Stories about Indonesia
Jokowi shuts down chatter about a potential third term as President of Indonesia
Some politicians have cited the pandemic and the war in Ukraine as reasons Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) should run for a third term, which goes against the nation's constitution.
Indonesian ground reports from Ukraine under Russian invasion
The Indonesian government has no immediate plan to cease its embassy's activities in Kyiv.
How is Southeast Asia reacting to the invasion of Ukraine?
While the ASEAN block referenced the “conflict in the West” and called for de-escalation, many Southeast Asian leaders are choosing to stay silent and sidestep any direct references to Russia.
Films on human rights abuses and courageous opposition in Myanmar
EngageMedia has curated a playlist of films that shows the extent of rights abuses in the country, as well as courageous forms of resistance against the continuing infringement on rights.
In Hong Kong, foreign domestic workers face an ’emerging crisis’ as COVID-19 limits housing, travel options
A 35-year-old Filipina foreign domestic worker who had her visa application denied was forced to live on the streets of Hong Kong for two nights after testing positive for COVID-19.
Police violently break up Afghan refugee protest in Indonesia
Some refugees in Indonesia have been in limbo for more than 10 years. Protesters gathered outside the UNHCR building in Medan to call for resettlement and demand better living conditions.
An overview of Indonesia’s coal export ban and Asia’s energy crisis
All coal mining companies in Indonesia are required to reserve 25 percent of their coal supply for domestic sale, which they have been shirking since coal prices skyrocketed internationally in 2021.
Portraits of a pandemic: Films on the unequal impact of COVID-19 in the Asia-Pacific
“Portraits of a Pandemic” holds space for stories that portray with care and nuance the effects of the COVID-19 crisis in the Asia-Pacific.
The ‘immoral’ 42 songs banned from Indonesia's daytime radio
Songs by Bruno Mars, Jay-Z, Cardi B, and more, were banned from Indonesian radio between 3 am and 10 pm. The songs were considered immoral because they mentioned sexuality, alcohol, or vices.
How ‘cyber troops’ influence Indonesia's politics, policies, and media landscape
"For citizens, in general, I think people need to learn more — to be more skeptical with what is viral on social media." - Indonesian digital media researcher Wijayanto.
Indonesian police arrested students who raised banned ‘Papuan Independence Day’ flag
December 1, 2021, unofficially considered West Papua Independence Day, marked the 60th anniversary of when Papuans first flew the Morning Star flag in a bid for independence from the Dutch.
Indonesian official tries to silence Greenpeace activists, changes course amid criticism
The report has since been withdrawn to avoid "politicization" and insinuations that the government does not welcome criticism.
An all-women coral conservation team is helping to revive Indonesia's world-famous Gili reefs
"I believe that empowering women and promoting gender equality is crucial to accelerating sustainable development."
Indonesian court allows internet blocking amid social unrest
"We [are] worried the Indonesia government will implement more Internet restrictions based on this Constitutional Court decision that not follow or address human rights standards like their previous actions."
Days after COP26 agreement, Indonesian officials renege on anti-deforestation pledge
Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar has dismissed the UN plan to end industrial deforestation by 2030, saying: "Forcing Indonesia to zero deforestation in 2030 is clearly inappropriate and unfair."
Community care during the pandemic in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines
From community pantries in the Philippines to the White Flag movement in Malaysia, this pandemic has spurred communities to mobilize and provide aid during this public health emergency.
COVID-19, vaccination and the progress of the global healthcare system
“ … obesity might soon be recognised as a vitally strategic global element in explaining varying COVID-19 levels between rich and poor.”
Indonesia faces criticism for lack of financial support amid lockdowns
Many citizens are criticizing the government for their seemingly inadequate response to the pandemic and lack of socio-economic support amid tightened COVID-19 restrictions.
Volunteers tackle Bali’s plastic problem during pandemic
On average in Bali, per capita, a tourist uses 3.5 times more plastic per day than a local resident.
Abuse of Hong Kong domestic workers by employers increased dramatically during pandemic lockdown
A survey by one rights group found that about 40,000 foreign domestic workers were given no rest days during the pandemic, and 20,000 were given only one day off per month.
Green playlist: Asian short films on protecting the environment
These films feature the struggles of various communities across the Asia-Pacific region as they defend their lands, environment and cultural heritage.
