Hello reader,

After last week’s 0-4 defeat in the hands of Japan, it felt like our 2026 World Cup dream was over. Indonesia had five remaining matches in the Asian qualifiers against the continent’s strongest, starting with hosting Saudi Arabia in Jakarta yesterday.

When all hope seemed lost, Marselino Ferdinan announced his arrival. Is he football’s GOAT? Amid the euphoria, I’m sure Indonesians wouldn’t hesitate to agree (though we all know the title belongs to Lionel Messi).

What an amazing improbable win. The dream is alive.

Cheers,

Andra

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Law/Politics

• Indonesia has agreed to repatriate Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina on death row since 2010 for drug trafficking. Veloso’s case garnered international attention due to allegations that she was duped into becoming a drug courier. She was spared execution at the last minute in 2015 after then-President Joko Widodo granted her temporary reprieve to allow her to testify against a drug smuggling ring. The Philippines have since negotiated for her release and passage home.

• The Election Supervisory Board (Bawaslu) ruled that President Prabowo Subianto’s campaign video endorsing Central Java gubernatorial candidate Ahmad Luthfi did not breach electoral rules, as the president recorded the video during his day off. It’s doubtful the ruling would alleviate concerns over potential misuse of power, especially as tensions run high in the upcoming Pilkada (regional elections).

• Are we all electioned out this year? The Ministry of Home Affairs is reviewing Bawaslu’s proposal to separate presidential and regional elections into different years. The move aims to ease logistical and financial burdens, but opponents argue it could extend political divisions and campaigning fatigue across a longer period.

• The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) downplayed former President Jokowi’s backing of Ridwan Kamil for Jakarta governor, emphasizing their confidence in their own candidate, Pramono Anung, who has been publicly endorsed by the two former Jakarta governors in Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama and Anies Baswedan. Whose endorsement is stronger? Well, one recent survey puts Pramono and his running mate Rano Karno at a huge 48.4%, 10 points more than Ridwan’s ticket.

Business/Economy

• The Ministry of Trade is refining trade remedies to shield domestic industries from import overflows and unfair practices like dumping and excessive subsidies. The ministry stated that the measures would also safeguard downstream industries, ensuring broader economic protection. The framework is being finalized by a dedicated team with implementation expected “as soon as possible.”

• Bank Indonesia extended its relaxed credit card payment policies to June 2025, providing relief to consumers by reducing minimum payments and late fees. This measure was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to spur business growth and safeguard household spending, and it was supposed to end on December 31, 2024. Though the policy may be prudent in times of economic uncertainty, it may raise concerns about long-term credit risk for banks.

• The Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, estimated that Indonesia could earn IDR 67 trillion from exporting sea sand, following a recent controversial policy allowing such exports. Sakti said the figure is 10 times higher than the ministry’s 2025 budget, and the money can be redirected towards bettering the welfare of fishing communities.

• The Indonesian Hotels and Restaurants Association (PHRI) is anticipating a 10% dip in year-end occupancy rates, compared to last year, due to weakening purchasing power. Hotels are strategizing to attract domestic travelers through promotional offers, though concerns persist about the industry's recovery from pandemic-era setbacks.

Everything Else

• Though Indonesia only registered 27% of ball possession and fewer chances on goal, home hero Marselino Ferdinan took advantage of two golden chances to take Indonesia to an unlikely 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Jakarta yesterday. The win has reignited World Cup 2026 qualification hopes for Indonesia, who now has four make-or-break ties against some of Asia’s best in the months ahead. The ball is round, as they say.

• The National Alms Agency (Baznas) announced plans to construct mosques, schools, and hospitals in Gaza as soon as the conflict de-escalates, showcasing Indonesia’s commitment to supporting Palestinians amid ongoing humanitarian challenges. Baznas has already raised IDR 310 billion since October 2023, with IDR 101 billion already sent to Palestine.