Tag:

enters

Deepal S07 Enters Competitive Indonesian Electric SUV Market with Luxury and Performance Focus

by Raul Delapena Setiawan September 29, 2026

written by Raul Delapena Setiawan

Jakarta, September 29, 2026 – The landscape of the Indonesian electric vehicle (EV) market has undergone a significant transformation, marked by the arrival of the Deepal S07. As domestic consumer preferences shift from basic utility to a holistic appreciation of design, comfort, and advanced technology, Changan Indonesia has strategically positioned its latest offering to capture the burgeoning mid-to-high-end SUV segment. Priced in the Rp600 million range, the Deepal S07 represents a calculated effort to blend the practical requirements of modern families with the sophisticated aesthetics of a luxury cruiser.

The Evolution of Consumer Expectations in Indonesia

The Indonesian automotive sector has witnessed a surge in EV adoption, spurred by government incentives, the expansion of public charging infrastructure, and a growing environmental consciousness among the middle class. However, the market has matured rapidly. Three years ago, price parity and raw range were the primary drivers of purchase decisions. By late 2026, the criteria have expanded to include interior ergonomics, ambient intelligence, and high-performance safety systems.

Setiawan Surya, CEO of Changan Indonesia, noted during the launch event that the saturation of the SUV segment—where multiple manufacturers are vying for the same demographic—has necessitated a paradigm shift. "Consumers today are highly informed. In the Rp600 million bracket, they are not merely looking for a battery-powered car; they are looking for a cohesive experience. Our goal with the Deepal S07 is to bridge the gap between high-tech performance and the refined comfort expected of a premium vehicle," Surya stated.

Design Philosophy: Tech-Sporty Aesthetics

The exterior design of the Deepal S07, branded as "Tech-Sporty," reflects a departure from the boxy aesthetics of traditional SUVs. The vehicle features a low-slung, wide-body stance that prioritizes aerodynamics. Key design elements include frameless doors and flush pop-out door handles, features typically reserved for high-end European luxury vehicles. The inclusion of 20-inch alloy wheels, paired with premium performance tires, underscores the vehicle’s intent to offer a sporty driving dynamic without compromising road presence.

Beyond aesthetics, the exterior is designed for utility. The powered tailgate allows for seamless access to the cargo area, catering to the needs of families frequently engaged in urban commuting or weekend getaways. The combination of these features creates a profile that is distinctly modern, signaling a shift toward sleek, futuristic designs in the Indonesian EV market.

Interior Craftsmanship and The Luxury Yacht Concept

Upon entering the cabin, occupants are greeted by what Changan describes as a "Luxury Yacht" design language. The interior architecture focuses on creating a sense of openness and tranquility. The floating center console design eliminates the clutter of traditional transmission tunnels, while hidden air vents maintain a minimalist, clean aesthetic.

The cabin experience is highly customizable, with color schemes available in Shadow Black and Heatwave Orange. Comfort is further enhanced by a 64-color ambient lighting system and a high-fidelity audio system equipped with 14 speakers, designed to provide an immersive auditory experience.

Material quality is a point of emphasis for Changan. The seats are wrapped in premium leather, offering both electrical adjustment and memory functions for both the driver and the front passenger. The sense of space is accentuated by a massive 1,9-square-meter panoramic sunroof. To mitigate the heat common in tropical climates like Indonesia, the sunroof is fitted with an electric sunshade, while the cabin utilizes double-layer sound-insulated glass on the windshield to minimize road and wind noise. Practicality is not overlooked, as the vehicle includes 40W wireless fast charging for mobile devices and a rear-seat touch-controlled air conditioning panel, ensuring comfort for all passengers.

Engineering and Performance Metrics

The Deepal S07 is built on a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) platform, a configuration chosen to optimize handling and acceleration. The electric powertrain allows the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in approximately 7.9 seconds, a figure that remains competitive in the mid-size electric SUV segment.

For families prioritizing long-distance travel, the vehicle’s range is a critical factor. The Deepal S07 offers a range of up to 560 kilometers under the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) testing standard. While real-world range can vary based on driving habits and traffic conditions in cities like Jakarta, the vehicle’s compatibility with DC fast charging stations significantly reduces downtime during long-distance excursions. This charging capability is essential for the long-term viability of EVs in Indonesia, as the government continues to expand the nationwide network of fast-charging infrastructure.

Market Implications and Competitive Analysis

The entry of the Deepal S07 into the Indonesian market creates a notable ripple effect among existing competitors. Brands such as Hyundai, BYD, and MG have already established strong footholds in the EV space. By pricing the S07 at the Rp600 million mark, Changan is positioning itself directly against established mid-size electric crossovers.

Analysts suggest that the success of the S07 will hinge on the robustness of Changan’s after-sales service and the perceived reliability of its battery technology. In the Indonesian context, brand trust is often built through the accessibility of service centers and the long-term durability of the powertrain. Changan’s decision to emphasize "experience-based" features—such as the luxury cabin and advanced driver assistance systems—suggests they are betting on the "lifestyle" value of their vehicles to differentiate themselves from more utilitarian competitors.

Furthermore, the introduction of the S07 comes at a time when the Indonesian government is pushing for higher domestic content requirements (TKDN) for electric vehicles. If Changan can successfully localize production or assembly, it may benefit from further tax incentives, potentially allowing for even more aggressive pricing in the future.

The Broader Context: Indonesia’s EV Transition

The launch of the Deepal S07 is not an isolated event but rather a reflection of a broader industrial trend in Southeast Asia. As Indonesia aims to become a global hub for EV manufacturing and battery production, the presence of more diverse models on the road is vital to shifting consumer sentiment.

Chronologically, the last three years have seen a steady increase in EV model availability. In 2024, the focus was largely on entry-level hatchbacks. By 2025, the market saw an influx of family-oriented MPVs. Now, in 2026, the focus has shifted toward premium SUVs that offer a combination of status, comfort, and range.

The Deepal S07 enters this landscape with a well-rounded package. By prioritizing the "human" element of the driving experience—the quality of the seats, the acoustic insulation, and the intuitive nature of the cabin technology—Changan is addressing the specific pain points of the modern Indonesian urbanite. Whether it is navigating the congestion of the capital or embarking on a long-distance family trip, the S07 is designed to offer a seamless transition from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles to the electric future.

Looking Ahead

As the Indonesian automotive market continues to mature, the competition in the SUV segment will undoubtedly intensify. Manufacturers will need to continue innovating not just in battery chemistry or powertrain efficiency, but in the software-defined features that define modern mobility. The Deepal S07’s arrival serves as a testament to the fact that the electric revolution in Indonesia is no longer just about reducing carbon footprints—it is about elevating the standard of driving for the average family.

Moving forward, stakeholders will be monitoring the sales performance and user feedback of the S07 closely. If the vehicle succeeds in proving its reliability and meeting the high expectations of the Indonesian consumer, it could serve as a blueprint for other manufacturers looking to penetrate this rapidly evolving market. With the combination of a 560km range, luxury-focused interiors, and a competitive price point, Changan’s latest endeavor is a significant step forward in the country’s collective journey toward sustainable and premium mobility.

September 29, 2026 0 comment

Education

Hope Amid Uncertainty: Depok Community Holds Fifth Night of Prayers as Search Enters Critical Seventh Day for Missing Journalists in Sunda Strait

by Evan Lee Salim September 14, 2026

written by Evan Lee Salim

DEPOK — As the official search and rescue operation entered a critical juncture, residents of Perumansa Asri Cinangka in Sawangan, Depok, gathered once again at the Al Wafa Mosque on Monday night, September 14, 2026. This solemn gathering marked the fifth consecutive night of communal prayers held by local residents to seek divine intervention and safety for Yudistiro Pranoto, a senior journalist with iNews, alongside four other reporters and the vessel’s crew members who remained unaccounted for following a communication blackout in the treacherous waters of the Sunda Strait.

The maritime tragedy, which unfolded while the media crew was actively reporting on the heightened volcanic activity of Mount Anak Krakatau, has sent shockwaves through the Indonesian journalistic community and the local neighborhood where Mr. Pranoto resides. Monday evening’s prayer service coincided precisely with the seventh day of intensive search and rescue (SAR) operations conducted by a joint multi-agency task force. Among the congregation were Mr. Pranoto’s wife, Diah Nasution, and their young son, Kenzie Hafizan Pranoto, who participated in the religious rituals alongside their neighbors with profound resilience and quiet grief.

Chronology of the Sunda Strait Incident

The unfolding crisis began over a week prior, when a specialized reporting team embarked on a maritime assignment to document the geological awakening and eruption phases of Mount Anak Krakatau, one of Indonesia’s most volatile and closely monitored stratovolcanoes situated in the Sunda Strait between the islands of Java and Sumatra. Media organizations routinely deploy reporters to capture the raw power of the volcano, providing critical public awareness regarding ash plumes, seismic tremors, and potential maritime hazards.

However, contact with the vessel carrying the five journalists and the ship’s crew was abruptly lost as weather conditions in the strait deteriorated rapidly, characterized by high waves, unpredictable strong currents, and low visibility. Initial attempts by newsroom coordinators to reach the team via satellite communication and mobile networks failed, prompting immediate distress notifications to maritime authorities. The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), working in tandem with the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), marine police, and local volunteer networks, immediately mobilized a large-scale search operation covering vast sectors of the Sunda Strait. Despite deploying specialized vessels, helicopters, and sonar equipment, rough sea states hampered early rescue efforts, extending the anxiety of families waiting ashore.

Community Solidarity and Spiritual Resilience

At the Al Wafa Mosque in Depok, the atmosphere was thick with a mixture of sorrow and unwavering hope. Representatives of the mosque’s management board (DKM) emphasized that the nightly prayer gatherings represent an essential form of spiritual endurance and communal solidarity. Neighbors, friends, and local community leaders have maintained a nightly routine of reciting verses from the Holy Quran, specifically Surah Yasin, while directing their intentions toward the safe return of the missing individuals.

"As we normally do, we recite Surah Yasin with the sincere intention that Allah SWT may still protect them, grant them the opportunity to return safely to our midst, and keep them safe and sound in body and spirit," stated a representative of the Al Wafa Mosque management during the gathering.

The community’s dedication to supporting the Pranoto family reflects the deep bonds forged within the suburban enclave. Despite the psychological toll of the prolonged uncertainty, the residents have vowed to continue their spiritual vigils for as long as necessary. When questioned about how long the community prayer sessions would continue given the logistical limitations of official rescue mandates, the mosque representative offered a philosophical and resolute response: "As for how long these prayers will continue, we do not know; only God knows that. What is clear is that we have made our mortal efforts, we accept this trial with grace, and we pray, but the ultimate decision rests entirely with the Almighty."

Extension of Search and Rescue Operations

The community gathering on Monday night closely followed a critical operational update from the joint SAR command center. Recognizing the vast expanse of the search grid and factoring in oceanic drift models, authorities officially announced a three-day extension for the search and rescue phase. The extension pushes the active search window beyond the standard seven-day protocol, offering a renewed glimmer of hope to the families of the missing journalists and crew.

Under standard Basarnas guidelines, search operations for missing persons at sea typically span seven days, after which operations are scaled back unless significant new leads emerge. However, mounting pressure from press advocacy groups, families, and the public, combined with calculated drift projections by oceanographers, persuaded the unified command to prolong the intensive surface and aerial sweeps. Rescue teams have expanded their search radius toward the coastal peripheries of both the western tip of Java and southern Sumatra, factoring in potential tidal shifts that may have carried debris or survivors toward secluded shorelines.

Broader Implications for Journalist Safety in Hazardous Environments

The disappearance of the five journalists in the Sunda Strait has reignited a profound national conversation regarding occupational safety protocols for media personnel covering natural disasters and high-risk maritime environments. Indonesia, situated along the hyper-active seismic belt known as the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and severe meteorological phenomena. Consequently, reporters are routinely dispatched to the frontlines of natural hazards to keep the public informed.

Media watchdogs, press councils, and journalism unions have increasingly called for stringent risk-assessment frameworks, mandatory safety gear—such as specialized personal flotation devices, emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs), and satellite communication fail-safes—for all reporting teams assigned to offshore or high-risk disaster zones. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical perils journalists routinely navigate in the fulfillment of their constitutional duty to report the news.

As the search enters its extended phase, the nation watches anxiously toward the Sunda Strait. In Depok, the lights of the Al Wafa Mosque remain illuminated into the night, serving as a beacon of persistent hope, community solidarity, and unwavering emotional support for Diah Nasution, young Kenzie, and the families of all the missing souls awaiting news from the sea.

September 14, 2026 0 comment

Technology

AiMOGA Robotics Officially Enters the Indonesian Market with Humanoid and Quadruped Robot Lineups Priced from Rp50 Million to Rp1 Billion

by Ammar Sabilarrohman September 10, 2026

written by Ammar Sabilarrohman

Jakarta, CNN Indonesia — Artificial intelligence and advanced robotics firm AiMOGA Robotics has officially launched its commercial operations in Indonesia, introducing a sophisticated suite of humanoid and quadruped robotic systems tailored for both consumer and enterprise deployment. The market entry was marked by the grand opening of the company’s premier experience store in Jakarta, signaling a strategic push into Southeast Asia’s largest digital economy.

The launch event highlighted two flagship models designed to act as functional assistants and companions: the humanoid robot Mornine and the quadruped robotic companion Argos. With pricing structures starting at approximately Rp50 million for the canine-inspired robotic units and scaling from Rp800 million to Rp1 billion for the advanced humanoid platform, AiMOGA is positioning its products to capture a diverse spectrum of the emerging Indonesian automation market, spanning retail, healthcare, public services, and residential sectors.

Strategic Market Entry and the Jakarta Flagship Launch

The debut of AiMOGA Robotics in Indonesia represents a calculated milestone in the company’s broader global expansion strategy. By establishing a physical experience store in Jakarta, the company aims to bridge the gap between abstract technological concepts and tangible consumer interaction. Industry analysts note that Indonesia’s rapid digital transformation, characterized by a tech-savvy urban population and growing adoption of artificial intelligence across commercial enterprises, makes it an ideal testing ground for high-end robotics.

During the launch proceedings, AiMOGA executives demonstrated the practical capabilities of both Mornine and Argos, emphasizing that the deployment of these machines is intended to augment human labor rather than replace it entirely. The company’s localized launch strategy includes providing hands-on demonstrations for prospective enterprise clients, ranging from hospital administrators and hospitality managers to educational institution heads and security firm directors.

Anatomy and Capabilities of the Mornine Humanoid Platform

Standing at 167 centimeters and maintaining a physical weight of 70 kilograms, the Mornine humanoid robot is engineered to mirror human dimensions while housing a robust architecture of computational hardware. Globally priced around 285,800 yuan, the unit translates to a local retail range of Rp800 million to Rp1 billion when factoring in import logistics, compliance adaptations, and local customer support infrastructure.

At the core of Mornine’s operational intelligence is an advanced multimodal artificial intelligence integration powered by Large Language Models (LLMs). This cognitive backbone is supported by a comprehensive sensor array comprising high-definition optical cameras, precision spatial microphones, and sophisticated 3D LiDAR systems that enable autonomous navigation in dynamic, crowded environments.

According to AiMOGA’s deployment specifications, Mornine is capable of real-time environmental comprehension, allowing it to engage in natural, context-aware interactions with human interlocutors. Its operational utility is structured around roles that demand consistent information delivery and guest reception. Consequently, prime target environments for Mornine include corporate lobbies, shopping mall concourses, museum reception areas, and healthcare reception desks.

Sales and Development Manager Winny Cinthya elaborated on the operational philosophy governing the humanoid’s deployment, characterizing it strictly as a collaborative assistant. "It is more of a human assistant, designed to handle repetitive or mundane tasks that do not necessarily require human cognitive intervention," Cinthya explained during the launch event. "The objective is not to replace human workers, but rather to optimize operational efficiency and assist human personnel in their daily duties."

Versatility Across Industries and Regulatory Compliance

The versatility of the Mornine platform extends across multiple verticals, including public service administration, healthcare assistance, educational instruction, industrial guidance, and security monitoring. In healthcare settings, for instance, the humanoid can streamline patient check-in procedures and direct visitors to specific departments, thereby reducing administrative bottlenecks at reception desks. In educational environments, it can serve as an interactive assistant for presentations and guided facility tours.

To facilitate international deployment and secure enterprise confidence, AiMOGA has subjected its humanoid systems to rigorous international certification protocols. The Mornine platform has successfully attained compliance with the European Union’s Machinery Safety Directive (CE-MD), the EN 18031 standard governing cybersecurity and data protection, and the Radio Equipment Directive (CE-RED). Additionally, the unit has secured Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification from the United States, underscoring its adherence to global safety, data privacy, and electromagnetic compatibility standards.

Argos: The Quadruped Robotic Companion for Daily Life

Complementing the industrial and commercial focus of the humanoid lineup is AiMOGA’s quadruped robotic system, commercially designated as Argos. Priced globally at approximately 15,800 yuan and localized in Indonesia at roughly Rp50 million, the robotic dog is engineered for versatility in domestic and semi-public environments.

Argos is equipped with an integrated suite of sensors, including high-definition cameras, directional microphones, advanced radar systems, built-in speakers, and environmental illumination lamps. The quadruped is programmed to respond intuitively to both voice commands and tactile inputs, allowing for seamless integration into household routines.

The intended use cases for Argos range from recreational companionship and outdoor walking assistance to home security monitoring, child supervision, and assisting users with carrying light parcels. Its ability to navigate uneven terrain and respond to owner cues positions it within the growing consumer robotics segment, which has experienced rising demand globally as pet-robotics technology matures.

Global Footprint and Proven Deployment Scenarios

The introduction of AiMOGA’s products to Indonesia builds upon an established global operational footprint. Prior to its Indonesian market entry, AiMOGA had successfully manufactured and shipped more than 2,000 robotic units worldwide. The company’s hardware and software ecosystems currently operate across more than 60 countries, encompassing hundreds of real-world deployment scenarios.

These deployments span diverse, high-demand sectors such as automotive manufacturing plants, where robotic assistants aid in logistics and guided tours; medical service facilities, where they manage patient inquiries and material transport; and various commercial enterprises utilizing automated guidance systems. This extensive operational history provides a reliable performance baseline as the company introduces its technology to the Indonesian market.

Broader Implications for the Indonesian Economy and Workforce

The entry of advanced humanoid and quadruped robotics into Indonesia arrives at a critical juncture for the nation’s labor market and digital economy. As Indonesia pursues its "Golden Indonesia 2045" vision—which aims to elevate the country into a top-tier global economy through technological innovation and industrial modernization—the adoption of artificial intelligence and robotics is expected to accelerate.

Economists and labor experts note that while the introduction of service robotics raises initial questions regarding automation and job displacement, products positioned explicitly as assistants, such as Mornine, tend to ease the transition toward human-machine collaboration. By absorbing routine, repetitive tasks, such systems can potentially allow human workers to focus on higher-value activities requiring complex problem-solving, empathy, and strategic decision-making.

Furthermore, the presence of physical experience stores like AiMOGA’s new Jakarta hub democratizes public exposure to advanced automation technologies, demystifying artificial intelligence for local businesses and consumers alike. As local enterprises evaluate the cost-benefit ratios of adopting Rp50 million quadruped units for security and companionship or Rp1 billion humanoid platforms for corporate service delivery, Indonesia’s broader service sector stands poised to undergo a measured evolution in operational efficiency and technological integration.

September 10, 2026 0 comment

Travel

Ford Ranger Super Duty 6×6 Enters Military Race as British Army Prepares for Massive Fleet Overhaul

by Nila Kartika Wati September 10, 2026

written by Nila Kartika Wati

The global defense landscape is witnessing a fascinating convergence of commercial automotive engineering and military-grade tactical requirements. In a strategic maneuver that bridges the gap between mass-produced civilian trucks and rugged battlefield utility vehicles, a powerful industrial triumvirate has emerged to pitch a militarized variant of the popular pickup truck. Ford, operating in close collaboration with General Dynamics Land Systems UK (GDLS UK) and renowned engineering consultancy Ricardo, has officially put forward a compelling proposal to the British Ministry of Defence. At the heart of this high-stakes pitch is the Ford Ranger Super Duty, specifically re-engineered to meet the demanding parameters of the British Army’s Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) program.

This ambitious procurement initiative represents a generational shift in how the United Kingdom equips its armed forces for modern expeditionary warfare, peacekeeping missions, and domestic security operations. The joint venture’s submission is not merely a cosmetic modification of a standard dealership vehicle; it is a comprehensive, purpose-built tactical platform available in both conventional 4×4 and advanced 6×6 configurations. Most notably, the development of a specialized six-wheeled prototype based directly on the newly minted Ranger Super Duty platform highlights the extreme engineering lengths to which the partnership is willing to go to secure this lucrative defense contract. As legacy military fleets age and face obsolescence, the entry of a commercial giant like Ford into the defense sector signals a broader industry trend toward commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) solutions adapted for specialized military use.

Background Context of the British Army Fleet Overhaul

To fully understand the significance of the Ford, GDLS UK, and Ricardo proposal, one must examine the operational state of the British Army’s current light utility fleet. For decades, the backbone of tactical transport, liaison duties, and light logistical support across the British Armed Forces has relied heavily on iconic vehicles such as the Land Rover Defender and the stalwart Steyr-Puch Pinzgauer. While these vehicles earned legendary reputations for mechanical simplicity and go-anywhere capability during an era defined by conventional conflicts and colonial-style policing, the nature of modern warfare has fundamentally changed.

Contemporary military operations demand higher payloads, advanced ballistic and blast protection, sophisticated electronic architecture to support modern battlefield management systems, and significantly higher levels of reliability and crew comfort. The legacy Land Rover Defender variants currently in service—many of which have undergone multiple mid-life updates and extensive operational deployments in hostile environments like Iraq and Afghanistan—are now approaching the absolute limits of their structural fatigue lives and technological relevance. Similarly, the Steyr-Puch Pinzgauer fleet, while uniquely capable in extreme off-road terrain, suffers from mounting maintenance burdens, scarcity of specialized replacement parts, and an inability to integrate modern digital command-and-control systems seamlessly.

Recognizing this capability gap, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) established the Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) procurement framework. This program is a vital component of a broader modernization strategy designed to ensure that British service personnel are equipped with agile, highly mobile, and easily supportable assets capable of operating in diverse global theaters, from the Arctic circle to arid desert environments. The stakes for participating defense contractors are extraordinarily high, as winning the LMV tender secures a multi-decade relationship with one of Europe’s premier military forces and establishes a powerful reference point for international defense exports.

Procurement Timeline and Financial Scope

The financial magnitude of the British Army’s fleet modernization initiative cannot be overstated. The overarching modernization effort is anchored by a massive defense funding allocation valued at approximately £4.8 billion. Within this broader budgetary framework, the Light Mobility Vehicle program specifically targets the acquisition of up to 2,500 new light utility vehicles. These platforms are intended to completely supplant the aging Land Rover Defender and Steyr-Puch Pinzgauer fleets across all branches of the British Armed Forces by the target completion year of 2030.

The procurement schedule is structured with rigorous milestones designed to test the limits of competing vehicle designs before a final production contract is awarded. Following the initial expression of interest and detailed proposal submissions, the formal evaluation phase is scheduled to take place between October 2026 and January 2027. During this critical window, military evaluators, technical experts from the Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) agency, and active-duty soldiers will subject the competing prototypes to grueling automotive and tactical trials. These tests will evaluate mobility over extreme terrain, ease of maintenance under field conditions, payload capacity, electromagnetic compatibility, and structural durability.

Following the conclusion of the evaluation phase in early 2027, the MoD is expected to select a preferred bidder, paving the way for low-rate initial production, extensive testing of production-standard units, and a phased rollout leading up to the 2030 deadline. For Ford and its industrial partners, the timeline provides a structured runway to refine the Ranger Super Duty 4×4 and 6×6 prototypes, ensuring that mass-production readiness aligns precisely with the military’s fielding schedule.

The Competitive Landscape

Entering the LMV competition is no trivial matter, as the Ford-GDLS UK-Ricardo alliance faces formidable opposition from deeply entrenched defense contractors and established automotive players vying for the lucrative £4.8 billion modernization pie. Among the primary competitors is the veteran-heavy Land Rover Defender Wolf Series II, a modern iteration that attempts to leverage the deep historical affinity and institutional familiarity that the British Army holds for the Land Rover brand. Proponents of the Wolf Series II argue that maintaining brand continuity reduces training overhead and simplifies logistical integration with existing infrastructure.

In addition to Land Rover derivatives, the competition features robust rivalries from other major automotive conglomerates. General Motors (GM), through its specialized defense division, has signaled active interest, leveraging its extensive portfolio of global truck architectures and proven military adaptations such as the Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) developed for the United States Army. Furthermore, Ineos Automotive—maker of the rugged Grenadier SUV, which was expressly designed to fill the philosophical void left by the discontinuation of the original Land Rover Defender—represents another potent domestic and international challenger.

To stand out in such a crowded and competitive field, the Ford Ranger Super Duty consortium has adopted a multifaceted strategy emphasizing commercial scalability, modern digital integration, and multi-configuration flexibility. By offering both a standard 4×4 variant and an extraordinary 6×6 version, the team aims to cover a wider spectrum of military requirements—from standard command-and-control liaison tasks to heavy weapon platforms, casualty evacuation, and specialized logistical support roles.

Engineering the Military Ranger Super Duty: 4×4 and 6×6 Configurations

The technical foundation of the proposal rests upon the Ford Ranger Super Duty, a heavy-duty commercial truck platform designed from the ground up for grueling work environments. By taking this robust commercial baseline, the engineering team has bypassed the immense financial costs and protracted development timelines associated with designing a tactical vehicle entirely from a blank sheet of paper. Instead, they have applied specialized military hardening, suspension upgrades, powertrain enhancements, and structural reinforcement to a proven, globally supported chassis.

The standard 4×4 variant offers exceptional payload capacity and towing capabilities, serving as a reliable workhorse for troop transport, command duties, and light supply runs. However, the crown jewel of the proposal is undeniably the 6×6 prototype. The integration of a third driven axle fundamentally transforms the vehicle’s operational envelope. By distributing vehicle weight across six wheels instead of four, the 6×6 configuration drastically reduces ground pressure, enabling the truck to traverse extremely soft soils, deep mud, fine sand, and snow-covered terrain where conventional four-wheel-drive vehicles might bog down.

Furthermore, the extended chassis and dual-rear-axle setup significantly expand the usable cargo bed area and increase the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This additional capacity is vital for modern military operations, allowing the vehicle to carry heavy communication suites, electronic warfare equipment, extra fuel and water supplies, or specialized mission modules without compromising mobility or exceeding safety margins. Ricardo, renowned for its powertrain engineering and systems integration expertise, has worked closely with Ford to ensure that the heavy-duty diesel engines and transmission systems are optimized for the demanding duty cycles and varied fuel qualities encountered in global military deployments.

Official Responses and Industry Perspectives

While the formal evaluation trials are still months away from commencing, representatives from the participating corporate entities have expressed immense confidence in the joint proposal, highlighting the strategic alignment between commercial industrial capacity and sovereign defense requirements. General Dynamics Land Systems UK, a company with a stellar reputation for delivering tracked and wheeled armored fighting vehicles to the British Army, has taken a leading role in framing the narrative around the collaboration.

According to statements released by GDLS UK, the tripartite partnership represents a uniquely balanced solution that is thoroughly tested, easily scalable, and remarkably cost-effective. Company executives emphasize that by utilizing a heavily produced commercial vehicle as the baseline, the MoD can insulate itself from the exorbitant research and development costs typically associated with bespoke military vehicle programs. This commercial-off-the-shelf approach drastically streamlines the supply chain, ensuring that spare parts are readily available globally and that maintenance procedures align with standard automotive repair practices, thereby reducing the burden on military technicians.

Moreover, defense analysts have pointed out that a successful selection of the Ford Ranger Super Duty by the British Army could catalyze significant export opportunities. Allied nations operating within NATO and global partner states frequently seek cost-effective, easily maintainable utility vehicles that benefit from established global dealership and service networks. If the UK adopts the platform, it could create a standardized logistics footprint across multiple international jurisdictions, enhancing coalition interoperability.

Broader Economic and Strategic Implications

The decision facing the British Ministry of Defence transcends mere automotive procurement; it carries profound implications for domestic manufacturing, taxpayer value, and long-term national security resilience. With defense budgets under constant public scrutiny, government officials are under immense pressure to maximize the purchasing power of every pound allocated from the public purse. The Ford-GDLS UK-Ricardo proposal is explicitly tailored to address this economic reality by promising high value for UK taxpayers.

Because Ford maintains a substantial industrial and commercial footprint in the United Kingdom, and given that engineering partners like Ricardo and GDLS UK operate extensive facilities within the country, the program holds the potential to sustain and create skilled engineering and manufacturing jobs domestically. Proponents argue that investing in a modified commercial platform allows for localized assembly, custom outfitting, and rapid turnaround on maintenance contracts, directly supporting the UK’s industrial base.

From a strategic standpoint, the integration of commercial technologies into military fleets reflects a broader evolution in defense acquisition policy known as "spiral development" and commercial adaptation. Modern commercial trucks like the Ford Ranger are already equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, sophisticated telematics, high-capacity electrical charging architectures, and ergonomic cabins designed to reduce operator fatigue over long missions. By harnessing these commercial innovations, modern militaries can field capabilities much faster than traditional defense procurement cycles would otherwise permit.

As the countdown to the October 2026 evaluation window ticks forward, all eyes will be on the proving grounds where the Ford Ranger Super Duty 4×4 and 6×6 will lock horns with rival contenders. The outcome of these rigorous trials will not only dictate the physical appearance of the British Army’s transport fleet for the next several decades but will also serve as a landmark case study in the viability of commercial platforms operating at the sharp end of military capability.

September 10, 2026 0 comment

Technology

Apple Enters the Foldable Market with iPhone Duo, Sparking Immediate Industry Backlash and Competitor Satire

by Ali Ikhwan September 10, 2026

written by Ali Ikhwan

Apple Inc. has officially entered the foldable smartphone arena with the highly anticipated launch of its first dual-screen device, the iPhone Duo. Unveiled during the annual Apple Event alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, the new device represents a significant strategic pivot for a company that has historically watched from the sidelines while competitors pioneered and iterated on foldable technology for years. As expected, the introduction of a product that directly challenges established foldable giants immediately drew global attention, capturing headlines not only for its technical specifications and premium pricing strategy but also for the swift, pointed wave of sarcasm and critique it elicited from industry rivals, most notably Samsung and Motorola.

The launch of the iPhone Duo marks a watershed moment in the evolution of modern consumer electronics. For nearly a decade, Android manufacturers—led aggressively by South Korean conglomerate Samsung—have iterated through numerous generations of foldable hardware, attempting to transition the form factor from an expensive, niche novelty into a mainstream consumer category. Apple’s entry legitimizes the foldable market in a way that few other brands could achieve, validating the form factor for millions of loyal consumers globally. However, the timing and execution of the launch also triggered immediate competitive friction, showcasing the fierce rivalry that defines the upper echelons of the global smartphone industry.

Chronology of Events: From Social Media Teasers to Official Unveiling

The drama surrounding the iPhone Duo began unfolding hours before Apple executives took the stage at the Steve Jobs Theater. The digital skirmish was inadvertently kicked off by the popular language-learning platform Duolingo, whose official social media team posted a humorous illustration on X (formerly Twitter). The graphic depicted a conceptual foldable smartphone sporting a screen adorned with the familiar Duolingo green owl logo, accompanied by the cheeky caption: "They named a smartphone after my name and made it bendable."

While the post was ostensibly a playful marketing stunt leveraging the brand’s viral social media persona, netizens quickly connected the dots, speculating that the illustration was an inside nod to the rumored Apple foldable device slated for revelation later that day.

Capitalizing on the viral momentum, Samsung’s official United States arm, Samsung Mobile US, swiftly chimed in on the thread. In a post published on Thursday evening (Sept. 10) just as the tech world braced for the Apple Event, the company wrote, "So sorry, @Duolingo. They copied us too #Solidarity." The calculated jab sought to frame Apple’s long-awaited foray into foldable technology not as an act of groundbreaking innovation, but as a belated imitation of features Samsung had been offering for years through its Galaxy Z series.

The cross-platform campaign did not stop at text-based banter. As the Apple Event streamed live to millions worldwide, Samsung’s Canadian subsidiary escalated the rivalry by publishing a seven-second video on Instagram. The clip showcased the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 paired with the classic, provocative tagline: "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." The synchronization of the post with Apple’s keynote presentation left no room for ambiguity regarding the target of Samsung’s marketing strategy.

Motorola, another key player with a rich heritage in foldable design via its Razr lineup, similarly joined the fray through its United States Instagram channel. Motorola published a retrospective video tracing the visual and structural evolution of the Razr series from its early clamshell generations to its modern ultra-thin iterations. The accompanying caption read, "That feeling when you close your phone, and your Razr reveals everything you didn’t get to say. Someone just figured it out. We’ve been perfecting it. Just wait for our next move." The post served as a subtle reminder that Motorola—and by extension its parent company Lenovo—helped define the vertical fold factor long before Apple conceptualized the Duo.

Technical Specifications and Pricing Structure of the iPhone Duo

Beneath the marketing crossfire, the iPhone Duo arrives equipped with flagship hardware designed to justify its positioning at the pinnacle of the market. Powered by Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chipset, the device features a dual-screen configuration engineered to bridge the gap between traditional slab smartphones and tablet-sized productivity tools.

The iPhone Duo incorporates a 5.4-inch external cover display, which functions as a standard smartphone interface when the device is fully closed. According to Apple’s official presentation specifications, this outer display accounts for approximately 90 percent of the usable screen area found on the standard iPhone 18 Pro, ensuring that users do not feel constrained when interacting with notifications or quick tasks on the go.

When unfolded, the device reveals a expansive 7.6-inch internal display. This main panel offers roughly 50 percent more screen real estate than the display found on the oversized iPhone 18 Pro Max. Apple engineers have integrated a consistent aspect ratio across both the inner and outer screens, allowing applications and media content to scale seamlessly and without visual distortion as the user transitions from folded to unfolded states. For imaging, the iPhone Duo relies on a versatile dual 48-megapixel camera system, paired with advanced computational photography features optimized for the unique folding form factor.

Positioned firmly as a luxury tier product, the iPhone Duo carries a starting retail price of US$1,999 (approximately Rp34.999 million based on standard currency conversions). While Apple has confirmed that the device is slated for an official rollout in the Indonesian market, local consumers and authorized resellers must wait for subsequent announcements regarding exact launch dates and regional pricing structures.

Industry Analysis: Flattery Versus Functional Superiority

Public and expert reactions to the iPhone Duo have been sharply polarized, reflecting deep divisions within the tech community regarding innovation velocity versus refinement. While competitors like Samsung and Motorola have leveraged social media to highlight Apple’s late arrival to the foldable sector, independent industry analysts and high-profile commentators have offered differing perspectives on the long-term implications of the launch.

Among the most vocal defenders of Apple’s design philosophy was prominent industry insider and leak specialist @IceUniverse, who took to X on Thursday to dismiss Samsung’s hardware advantage. In a series of posts, the commentator argued that Apple’s proprietary software engineering and transition animations far surpass anything currently available on competing Android foldables.

"The transition animations of the iPhone Duo are dreamlike. This is a level of elegance that Samsung will never surpass," @IceUniverse wrote. The analyst went further, issuing a stark assessment of the competitive landscape: "I’ll even say this to Samsung: you guys better just give up in the foldable phone market. You no longer have a chance."

While such proclamations may overstate the immediate vulnerability of Samsung—which retains a massive global supply chain and extensive market penetration in the foldable space—they highlight a persistent historical trend in consumer technology. Historically, Apple has frequently entered existing product categories years after competitors established them, utilizing its vertically integrated ecosystem, software optimization, and brand equity to redefine consumer expectations and capture dominant market share.

Broader Market Implications and Future Outlook

The launch of the iPhone Duo and the subsequent reactions from Samsung, Motorola, and independent observers signal a mature phase in the global smartphone industry. The foldable market, once dismissed as an expensive experiment plagued by durability concerns and high manufacturing costs, has now entered the mainstream spotlight.

For Samsung, the entry of Apple validates years of heavy research, development, and marketing expenditure aimed at convincing consumers that foldable displays represent the future of mobile computing. However, it also introduces an existential threat to Samsung’s market leadership. With Apple now occupying the ultra-premium foldable segment, Samsung will face intense pressure to accelerate its own hardware innovation, particularly regarding crease reduction, structural thinness, and software multitasking capabilities.

For Motorola and other Android manufacturers, the presence of Apple validates the clamshell and book-style foldable formats, potentially driving broader consumer adoption that will lift the entire category rather than penalize individual brands. As supply chains adapt to the increased demand for ultra-thin glass, advanced hinge mechanisms, and dual-screen optimization, the next few years will likely see rapid iteration across all major ecosystems.

Ultimately, whether the iPhone Duo proves to be an industry-defining masterpiece or merely a late contender in an established race will depend on consumer reception once the device reaches global retail shelves. What remains indisputable is that the foldable wars have officially entered a new, high-stakes chapter, with the industry’s biggest players locked in a battle not just over hardware specifications, but over the very definition of modern mobile design.

September 10, 2026 0 comment

Technology

Apple Officially Enters the Foldable Market with the Global Launch of the iPhone Duo Alongside the iPhone 18 Pro Series in Cupertino

by Neng Nana September 9, 2026

written by Neng Nana

Apple has officially marked a monumental milestone in its hardware evolution by unveiling its very first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, during a highly anticipated global launch event held at Apple Park in Cupertino, California. Broadcast live across the globe on Thursday, September 10, the showcase signified a major strategic shift for the technology titan as it steps into the fiercely competitive foldable device sector, long dominated by rivals such as Samsung, Google, and various Chinese manufacturers.

The unveiling was led by Apple’s newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, John Ternus, who stepped onto the Steve Jobs Theater stage to host the event titled "Surprise and Shine." The midnight broadcast (00.00 WIB) captured the attention of millions of tech enthusiasts, analysts, and investors eager to see how Apple would reinvent a form factor that has been refined by competitors over the better part of a decade.

"We are introducing a series of extraordinary innovations that we firmly believe will redefine the foldable phone experience," Ternus declared during the keynote address, before pulling the long-rumored device from his pocket to reveal the final hardware design. "Inha, iPhone Duo," he announced, using the product’s official moniker, correcting earlier industry speculation that had tentatively dubbed the device the iPhone Ultra.

The debut of the iPhone Duo did not happen in isolation. Apple paired the foldable flagship with the introduction of its mainstream high-end tier, the iPhone 18 Pro series, which includes the standard iPhone 18 Pro and the larger iPhone 18 Pro Max. In a notable departure from its traditional release schedules, Apple announced that the iPhone 18 series would roll out in two distinct waves. The Pro lineup and the foldable iPhone Duo lead the charge this September, while the base-model iPhone 18 variants are slated for a separate release window in early 2027.

Design and Display Engineering

The hardware architecture of the iPhone Duo reflects years of internal research and development aimed at overcoming the traditional pain points of foldable devices, such as visible creases and structural durability. When closed, the iPhone Duo functions much like a standard smartphone, featuring an outer OLED display measuring approximately 5.5 inches. This makes the device comfortable for single-handed navigation, messaging, and quick checks of notifications.

However, unfolding the device reveals a sprawling internal display measuring roughly 7.8 inches. Apple engineers designed the internal aspect ratio to closely mirror the landscape orientation of an iPad mini, providing a tablet-like canvas for productivity and media consumption. To support this expanded screen real estate, Apple incorporated a suite of advanced multitasking features into iOS, allowing users to run multiple applications side-by-side, drag and drop content seamlessly, and utilize specialized split-screen workflows.

In a departure from the biometric security standards seen on recent flagship iPhones, the iPhone Duo bypasses Face ID in favor of a dedicated Touch ID fingerprint sensor integrated into the physical power button on the side of the chassis. Industry insiders suggest this design decision was driven by the complex spatial constraints of the folding hinge mechanism and the desire to maintain a seamless, uninterrupted viewing experience on the internal display without the distraction of a camera cutout or dynamic island housing facial recognition sensors.

Performance and Photographic Capabilities

Beneath the folding glass chassis, the iPhone Duo shares silicon pedigree with its non-folding siblings. The device is powered by Apple’s cutting-edge A20 Pro processor, built upon an advanced 2-nanometer fabrication node. This state-of-the-art chip architecture delivers unprecedented computational efficiency and graphical processing power, ensuring that the device can manage the demanding thermal and processing requirements of driving two distinct displays simultaneously.

In the photography department, Apple has opted for a streamlined dual-camera system on the rear panel of the iPhone Duo. While traditional slab-style flagships often boast triple-camera arrays, the engineering constraints of a folding chassis required a more compact optical assembly. Despite housing two lenses rather than three, Apple promises professional-grade image processing capabilities, leveraging the neural engine of the A20 Pro to deliver exceptional low-light performance, cinematic video stabilization, and computational photography features tailored specifically to the unique angles made possible by a foldable body.

Pricing and Global Availability

The entry barrier for Apple’s inaugural foldable device reflects its position as an ultra-premium luxury product within the consumer electronics market. The iPhone Duo carries a starting retail price of $1,999 (approximately Rp35 million), placing it directly in line with top-tier foldable competitors from rival ecosystems.

Pre-orders for the iPhone Duo and the iPhone 18 Pro series begin immediately following the keynote, with initial retail shipments expected to arrive in consumers’ hands before the end of September. Regional availability will roll out in phases, with major markets in North America, Europe, and Asia receiving priority stock.

Strategic Implications and Market Impact

The entry of Apple into the foldable smartphone market carries profound implications for the global mobile industry. For years, analysts questioned whether Apple would ever embrace a form factor that many consumers viewed as a niche gimmick. By throwing its considerable manufacturing weight, brand loyalty, and software ecosystem behind the iPhone Duo, Apple has effectively legitimized the foldable category for the mainstream consumer market.

Market research firms anticipate that the launch will trigger a significant wave of upgrades among existing high-end smartphone users who have been waiting for an Apple-branded foldable before abandoning traditional slab designs. Furthermore, the decision to stagger the release of the standard iPhone 18 models to early 2027 underscores Apple’s strategic intent to insulate its flagship holiday sales window, ensuring that consumer attention remains firmly concentrated on its highest-margin devices: the Pro lineup and the groundbreaking iPhone Duo.

As supply chains ramp up production and early reviews begin to evaluate the durability of Apple’s proprietary hinge design and the practical utility of the 7.8-inch internal display, the tech industry watches with bated breath. The launch of the iPhone Duo is not merely the introduction of a new product; it is the dawn of a new era for mobile computing, one where the boundaries between smartphone and tablet continue to dissolve under the weight of relentless innovation.

September 9, 2026 0 comment

Property

Indonesia Enters a New Era of Mineral Sovereignty and Downstream Integration Through Strategic Copper and Precious Metals Development

by Lina Irawan September 9, 2026

written by Lina Irawan

Jakarta, CNN Indonesia — Indonesia is currently navigating a pivotal transition in the management and utilization of its vast mineral resources. The country’s primary objective has evolved far beyond the traditional export of raw commodities; it now centers on ensuring that strategic minerals serve as an unbreakable foundation for industrial resilience, substantial value creation, and enduring national economic sovereignty. At the heart of this transformation is copper, a critical element underpinning modern global technology, electrification, and the worldwide transition toward renewable energy.

As global economies accelerate their journey toward net-zero emissions, electric vehicles (EVs), advanced power grids, and high-tech electronics, the demand for copper has skyrocketed. In this shifting geopolitical and economic landscape, securing domestic control over critical mineral resources and their respective supply chains has become an indispensable component of national security. For Indonesia, maintaining a majority stake through the State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) holding for the mining industry, MIND ID, in PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) stands as a monumental strategic milestone. This ownership structure guarantees that the wealth generated from national copper reserves directly bolsters the domestic economy while maximizing long-term benefits for the populace.

The Evolution of Downstream Processing: Beyond Extraction

Indonesia’s commitment to downstream industrialization does not stop at raw mineral extraction and basic copper smelting. PT Freeport Indonesia has aggressively expanded its operational capabilities by constructing and operating the state-of-the-art Precious Metal Refinery (PMR) located in Gresik, East Java. This specialized facility is engineered to process anode slime—a valuable by-product generated during the refining of copper concentrate—and transform it into high-purity precious metals, notably gold and silver.

The PMR facility boasts an impressive annual production capacity of approximately 50 tons of gold and 200 tons of silver. By establishing this refinery, Indonesia has successfully extended its mineral value chain domestically, capturing margins that were previously lost when raw or semi-processed materials were shipped overseas. Furthermore, this localized refining capacity opens up unprecedented opportunities for domestic manufacturing sectors to source high-grade raw materials directly from within the archipelago.

Strategic Synergy: The Partnership Between PTFI and ANTAM

The tangible economic benefits of this vertical integration materialized vividly in February 2025. During this period, PTFI successfully completed a landmark shipment of 125 kilograms of 99.99% purity gold bullion, directly produced by its Gresik PMR facility, to state-owned precious metals enterprise PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (ANTAM). This initial delivery carried an estimated market value of approximately Rp207 billion.

This transaction is far from an isolated event; it represents the execution of a comprehensive commercial agreement previously forged between PTFI and ANTAM. Under the terms of this strategic pact, ANTAM is slated to purchase up to 30 tons of gold annually from PTFI. This domestic off-take agreement ensures that Indonesia’s national gold production reinforces state reserves and supplies the domestic jewelry and investment markets without relying heavily on foreign intermediaries.

Selly Adriatika, Head of Institutional Relations at MIND ID, emphasized that this cross-subsidiary integration embodies the holding company’s overarching strategy to construct a cohesive and mutually supportive mineral value chain among its diverse corporate family members.

"MIND ID does not view each asset and operating company as an isolated entity operating in a vacuum," Selly stated in a written release. "We systematically integrate the resources and operational capabilities of our holding members so that they can mutually support one another. This ensures that our processed mineral outputs can be seamlessly channeled into the national industrial supply chain, generating compounding value-added benefits directly within our domestic borders."

Addressing Domestic Market Demands and Global Trends

The timing of this integration aligns perfectly with the burgeoning domestic demand for precious metals in Indonesia. According to recent market data compiled by the World Gold Council, consumer demand for gold bars and coins within Indonesia reached 31.6 tons, while domestic consumption dedicated to the jewelry sector touched 16.6 tons. Combined, these two primary segments demand approximately 48.2 tons of gold annually—a figure that closely approaches the maximum annual output capacity of PTFI’s PMR facility.

Selly noted that fortifying this domestic supply chain becomes increasingly critical as global and local demand for strategic minerals intensifies. Consequently, the ongoing development and expansion of PTFI are deliberately designed not merely to scale up raw production volumes, but to fortify the structural linkages connecting upstream mining, midstream processing, sophisticated refining, and downstream manufacturing industries across the nation.

The operational recovery of the massive Grasberg block cave mine, alongside the full optimization of the PTFI Gresik Smelter complex, holds immense strategic significance within this broader national framework. These facilities dictate not only the baseline volume of copper output that Indonesia can command, but they also dictate the nation’s capacity to extract, isolate, and refine valuable secondary minerals and chemical derivatives. By keeping these complex metallurgical processes onshore, Indonesia ensures that the economic multipliers remain within its borders.

Chronology of Indonesia’s Downstream Mineral Policies

To fully understand the weight of these developments, it is necessary to examine the chronological progression of Indonesia’s mineral resource governance over the past decade:

2014: The Indonesian government enacts stringent regulations under the 2009 Mining Law, banning the export of raw unprocessed ores to compel mining companies to build domestic smelters.
2018–2020: Negotiations intensify between the Indonesian government, MIND ID, and Freeport-McMoRan, culminating in MIND ID acquiring a controlling 51.23% equity stake in PT Freeport Indonesia.
2023–2024: Construction phases of major domestic smelting and precious metal refining facilities in Gresik, East Java, reach completion, transitioning into commissioning and initial production phases.
Late 2024–Early 2025: The PTFI Precious Metal Refinery begins commercial-scale output, leading to the landmark February 2025 delivery of 125 kilograms of high-purity gold bullion to ANTAM.

Implications for the National Economy and Future Generations

The systematic integration of state-backed mining assets carries profound macroeconomic implications for Indonesia. For decades, Southeast Asia’s largest economy exported its natural wealth in raw forms, forfeiting the lucrative industrial processes of smelting, refining, and manufacturing to foreign nations. By reversing this paradigm, Indonesia is insulating its economy from external commodity price shocks while simultaneously fostering high-tech domestic industries.

Economists and industry analysts point out that domestic processing creates specialized employment opportunities, drives technology transfer, and builds local engineering expertise. Furthermore, having a secure domestic supply of copper and gold safeguards key sectors such as electrical grid expansion, telecommunications infrastructure, renewable energy installations, and banking reserves against global supply chain disruptions.

Selly reiterated that MIND ID’s ongoing initiatives are designed with a generational perspective in mind, ensuring that non-renewable natural resources translate into sustainable, long-term national prosperity.

"What MIND ID is working on today is an integral chapter in our ongoing journey to build a truly sovereign mining industry," Selly remarked. "We are ensuring that the abundant natural wealth bestowed upon our nation is managed, processed, and developed to the absolute maximum extent for the welfare of the state. Indonesia’s natural resources must act as an economic engine for the generation of today, while simultaneously serving as an unshakeable financial and industrial foundation for generations yet to come."

Through the assertive acquisition of strategic assets, rigorous enforcement of downstream mandates, and deep operational integration among state-owned enterprises, MIND ID continues to redefine Indonesia’s economic identity. The nation’s mineral wealth no longer terminates as a simple exported commodity; instead, it has successfully evolved into a formidable driver of industrial might and sustainable national growth.

September 9, 2026 0 comment

Property

Jakarta Co-Living Market Enters International Investor Radar as Asia Pacific Living Sectors Gain Institutional Momentum

by Basiran July 23, 2026

written by Basiran

The landscape of real estate investment in the Asia-Pacific region is undergoing a significant transformation, with Jakarta emerging as a key focal point for international investors targeting the co-living sector. According to the latest "From Niche to Core: Why APAC Living Sectors are Entering the Mainstream" report released by Knight Frank, institutional capital is increasingly bypassing traditional asset classes in favor of communal, eco-friendly, and flexible housing solutions. While Singapore remains the primary hub for such investments due to its mature regulatory framework and high urban density, the gaze of global fund managers is shifting toward high-growth Southeast Asian markets, specifically Jakarta, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor Bahru.

Co-Living Jakarta Masuk Radar Investor Luar Negeri

This pivot toward the "living sectors"—which encompass co-living, student housing, and senior living—is driven by a combination of demographic shifts, changing workforce dynamics, and the pursuit of resilient yields in an era of economic volatility. The report highlights that the demand for flexible rental housing is no longer a peripheral trend but a central component of urban development strategies across the region’s major gateway cities.

The Strategic Shift Toward Southeast Asian Hubs

For years, the co-living model was viewed as a niche solution for digital nomads or transient students. However, the current data suggests a structural shift in how urban populations consume housing. Kelvin Lim, Executive Chairman of LHN Limited and CEO of Coliwoo Holdings Limited, noted in the report that while Singapore continues to offer a robust pipeline of projects in the short term, the expansion into broader Southeast Asian markets is being pursued with "serious and measured" intent.

The inclusion of Jakarta in this investment radar is particularly noteworthy. As Indonesia’s economic engine, Jakarta possesses the specific demographic markers that institutional investors crave: a massive, youthful population, a burgeoning middle class, and an increasingly mobile workforce. These individuals are moving away from the traditional model of homeownership or long-term unfurnished leases, opting instead for "plug-and-play" living arrangements that prioritize community and convenience over square footage.

Beyond Southeast Asia, the report also identifies high-cost gateway markets like Tokyo, Sydney, and Melbourne as long-term targets. These cities face chronic housing affordability crises and high urban mobility challenges similar to those found in Singapore, creating a fertile environment for co-living operators who can provide high-quality, managed environments at a lower price point than traditional studio apartments.

Demographic Drivers: The Rise of the 20-35 Age Cohort

At the heart of this investment surge is a fundamental change in household composition. Across the Asia-Pacific region, there is a marked increase in single-person households. The report indicates that a significant majority of residents aged 20 to 35 are now opting for smaller, efficient units designed for one or two people, rather than the traditional family-sized homes that dominated the market for decades.

This demographic, often referred to as "Generation Rent," values mobility and social connectivity. In Jakarta, where traffic congestion and long commutes are perennial issues, the appeal of co-living spaces located near central business districts (CBDs) or transit-oriented developments (TODs) cannot be overstated. By choosing co-living, young professionals can live in prime locations that would otherwise be financially out of reach, all while benefiting from a built-in social network.

The Disparity Between Population Weight and Capital Allocation

One of the most compelling arguments for the growth of the living sector in Asia Pacific is the current imbalance in global capital allocation. Despite being home to approximately 60% of the world’s population, the Asia-Pacific residential sector attracted only about 12% of total global institutional fund allocations in 2025.

This discrepancy suggests that the market is severely underserved by institutional capital. As market transparency improves and policy frameworks become more predictable in countries like Indonesia, analysts expect a massive influx of capital. The "institutionalization" of the co-living sector—moving it from fragmented, individual-owned "kos-kosan" (traditional Indonesian boarding houses) to professionally managed, brand-name portfolios—is seen as the next major frontier for real estate developers and REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts).

Supporting data from related industry reports indicates that total property investment in the Asia-Pacific region rose by 15% year-on-year, reaching USD 204 billion for the 12-month period ending in March 2026. This resurgence in momentum signals a return of capital to core assets, with the living sector poised to capture a larger share of this growing pie as investors seek defensive assets with stable cash flows.

The Value Proposition: More Than Just a Room

The co-living model succeeds by deconstructing the traditional apartment and reimagining it as a service. Developers targeting the Jakarta market are positioning their projects to offer a hybrid of private and communal living. Typically, a resident has a private bedroom and bathroom but shares high-end communal areas such as kitchens, lounges, and dedicated coworking spaces.

However, the "secret sauce" of successful co-living operations lies in community programming. Modern operators are not just landlords; they are community managers. Through social events, professional workshops, networking opportunities, and shared activities, these spaces foster a sense of belonging that is often missing in anonymous high-rise apartments. For an international investor, this community aspect translates into higher tenant retention rates and lower vacancy risks.

Economic Efficiency and Affordability Metrics

Affordability remains the primary catalyst for the co-living boom. When compared to traditional studio apartments of similar size and location, co-living residents can realize significant cost savings. The "all-inclusive" pricing model—which covers rent, utilities, high-speed internet, cleaning services, and furniture—eliminates the hidden costs of moving and monthly bill management.

In high-density markets like Sydney, the report finds that co-living can offer savings of up to 20% compared to traditional renting. In Jakarta, while the price points are different, the value proposition remains similar. For a young professional in Sudirman or Kuningan, the ability to pay a single monthly fee for a premium-managed space is often more attractive than dealing with the fragmented costs and maintenance issues associated with older, unmanaged rental stock.

Furthermore, the flexibility of lease terms is a critical factor. Unlike traditional leases that often require a one-year commitment and a significant upfront deposit, many co-living operators offer monthly or even weekly contracts. This flexibility is essential for the modern "fluid" workforce, including expatriates, consultants, and project-based employees who may only need to be in Jakarta for a few months at a time.

Implications for Jakarta’s Urban Development

The rise of co-living has broader implications for Jakarta’s urban fabric. As the city continues to grapple with the challenges of urbanization, co-living offers a way to increase residential density without sacrificing quality of life. It aligns with the government’s push for more efficient land use and the development of transit-oriented hubs.

Moreover, the entry of international players like LHN Limited and Coliwoo signifies a maturing of the local real estate market. The transition from informal rental markets to institutional-grade co-living assets will likely lead to higher standards in building safety, energy efficiency, and tenant rights. This shift also provides a new avenue for local developers to partner with international firms, bringing global best practices in property management to the Indonesian market.

Future Outlook: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

While the outlook is overwhelmingly positive, the path to dominance for the co-living sector in Jakarta is not without hurdles. Regulatory clarity regarding foreign ownership and specific zoning for co-living assets remains a work in progress. Additionally, investors must navigate the nuances of the local market, where traditional "kos-kosan" still provide a low-cost, albeit lower-quality, alternative.

However, the long-term trends are undeniable. As Jakarta enters the global 100-list for premium residential growth—growing by 0.8% in 2025 according to the Knight Frank Wealth Report—the city is proving its resilience. With the Asia-Pacific region viewed as increasingly "investment-worthy" and "resilient," the transition of the living sector from a "niche" interest to a "core" institutional asset class is well underway.

For investors, the message is clear: the demographic weight of Asia, combined with the urban shift toward flexible, communal living, represents one of the most significant real estate opportunities of the decade. Jakarta, with its unique blend of scale, youth, and economic ambition, is perfectly positioned to be a primary beneficiary of this global capital migration. As the industry moves toward 2027 and beyond, the co-living sector will likely redefine the standard for urban habitation in Indonesia’s capital, turning shared spaces into the new gold standard of residential investment.

July 23, 2026 0 comment