The government gives its full support for Boy Thohir to lead the development of the Indonesian Green Industrial Zone (KIHI) in North Kalimantan. There is controversy surrounding the massive Kayan River power plant project.

The merger of government research agencies into the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is causing tension between scientists. BRIN is believed to have veered off its path. The Palace and Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle General Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri are reportedly supporting the move by BRIN chairman.

The government is imposing a coal export ban due to a supply crisis at several state-owned and private power plants. The business chain is in disarray.

Omicron continues to spread in Indonesia. The government is working desperately to obtain the equipment and reagents needed to detect the new Covid-19 variant.

Scientists all over the globe have been working to develop Covid-19 vaccines since the pandemic broke out. Indonesia joined the fight by producing the Merah Putih (Red and White) vaccine. In the field, the country’s vaccination program has been equally frenzied. Racing against time and new Covid-19 variants, vaccination has not only relied on health workers. Regional governments, the police and the military, as well as ordinary citizens were mobilized to reach those in remote areas.

Government officials and celebrities have evaded mandatory quarantine upon returning from trips overseas. They exploited corrupt airport employees and armed themselves with recommendation letters from the COVID-19 Task Force.