Indonesia is grappling with a severe youth unemployment crisis, with over 16% of its 44 million young people aged 15–24 out of work—double the rate in Thailand and Vietnam. Many graduates, like law student Andreas Hutapea, are unable to secure stable jobs despite repeated attempts. A recent survey shows Indonesian youth are significantly less optimistic about their economic future than peers in neighboring countries. The data highlights growing anxiety and uncertainty among the nation’s youth over employment and long-term stability.

Indonesia has signed a trade deal with the U.S. that imposes a 19% tariff on Indonesian goods entering America while granting duty-free access to U.S. products. As part of the agreement, Indonesia will purchase 50 Boeing jets, $15 billion in American energy products, and $4.5 billion in agricultural goods. The deal was finalized ahead of an August 1 deadline previously set under Trump's 32% tariff plan. Analysts suggest Indonesia may be exempted from a new 50% copper tariff starting next month.

A strong 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Indonesia’s Maluku province on Monday, according to the US Geological Survey. The quake occurred at a depth of 66 kilometers, about 177 kilometers west of Tual city. Authorities confirmed there was no tsunami threat. No immediate reports of casualties or damages have emerged. Indonesia frequently experiences seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Previous quakes in 2018 and 2004 caused devastating loss of life.

A powerful eruption from Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Indonesia’s Flores Island sent ash 18 km into the sky, disrupting air travel and affecting nearby villages. At least 24 international and domestic flights, including those between Bali, Australia, Singapore, and South Korea, were canceled. No casualties have been reported, but authorities recorded gas clouds with rocks and lava stretching 5 km. Officials warn of increased risks and may revise safety guidelines. Sunlight was briefly blocked in nearby areas due to heavy ashfall.

A ferry carrying 65 people, including 53 passengers and 12 crew members, sank off the coast of Bali, Indonesia. The ferry, named KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya, also had 22 vehicles on board. As of the latest update, two bodies have been recovered and 20 passengers rescued, with at least 43 still missing. The vessel sank roughly 30 minutes after departing East Java’s Ketapang Port. Rescue operations with nine boats continued overnight amid rough seas, a recurring factor in Indonesia’s frequent maritime accidents.

Indonesia has signed a $10 billion contract with Turkey to purchase 48 fifth-generation fighter jets, marking Turkey’s largest defense export deal. The agreement was finalized at the Indo Defence 2025 exhibition in Jakarta, with plans for joint production of some jet parts in Indonesia over a 10-year period. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan thanked Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto for the partnership. Analysts view this as a significant milestone, with Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia also showing interest in the project.