Indonesia Roundup: Recognition of Palestine, iPhone 16 launch delay, longest elevated railway

Repatriation of citizens from Lebanon

The ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah conflict has prompted Indonesia to repatriate 14 citizens from Lebanon, reaching a total of 79 citizens returned. The government's appeal for evacuation highlights the heightened security risks, with 85 Indonesians reportedly remaining in Lebanon, many choosing to stay due to family ties, Asia News Network reports.

Indonesia urges recognition of Palestine

Indonesia has advocated for the recognition of Palestine by Australia, Japan, and South Korea. During the ASEAN summit, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin underscored that acknowledging Palestine could enhance its negotiating power with Israel, a crucial step in advancing peace in the volatile region. Despite 146 countries recognising Palestine by June, the reluctance of major players like the US and Canada hinders meaningful progress. The Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry has argued that such recognition is essential to avert further bloodshed, as witnessed by the mounting death toll in Gaza, which surpassed 42,000, as reported by Arab News. 

iPhone 16 launch delay

Apple faces regulatory challenges that have delayed its iPhone 16 launch in Indonesia. The delay stems from the expiration of the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification, combined with an unmet investment commitment of 240 billion rupiah (roughly $15.4 million) against a total promise of 1.71 trillion rupiah (roughly $109.85 million). Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita remarked:  “Apple previously held this certification, but it has now lapsed.” He mentioned that the ministry is also waiting for the tech company to deliver on its pledged investment, the Sun reports. 

Manufacturing collaboration with Japanese companies

Ten Indonesian manufacturing firms have formalised a $10 million agreement with Japanese companies at the Manufacturing World Osaka exhibition. The exhibition garnered substantial interest with over 500 visitors to the Indonesian booth, according to local media Tempo Co. The deal was celebrated by Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita. "This agreement not only demonstrates the potential of Indonesian products but also the trust from foreign parties in the quality and competitiveness of the national industry," he was quoted to have said in a press statement.

Launch of longest elevated railway

Indonesia's transport infrastructure is set for a significant upgrade with the impending launch of its longest elevated railway aimed for November 1, linking Semarang and Solo in Central Java. With preliminary weight tests planned for October 23 and 24, this Rp1.2 trillion (about $76.7 million) project spans 1.8 kilometres and integrates cultural elements into its design. The elevated railway is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion by addressing delays caused by conventional train crossings, thus enhancing mobility within the region, state news agency Antara reports.