The June 2025 edition of the Indonesian Update presents a variety of critical analyses of the policy, social, and legal dynamics that influence the direction of national development.

This month’s main report highlights the growing interest of the public in becoming State Civil Apparatus (ASN) amidst various bureaucratic efficiency crises. This analysis examines the disparity between high public enthusiasm and stagnant bureaucratic reform, as well as its impact on public services and governance.

In the economic field, we present two main reviews. First, the economic potential of hydrogen as an alternative energy and the direction of Indonesia’s policy in developing its ecosystem. Second, the role of technology in improving public services, as well as challenges in system integration and digital literacy in various regions.

From the social field, we raise two important issues. The first article discusses the rampant cases of bullying and violence against children that have occurred in several regions, such as Makassar, Cirebon, and Indragiri Hulu, a reminder of the urgency of reforming the child protection system. The second article invites readers to reflect on the direction of national tourism development, highlighting exploitative practices that harm local communities and the environment, such as in the case of mining in Raja Ampat and land conversion in Bali.

In the legal realm, we highlight two important developments. First, the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the ITE Law, which opens up new hope for freedom of speech in the digital era. Second, the urgency of real protection for whistleblowers in corruption cases, which has often been ignored despite their vital role in exposing public crimes.

Through this edition, Update Indonesia continues to strive to be a medium for reflection and enrichment of cross-sector perspectives. We invite readers to look more deeply at how policies, social practices, and legal dynamics intertwine to shape the direction of Indonesia’s future.

Happy Reading,