Indonesia discusses sugar tax delays and clean energy strategies

In Jakarta, discussions have emerged regarding critical national policy directions in Indonesia. The Forum Warga Kota Indonesia (Fakta) has expressed disappointment over repeated delays in implementing a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB). The group argues that these delays neglect public health rights, citing a rise in non-communicable diseases. Data from the 2023 Indonesia Health Survey indicates 47.5 percent of the population consumes sweetened drinks more than once daily, while the International Diabetes Federation reports Indonesia has the fifth-highest number of adults with diabetes globally, totaling 20.4 million people.

Separately, the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) hosted a national discussion forum with the Menabung Air Foundation (MAF) to discuss Indonesia's strategy for reaching 100 GW of clean energy. The forum, opened by MPR RI Deputy Chairman Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, focused on ensuring that the transition to clean energy remains affordable and environmentally sustainable. The MAF emphasized that energy development must provide ecological and social benefits, ensuring that local communities are empowered participants in the transition rather than just passive recipients.