Malaysia has banned pork imports from Indonesia to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) following reports from the Food and Agricultural Organization. Deputy Agricultural Minister Sim Tze Tzin emphasized the need for bio-security and urged Malaysians to avoid imported pork products. ASF has affected multiple countries in Southeast Asia since 2018. Indonesian Veterinarian Association chairman Muhammad Munawaroh highlighted the government's reluctance to declare an ASF outbreak due to export concerns, despite significant pig deaths in North Sumatera. ASF is a deadly virus with no vaccine, capable of surviving in processed and frozen meat, leading to high mortality rates in infected pigs.

The article discusses the optimism of major U.S. companies regarding the business outlook in China under the Biden administration, despite uncertainties over trade policies. A survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai showed that a majority of companies are more optimistic and do not expect trade restrictions to increase. Business leaders anticipate more stability in U.S.-China relations and suggest policy priorities for the new administration, including trimming Trump-era tariffs. The article also touches on the U.S. trade deficit, with experts explaining that it is not necessarily negative due to integrated global supply chains. However, tensions with China are expected to persist, particularly over human rights issues. Biden's approach may involve working more closely with European allies and considering the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

The article discusses the economic recession faced by various countries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on the United States, Singapore, South Korea, Germany, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. It highlights the negative growth these countries have experienced, with the U.S. facing its first recession in 11 years, Singapore's worst recession since independence, and South Korea's worst decline since the Asian financial crisis. Germany's economy has also contracted significantly. The article mentions government responses, including stimulus packages and the impact of lockdowns on the economy. It also touches on the potential for recovery, citing the importance of government spending on healthcare and the risks of a second wave of infections. The article concludes with an expert's opinion on the factors that will determine economic recovery post-pandemic.

The Riau Islands, an Indonesian province, is a top destination for marine tourism, with its territory being 95% water. It was the second most visited place by foreign tourists in 2019, offering attractions like Vietnam Village, Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, Penyengat Island, the Blue Lake, and the Barelang Bridge. The Riau Islands Tourism Office aims to surpass the target of 2.4 million overseas travelers in 2020, with the Head of the Office, Boeralimar, suggesting the creation of new tourist spots to attract more visitors.

Cigarettes, particularly traditional kretek, are a major contributor to Indonesia's poverty line, second only to rice. With the tobacco excise increase effective January 1, 2020, there are concerns about its impact on the poverty rate. Statistics show that low-income families spend a significant portion of their income on cigarettes, which could detract from other priorities like education and healthcare. The Statistics Center Agency (BPS) notes a decrease in poverty rates, but the tobacco industry's role in covering healthcare deficits is substantial. Activists urge the government to address tobacco's impact on poverty, while officials believe the price hike will not significantly alter the poverty rate and call for stronger anti-smoking campaigns.

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy is accelerating the development of tourism infrastructure in five super-priority destinations, including Borobudur and Lake Toba. A budget of nearly Rp 11 trillion has been allocated for infrastructure improvements, including roads and hospitals. Key challenges include policy synchronization and inter-departmental coordination. The World Bank representative is optimistic about the sector's growth potential. Other provinces, such as Lampung and East Kalimantan, are also investing in infrastructure to boost tourism, with East Kalimantan looking to diversify from its reliance on non-renewable energy resources.

Indonesia is advancing its solar energy initiatives with state coal miner PT Bukit Asam Tbk developing a solar-based power plant. Despite the country's significant solar potential, current utilization is minimal. Challenges include local component requirements and price caps. Experts suggest learning from countries like India, UAE, and Brazil, which have successfully implemented solar projects through various incentives and policies.

India's decision to ban crude palm oil (CPO) imports from Malaysia, following criticism of India's citizenship law, benefits Indonesia's CPO industry by allowing it to capture a larger market share. Despite the boycott's impact, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahatir Muhammad remains firm on his stance against India's law. Malaysia's CPO exports to India, a significant part of its economy, have dropped, while Indonesia's exports are expected to rise. The European Union's negative sentiment on Indonesia's CPO due to forest loss is noted, but India's large population drives continued demand for plant-based oils.