Malaysia has banned pork imports from Indonesia to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) following reports from the Food and Agricultural Organization. Deputy Agricultural Minister Sim Tze Tzin emphasized the need for bio-security and urged Malaysians to avoid imported pork products. ASF has affected multiple countries in Southeast Asia since 2018. Indonesian Veterinarian Association chairman Muhammad Munawaroh highlighted the government's reluctance to declare an ASF outbreak due to export concerns, despite significant pig deaths in North Sumatera. ASF is a deadly virus with no vaccine, capable of surviving in processed and frozen meat, leading to high mortality rates in infected pigs.

The article discusses the optimism of major U.S. companies regarding the business outlook in China under the Biden administration, despite uncertainties over trade policies. A survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai showed that a majority of companies are more optimistic and do not expect trade restrictions to increase. Business leaders anticipate more stability in U.S.-China relations and suggest policy priorities for the new administration, including trimming Trump-era tariffs. The article also touches on the U.S. trade deficit, with experts explaining that it is not necessarily negative due to integrated global supply chains. However, tensions with China are expected to persist, particularly over human rights issues. Biden's approach may involve working more closely with European allies and considering the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

The article discusses the economic recession faced by various countries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on the United States, Singapore, South Korea, Germany, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. It highlights the negative growth these countries have experienced, with the U.S. facing its first recession in 11 years, Singapore's worst recession since independence, and South Korea's worst decline since the Asian financial crisis. Germany's economy has also contracted significantly. The article mentions government responses, including stimulus packages and the impact of lockdowns on the economy. It also touches on the potential for recovery, citing the importance of government spending on healthcare and the risks of a second wave of infections. The article concludes with an expert's opinion on the factors that will determine economic recovery post-pandemic.

The Riau Islands, an Indonesian province, is a top destination for marine tourism, with its territory being 95% water. It was the second most visited place by foreign tourists in 2019, offering attractions like Vietnam Village, Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, Penyengat Island, the Blue Lake, and the Barelang Bridge. The Riau Islands Tourism Office aims to surpass the target of 2.4 million overseas travelers in 2020, with the Head of the Office, Boeralimar, suggesting the creation of new tourist spots to attract more visitors.

Cigarettes, particularly traditional kretek, are a major contributor to Indonesia's poverty line, second only to rice. With the tobacco excise increase effective January 1, 2020, there are concerns about its impact on the poverty rate. Statistics show that low-income families spend a significant portion of their income on cigarettes, which could detract from other priorities like education and healthcare. The Statistics Center Agency (BPS) notes a decrease in poverty rates, but the tobacco industry's role in covering healthcare deficits is substantial. Activists urge the government to address tobacco's impact on poverty, while officials believe the price hike will not significantly alter the poverty rate and call for stronger anti-smoking campaigns.

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy is accelerating the development of tourism infrastructure in five super-priority destinations, including Borobudur and Lake Toba. A budget of nearly Rp 11 trillion has been allocated for infrastructure improvements, including roads and hospitals. Key challenges include policy synchronization and inter-departmental coordination. The World Bank representative is optimistic about the sector's growth potential. Other provinces, such as Lampung and East Kalimantan, are also investing in infrastructure to boost tourism, with East Kalimantan looking to diversify from its reliance on non-renewable energy resources.

Indonesia is advancing its solar energy initiatives with state coal miner PT Bukit Asam Tbk developing a solar-based power plant. Despite the country's significant solar potential, current utilization is minimal. Challenges include local component requirements and price caps. Experts suggest learning from countries like India, UAE, and Brazil, which have successfully implemented solar projects through various incentives and policies.

India's decision to ban crude palm oil (CPO) imports from Malaysia, following criticism of India's citizenship law, benefits Indonesia's CPO industry by allowing it to capture a larger market share. Despite the boycott's impact, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahatir Muhammad remains firm on his stance against India's law. Malaysia's CPO exports to India, a significant part of its economy, have dropped, while Indonesia's exports are expected to rise. The European Union's negative sentiment on Indonesia's CPO due to forest loss is noted, but India's large population drives continued demand for plant-based oils.

A traveler from Wuhan, China, was diagnosed with a new strain of coronavirus in Thailand, marking the first case outside China. The virus has been linked to a pneumonia-like disease affecting 59 people in Wuhan. The Wuhan Health Commission identified a seafood market as a potential source. Asian countries are responding with increased airport health screenings, drawing on experience from the SARS outbreak. Experts emphasize the need for further research to understand the virus's transmission and severity.

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo envisions autonomous public transportation in the new capital in East Kalimantan by 2024, starting with driverless buses. Japan-based Softbank Corp, led by Masayoshi Son, is among the international investors interested in supporting this initiative. The government plans to trial electric vehicles in West Java and Bali to prepare for the transition. The readiness of Indonesians for autonomous technology remains a concern, mirroring global apprehensions about self-driving vehicles.

The Indonesian rupiah has strengthened despite US-Iran tensions, opening at Rp 13.730 per US dollar and closing at Rp 13.665, the highest level since February 2018. Analysts had warned of adverse impacts on the global market following Iran's retaliation for the US drone attack that killed General Qasem Soleimani. However, the market did not anticipate a major conflict, and the situation has not de-escalated. The rupiah's performance is attributed to increased capital inflow and positive sentiment from the US-China trade deal. Indonesia's Central Bank Governor Perry Warjiyo noted the low investment risk premium and the currency's resilience.

The increase in foreign tourists to Bali has led to concerns about crimes committed by expats, prompting discussions on whether Indonesia should review its visa exemption policy. The policy, which allows visa-free entry to citizens of 169 countries, has been criticized by lawmakers for not significantly boosting tourism and potentially harming national security. Bali's Vice Governor and academic experts have highlighted the need for stricter controls to ensure the quality and background of visitors.

Papua New Guinea is looking forward to the Border Trade Festival (BTF) as a means to promote commodities from small and medium enterprises, with hopes that Indonesia will hold the event at the border. The BTF was previously held in 2017, and other similar festivals have been organized to stimulate economic growth and creativity in border areas. Economic experts believe that border areas, such as the West Kalimantan Province in Indonesia, have significant potential to contribute to economic growth.

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo will visit the UAE to sign a $20 billion investment agreement, marking his first foreign trip in 2020. The deals include partnerships between Indonesian and UAE companies in the energy sector, such as PT Pertamina with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company and PT PLN with Masdar. Jokowi will also speak at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, discussing Indonesia's progress on Sustainable Development Goals. The agreements were prepared by Coordinating Minister Luhut Binsar Panjaitan during his visit to Abu Dhabi in December.

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo inaugurated new leaders and a supervisory board for the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) amid controversy and protests. The new law establishing the supervisory board has raised concerns among anti-corruption activists and legal practitioners, who fear it will weaken the KPK's authority and independence. Despite nationwide protests and a judicial review, the Indonesian Parliament passed the bill. The Indonesian Corruption Watch (ICW) remains pessimistic about the new KPK leadership and supervisory board, urging the president to revoke the law, although this seems unlikely with the ongoing judicial review.

Several countries, possibly including the US, are reportedly unhappy with Indonesia's plan to purchase Russian Su-35 fighter jets. Despite potential threats, Indonesia remains committed to the deal, though a final decision is pending. The Su-35, an advanced multirole fighter jet, has attracted interest from multiple countries. The ongoing US-Russia rivalry in the defense industry is highlighted, with the US imposing sanctions on countries buying Russian arms. Russia, while understanding the competitive landscape, will not pressure Indonesia on its decision.

Indonesia has been contributing to the improvement of the United Nations Security Council's working methods through informal conversations known as 'soft talk,' allowing open discussion of issues. As a non-permanent UNSC member, Indonesia has prioritized constructive approaches and acted as a liaison for sensitive issues. It has co-penned resolutions on Palestine and Afghanistan and is recognized for its significant peacekeeping contributions. Indonesia plans to continue its dual approach of hard and soft tactics in combating terrorism and promoting tolerance and peace.

Indonesia is prepared to face a lawsuit from the European Union at the World Trade Organization over its decision to halt nickel ore exports starting January 1, 2020. The ban aims to refine low-level nickel domestically. The EU's steel industry will be significantly impacted due to limited access to nickel ores. In retaliation, Indonesia has filed a lawsuit against the EU's Renewable Energy Directive II, which discriminates against Indonesia's palm oil. Despite accusations of deforestation, Indonesia maintains that its palm industry complies with sustainability norms. The trade spat may lead Indonesia to shift its palm oil exports to other major importers like China, the US, Russia, Japan, and Egypt.

East Nusa Tenggara in Indonesia is ranked first by Lonely Planet as a top budget travel destination for 2020, praised for its beautiful islands, diving spots, and less crowded beaches. Notable attractions include Alor Island's diving spots and the Pink Beach. However, Fodor's Travel has placed Komodo Island on its 'No List' due to concerns over low tourist fees, with Governor Viktor Laksodat considering a fee increase to aid conservation efforts.

Indonesians voted in the country's largest election on April 17, with preliminary results showing incumbent Joko Widodo leading. Markets reacted positively, with the Jakarta Composite Index and the Indonesian Rupiah both rising. Analysts from DBS Bank and Morgan Stanley noted optimism and reduced political uncertainty. The Jokowi administration's achievements include controlling inflation, boosting infrastructure spending, and improving global competitiveness. Challenges for the new administration include addressing the trade deficit, revitalizing the manufacturing sector, and maintaining purchasing power.