Asia Indonesia Indonesia will build a dedicated “Hajj village” about 400 meters from the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia; the project, part of deepened Jakarta–Riyadh cooperation, aims to ease pilgrimage logistics for Indonesian worshippers
Asia Indonesia Nickel mining in Raja Ampat has devastated ecologically unique islands causing deforestation, sediment pollution and coral loss with minimal economic returns; four licenses have been revoked but Gag Nikel still operates amid calls for full protection
Asia Indonesia The Indonesian Army plans to recruit 24.000 non-combat troops for agriculture, health services and local development; civil groups fear a return to Suharto-era “Dwifungsi" that would jeopardize democracy, professionalism, and combat readiness of the army
Asia Indonesia Indonesian films have dominated the domestic box office as of late May, accounting for 75,8% of 50,25 million 2025 cinema admissions; hits like animated film Jumbo drive the trend: with 9,6 million viewers it surpassed Frozen 2 in local popularity
Asia Indonesia Indonesia’s top court is now reviewing 14 petitions against the new law letting more military officers hold civilian roles, as critics warn it undermines democracy and reform, fearing a return to military dominance seen during Suharto’s authoritarian era