Extremists target a facility built by a Catholic priest in Arcamanik claiming that it should be exclusively for social purposes, not religion. In fact, it has been used for some time for weekly services, although it is open to other activities. As the local Catholic community grows, so do its needs, which is why local Church leaders want the building to be officially designate as a place of worship.
The island of Java is the most affected, where there has been a significant impact on the production sector. Among the companies in crisis is the clothing giant PT Sritex, with about 11 thousand layoffs in various departments and the non-payment of compensation since last August. The government is promising action but the 5% growth target for the first quarter of 2025 could be missed.
The state-owned oil giant is involved, with billions in losses. The Attorney General's Office has revealed a fraud related to the blending of fuels. Thousands of vehicles may have suffered serious damage. The malfeasance stems from serious lack in transparency and heavy political meddling.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto today inaugurated a new sovereign wealth fund, which is expected to manage US$ 900 billion in assets to finance projects and stimulate economic growth. This has elicited strong criticism because of the risk of corruption and slashed welfare programmes, which could deprive victims of terrorism of medical care.
Hasto Kristiyanto, a Catholic, is accused in connection with a bribery case involving the replacement of a PDIP lawmaker who died soon after being elected. His supporters slam the government, claiming that the investigation is politically motivated and directed at the main opposition party.
The rallies, coordinated by the All-Indonesia Association of University Student Executive Bodies, oppose cuts in education, repressive policies and the management of the Danantara sovereign wealth fund. The hashtag #IndonesiaGelap went viral on social media, a sign of mounting dissatisfaction. In Surabaya, young people clash with police.
