Indonesia

With TikTok Shop ruling a substantial regional market in Indonesia, shopkeepers are struggling to get consumers to their traditional stores. And now the Indonesian government is likely to ban the app because of the negative impact on local sellers.  Indonesian President Joko Widodo said e-commerce has adversely affected micro, small and medium enterprises in the country. He believes TikTok should …

People living in the Republic of Indonesia have expressed frustration over the new regulations and plans to tax high-emissions vehicles. Indonesians claimed that the plan can hurt the poor people living in the country. The new regulations might target ordinary people instead of big Indonesian corporations. Last month, the Indonesian authorities made it compulsory for motor vehicles to be tested …

Last month’s BRICS summit held in South Africa concluded with a surprising decision – Indonesia did not join the group. This left many questioning why a nation with one of the world’s largest populations and economies, as well as a rich history of leadership in developing countries, did not become a new member.  In 1955, Indonesia hosted the Bandung Conference, …

TikTok is under scrutiny in Indonesia as government officials call for the separation of social media and e-commerce activities, citing concerns about monopolistic practices. While TikTok has rapidly gained popularity and played a significant role in the country’s e-commerce sector, regulators are seeking to establish a level playing field for local businesses. TikTok’s Growing Influence in Indonesia Over the past …

In recent times, the sprawling metropolis of Jakarta, along with its surrounding cities, has found itself enveloped in a thick and persistent smog.  This environmental crisis has cast a wide net, affecting even Indonesian President Joko Widodo, commonly referred to as Jokowi. He has grappled with a relentless cough for four weeks, a condition some believe may be attributed to …

The distant North Maluku province was devastated by an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 in September 2023, putting Indonesia once more in the crosshairs of Mother Nature. Thankfully, the country avoided severe damage and casualties this time.  The “Pacific Ring of Fire,” an area known for its seismic activity, and Indonesia’s vulnerable position inside it were starkly brought home …

Legendary actor, Mark Wahlberg, whose net worth of a staggering $400 million is primarily attributed to his illustrious acting career actually transcends the silver screen, encompassing prosperous ventures as a producer and entrepreneur.  Wahlberg’s cinematic repertoire reads like a who’s who of blockbuster hits, including “Boogie Nights,” “The Departed,” “Ted,” “Entourage,” and “Daddy’s Home.” Most recently, Mark Wahlberg captured the …

The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is holding separate summits with China, Japan, South Korea, Canada and the US, allowing big power rivalries and regional issues from North Korean missiles to the South China Sea to grab considerable attention. US Vice President Kamala Harris is attending the event in place of President Joe Biden, who will soon depart …

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is gearing up to make his presence felt at the upcoming 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Indonesia.  The summit, slated for September 5 to 7, 2023, will unfold in Jakarta and hold the spotlight on fast-tracking the ASEAN community building endeavor. The President is set to immerse himself in a series of …

Biden’s Upcoming Vietnam Visit Sparks Questions As President Joe Biden prepares to visit Vietnam on September 10 after the G20 summit in India, questions arise about the United States’ strategic priorities in the region.  The choice to visit Vietnam over attending key regional meetings hosted by Indonesia highlights the evolving dynamics in Southeast Asia and the importance of bilateral relationships …