarai regency administration offers a rare courtroom moment in Indonesia’s long-running conflict between development policy and local community rights.