> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://middlepowers.fyi/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# Asia-Pacific
> Week of March 30, 2026
## Regional Summary
**When Oil Prices Do the Diplomacy**
The Middle East energy shock is reshaping alliances and domestic politics across the Indo-Pacific faster than any diplomatic strategy. Governments from Seoul to Canberra are securing fuel supplies and using the crisis to push through economic reforms and grab power — moves that opposition parties would have blocked in calmer times.
Lee Jae-myung, South Korea's president, declared a "wartime footing" and unveiled a 26.2 trillion won supplementary budget, but the real story was the diplomacy around it. Within days he had strengthened ties with France to a "Global Strategic Partnership," agreed to cooperate on keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and signed \$10.2 billion in deals with Indonesia — calling Jakarta his "top strategic partner" to hedge against Middle Eastern suppliers. The opposition People Power Party, approval at 18%, could only watch as Mr Lee floated constitutional amendments that would have been unthinkable a year ago. Energy panic has become the solvent for political obstacles that predated it.
Anthony Albanese, Australia's prime minister, delivered an address of the sort usually reserved for war, urging fuel conservation and cutting excise — emergency pageantry that wrong-footed an opposition already fractured over whether to engage with government policy. The Reserve Bank used the moment to announce its biggest payments shake-up in decades, banning card surcharges from 2026, while its board split 5-4 over rate rises as oil neared \$100 a barrel. The fuel shock has handed the government both an excuse to intervene and protection from criticism.
Japan and Taiwan show the security side of this shift. Sanae Takaichi, Japan's prime minister, revealed that Japan had stockpiled eight months of oil and four months of naphtha, then signed rare-earth and Hormuz-transit deals with France — quietly building backup plans against Chinese control of supplies. Taiwan's president, Lai Ching-te, inspected a fivefold increase in domestic missile production, yet the island's real vulnerability was political: the Nationalist Party chairwoman accepted Xi Jinping's invitation to visit Beijing even as her party blocked \$40 billion in defence spending that American senators flew to Taipei to champion. Both countries are finding new suppliers; the question is whether domestic politics can keep up.
Three peacekeepers died in Lebanon, oil hit \$100, and Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia's president, responded by demanding a United Nations investigation, freezing subsidised fuel prices until 2026 and returning from Japan and South Korea with \$34 billion in fresh commitments. Civil servants now work from home on Fridays to save money — small, visible austerity that signals discipline without provoking unrest. The budget already assumed \$100 oil, so the shock validated the planners rather than panicking them.
Across the Indo-Pacific, governments are using the energy crisis to speed up partnerships they already wanted, reforms they had shelved and power grabs they could not previously justify. The danger is that expedience dressed as emergency becomes permanent, and that voters notice only after the oil price falls.
## Country Summaries
***
### 
South Korea
Lee Jae-myung, South Korea's president, put the country's economy on a "wartime footing" this week, announcing a 26.2 trillion won supplementary budget to tackle what he called the "worst energy security threat" from the Middle East war.
Mr Lee is not just throwing money at the crisis — he is building new partnerships to hedge against it. Emmanuel Macron's state visit upgraded South Korea's relationship with France to a Global Strategic Partnership, with both countries agreeing to cooperate on securing safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. They set a target of \$20 billion in bilateral trade by 2030 and will expand defence cooperation and nuclear energy partnerships. Mr Lee accepted an invitation to the G7 Evian summit.
Days later, Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia's president, arrived with 10 memorandums worth \$10.2 billion across energy, digital, health and infrastructure. Mr Lee called Indonesia South Korea's "top strategic partner" and emphasised energy cooperation, including LNG supply, as a hedge against Middle East uncertainties. South Korea is diversifying its energy sources and diplomatic options.
Meanwhile, the domestic opposition has collapsed so much that constitutional change looks possible. The People Power Party's approval rating fell to 18% while the ruling Democratic Party reached 49.9% — a record 30-point gap. The PPP is struggling to recruit candidates in Seoul, where its approval sits at just 13%. Six parties excluding the PPP proposed constitutional amendments requiring immediate parliamentary approval for martial law and adding the 1980 Gwangju Uprising to the constitution's preamble. Mr Lee backed "partial constitutional revision within feasible scope."
But Mr Lee's economic team faces a problem. Shin Hyun-song, his nominee to lead the central bank, holds 55.5% of his assets overseas, with 98.4% of his financial assets in foreign currency. Critics worry about conflicts of interest over exchange rate policy when the won faces pressure from energy price shocks.
* **Lee Jae-myung leads comprehensive policy response to Middle East crisis economic impact** — Lee Jae-myung, South Korea's president, announced a 26.2 trillion won supplementary budget and convened bipartisan meetings to address the economic fallout from the Middle East war, calling it the 'worst energy security threat' and putting the economy on 'wartime footing.' *([chosun.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-koreas-lee-urges-prompt-passage-17-bln-extra-budget-amid-middle-east-2026-04-02/))*
* **Samsung Electronics expects record quarterly profits amid AI chip boom** — Samsung Electronics is projected to report around 40 trillion won in operating profit for Q1 2026, driven by surging memory chip prices and AI demand, despite recent stock volatility following Google's TurboQuant technology announcement. *([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/sustainable-finance-reporting/samsung-elec-likely-report-stupendous-surge-quarterly-profit-record-level-2026-04-03/))*
* **Yoon Suk-yeol receives substantial financial support while facing legal proceedings** — Jailed former president Yoon Suk-yeol received over 1.2 billion won in inmate funds from supporters during eight months of detention, as his appellate trial on obstruction charges concludes and the first anniversary of his impeachment draws massive rallies both supporting and opposing him. *([koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10710222))*
* [President Lee Jae Myung Pledges Policy Response to Middle East War Crisis — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/04/05/27LKDCHTUVAOZNV2WLETM3KC7U/)
* [President Lee Jae Myung Meets Ruling-Opposition Leaders on Middle East Crisis — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/04/04/EHOQ7PKKZVAGRIJ4YT6A7MOU6Q/)
* [South Korea's Lee urges prompt passage of \$17 bln extra budget amid Middle East energy crisis — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-koreas-lee-urges-prompt-passage-17-bln-extra-budget-amid-middle-east-2026-04-02/)
* [Middle East Conflict: ROK President Lee Jae Myung: Country's economy is on a 'wartime footing' — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-04-03/VHJhbnNjcmlwdDg5OTgw/index.html)
* [Lee says energy crisis sparked by Middle East war keeps him awake at night — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260330/lee-says-energy-crisis-sparked-by-middle-east-war-keeps-him-awake-at-night)
* [South Korea's Lee calls for 'quick transition' to renewable sources as Mideast conflict hits oil supplies — aa.com.tr](https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/south-koreas-lee-calls-for-quick-transition-to-renewable-sources-as-mideast-conflict-hits-oil-supplies/3885171)
* [South Korea's Lee: more active response needed on energy situation — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/business/energy/south-koreas-lee-more-active-response-needed-energy-situation-2026-03-31)
* [France and South Korea deepen defence cooperation amid Middle East war — rfi.fr](https://www.rfi.fr/en/international/20260403-france-and-south-korea-deepen-defence-cooperation-amid-middle-east-war-macron)
* [French and South Korean leaders say they'll work together on the Strait of Hormuz — mendocinobeacon.com](https://www.mendocinobeacon.com/2026/04/03/french-south-korea-strait-of-hormuz/)
* [Lee Jae Myung, Macron Share Michelin-Starred Dinner — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/04/03/U64BIMB3K5BFXCSVRSHZJ7NREA/)
* [Lee welcomes Macron with state dinner blending cuisine with symbolism — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/20260402/lee-welcomes-macron-with-state-dinner-blending-cuisine-with-symbolism)
* [Lee says S. Korea, France agree to cooperate on safe passage through Strait of Hormuz — upi.com](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/03/korea-Macron-Lee-Jae-Myung-France-Korea-agree-Hormuz-Strait-passage/5071775195382/)
* [PPP continues to fall 1 year after Yoon's ouster — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260405/ppp-continues-to-fall-1-year-after-yoons-ouster)
* [President's Approval Drops to 61.2%, Party Gap Narrows — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/04/06/F7A7JKZE4BFHRM75RIT3NVXBBE/)
* [Ulsan Mayor Race: PPP's Greater Embarrassment Than Daegu — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/opinion-en/2026/04/05/CNTTSE4VUZFZ7D5GFL46M5E7EA/)
* [Why the Support Rate for South Korea's People Power Party Plummeted to 18%: Key Insights — en.tenbizt.com](https://en.tenbizt.com/news/politics/2026/04/04/support-rate-south-korea-s-people/amp)
* [Lee Jeong-hyun quits after 47 days, People Power Party erupts in turmoil — biz.chosun.com](https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-policy/2026/04/01/JYKVVJW3PRFRDI3K7K5C3VDUGI/)
* [BOK nominee's foreign-heavy assets draw conflict concerns — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10710234)
* [More than half of the assets of Bank of Korea governor nominee Shin Hyun-song are overseas…conflict-of-interest concerns — khan.co.kr](https://www.khan.co.kr/en/article/202604051652007/)
* [Bank of Korea Governor Nominee Downplays Recent Slides in Korean Won (KRW/USD) — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-31/bok-governor-nominee-downplays-fx-risks-spurns-dove-hawk-labels)
* [S. Korea, Indonesia launch cross-border QR code-based payment system — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260401007600320)
* [Bank of Korea launches QR payment link in Indonesia — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/business/banking-finance/20260401/bank-of-korea-launches-qr-payment-link-in-indonesia)
* [President Lee Jae Myung Backs Gwangju Uprising, Martial Law Reforms — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/04/02/5IX722NBKFCCDIE7T6ASTWAYZE/)
* [Six Parties Propose Constitutional Amendment Without PPP — Bipartisan Consensus Essential — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/opinion/2026/04/04/six-parties-propose-constitutional-amendment-without-ppp)
* [First endorsement inside the People Power Party for 'simultaneous constitutional amendment with local elections' — khan.co.kr](https://khan.co.kr/en/article/202604011641017/)
* [Samsung Elec likely to report stupendous surge in quarterly profit to record level — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/sustainable-finance-reporting/samsung-elec-likely-report-stupendous-surge-quarterly-profit-record-level-2026-04-03/)
* [BOK Eyes 7th Consecutive Rate Hold; Samsung Q1 Operating Profit Seen at 40 Trillion Won — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/04/06/bok-eyes-7th-consecutive-rate-hold-samsung-q1-operating)
* [Samsung Q1 Earnings in Focus as March U.S. Inflation Data Looms — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/news/2026/04/05/samsung-q1-earnings-in-focus-as-us-march-inflation-data)
* [Samsung Electronics to cancel \$9.55 billion worth of treasury shares — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/samsung-electronics-cancel-955-billion-worth-treasury-shares-2026-03-31)
* [Yoon supporters flood jailed ex-leader with donations, nearly 5 times presidential salary — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10710222)
* [Jailed ex-South Korea president Yoon received US\$790,000 in inmate funds: Data — thestar.com.my](https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2026/04/01/jailed-ex-south-korea-president-yoon-received-us790000-in-inmate-funds-data)
* [Yoon's appellate trial on obstructing arrest wraps up Monday — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10710164)
* [Rallies in Seoul commemorate, oppose ex-President Yoon's ouster on 1st anniversary — prokerala.com](https://prokerala.com/news/articles/a1747159.html)
* [Meeting Prabowo, Lee Jae Myung Raises Indonesia's LNG Supply — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2095995/meeting-prabowo-lee-jae-myung-raises-indonesias-lng-supply)
* [Lee Jae Myung Hails Indonesia as Top Investment Hub for South Korea — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2095792/lee-jae-myung-hails-indonesia-as-top-investment-hub-for-south-korea)
* [10 Indonesia-South Korea MoUs Signed, Valued at Rp173 Trillion — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2096034/10-indonesia-south-korea-mous-signed-valued-at-rp173-trillion)
* [QRIS Payment Now Available for Indonesians in South Korea — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2095853/qris-payment-now-available-for-indonesians-in-south-korea)
* [Democratic Party proposes virtual asset market surveillance authority — en.bloomingbit.io](https://en.bloomingbit.io/feed/news/109030)
* [Ex and current NIS chiefs spotlight neutrality concerns — upi.com](https://upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/05/intelligence-agency-political-neutrality/1591775422915)
* [South Korea establishes iPSC cell bank for artificial blood research — aabb.org](https://www.aabb.org/news-resources/news/article/2026/04/01/south-korea-establishes-ipsc-cell-bank-for-artificial-blood-research)
* [Distressed firms surge in South Korea amid high rates — upi.com](https://upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/04/05/biz/9841775423332)
***
### 
Taiwan
Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of the Nationalist Party (KMT), accepted Xi Jinping's invitation to visit China from April 7-12, the first trip by an opposition leader in a decade. The timing puts Taiwan in a bind: her party is blocking a \$40 billion defence budget in parliament even as she prepares for the most senior opposition visit to Beijing since 2015.
The problem became clear this week when a bipartisan group of American senators visited Taipei to push for the stalled defence spending. Their trip showed the competing pressures — Washington wants Taiwan to spend more on defence while the KMT seeks talks with China and opposes the budget that would fund American weapons purchases.
Taiwan's defence build-up continues despite the political fight. Lai Ching-te, the president, visited the National Chung-Shan Institute to inspect production of Brave Wind anti-ship missiles and Sky Bow air-defence systems. The institute has increased missile production fivefold since 2021, meeting targets two years early and now producing over 1,000 missiles annually.
Taiwan approved TSMC's plan to produce advanced 3-nanometre chips at its second factory in Japan by 2028. This continues the company's strategy of moving production beyond Taiwan, reducing the island's leverage as the sole source of the world's most advanced semiconductors.
Taiwan's security agencies this week charged a former ruling-party aide with spying for China. Chu Cheng-chi had passed classified documents to Beijing handlers in 2022 for NT\$20,000. The Democratic Progressive Party swiftly expelled him, showing that while infiltration remains a problem, defences still function.
* **US senators visit Taiwan to support \$40 billion defence budget passage** — A bipartisan delegation of American senators visited Taiwan to show support and urge passage of the stalled \$40 billion special defence budget. The visit coincided with the opposition leader's planned China trip, highlighting competing influences on Taiwan's defence policy. *([nytimes.com](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/31/world/asia/senators-taiwan-military.html))*
* [Taiwan opposition leader's China trip is fraught with risk — asiatimes.com](https://asiatimes.com/2026/04/taiwan-opposition-leaders-china-trip-is-fraught-with-risk)
* [Taiwan's opposition leader seeks to win friends in China with a high-stakes visit — nbcnews.com](https://nbcnews.com/world/asia/taiwans-opposition-leader-seeks-win-friends-china-high-stakes-visit-rcna266349)
* [Xi Invites Taiwan's Opposition Leader to Talk 'Peace' Ahead of Trump Summit — nytimes.com](https://nytimes.com/2026/03/30/world/asia/china-xi-taiwan-cheng.html)
* [Taiwan's opposition leader to visit China next month, ahead of Trump — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/taiwans-opposition-leader-visit-china-next-month-2026-03-30/)
* [Beijing Is Racing to Get Concessions From Taiwan's KMT — thediplomat.com](https://thediplomat.com/2026/04/beijing-is-racing-to-get-concessions-from-taiwans-kmt/)
* [Not just symbolism: What the KMT chair's China trip signals for Beijing, Washington and Taipei — channelnewsasia.com](https://channelnewsasia.com/east-asia/kmt-chair-china-trip-signals-beijing-washington-taipei-6036701)
* [KMT head calls for deeper Taiwan-US ties, stability — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/04/06/2003855111)
* [Is Taiwan's opposition KMT splitting into pro-US and pro-Beijing camps? — scmp.com](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3349025/taiwans-opposition-kmt-splitting-pro-us-and-pro-beijing-camps)
* [KMT chair 'gladly accepts' Xi's invitation to visit China next week — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/cross-strait/202603300010)
* [Head of Taiwan's main opposition KMT accepts Xi invite to visit China — japantimes.co.jp](https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/30/asia-pacific/politics/kmt-cheng-xi-taiwan-china)
* [KMT's Cheng accepts Xi invitation to visit China in April — taiwannews.com.tw](https://taiwannews.com.tw/news/6330471)
* [Taiwan's Opposition Leader Gambles on a Visit to China — worldpoliticsreview.com](https://worldpoliticsreview.com/taiwan-kmt-china-visit-xi-meeting)
* [Taiwan opposition leader to make peace visit to China, first in 10 years — thestandard.com.hk](https://thestandard.com.hk/china/article/328539/Taiwan-opposition-leader-to-make-peace-visit-to-China-first-in-10-years)
* [Taiwan KMT Leader Cheng Li-wun to Visit China for Peace — pakistantoday.com.pk](https://pakistantoday.com.pk/2026/04/05/taiwan-opposition-leader-to-make-peace-visit-to-china-first-in-10-years)
* [CPC Central Committee, Xi invite KMT chairperson to visit mainland — english.news.cn](https://english.news.cn/20260330/e6efff454aff4a84ab7e426ed8dc3d2e/c.html)
* [KMT Chairwoman to visit China; Li Qiang on Xiong'an; March Politburo meeting — sinocism.com](https://sinocism.com/p/kmt-chairwoman-to-visit-china-li)
* [KMT leader Cheng Li-wun: From the pro-independence camp to an advocate of closer China ties — table.media](https://table.media/en/china/heads-en/kmt-leader-cheng-li-wun-from-the-pro-independence-camp-to-an-advocate-of-closer-china-ties)
* [Cross-Strait Optics, Supply Chain Reality: Why a KMT Visit to Beijing Matters for Rare Earths — rareearthexchanges.com](https://rareearthexchanges.com/news/cross-strait-optics-supply-chain-reality-why-a-kmt-visit-to-beijing-matters-for-rare-earths)
* [U.S. Senators Press Taiwan to Raise Military Spending, as China Protests — nytimes.com](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/31/world/asia/senators-taiwan-military.html)
* [China Hits Out At US Visit To Taiwan — newsweek.com](https://www.newsweek.com/china-hits-out-us-visit-taiwan-11756223)
* [Defense in a democracy: Political competition and Taiwan's special defense budget — brookings.edu](https://brookings.edu/articles/defense-in-a-democracy-political-competition-and-taiwans-special-defense-budget)
* [US lawmakers express support for stalled Taiwan special defense budget — houstonchronicle.com](https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/world/article/us-lawmakers-express-support-for-stalled-taiwan-22159335.php)
* [US support for Taiwan strong: senators — news.ltn.com.tw](https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/focus/breakingnews/5387871)
* [Taiwan's NSC Secretary-General Wu, U.S. Senators and the American Institute in Taiwan Director Greene attend a press conferece in Taipei — reutersconnect.com](https://www.reutersconnect.com/item/taiwans-nsc-secretary-general-wu-us-senators-and-the-american-institute-in-taiwan-director-greene-attend-a-press-conferece-in-taipei/dGFnOnJldXRlcnMuY29tLDIwMjY6bmV3c21sX1JDMlNFK0FQR1hFOQ)
* [Look at Hong Kong and don't be naive about China, US senator says on Taiwan trip — bluewaterhealthyliving.com](https://bluewaterhealthyliving.com/news/world-news/look-at-hong-kong-and-dont-be-naive-about-china-us-senator-says-on-taiwan-trip/)
* [Xi-Cheng meeting tied to efforts to block Taiwan arms bill: MAC — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/cross-strait/202604020020)
* [TSMC plans 3-nanometre chip production launch in Japan in 2028 — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tsmc-plans-3-nanometre-chip-production-launch-japan-2028-2026-04-01/)
* [TSMC wins approval to produce 3-nanometer chips in Kumamoto — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260401_02/)
* [Taiwan government approves TSMC's 3nm upgrade for second Japan fab — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202603310027)
* [輝達斥資20億美元入股Marvell，台積電受惠大漲逾5% — abmedia.io](https://abmedia.io/nvidia-invests-2-billion-in-marvell-benefit-tsmc)
* [台積電獲批在熊本工廠生產3奈米製程半導體 — tchina.kyodonews.net](https://tchina.kyodonews.net/articles/-/6562)
* [TSMC plans 3-nanometre chip production launch in Japan in 2028 — economictimes.indiatimes.com](https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/technology/tsmc-plans-3-nanometre-chip-production-launch-in-japan-in-2028/articleshow/129940385.cms)
* [TSMC accelerates global footprint: 3nm production slated for second Japanese fab by 2028 — bisinfotech.com](https://bisinfotech.com/tsmc-accelerates-global-footprint-3nm-production-slated-for-second-japanese-fab-by-2028)
* [DPP primary winner indicted over spying — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2026/04/03/2003854940)
* [Ex-aide faces DPP expulsion following espionage indictment — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202604020016)
* [DPP primary winner indicted over spying — news.ltn.com.tw](https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/focus/breakingnews/5391821)
* [Taiwan President Inspects Anti-ship, Air Defense Missile Production — news.usni.org](https://news.usni.org/2026/03/31/taiwan-president-inspects-anti-ship-air-defense-missile-production)
* [Lai Ching-te: US Now Taiwan's Top Investment Destination and Export Market — visiontimes.com](https://www.visiontimes.com/2026/04/01/lai-ching-te-us-now-taiwans-top-investment-destination-and-export-market.html)
* [Lai praises overseas Taiwanese businesses as drivers of global ties — taiwannews.com.tw](https://taiwannews.com.tw/news/6330680)
* [Lai vows further cooperation with US — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/04/02/2003854885)
* [Taiwan Detects 6 Chinese Vessels, 1 Official Ship Near Its Territorial Waters — news18.com](https://www.news18.com/world/taiwan-detects-6-chinese-vessels-1-official-ship-near-its-territorial-waters-ws-l-10015071.html)
* [Chinese Military Presence Persists Around Taiwan for Second Straight Day — newsable.asianetnews.com](https://newsable.asianetnews.com/world/chinese-military-presence-persists-around-taiwan-for-second-straight-day-articleshow-eyzdng8)
* [China deploys aircraft, naval vessels near Taiwan for second day — newsable.asianetnews.com](https://newsable.asianetnews.com/world/china-deploys-aircraft-naval-vessels-near-taiwan-for-second-day-articleshow-kbrvx3a)
* [DPP seeks to avoid vote splitting in Taitung race — taiwannews.com.tw](https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/6332394)
* [Taiwan poet Tsai Chi-lan, key voice of Hoklo literature, dies at 81 — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/04/03/2003854978)
* [KMT names Johnny Chiang as candidate in Taichung mayor race — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603310009)
* [KMT, TPP refuse naming Control Yuan candidates — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/04/05/2003855057)
* [TPP to meet on Li controversy — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/04/04/2003855011)
***
### 
Japan
China escalated pressure on Japan this week by sanctioning Keiji Furuya, a close aide to Sanae Takaichi who backed her rise to power, over his visits to Taiwan. Beijing accused him of "collusion with Taiwan independence" after he met Lai as part of a parliamentary delegation.
Beijing stepped up pressure, while Japan pushed ahead with building partnerships beyond Washington. Emmanuel Macron's three-day state visit yielded deals on rare earth supplies and joint efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open during the Middle East crisis. The two leaders also agreed on nuclear energy ties and visited a Japanese space company. Indonesia's Prabowo Subianto got the full diplomatic treatment at Akasaka Palace, with an audience with Emperor Naruhito and talks with Ms Takaichi on defence and economic deals.
Japan also showed it had prepared for the Middle East crisis. Ms Takaichi announced the country had secured at least four months of naphtha supplies and eight months of oil stockpiles. The deal with France provides a path to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earths.
Japan's escape from deflation continued. The Finance Ministry set the April 10-year bond coupon at 2.4% — the highest in 28 years — as the Bank of Japan presses on with monetary tightening under Ueda.
Ms Takaichi faced political friction. She defended a proposed intelligence council bill against opposition claims it would violate privacy. The Liberal Democrats abandoned plans to pass the budget this week after opposition parties demanded more debate, and the party split over whether to criminalise desecration of the national flag.
* **Macron concludes three-day state visit to Japan with Emperor Naruhito meeting** — French President Emmanuel Macron completed his state visit to Japan with a formal meeting and lunch with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at the Imperial Palace. The visit included diplomatic talks with PM Takaichi and bilateral cooperation agreements. *([nippon.com](https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20260403/p2g/00m/0na/002000c))*
* **Macron and Takaichi strike viral 'Dragon Ball' Kamehameha pose after summit talks** — French President Macron and PM Takaichi ended their joint press conference with a playful recreation of the iconic 'Kamehameha' pose from the Dragon Ball anime series, creating a viral moment that mixed diplomacy with Japanese pop culture. *([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/video/watch/idRW926601042026RP1/))*
* **Takaichi defends national intelligence council bill amid privacy concerns from opposition** — Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister, addressed opposition criticism over a proposed bill to establish a national intelligence council, stating it will not unnecessarily infringe on citizens' privacy. Opposition parties have raised concerns about potential human rights violations. *([sp.m.jiji.com](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/16473258))*
* **Takaichi plans Australia visit during Golden Week to discuss energy security** — Prime Minister Takaichi is planning to visit Australia during Japan's Golden Week holidays to meet with PM Albanese and discuss energy cooperation, rare earths, and Strait of Hormuz security. This would be the first visit by a Japanese PM to Australia since 2022. *([nippon.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/japan-pm-takaichi-plans-australia-visit-to-discuss-rare-earths))*
* **Takaichi's approval ratings decline amid public concerns over oil crisis response** — A Kyodo News poll shows PM Takaichi's Cabinet approval rating has fallen as public dissatisfaction rises over the government's handling of oil supply disruptions linked to the Iran war, presenting a key test of public confidence. *([english.realtribune.ru](https://english.realtribune.ru/japan-pm-takaichi-s-approval-dips-as-oil-crisis-fuels-public-concern))*
* **LDP lawmakers delay retrial system reform bill over prosecutor appeal concerns** — Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers are withholding approval of a Justice Ministry bill to overhaul the retrial system, demanding removal of provisions allowing prosecutor appeals against court decisions granting retrials for wrongfully convicted individuals. *([japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/04/japan/politics/ldp-retrial-system-reform-bill-oppose/))*
* **LDP divided over criminalising national flag desecration bill** — The Liberal Democratic Party shows internal division over a proposal to criminalise damage to the national flag, with some members pushing for immediate enactment while others express concerns about freedom of expression implications. *([japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/01/japan/crime-legal/criminalizing-flag-damaging))*
* [Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako Meet with Macron, His Wife — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026040200868/)
* [Japan's Emperor, Empress meet French president, first lady — nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260403_01/)
* [Japan's imperial couple meet with French President Macron, wife in Tokyo — mainichi.jp](https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20260403/p2g/00m/0na/002000c)
* [«Moderne» mais soucieux de la tradition : qui est Naruhito, l'empereur japonais qui reçoit Emmanuel Macron ? — lefigaro.fr](https://www.lefigaro.fr/international/moderne-mais-soucieux-de-la-tradition-qui-est-naruhito-l-empereur-japonais-qui-recoit-emmanuel-macron-20260402)
* [Macron, Takaichi strike 'Dragon Ball' pose at Tokyo meeting — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/video/watch/idRW926601042026RP1/)
* [President Macron and PM Takaichi strike iconic 'Kamehameha' pose at Tokyo summit — wionews.com](https://www.wionews.com/world/president-macron-and-pm-takaichi-strike-iconic-kamehameha-pose-at-tokyo-summit-1775051821838)
* [Watch: Macron and Takaichi strike Dragon Ball pose after press meet, internet calls it 'peak diplomacy' — firstpost.com](https://www.firstpost.com/world/watch-macron-and-takaichi-strike-dragon-ball-pose-after-press-meet-internet-calls-it-peak-diplomacy-13995577.html)
* [Takaichi Addresses Privacy Concerns over Intelligence Bill — sp.m.jiji.com](https://sp.m.jiji.com/english/show/46804)
* [Takaichi defends intelligence bill amid opposition scrutiny — asahi.com](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/16473258)
* [Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and opposition lawmakers clashed in the Diet on April 2 over her plan to restructure Japan's intelligence apparatus — asahi.com](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/16473258)
* [Japan's Takaichi, France's Macron to strike rare-earths deal — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/japan-s-takaichi-france-s-macron-to-strike-rare-earths-deal)
* [Macron hails France-Japan ties after talks in Tokyo with PM Takaichi — france24.com](https://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20260401-watch-live-macron-gives-tokyo-press-conference-after-talks-with-japan-s-pm-takaichi)
* [Takaichi, Macron Visit Space Venture in Tokyo — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026040200117/)
* [Japan PM Takaichi Expected to Visit Australia, Vietnam — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026040500249/)
* [Japan PM Takaichi plans Australia visit to discuss rare earths — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/japan-pm-takaichi-plans-australia-visit-to-discuss-rare-earths)
* [Takaichi may visit Australia during Golden Week — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/japan-pm-takaichi-may-visit-australia-during-holiday-period-from-late-april)
* [Japan Can Meet at Least 4 Months of Naphtha Needs, Takaichi Says — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-05/japan-can-meet-at-least-4-months-of-naphtha-needs-takaichi-says)
* [Japan govt. sources point to no need for power conservation for now — nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260406_01/)
* [Takaichi turns to Asian nations to stabilize critical supply chains — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16461860)
* [Japan PM Takaichi's approval dips as oil crisis fuels public concern — english.realtribune.ru](https://english.realtribune.ru/japan-pm-takaichi-s-approval-dips-as-oil-crisis-fuels-public-concern)
* [China sanctions aide of Japan PM Takaichi for Taiwan trips — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/japan-china-tensions/china-sanctions-aide-of-japan-pm-takaichi-for-taiwan-trips)
* [President Prabowo meets Japan's PM Takaichi at Akasaka Palace — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/410570/president-prabowo-meets-japans-pm-takaichi-at-akasaka-palace)
* [President Prabowo engages Emperor Naruhito and PM Takaichi on economic and defense ties — indonesiabusinesspost.com](https://indonesiabusinesspost.com/6396/markets-and-finance/president-prabowo-engages-emperor-naruhito-and-pm-takaichi-on-economic-and-defense-ties)
* [President Prabowo, Emperor Naruhito skip politics in Tokyo talks — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/410510/president-prabowo-emperor-naruhito-skip-politics-in-tokyo-talks)
* [Many LDP members oppose retrial system reform bill — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/04/japan/politics/ldp-retrial-system-reform-bill-oppose/)
* [Much-criticized retrial reform bill delayed by LDP lawmakers — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16477545)
* [LDP abandons fiscal 2026 budget passage this week — japantimes.co.jp](https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/02/japan/politics/ldp-budget-giving-up)
* [LDP gives up on last-minute approval for fiscal 2026 plan — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16459520)
* [LDP divided over move to criminalize desecration of Japan's flag, sought by JIP — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/04/01/japan/crime-legal/criminalizing-flag-damaging)
* [LDP Members Split over Criminalizing Japan Flag Desecration — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026033100883/)
* [Japan's LDP Moves to Criminalize Flag Desecration: Constitutional Clash, Coalition Politics, and the Battle Over Free Expression — jp.ibtimes.com](https://jp.ibtimes.com/japans-ldp-moves-criminalize-flag-desecration-constitutional-clash-coalition-politics-battle-100332)
* [New 10-Year JGB Coupon Set at 28-Year High of 2.4 Pct — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026040200506/)
* [Takaichi's Bank of Japan Pick Asada Stresses Data-Driven Approach — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-01/takaichi-s-new-boj-pick-avoids-policy-signals-leans-on-data)
* [Japanese 10Y JGB Yields Hit 2.40% Multi-Decade High, Pressuring Bitcoin and Altcoins — coinedition.com](https://coinedition.com/japanese-10y-jgb-yields-hit-2-40-multi-decade-high-pressuring-bitcoin-and-altcoins)
* [Takaichi Cabinet members' average assets reported at 65.91 million yen — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026040300685/)
* [Defense Minister Koizumi plans Philippines visit in early May — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/japan-defense-chief-koizumi-eyes-visiting-philippines-in-early-may)
* [Tokyo rave protesters call for Takaichi's resignation at 'Drop Bass Not Bombs' event — tokyoweekender.com](https://tokyoweekender.com/japan-life/news-and-opinion/drop-bass-not-bombs-tokyo-rave-calls-for-takaichis-resignation)
* [Takaichi announces review of Japan's prostitution regulations — eastasiaforum.org](https://eastasiaforum.org/2026/03/31/takaichi-revisits-japans-prostitution-debate/)
* [Microsoft announces \$10 billion investment in Japan AI data centers — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/tech/microsoft-to-invest-10-bn-for-japan-ai-data-centres)
***
### 
Australia
Anthony Albanese delivered a national address this week to warn Australians of tough months ahead from the Middle East fuel crisis—the kind of moment usually reserved for wars or natural disasters.
The Prime Minister urged fuel conservation while confirming excise cuts, but Angus Taylor, the opposition leader, dismissed the speech as empty. The exchange showed how outside events are reshaping domestic politics, with the government betting on crisis leadership while the opposition struggles to respond.
Even as it managed the fuel crisis, the government pushed through economic reforms. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) announced the biggest payment system overhaul in decades, banning surcharges on debit and credit cards from October 2026. The changes will save consumers \$1.6 billion annually and businesses \$200 million—a major intervention in how Australians pay for everything from groceries to fuel.
The reforms come as the bank's board splits over interest rate timing, with minutes revealing a 5-4 divide on rate hikes. Board members fear that oil near \$100 a barrel could lift inflation to around 5% and destabilise expectations, showing how the Middle East conflict directly shapes domestic economic decisions.
The opposition, meanwhile, is fracturing beyond leadership instability. Mr Taylor shut down Andrew Hastie, a frontbencher, when he suggested considering Labor's tax proposals on gas companies and property concessions, exposing fundamental disagreements about economic positioning. The party can't decide whether to oppose or engage with government policy.
On foreign policy, Australia is balancing alliance obligations and restraint. Penny Wong, the foreign minister, joined talks with over 40 countries to explore diplomatic solutions to the Strait of Hormuz crisis, while the defence minister confirmed E-7 Wedgetail aircraft are supporting the United Arab Emirates but denied Special Air Service (SAS) ground deployment to Iran. Australia will help diplomatically and defensively but won't join offensive operations.
* **Albanese announces gambling advertising restrictions, falling short of Murphy report recommendations** — The Prime Minister unveiled gambling reforms including caps on TV ads and stadium bans, but stopped short of the total advertising ban recommended by the Murphy report. Critics say the measures are insufficient. *([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/02/gambling-ads-australia-reform-albanese))*
* **Angus Taylor delivers televised response criticizing Albanese's fuel crisis leadership** — Opposition Leader Angus Taylor used his right of reply to criticise the Prime Minister's national address as lacking detail and clarity on the fuel crisis. Taylor called for faster development of domestic energy projects and accused the government of poor crisis management. *([smh.com.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-02/angus-taylor-national-address-fuel-shortage/106524566))*
* **Angus Taylor's car stolen before fuel crisis press conference** — Angus Taylor's vehicle was stolen from his Canberra residence hours before he was due to hold a press conference on fuel prices. The theft occurred amid ongoing debate over the government's fuel crisis response. *([dailymail.co.uk](https://www.smh.com.au/cbd/dude-where-s-my-car-angus-taylor-left-scrambling-after-wheels-stolen-20260331-p5zkb3.html))*
* [Anthony Albanese addresses the nation on the Middle East crisis – read the speech in full — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/01/anthony-albanese-national-address-full-speech)
* [Anthony Albanese's national address contained reassurance on the fuel crisis — and a warning shot — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-01/anthony-albanese-national-address-fuel-crisis-iran/106522770)
* [Keep calm, but here comes the pain. Albanese's address presents Australians with a mixed message — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/01/keep-calm-but-here-comes-the-pain-albaneses-address-presents-australians-with-a-mixed-message)
* [Iran war economic shocks will last 'months', says Australia's PM — bbc.com](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg4nre8nl9o)
* [Review of Merchant Card Payment Costs and Surcharging – Conclusions Paper — rba.gov.au](https://www.rba.gov.au/media-releases/2026/mr-26-10.html)
* [RBA to remove surcharges on debit, credit cards, card networks including eftpos, Mastercard and Visa — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-31/rba-surcharges-debit-credit-new-reforms-october-2026/106500064)
* [Businesses warn of price rises from RBA's surcharge ban — smh.com.au](https://smh.com.au/business/consumer-affairs/rba-announces-ban-on-credit-debit-card-surcharges-20260331-p5zk45.html)
* [Albanese announces crackdown on gambling ads, but falls well short of Labor's own calls for total ban — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/02/gambling-ads-australia-reform-albanese)
* [Albanese's big gamble on betting industry restrictions — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-05/gambling-advertising-labor-anthony-albanese-murphy-report/106510878)
* ['Small and underwhelming': Albanese's gambling reforms won't do much to reduce harm — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/small-and-underwhelming-albaneses-gambling-reforms-wont-do-much-to-reduce-harm-279847)
* [Angus Taylor ABC address: Opposition leader responds to Albanese's fuel crisis speech — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/taylor-said-albanese-wasted-the-nation-s-time-his-reply-was-not-much-different-20260402-p5zl0p.html)
* [Angus Taylor uses national address to call on Australians to 'look after ourselves' — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-02/angus-taylor-national-address-fuel-shortage/106524566)
* ['Dig and drill': Angus Taylor says Australia should fast-track mining and coal projects amid fuel crisis — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/02/angus-taylor-televised-national-address-coal-and-mining-fuel-crisis)
* [RBA March Minutes: Members agreed further tightening would likely be needed — tradingview.com](https://www.tradingview.com/news/forexlive:398a99055094b:0-rba-march-minutes-members-agreed-further-tightening-would-likely-be-needed/)
* [US-Israeli war in Iran clouds RBA outlook — thestar.com.my](https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2026/04/01/us-israeli-war-in-iran-clouds-rba-outlook)
* [RBA Says Not Possible to Predict Cash Rate Path With Confidence — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-31/rba-says-not-possible-to-predict-cash-rate-path-with-confidence)
* [Penny Wong to join talks with 35 countries, excluding US, to explore ways to reopen strait of Hormuz — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/02/penny-wong-to-join-talks-with-35-countries-excluding-us-to-explore-ways-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz)
* [Australia to attend global meeting on Strait of Hormuz — without the US — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-02/global-meeting-australia-34-countries-strait-of-hormuz/106525100)
* [Military planners to meet on Strait of Hormuz as UN warns of wider Middle East war — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-03/strait-of-hormuz-virtual-summit/106529136)
* [No car, no worries: Angus Taylor's wheels are stolen just hours before important fuel press conference — dailymail.co.uk](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15696655/angus-taylor-car-stolen-act-canberra-liberals.html)
* [Dude, where's my car? Angus Taylor left scrambling after wheels stolen — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/cbd/dude-where-s-my-car-angus-taylor-left-scrambling-after-wheels-stolen-20260331-p5zkb3.html)
* [Opposition Leader Angus Taylor's car stolen in Canberra — canberratimes.com.au](https://canberratimes.com.au/story/9211886/opposition-leader-angus-taylors-car-stolen-in-canberra)
* [Angus Taylor rebukes Andrew Hastie for call for Liberals to be 'open-minded' on tax rises and property concessions — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/30/angus-taylor-andrew-hastie-national-liberals-tax-rises-property-concessions)
* [Angus Taylor vs Andrew Hastie: The opposition clash over Labor's proposed tax hikes — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/taylor-shuts-down-hastie-s-call-to-keep-open-mind-on-labor-s-tax-proposals-20260330-p5zjwi.html)
* [Angus Taylor rebuffs Andrew Hastie on windfall tax on gas and scaling back tax deductions for property investors — afr.com](https://afr.com/politics/federal/taylor-cites-economic-principle-as-he-rebuffs-hastie-on-tax-20260330-p5zjuj)
* [Labor's draft party platform more assertive on China, omits mandatory jail term stance — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/apr/01/labor-government-draft-national-party-platform-china-mandatory-jail)
* [Should the parliament decide if Australia goes to war? — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/should-the-parliament-decide-if-australia-goes-to-war-279446)
* [Australia's defence industry must look beyond the ADF — aspistrategist.org.au](https://aspistrategist.org.au/australias-defence-industry-must-look-beyond-the-adf)
***
### 
Indonesia
Three Indonesian peacekeepers died in attacks while serving with UN forces in southern Lebanon this week, but rather than retreat, Prabowo Subianto, the president, attended their memorial ceremonies and called for a UN Security Council meeting to investigate.
Captain Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, First Sergeant Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Private First Class Farizal Rhomadhon were killed in separate incidents. Mr Prabowo's response showed Indonesia's approach to its peacekeeping commitments — it ranks fifth globally with 2,752 personnel deployed — treating deaths as risks to manage rather than reasons to withdraw.
Even as it mourned its soldiers, Indonesia continued building partnerships elsewhere. Mr Prabowo completed state visits to Japan and South Korea worth \$34 billion in business commitments. In Seoul, he received South Korea's highest state honour and signed ten agreements covering energy, technology, and critical minerals. The countries upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership, with Seoul agreeing to help develop Indonesia's nuclear energy capacity.
The visits showed Indonesia's approach: build partnerships issue by issue while keeping options open. The \$34 billion in commitments are dwarfed by China's position as Indonesia's largest trading partner with \$135 billion in trade last year. But they represent efforts to diversify away from that dependence.
At home, the government managed a different kind of pressure. Global oil hit \$100 per barrel, but Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, the finance minister, said subsidised fuel prices would stay frozen until the end of 2026. To save money, civil servants now work from home on Fridays. The budget already assumes oil at \$100, keeping the deficit at 2.92% of GDP.
Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the vice-president, is preparing to move his office to Nusantara, the new capital. Fifty staff are already there installing furniture. Teddy Indra Wijaya, the cabinet secretary, spent 90 minutes with Mr Gibran at the vice-presidential palace, discussing policy in what observers saw as an attempt to give the previously sidelined vice-president a real role.
* **Daniel Muttaqien elected as new Golkar West Java chairman in party congress** — Daniel Muttaqien was elected chairman of Golkar's West Java chapter during the party's regional congress. The leadership change positions Golkar for the 2029 elections, with West Java seen as strategically important for national politics. *([republika.co.id](https://news.republika.co.id/berita/tcvcgp472/daniel-muttaqien-terpilih-jadi-ketua-dpd-golkar-jabar))*
* **Bank Indonesia maintains monetary policy stance amid global economic uncertainty** — Bank Indonesia continued several policies including cross-border payment cooperation with South Korea through QRIS, while economists assess credit growth prospects and inflation dynamics. The central bank faces challenges from global geopolitical tensions. *([crowdfundinsider.com](https://www.crowdfundinsider.com/2026/04/271195-indonesia-south-korea-launch-cross-border-qr-payments-in-local-currencies/))*
* **Former VP Jusuf Kalla provides economic and diplomatic recommendations to President Prabowo** — Jusuf Kalla, the former vice-president, revealed he has submitted recommendations on economic and diplomatic policies to Mr Prabowo, collected from activists and academics. He plans to meet directly with the president to discuss the proposals. *([video.kompas.com](https://video.kompas.com/watch/1921459/jk-sampaikan-saran-soal-ekonomi-dan-diplomasi-ke-prabowo-siap-bertemu-langsung))*
* **Prabowo government announced as serious about developing alternative energy** — Experts praised Bahlil Lahadalia, the energy minister, for cooperation with South Korea on nuclear and mineral development, saying it proves the Prabowo administration is serious about exploring alternative energy sources and maintaining national energy stability. *([investor.id](https://investor.id/national/434086/pemerintahan-prabowo-dinilai-serius-kembangkan-energi-alternatif))*
* **Government budget will cover Red and White Village Cooperative installments** — Mr Sadewa confirmed the state budget will be used to pay instalments for the Red and White Village Cooperative development, with funding from village funds, general allocation funds, and regional revenue sharing. *([jawapos.com](https://jawapos.com/ekonomi/2604050261/apbn-tanggung-cicilan-koperasi-merah-putih-dana-desa-hingga-dau-ikut-dipakai))*
* **President Prabowo monitors earthquake and tsunami impact in North Sulawesi** — Mr Prabowo received reports on the M7.6 earthquake followed by tsunami in Bitung, North Sulawesi, and ordered rapid evacuation of residents. The disaster response included areas in North Maluku as well. *([santrindalan.id](https://santrindalan.id/presiden-prabowo-pantau-langsung-dampak-gempa-dan-tsunami-di-sulut/))*
* **Opposition activists call for Prabowo to show stronger support for Iran and Palestine** — Political activists and opposition figures called on Mr Prabowo to show stronger support for Iran and take tougher stances against Israel and the United States, particularly after Indonesian peacekeepers were killed in Lebanon. *([gelora.co](https://gelora.co/2026/04/prabowo-lebih-untung-jika-tunjukkan.html))*
* [Presiden Prabowo kecam keras aksi keji gugurkan tiga prajurit TNI — jateng.antaranews.com](https://jateng.antaranews.com/berita/627745/presiden-prabowo-kecam-keras-aksi-keji-gugurkan-tiga-prajurit-tni)
* [Prabowo condemns 'heinous act' killing Indonesian peacekeepers — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/411157/prabowo-condemns-heinous-act-killing-indonesian-peacekeepers)
* [Military honour ceremony for three UNIFIL peacekeepers killed in Lebanon — reutersconnect.com](https://www.reutersconnect.com/item/military-honour-ceremony-for-three-unifil-peacekeepers-killed-in-lebanon-at-soekarno-hatta-international-airport-in-tangerang/dGFnOnJldXRlcnMuY29tLDIwMjY6bmV3c21sX1JDMkRJS0E4MkxYTQ)
* [Prabowo Peluk dan Cium Anak Prajurit TNI yang Gugur di Lebanon — most1058fm.com](https://most1058fm.com/2026/04/prabowo-peluk-dan-cium-anak-prajurit-tni-yang-gugur-di-lebanon/)
* [South Korea, Indonesia sign agreements on minerals, tech and finance during Prabowo visit — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-indonesia-sign-agreements-minerals-tech-finance-during-prabowo-visit-2026-04-01/)
* [President Prabowo Brings Back Business Commitments of Rp575 Trillion from Japan and South Korea — voi.id](https://voi.id/en/news/567815)
* [Indonesia's Prabowo Receives South Korea's Highest State Honor — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2095829/indonesias-prabowo-receives-south-koreas-highest-state-honor)
* [Video: Prabowo Siapkan B50 Hadapi Krisis Energi, Petani Sawit Siap! — cnbcindonesia.com](https://www.cnbcindonesia.com/news/20260403113512-8-723729/video-prabowo-siapkan-b50-hadapi-krisis-energi-petani-sawit-siap)
* [Indonesia rations fuel as prices soar over Mideast war — starcitytv.com](https://www.starcitytv.com/news/national/indonesia-rations-fuel-as-prices-soar-over-mideast-war/article_9d5a579f-cb8e-5a94-b252-6bdc76475797.html)
* [Harga BBM: Pemerintah pertahankan harga bahan bakar dan umumkan kebijakan WFH — bbc.com](https://bbc.com/indonesia/articles/c4gx70rlqgro)
* [Kapan Wapres Gibran Berkantor di IKN? — kompas.id](https://www.kompas.id/artikel/kapan-wapres-gibran-berkantor-di-ikn)
* [Vice President Gibran to Work from IKN — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2095244/vice-president-gibran-to-work-from-ikn)
* [Gibran Siap-siap Ngantor di IKN, Kirim 50 Staf — cnnindonesia.com](https://cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20260401081639-92-1343177/gibran-siap-siap-ngantor-di-ikn-kirim-50-staf)
* [Ketika Teddy-Gibran Bertemu Empat Mata, Sinyal Pembagian Kepercayaan Prabowo? — kompas.id](https://www.kompas.id/artikel/ketika-teddy-gibran-bertemu-empat-mata-sinyal-pembagian-kepercayaan-prabowo)
* [Seskab Teddy Temui Gibran 1,5 Jam di Istana Wapres, Ini yang Dibahas — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8428406/seskab-teddy-temui-gibran-1-5-jam-di-istana-wapres-ini-yang-dibahas)
* [Daniel Muttaqien Terpilih Jadi Ketua DPD Golkar Jabar — news.republika.co.id](https://news.republika.co.id/berita/tcvcgp472/daniel-muttaqien-terpilih-jadi-ketua-dpd-golkar-jabar)
* [Termasuk Daniel Muttaqin, hanya Dua Kader yang Ambil Formulir Pendaftaran Calon Ketua Golkar Jabar — jabar.tribunnews.com](https://jabar.tribunnews.com/metro-bandung/1168595/termasuk-daniel-muttaqin-hanya-dua-kader-yang-ambil-formulir-pendaftaran-calon-ketua-golkar-jabar)
* [Indonesia, South Korea Launch Cross-Border QR Payments In Local Currencies — crowdfundinsider.com](https://www.crowdfundinsider.com/2026/04/271195-indonesia-south-korea-launch-cross-border-qr-payments-in-local-currencies/)
* [Wider Payment Connectivity, Bank Indonesia and Bank of Korea Officially Implement QRIS Across the Country — voi.id](https://voi.id/en/amp/567666)
* [Ekonom sebut kredit bank masih berpotensi tumbuh sesuai target BI — antaranews.com](https://antaranews.com/berita/5501798/ekonom-sebut-kredit-bank-masih-berpotensi-tumbuh-sesuai-target-bi)
* [JK Sampaikan Saran soal Ekonomi dan Diplomasi ke Prabowo, Siap Bertemu Langsung — video.kompas.com](https://video.kompas.com/watch/1921459/jk-sampaikan-saran-soal-ekonomi-dan-diplomasi-ke-prabowo-siap-bertemu-langsung)
* [JK Sampaikan Rekomendasi Aktivis hingga Akademisi Terkait Kebijakan Pemerintah ke Prabowo — nasional.sindonews.com](https://nasional.sindonews.com/read/1693423/12/jk-sampaikan-rekomendasi-aktivis-hingga-akademisi-terkait-kebijakan-pemerintah-ke-prabowo-1775401474)
* [Pemerintahan Prabowo Dinilai Serius Kembangkan Energi Alternatif — investor.id](https://investor.id/national/434086/pemerintahan-prabowo-dinilai-serius-kembangkan-energi-alternatif)
* [APBN Tanggung Cicilan Koperasi Merah Putih, Dana Desa hingga DAU Ikut Dipakai — jawapos.com](https://jawapos.com/ekonomi/2604050261/apbn-tanggung-cicilan-koperasi-merah-putih-dana-desa-hingga-dau-ikut-dipakai)
* [Presiden Prabowo Pantau Langsung Dampak Gempa dan Tsunami di Sulut — santrindalan.id](https://santrindalan.id/presiden-prabowo-pantau-langsung-dampak-gempa-dan-tsunami-di-sulut/)
* [Presiden Prabowo Subianto Perintahkan Evakuasi Cepat Warga dari Bitung hingga Batang Dua — gerindra.id](https://gerindra.id/2026/04/05/presiden-prabowo-subianto-perintahkan-evakuasi-cepat-warga-dari-bitung-hingga-batang-dua/)
* [Prabowo Lebih Untung Jika Tunjukkan Sikap Keberpihakan ke Iran — gelora.co](https://gelora.co/2026/04/prabowo-lebih-untung-jika-tunjukkan.html)
* [Duta Besar Iran Ikut Aksi Solidaritas Free Palestine Network di Jakarta atas Gugurnya 3 Prajurit TNI — swarajabbarnews.com](https://swarajabbarnews.com/2026/04/05/duta-besar-iran-ikut-aksi-solidaritas-free-palestine-network-di-jakarta-atas-gugurnya-3-prajurit-tni/)
* [Prabowo dan Keadilan Sosial editorial analysis — kompas.id](https://www.kompas.id/artikel/prabowo-subianto-dan-keadilan-sosial)
* [Deforestation increases during first year of Prabowo administration — bbc.com](https://www.bbc.com/indonesia/articles/cy01ywe19xdo)
* [Prabowo's East Asia outreach analysis - gains but missed opportunities — thejakartapost.com](https://thejakartapost.com/opinion/2026/04/06/prabowos-east-asia-outreach-gains-but-missed-time.html)
* [Electric vehicle conversion policy faces infrastructure and supply challenges — bbc.com](https://www.bbc.com/indonesia/articles/crl1k7kz5rro)
* [Analysis of Prabowo's pursuit of PDI-P as political coalition partner — thejakartapost.com](https://www.thejakartapost.com/opinion/2026/04/01/analysis-prabowos-pursuit-of-megawatis-pdi-p-as-the-one-piece.html)