Indonesia Roundup: Deadly floods, economic outlook dims, schools revamp

Over 500 killed as Cyclone Senyar triggers catastrophic flooding across Asia

More than 500 people have died, and hundreds more have been injured after devastating floods caused by rare cyclonic rains swept through Indonesia early last week. Rescue teams are still struggling to reach the worst-affected areas on the island of Sumatra, where thousands of residents remain cut off without access to essential supplies. Cyclone Senyar, described as an exceptionally rare tropical storm, triggered massive landslides and submerged thousands of homes and buildings. The effects of torrential rain extended beyond Indonesia, with Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka also hit by severe storms. Across Asia, more than 900 people have died this month as extreme weather continues to impact millions.

Indonesia posts smaller October trade surplus amid weak Chinese demand

Indonesia recorded a smaller-than-expected trade surplus in October as exports fell unexpectedly due to softer demand from China and reduced shipments of mining products, according to official data released Monday. The surplus stood at USD 2.4 billion, well below economists’ forecasts of USD 3.72 billion and down from September’s USD 4.34 billion, marking the smallest monthly surplus since April. Exports dropped 2.31% year-on-year to USD 24.24 billion, driven by lower coal and copper shipments. Analysts noted that exporters had accelerated shipments to the United States earlier in the year, ahead of tariff measures introduced in August. Operations at Freeport Indonesia’s Grasberg mine were also temporarily halted following a fatal mud-flow disaster in September, adding to the export slowdown.

Bank Indonesia warns of dim global outlook as protectionism reshapes trade

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has cautioned that global economic uncertainty remains high, driven largely by protectionist policies in the United States, which he said are reshaping the global economic landscape. Speaking at the 2025 Bank Indonesia Annual Meeting, Warjiyo projected a “dim” economic outlook for 2026 and 2027, citing declining world trade, weakened multilateralism, slowing growth in major economies, and persistent inflation complicating monetary policy. He highlighted additional risks, including high government debt in developed countries, rising financial system vulnerabilities, and the rapid growth of private-sector cryptocurrencies amid limited regulation. Warjiyo stressed the need for strong policy responses to maintain stability, strengthen economic resilience, and promote sustainable growth.

Prabowo targets renovation of 60,000 schools next year

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a government plan to renovate at least 60,000 schools across Indonesia next year as part of a nationwide effort to improve education quality. Speaking at the 2025 National Teachers Day event on November 28, he noted that the current pace of upgrades, including the ongoing renovation of 16,000 schools this year, remains insufficient. He instructed the finance ministry to explore possibilities for expanding the programme’s budget beyond the current ceiling of Rp20 trillion (USD 1.2 billion). The government is also advancing its tuition-free Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) initiative for underprivileged children, with 166 schools established so far, serving approximately 16,000 students. Both initiatives form part of the administration’s long-term strategy to strengthen human resources ahead of Indonesia’s 2045 national vision.

Indonesia re-elected to International Maritime Organisation Council 

Indonesia has been re-elected as a Category C member of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 term during the body’s thirty-fourth session in London. Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi, who led the national delegation, confirmed that Indonesia secured 138 votes, placing fifth among 26 candidates. Category C includes states with significant interests in maritime transport and ensures balanced geographical representation. Purwagandhi said the result reflects Indonesia’s growing role as a global maritime hub and supports President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita mission, prioritising maritime development. He reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening maritime safety, promoting sustainable port development, protecting the marine environment, and supporting seafarers’ welfare as part of global efforts to build a more resilient shipping sector.