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.

A traveler from Wuhan, China, was diagnosed with a new strain of coronavirus in Thailand, marking the first case outside China. The virus has been linked to a pneumonia-like disease affecting 59 people in Wuhan. The Wuhan Health Commission identified a seafood market as a potential source. Asian countries are responding with increased airport health screenings, drawing on experience from the SARS outbreak. Experts emphasize the need for further research to understand the virus's transmission and severity.

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo envisions autonomous public transportation in the new capital in East Kalimantan by 2024, starting with driverless buses. Japan-based Softbank Corp, led by Masayoshi Son, is among the international investors interested in supporting this initiative. The government plans to trial electric vehicles in West Java and Bali to prepare for the transition. The readiness of Indonesians for autonomous technology remains a concern, mirroring global apprehensions about self-driving vehicles.

The Indonesian rupiah has strengthened despite US-Iran tensions, opening at Rp 13.730 per US dollar and closing at Rp 13.665, the highest level since February 2018. Analysts had warned of adverse impacts on the global market following Iran's retaliation for the US drone attack that killed General Qasem Soleimani. However, the market did not anticipate a major conflict, and the situation has not de-escalated. The rupiah's performance is attributed to increased capital inflow and positive sentiment from the US-China trade deal. Indonesia's Central Bank Governor Perry Warjiyo noted the low investment risk premium and the currency's resilience.

Papua New Guinea is looking forward to the Border Trade Festival (BTF) as a means to promote commodities from small and medium enterprises, with hopes that Indonesia will hold the event at the border. The BTF was previously held in 2017, and other similar festivals have been organized to stimulate economic growth and creativity in border areas. Economic experts believe that border areas, such as the West Kalimantan Province in Indonesia, have significant potential to contribute to economic growth.

Several countries, possibly including the US, are reportedly unhappy with Indonesia's plan to purchase Russian Su-35 fighter jets. Despite potential threats, Indonesia remains committed to the deal, though a final decision is pending. The Su-35, an advanced multirole fighter jet, has attracted interest from multiple countries. The ongoing US-Russia rivalry in the defense industry is highlighted, with the US imposing sanctions on countries buying Russian arms. Russia, while understanding the competitive landscape, will not pressure Indonesia on its decision.

Indonesia has been contributing to the improvement of the United Nations Security Council's working methods through informal conversations known as 'soft talk,' allowing open discussion of issues. As a non-permanent UNSC member, Indonesia has prioritized constructive approaches and acted as a liaison for sensitive issues. It has co-penned resolutions on Palestine and Afghanistan and is recognized for its significant peacekeeping contributions. Indonesia plans to continue its dual approach of hard and soft tactics in combating terrorism and promoting tolerance and peace.

Indonesia is prepared to face a lawsuit from the European Union at the World Trade Organization over its decision to halt nickel ore exports starting January 1, 2020. The ban aims to refine low-level nickel domestically. The EU's steel industry will be significantly impacted due to limited access to nickel ores. In retaliation, Indonesia has filed a lawsuit against the EU's Renewable Energy Directive II, which discriminates against Indonesia's palm oil. Despite accusations of deforestation, Indonesia maintains that its palm industry complies with sustainability norms. The trade spat may lead Indonesia to shift its palm oil exports to other major importers like China, the US, Russia, Japan, and Egypt.