What Happened
On Feb 24, 2026?

Parliament & Legislation

Drafting of the Election Law Revision
The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission II has commenced the preparation of the Problem Inventory List (DIM) for the revision of the Election Law, targeting completion by 2026. Chairman Muhammad Rifqinizamy Karsayuda emphasized the strategic importance of the revision, which addresses fundamental issues in the national electoral system, such as parliamentary thresholds and alignment with Constitutional Court decisions. The commission aims to distribute the DIM to eight political party factions in the House and engage non-parliamentary parties to ensure an inclusive electoral system design. The legislative process is set to continue post-recess, with a goal to finalize the draft by mid-2026. Rifqinizamy also highlighted the importance of public participation, considering it key to strengthening the formulation of the Election Bill (RUU Pemilu). The commission has actively invited various electoral stakeholders, including individuals and organizations concerned with democracy and election systems, to discuss crucial election issues. This meaningful participation aims to enrich the drafting process and ensure it reflects diverse perspectives.

Revised Election Law in National Legislation Program (Prolegnas)
Bawaslu member Puadi sees the inclusion of the Election Law revision in the national legislative program as a golden opportunity to improve the electoral law enforcement system. The revision is expected to create a just and legally certain electoral law enforcement system. Issues such as political party intervention in election organizers and human resource disparities within Gakkumdu Center need addressing. Bawaslu plans to enhance human resource quality ahead of upcoming elections through capacity-building discussions involving legal academics.

High Parliamentary Threshold Proposal
A new proposal by Nasdem Party Chairman Surya Paloh suggests raising the parliamentary threshold to 7% for the next elections. This proposal, if implemented, would prevent political parties securing less than 7% of the national vote from entering the DPR RI, potentially affecting ten political parties. Surya Paloh argues that a higher threshold could streamline democracy by fostering a more efficient political party system.

Revisions to Labor Law Post-Ramadan
The Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, announced that the discussion on revising the Labor Law will commence after the Ramadan recess. The process will involve public participation and collaboration with labor unions to ensure comprehensive legislative deliberation. The DPR has confirmed plans to engage labor unions in these discussions, ensuring broad public participation to create a fair legal framework.

Asset Seizure Law Urgency
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has highlighted the urgency of enacting the Asset Seizure Bill, emphasizing the importance of recovering state assets lost to corruption. The bill is under preliminary discussion in the House's Commission III, which is drafting the academic manuscript and legal framework. The legislation seeks to address the significant potential state losses due to corruption, estimated at Rp 238 trillion over a decade, and aims to strengthen Indonesia's legal system to prevent further financial drain. The Commission III is currently collecting issues to accelerate the discussion of the Asset Seizure Bill. According to Vice Chair Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, the draft includes synchronization with other legal frameworks such as the Criminal Code.

Revision of Civil Service Law
The revision of the Civil Service Law 2026 will simplify the elements of civil servants to only include PNS and PPPK. The West Java Provincial Government is transitioning 26,968 part-time PPPK to full-time status by 2027. The government emphasizes the elimination of part-time PPPK due to issues like unequal rights and expectations, aiming to standardize the employment system under two main categories.

Public Participation in Domestic Worker Protection Bill
The House of Representatives has started incorporating public participation in the Domestic Worker Protection Bill (RUU PPRT). Vice Chair Sufmi Dasco Ahmad emphasized that the bill, which has been in the legislative program for over a decade, will focus on enhancing protection for domestic workers. Discussions with key stakeholders, including labor unions, are ongoing. Additionally, public participation will be intensified starting March 5, 2026, as the discussions progress toward official deliberation phases.

Data Transfer Agreement Between Indonesia and the U.S.
Sukamta, Deputy Chair of Commission I of the Indonesian House, stressed the need for data sovereignty and protection in the data transfer agreement with the United States. The agreement, a reciprocal tariff deal, involves cross-border data flow, necessitating robust national data governance to protect Indonesian citizens' personal data. The approach seeks a balance between data flow for economic growth and legal protection guarantees for citizens.

Participation Rate in Higher Education
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, alongside Commission X of the House, has addressed the low Gross Enrollment Rate (GER) in higher education in Central Java, currently at 26.37%. The commission's working visit aimed to gather insights for national education policy revisions, stressing the need for improved access and quality of education to align with national averages. Discussions also covered potential policy adjustments to enhance educational funding and support mechanisms like the Indonesian Smart College Card (KIPK).

Educational Policy Strengthening
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) and Commission X of the DPR RI conducted a working visit in East Java to gather community aspirations for strengthening higher education policies. Their discussions included revising the National Education System Law, integrating it with multiple existing laws to better support education, culture, youth, sports, and statistics.

Accurate Data for Housing Allocation
Deputy Speaker Sari Yuliati emphasized the importance of integrated data systems for providing adequate housing. Accurate data aids efficient budget allocation and ensures housing programs reach low-income and vulnerable groups. Collaboration across agencies, including with BPS, is crucial to achieving this.

Support for Indonesian Forces in Gaza
Nurul Arifin, a member of Commission I DPR RI, supports deploying Indonesian forces to the International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza. Emphasizing humanitarian and civil protection roles, she highlights Indonesia's commitment to international peacekeeping without engaging in military operations. She further stressed the importance of a clear mandate focusing on civil protection and humanitarian aid, ensuring the mission does not shift towards military operations. This mission is seen as a constructive step, with Indonesia planning to deploy up to 8,000 TNI personnel as part of a 20,000-strong international force.

DPR RI Monitors Minimum Capital Policy to Protect Regional Banks
The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission II is closely monitoring the direction of the policy to increase minimum banking capital to prevent fiscal pressure on regions or weakening the position of regional development banks within the national financial industry structure. Chairman M. Rifqinizamy Karsayuda emphasized the need for a comprehensive review, taking into account the fiscal capacity of regional governments as shareholders.

Evaluation of New Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code
The Indonesian Police in the Riau Islands received a specific working visit from Commission III of the DPR RI to strengthen law enforcement synergy and evaluate the implementation of the new Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP).

Jokowi's Non-Signature on KPK Law Revision
Hinca Panjaitan, a member of Commission III of the DPR RI, clarified that President Joko Widodo's decision not to sign the revision of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Law does not imply a rejection. The law, once passed by the DPR, becomes effective regardless of presidential signature.

BUMD Bill Discussion Urged
Azis Subekti, a member of Commission II of the DPR RI, emphasized the urgent need for the Regional-Owned Enterprises (BUMD) Bill to strengthen corporate governance nationwide. The DPR encourages the Ministry of Home Affairs to promptly propose this bill for discussion.

Revised Referendum Law as a Step Towards Constitutional Change
The Permanent Committee of Parliament has approved the revision of the Referendum Law as a strategic step towards constitutional amendments.

Komisi III DPR on Death Penalty in Drug Case
The Indonesian House's Commission III held a special session regarding the death penalty demand for Fandi Ramadan, a crew member involved in a 2-ton meth case. They reminded the court that the death penalty is a last resort under the new Criminal Code, emphasizing the importance of considering Fandi's non-primary offender status and advocating for rehabilitative justice.

MBG Program Empowers SMEs and Farmers
Lucy Kurniasari, a member of Commission IX of DPR RI, highlighted the Free Nutritious Meal Program (Program Makan Bergizi Gratis - MBG), which empowers small and medium enterprises (SMEs), farmers, and local breeders by involving them in the supply chain of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG). This program, initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, aims at both improving public health and stimulating local economies by sourcing food materials locally, thus creating a multiplier effect on the economy.

Educational Visit: MTsN 29 Jakarta Visits DPR RI
A group of 150 students from MTsN 29 Jakarta visited the Indonesian House of Representatives to enhance their understanding of the nation's legislative system. The visit included educational dialogues and tours of the DPR RI, aiming to provide firsthand experience of legislative processes.

Inclusion of Non-Parliamentary Parties in Election Law Discussions
Commission II of the DPR has invited non-parliamentary parties to provide their perspectives on the Election Law revision. This inclusion aims to ensure comprehensive electoral system reform, reflecting diverse political voices.

Proposed Adjustments to LPDP Scholarship Recruitment
Lalu Hadrian Irfani, Deputy Chair of Commission X, proposed aligning LPDP scholarship recruitment with national labor needs, emphasizing sustainable development and the strategic return of scholars to contribute to Indonesia. Habib Syarief, another member of Commission X, stressed the importance of ensuring the integrity and national commitment of scholarship recipients, following concerns over adherence to LPDP commitments.

Clarification on Modern Retail Closure
Chairman of the Budget Committee, Said Abdullah, clarified that the DPR has no authority to close modern retail outlets. Discussions about limiting the expansion of such outlets are aimed at supporting local cooperatives, not formal decisions.

Labor Law Discussion with Labor Unions
The DPR has confirmed plans to engage labor unions in discussions on the new Labor Law after the Eid holiday, ensuring broad public participation to create a fair legal framework.

Drafting of the Asset Seizure Bill
Commission III has begun drafting the academic manuscript for the Asset Seizure Bill, a crucial step in combating corruption and recovering state assets.

Promotion of Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
Bambang Haryadi, Vice Chair of Commission XII of the DPR RI, advocated for the expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure to reduce energy subsidy burdens. He emphasized the need for public and private sector collaboration to increase the availability of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU), which could reduce dependency on subsidized fossil fuels and support sustainable energy transitions.

Public Participation in Domestic Worker Protection Bill
Vice Chair Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said that the Domestic Worker Protection Bill (RUU PPRT) still requires significant public input. The process is currently in the stage of collecting public participation, with discussions involving labor unions emphasizing the need for enhanced protection efforts for domestic workers. The DPR aims to gather a wide range of perspectives to ensure comprehensive legislation.

My Esti Highlights Challenges for 200,000 Honorary Teachers
My Esti Wijayati, Deputy Chair of Commission X DPR RI, expressed concern over the government's focus in the discussion of the National Education System Bill (RUU Sisdiknas), highlighting issues faced by 200,000 honorary teachers.

Waspada Makanan Ultra-Proses, DPR RI Ajak Orang Tua Jaga Gizi Anak
Badan Gizi Nasional (BGN) and Charles Honoris from the DPR RI emphasized the importance of protecting children's nutrition against ultra-processed foods. This initiative, part of the Free Nutritious Meal Program, aims to ensure national nutrition policies reach all societal levels, focusing on vulnerable groups such as children.

Purbaya Ensures Government Respects Inpex Gas Contract
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa assured that the Indonesian government is committed to honoring the investment contract for the Abadi Gas Field project, Block Masela, Maluku, agreed with Japan's Inpex Masela Ltd. He emphasized that Indonesia would not change signed contracts, maintaining investment confidence. However, the government might issue general regulations that could indirectly affect ongoing projects, urging investors to coordinate with the government for adjustments if needed. The Abadi Field is a deep-sea gas field with significant potential, including a 6.97 trillion cubic feet (TCF) gas reserve, and is expected to generate substantial LNG and gas production as well as offer employment opportunities.

Dasco Updates on Legislative Progress
Vice Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad updated on the early stages of several legislative processes, including the Domestic Worker Protection Bill (RUU PPRT), Labor Law revision, and the Asset Seizure Bill, all emphasizing public participation. The Labor Law revision discussions are set to begin post-recess, involving public participation and collaboration with labor unions. Commission III is drafting the Asset Seizure Bill's academic manuscript, focusing on post-Criminal Code completion.

Disappointment Over Absenteeism in Flood Impact Meetings
Commission X of the DPR RI expressed disappointment over the absence of education heads from North Sumatra in meetings concerning flood-affected schools. The visit aimed to address post-flood education sector recovery, highlighting data discrepancies between BPS and the Ministry of Education. The absence was seen as a lack of commitment to disaster response.

MBG Program Socialization in Serang
Tubagus Haerul Jaman of Commission IX DPR RI conducted a socialization event for the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in Serang, focusing on public understanding of national nutrition goals. The event highlighted the importance of monitoring and quality in nutrition programs.

LPDP Scholarship Moral Responsibility
Hetifah Sjaifudian, Chair of Commission X DPR RI, emphasized the moral responsibility of LPDP scholarship recipients, noting the need for national commitment and contribution from publicly funded scholarship beneficiaries.

Revised Pangan Law Urged
Slamet from Commission IV DPR RI is pushing for a revision of the Pangan Law to strengthen government control over strategic food stocks, aiming to stabilize market prices, especially during religious holidays. The revision seeks to address recurring price surges, such as those of chili peppers, by enhancing the government's dominant market share to effectively manage price stabilization.

KOMBAT Supports Medan Leadership
In Medan, around 500 members of the Regional Executive Board (DPD) of KOMBAT Restorasi Indonesia held a rally in support of the one-year leadership of Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas and Deputy Mayor Zakiyuddin Harahap. The rally emphasized bureaucratic reform and anti-corruption measures, advocating for a merit-based system and rejecting unethical practices like "position fees." This demonstration highlights the public's backing for clean governance initiatives.

Controversy Over Pork Trade Ban in Medan
Medan Mayor Rico Waas issued a circular banning the trade of pork, which was criticized by Landen Marbun from the PDIP faction of the North Sumatra DPRD. Marbun expressed concern over prioritizing such issues amid ongoing unrest in North Medan, suggesting that resources should focus on ensuring public safety instead.

Strengthening National Awareness through Four Pillars Socialization
Bambang Haryo Soekartono, a member of Commission VII of the DPR RI, is enhancing national awareness through the socialization of the four pillars of nationality to the people of Sidoarjo. The initiative aims to strengthen the understanding of Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI), and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika amidst the challenges of the digital era. This effort is seen as vital for maintaining national unity and awareness.

Allegations of KPK Law Revision for Political Protection
Legal practitioner Ferdinand Hutahaean revealed a video by PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto, suggesting that the revision of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Law was intended to protect the candidacy of President Jokowi's children. This revelation has sparked controversy over the motivations behind the legal amendments, suggesting political maneuvering to safeguard future political roles for the president's family.

Revised KPK Law and Corruption Perception Index
Constitutional law expert Feri Amsari criticized the revision of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Law during President Joko Widodo's administration, attributing it to a decrease in Indonesia's Corruption Perception Index (CPI). Previously, when governed by the old law, the CPI was at 40, indicating strong independence for the KPK. Amsari argued that the current law revision has reduced the agency's independence, leading to a lower CPI score of 37. This change has sparked debate on the effectiveness of the KPK under the revised law.

Regional Governance

Accurate Data for Housing Allocation
Deputy Speaker Sari Yuliati emphasized the importance of integrated data systems for providing adequate housing. Accurate data aids efficient budget allocation and ensures housing programs reach low-income and vulnerable groups. Collaboration across agencies, including with BPS, is crucial to achieving this.

350,000 Subsidized Housing Program
Mayor of Binjai, Amir Hamzah, expressed intent to allocate 100 subsidized housing units for journalists under the Ministry of Housing and Residential Areas (PKP) program, which plans to build 350,000 livable houses across Indonesia. This initiative aims to support journalists in Binjai, with collaboration efforts underway to synchronize regulations between the ministry and local government.

City Planning and Infrastructure in Tanah Bumbu
Regent Andi Rudi Latif led a meeting on urban planning to support the Indonesia ASRI Movement in Batulicin, emphasizing cross-sectoral synergy for sustainable urban management. The focus included organizing telecommunication and electrical cables to enhance the city's appearance and functionality.

UNICEF Collaboration in Batang Hari
Regent Muhammad Fadhil Arief of Batang Hari welcomed UNICEF Indonesia's literacy and numeracy program to improve early education quality. The initiative aligns with sustainable development goals, emphasizing foundational skills for young learners.

Economic Strengthening in Bolaang Mongondow
Regent Yusra Alhabsyi attended a High-Level Meeting to boost regional economic stability and digitalization in North Sulawesi. Agreements included enhancing food stability and digital transactions to curb inflation, reflecting a commitment to inclusive economic growth.