The May 2018 edition of the Indonesian Update raises a main theme on the Inefficient Debt Utilization by the Government. This issue has become a concern, as debt utilization should improve development productivity and effectiveness in order to avoid state budget deficits from happening.

On politics, the Indonesian Update discussed the idea of reinstating DPRDs’ authority to elect regional heads. This could become a step-back in our democracy. Three other political topics that are discussed are the problematic voters list, the plan to ban ex-corruption convicts from contesting elections, and the unsuccessful democratic transition after 20 years of the reform era in Indonesia.  So far, there have been no relations between political ideologies and the political directions of political parties.

On social affairs, the Indonesian Update talks about the mistakes in implementing the universal health coverage principle in Indonesia, which has led to the problem of BPJS deficits; about the dark side of women’s health; and the health and safety of personal assistants. The topics are chosen to celebrate the Labour Day.

The regular publication of the Indonesian Update with its actual themes is expected to help policy makers in government and business environment — as well as academics, think tanks, and other elements of civil society, both within and outside the country, to get the actual information and contextual analysis of economic, legal, political, cultural and social developments in Indonesia, as well as to understand the public policy in Indonesia.