Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 October 2026

Showing 1-500 of 1,355 articles

KDKMP Emerges as a Local Economic Hub, with LPG and Local MSME Products as Mainstays

Meruya Selatan’s KDKMP cooperative outlet combines sales of daily necessities and local MSME products with LPG distribution supplied by Pertamina Patra Niaga. The company says the cooperative network now operates as an LPG outlet across nearly all of Indonesia, with about 33,347 cylinders distributed through it, supporting community access to essential goods and energy.

Governor Bobby Prepares Weather Modification to Reduce Haze in North Sumatra

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution says the provincial government is preparing weather-modification operations to increase rainfall and ease smoke haze affecting the region. The provincial authorities are coordinating with South Sumatra and considering cloud seeding and dry ice, while meteorologists report reduced visibility and advise residents to limit outdoor activity and wear masks.

Indonesian and Australian Marines Hold Keris Woomera 2026 Joint Exercise

Indonesian Navy Marines and the Australian Defence Force conducted an amphibious landing exercise in Situbondo as part of Keris Woomera 2026. The drills aim to improve joint operational capability and coordination across naval, land and air forces, strengthening defence cooperation and supporting regional security.

Commission VII: ANTARA Must Always Remain Relevant to the Times

A House of Representatives Commission VII delegation visited the ANTARA News Agency during its recess, where its chair, Saleh Partaonan Daulay, stressed the agency’s importance in today’s media landscape. He said ANTARA could serve the public by reporting on micro, small and medium-sized enterprise empowerment and poverty alleviation programmes, distributing coverage through its nationwide network.

China’s Foreign Minister Meets Palestinian Foreign Minister, Backs Two-State Solution

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed Beijing’s support for a two-state solution and pledged closer strategic cooperation with Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian during talks in Baku. The meeting came amid continuing violence and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which both sides said must remain an international priority.

East Kalimantan shrimp exports reach 1,722 tonnes in 2026

East Kalimantan exported 1,722.34 tonnes of penaeid shrimp from January to September 2026, generating Rp344.65 billion in foreign-exchange earnings. Shipments went to eight countries, with Japan and the United States among the strongest markets, as provincial authorities work to maintain export quality and competitiveness.

Friday Sermon: Santri Day and Love of the Homeland as Taught by the Prophet

The sermon recalls the role of Muslim clerics and santri in defending Indonesia’s newly declared independence, particularly after the 1945 Jihad Resolution and the Battle of Surabaya. It argues that love of the homeland is consistent with Islamic teachings and notes the government’s recognition of the santri’s contribution through National Santri Day and the 2019 Pesantren Law.

Indonesia says forest fires have not affected staple food supplies

Indonesia’s Trade Ministry says forest and land fires have not disrupted supplies of staple goods or caused significant price increases, with stocks and distribution remaining stable. The ministry is monitoring markets through its local offices and the SP2KP system, particularly in six provinces prioritised for fire management.

North Jakarta Mayor and Military Commander Visit Fire Survivors in Penjaringan

North Jakarta Mayor Hendra Hidayat and local military commander Mohammad Syaifuddin Fanany visited residents displaced by a fire that destroyed 150 homes in Penjaringan, offering humanitarian aid and condolences. Two people died and one firefighter was injured; authorities and aid organisations are continuing recovery support, including psychosocial services, school uniforms and replacement identity documents.

Indonesia proposes five initiatives for ASEAN cooperatives

Indonesia has proposed five priorities for the 2027 ASEAN Centre for the Development of Agricultural Cooperatives Plan of Action, covering digital and AI adoption, climate resilience, youth engagement, membership ageing and linked cooperative databases. The initiatives aim to strengthen productivity, cross-border trade and market access, while advancing regional partnerships and long-term food security.

Wildfires in Six Provinces: Government Deploys 60,000 Personnel

The government has deployed 60,177 personnel to help combat forest and land fires covering 639 hectares across six provinces, particularly in Kalimantan and Sumatra. Ground operations have achieved an average success rate of more than 80 per cent on newly burned areas, alongside aerial water-bombing and weather-modification efforts as the rainy season approaches.

Deputy State Secretary Urges Law Ministry to Review Rules Hindering Prabowo’s Programmes

Deputy State Secretary Bambang Eko Suhariyanto has asked the Law Ministry to identify and align regulations that could obstruct President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes. He said reviews should lead to accountable corrective action with clear deadlines, rather than recommendations that remain on paper.

Peatland and Forest Fire Management a Priority as DPR Urges Support for No-Burn Land-Clearing Equipment

DPR Commission IV member Rina Sa’adah says efforts to prevent forest and land fires in West Kalimantan must protect the environment while safeguarding the livelihoods of traditional farmers. She urges a dialogue-based review of the provincial regulation on customary farming and calls for no-burn land-clearing technology and legal certainty for local communities.

Indonesia tackles graduate jobs crisis through national internship programme

Indonesia’s National Internship Programme, launched in 2025, offers recent graduates six months of workplace experience as the country faces a mismatch between graduate numbers and available formal jobs. The government says about 30 per cent of participants in the first rollout received job offers, while stressing the need for safeguards to prevent internships from substituting for regular employment and for broader job creation.

Gen-Z Courage to Donate Blood Event Held at Islamic University of Malang

BCA’s Gen-Z Berani Donor Darah programme held its third campus event at the Islamic University of Malang, drawing students and staff and collecting hundreds of blood bags. The initiative promotes social responsibility and regular blood donation among young people, as Indonesia’s annual blood requirement is estimated at 5.6 million bags.

Outcry After Lecturer Allegedly Sexually Abuses More Than a Dozen Students at Pasundan University

Students at Pasundan University in Bandung have protested allegations of sexual abuse involving a law faculty lecturer, with student representatives reporting 13 complaints and between four and six suspected perpetrators. The university says it condemns sexual violence and other abuses of power in academic settings, and has said the lecturer concerned will be suspended.

Two Trains Collide at Talang Baru Station in OKU

Two coal trains collided at Talang Baru Station in South Sumatra early on Thursday, derailing or overturning several locomotives and carriages. Two crew members were injured, with no fatalities reported; the cause of one train entering the track occupied by the other remains unknown.

Prabowo Plans to Add 70,000 Forest Rangers, with 21,000 to Be Recruited This Year

President Prabowo Subianto plans to expand the forest ranger force by 70,000, with the government targeting 21,000 recruits this year. The rangers will patrol and educate communities as part of efforts to prevent forest and land fires, alongside restoring peatland ecosystems and prioritising critically degraded peat hydrological units.

Pertamina Employee Salaries in 2026: Directors Could Earn Up to Rp 200 Million

Estimates compiled by Dealls put monthly salaries at Pertamina across a wide range, from Rp 1.76 million for interns to as much as Rp 200 million for directors. The figures are not an official company pay scale, and actual compensation may vary by role, experience, employment status and company policy; employees may also receive a range of benefits.

Wayoli Kanaan Association Seeks Land Titles for Former Lata-Lata Refugees

The Wayoli Kanaan Association is seeking legal certainty over land titles for former Wayoli refugees settled in KAPET Kanaan, North Sulawesi. Its chair says land acquired and transferred by charitable foundations was intended for housing and farming, and alleges that complaints and actions by some parties have delayed the certification process.

Indigenous Papuan Entrepreneurs Become Instructors for New Small Businesses in Nabire

Nabire Regency is involving established Indigenous Papuan entrepreneurs in training newcomers to help sustain skills and develop local small and medium industries. The programme includes 10 training courses with equipment assistance this year and is backed by Rp3.6 billion in special autonomy funds for Indigenous Papuan-owned businesses.

Attorney General’s Office Explains Proposal to Make High Prosecutors’ Posts Equivalent to Three-Star Rank

The Attorney General’s Office says regional high prosecutors’ positions are being proposed for equivalence with a three-star rank under Presidential Regulation No. 45/2026. The change is intended to align their standing with military and police leaders who sit on regional leadership coordination forums (Forkopimda); the arrangement is already in effect for the Jakarta high prosecutor.

Indonesia-Russia Trade Target Set at US$10 Billion as Kadin Engages SMEs and Boosts Investment

Kadin Indonesia is seeking to deepen trade and two-way investment with Russia as the governments aim to double bilateral trade to US$10 billion within five years, from around US$5 billion in 2025. The chamber says small and medium-sized enterprises should share in the gains, and has identified opportunities spanning market access, industrial partnerships, food and energy security, and transport connectivity.

Supreme Court Chief: Drafting New National Criminal Codes Is Only Half the Battle

Supreme Court Chief Justice Sunarto says drafting Indonesia’s new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code is only the first step; the greater challenge will be implementing and enforcing them across the country’s diverse society. He has welcomed a five-institution agreement to synchronise criminal justice procedures, intended to align responsibilities, prevent divergent interpretations and strengthen coordination.

1,813 Flights Affected by Forest and Land Fires as Government Urged to Strengthen Response

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry recorded 1,813 flights affected by forest and land fires between 11 August and 12 October 2026, including delays, cancellations, diversions and returns to origin airports. A House of Representatives member has urged the government to strengthen fire management and ensure passenger safety and protection, stressing that smoke-related disruption also has economic consequences.

Vehicle Carrying 900 Litres of Kerosene Catches Fire in East Jakarta’s Halim

A Suzuki Carry transporting 900 litres of kerosene caught fire in Halim Perdanakusuma after its driver saw sparks coming from the exhaust and crashed into a streetlight pole. Firefighters extinguished the blaze using five fire engines; the cause and the value of the losses are still under investigation.

KPK Also Detains Central Java BPK Chief Alongside Klaten Regent in Sting Operation

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 20 people in a sting operation in Klaten, including Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and the head of the Central Java representative office of the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK). Investigators seized about Rp1 billion in cash and are questioning those detained; the commission has not yet disclosed the suspected offence or their legal status.

Nabire Regency Government allocates Rp350 million to develop Papua batik

Nabire Regency Government has provided batik-making equipment worth about Rp350 million to support an Indigenous Papuan artisan, funded through the Special Autonomy programme. The assistance builds on earlier equipment support and training, with the aim of strengthening local livelihoods and developing distinctive Nabire batik designs rooted in Papuan culture.

KPK Arrests Central Java BPK Chief in Klaten Regent’s Sting Operation

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that Ahmad Luthfi H. Rahmatullah, head of the Central Java provincial office of the Audit Board (BPK), was among those arrested in a sting operation involving Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The KPK says the case concerns alleged bribery in procurement, licensing and other payments, as well as suspected bribery related to the audit of Klaten regency’s financial statements; investigators seized around Rp1 billion in cash.

Tax refunds must balance revenue needs with taxpayers’ rights, says DGT

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says tax refund administration will comply with legal requirements and protect taxpayers’ rights while safeguarding fiscal balance. Refunds totalled Rp198.71 trillion through September 2026, down 38.08% year on year, while tax revenue reached Rp1,607.6 trillion, or 68.2% of the 2026 target.

BGN Deputy Chief Trenggono stresses SPPG standards compliance in Batam

National Nutrition Agency Deputy Chief Trenggono has urged partners operating Free Nutritious Meals kitchens in Batam to comply fully with operational standards, warning that violations will draw sanctions. The programme has reached 579,270 beneficiaries in the Riau Islands, or 85.26% of its target, and provincial officials say it is improving children’s nutrition and supporting efforts to prevent stunting.

Zulhas Hopes Bali Waste-to-Energy Plant Will Be Operating by 2027, Powering 50,000 Homes

Co-ordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan says Bali’s waste-to-energy facility could begin operating in 2027, processing up to 1,500 tonnes of waste a day and supplying electricity to around 50,000 homes. The Denpasar Raya project is also expected to create about 2,000 jobs and forms part of the government’s drive to turn waste into power.

ESDM: PHR’s Siak upstream oil and gas asset auction boosts state revenue

An auction of unused upstream oil and gas assets belonging to Pertamina Hulu Rokan in Siak, Riau, fetched Rp11.01 billion—Rp1.75 billion above the reserve price. The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry said the competitive sale adds to non-tax state revenue and supports transparent management of state assets; its upstream oil and gas asset auctions have generated more than Rp104 billion since 2025 to 30 September 2026.

Traders’ Stalls Demolished as Setu Babakan Area Is Reorganised

Authorities demolished traders’ stalls at Jakarta’s Setu Babakan Betawi Cultural Village as part of efforts to reorganise the site and normalise its drainage channels. The work is intended to preserve waterway function, improve water flow and make the cultural tourism area more comfortable for visitors.

North Korea Says Japan’s Nuclear Submarine Plans Are a Pretext for Arming

North Korea has accused Japan of using plans for nuclear-powered submarines to pave the way for nuclear weapons development with US support. The claim comes amid regional concern over Japan’s military build-up and possible revisions to its national security documents.

Government urges umrah pilgrims to remain vigilant amid Middle East tensions

Indonesia’s minister has urged umrah pilgrims to stay alert, avoid high-risk areas and follow local safety guidance as tensions rise across the Middle East. Direct flights between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia remain safe and on schedule, and the government has imposed no travel ban, while officials recommend non-stop routes and continue coordinating with Saudi authorities.

Indonesian Content Creators Target Southeast Asian Stage as Digital Industry Gains Economic Value

Indonesia’s content-creator industry is increasingly contributing to business, culture, advertising and the creative economy, with social media platforms expanding opportunities for audiences, communities and cross-border collaboration. TikTok is launching its first Southeast Asia Awards, giving Indonesian creators a chance to represent the country regionally; voting for the 2026 nominees runs from 12 to 26 October.

West Manggarai Regent Bans All Department Heads from Travelling out of Town

West Manggarai Regent Edistasius Endi has barred local government department heads from travelling outside the area for several weeks from 19 October, so they can focus on post-earthquake recovery work. He has also ended Friday work-from-home arrangements for civil servants, restoring a five-day office week after judging the policy ineffective and citing work that must be completed before the 2026 budget year ends.

Boy Thohir Receives Baznas Exemplary Muzaki Award

Indonesia’s National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has named businessman Garibaldi “Boy” Thohir one of five recipients of its Exemplary Individual Muzaki award at the 2026 Grand Baznas Awards. The awards recognise contributions to the national zakat ecosystem and are intended to encourage wider public participation in zakat payments.

Malaysia to Continue Using Diplomatic Channels over Haze

Malaysia says it will address the transboundary haze issue with Indonesia through diplomatic dialogue and ASEAN mechanisms, prioritising public health while seeking to preserve bilateral ties. Kuala Lumpur will submit a non-paper at an upcoming ASEAN meeting to strengthen regional cooperation, and has offered assistance with fires, though thick smoke and limited access have hampered operations.

China’s Chongqing City Wants to Offer University Scholarships to Indonesian Transmigrants

Chongqing has proposed scholarships for Indonesian transmigrants to study at universities and vocational institutions, with graduates expected to contribute to development in transmigration areas. Indonesia’s Ministry of Transmigration is also exploring scholarship partnerships and broader cooperation with the Chinese city in agriculture, research and industrialisation.

Attorney General’s Office Says Jakarta Prosecutor’s Office to Be Led by Three-Star Prosecutor

Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office says the head of the Jakarta High Prosecutor’s Office will hold a three-star rank under Presidential Regulation No. 45 of 2026. The change elevates the position in response to the complexity of cases in Jakarta and aligns it with the ranks of the Jakarta Military Regional Commander and the Metro Jakarta Police Chief.

Aptrindo Central Java–DIY Ready to Support Zero ODOL Implementation in 2027

Aptrindo’s Central Java and Yogyakarta branch says it will support the government’s plan to eliminate over-dimension and overloading (ODOL) vehicles from roads from January 2027, using member training and a digital freight information system to monitor vehicles and loads. The government says one in four trucks is currently non-compliant, while freight data integration for the policy is 98 per cent complete.

IIHUS: 2026 Hajj Review Must Lead to Tangible Improvements

The Indonesian Institute for Hajj and Umrah Studies says the 2026 Hajj evaluation must lead to concrete governance and service improvements ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage. Priorities include pilgrims’ health, data accuracy, inter-agency coordination and transparency, while an MP has raised concerns about health eligibility checks and the Hajj Ministry says it is open to feedback.

From 2027, Overseas Crypto Transactions Could Be Tracked by Indonesia’s Tax Authorities

Indonesia will begin exchanging cross-border tax information on crypto assets in 2027 under the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF). The measure is intended to strengthen tax transparency as digital assets move across borders, with officials citing the need for accurate, secure data and noting that Indonesia had more than 23 million digital-asset customer accounts by August 2026.

Merak Customs Seizes 29 Bottles of Alcohol; Owner Says He Acted in Good Faith

The owner of 29 seized bottles of alcohol says he was not given a receipt and is seeking clarification on the seizure paperwork, the goods’ legal status and whether they can be returned. Customs officials gave conflicting accounts over whether a receipt was issued, while the owner also says he was not provided with a copy of his signed examination record.

Pakistan School Roof Collapse Death Toll Rises to 32 Students and One Teacher

A roof collapse at a private school in Peshawar killed 32 students and one teacher, while 45 people were injured, many of them children. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause, with police detaining the school owner and the provincial government forming a committee to examine the incident.

Government targets nickel exports of US$45 billion by 2026

Indonesia is targeting at least US$45 billion in nickel export value in 2026, building on exports of more than US$40 billion in 2025 after the government halted ore exports and expanded domestic processing. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says downstream processing has raised resource value and supported jobs, technology and domestic industry; the government’s wider downstreaming roadmap sets an investment target of US$618 billion by 2040.

BNPB explains how dry ice could help tackle haze from forest and land fires

Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is trialling dry-ice seeding in South Sumatra to disperse dense haze from forest and land fires without relying on rain clouds. Initial reports indicate visibility improved from about 650 metres to 2,800 metres; the trial is scheduled to run until 18 October 2026, after which BNPB will assess whether the method could be used elsewhere.

MP Calls for Dialogue to Resolve Controversy over West Kalimantan Regional Regulation No. 1/2022

Commission IV MP Rina Sa’adah has called for dialogue among central and provincial authorities, legislators, customary leaders, academics and farmers to review West Kalimantan’s 2022 regulation on land clearance for traditional farming. She says any provisions that hinder forest and land-fire control should be addressed through legal mechanisms, while protections for farmers’ rights and local wisdom must be preserved.

Religious Affairs Ministry Promotes Three Strategies to Strengthen Productive Zakat

The Religious Affairs Ministry has outlined three strategies to increase the impact of productive zakat: improving empowerment programmes, strengthening cross-sector collaboration, and making better use of data and digital transformation. The approach aims to help zakat recipients become economically self-reliant, with support extending beyond direct assistance to business development, skills and market access.

Government Supports Cocoa Development in Werianggi–Werabu Transmigration Area to Unlock Local Economic Potential

The Transmigration Ministry is supporting efforts to develop cocoa farming in the Werianggi–Werabu area by connecting local farmers with technical assistance and market opportunities. A University of Indonesia expedition team has facilitated talks between farmers in Werianggi and a cocoa producers’ cooperative, while local and provincial agriculture agencies have expressed willingness to provide support.

PAM Jaya Makes Records Management a Pillar of Corporate Governance

PAM Jaya says systematic records management is essential to accountability, traceable decision-making and orderly business processes. The Jakarta water company received an “AA” or “Very Satisfactory” assessment and was among eight regional state-owned enterprises recognised in the 2026 Jakarta Governor’s Archives Awards.

Indonesia Seeks Japan’s Support for Energy Transition and Infrastructure

Finance Deputy Minister Suahasil Nazara discussed potential JBIC financing for Indonesian development projects, including a waste-to-energy facility in West Java, and encouraged closer cooperation with state-owned infrastructure financier PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur. Talks also covered energy security, the net-zero target, carbon markets and taxation, alongside wider discussions with international and regional partners on fiscal policy, MSME support, exports and ASEAN connectivity.

Zulhas Says Peatland Fires in Kalimantan Are Difficult to Tackle

Co-ordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan says fires in deep peatland are particularly difficult to extinguish, sometimes requiring days of rain, and cannot be put out with water-bombing alone. He also cited prolonged heat, shifting dry-season patterns and El Niño as concerns, urging broader efforts to protect the environment amid international scrutiny of Indonesia’s forest fires.

Maruli: BNPPDT Expands BNPP, No Longer Headed by Home Affairs Minister

TNI Deputy Commander Maruli Simanjuntak said the National Border and Remote Areas Management Agency (BNPPDT) expands the remit of the former BNPP and is now an independent body, rather than being headed ex officio by the Home Affairs Minister. The agency will focus on improving welfare in border and remote communities while continuing to manage borders and resolve outstanding boundary issues with neighbouring countries.

One More Volunteer Dies in Bromo Forest and Land Fire

The death toll from a fire in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has risen to four, including three park officers and a hotel worker. Probolinggo Regent Muhammad Haris said six members of a 12-person firefighting team became trapped when the wind shifted rapidly; two other workers were seriously burned and transferred to a hospital in Surabaya.

Bahlil asks local governments and PLN to identify villages without electricity

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has called on local governments and state electricity firm PLN to identify villages, hamlets and households still lacking adequate electricity, with a goal of providing electricity to every village by 2029–2030. Nationally, around 11,000 villages remain without access, while the Lisdes and BPBL programmes are extending networks and household connections, including in West Java.

Cileungsi Police Hold Spiritual Guidance Sessions at Detention Centre, Urge Inmates to Reform

Cileungsi Police have provided spiritual guidance to detainees, encouraging them to worship, reflect on their actions and use their time in custody to improve themselves. The initiative, described as part of a more humane policing approach, also included distributing meals to detainees.

Trigana Air Suspends Flights to Four Papua Towns Because of Haze

Trigana Air has temporarily suspended services to four towns in Papua due to smoke from forest and land fires, which has reduced visibility. Some routes have been grounded since 9 October, while flights to Wamena have also been disrupted, with only one passenger aircraft able to operate before conditions worsened again.

Central Java BPK Representative Office Head Caught in Klaten Regent’s KPK Sting

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detained 20 people in a sting operation in Klaten and Jakarta, including Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and the head of the Central Java BPK representative office. The investigation is suspected to involve state procurement, licensing and other receipts, as well as alleged payments from the regent to a BPK official in connection with an audit.

Binus High School to Bring Together 900 Swimmers from 375 Schools in MURI Record Attempt

More than 900 pupils from 375 schools are expected to compete in the one-day Binus Cup XI Swimming Championship at Gelora Bung Karno Aquatic Stadium in Jakarta. Organisers hope the event will set a MURI record for the largest swimming competition organised by students in a single day, while encouraging youth participation and developing young swimming talent.

DJP says rules for 0% final income tax on SOE restructuring are not yet final

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says the proposed 0% final income tax treatment for state-owned enterprise (SOE) restructuring transactions remains under discussion, pending a Finance Ministerial Regulation and a Government Regulation. Although six new tax-object codes have been listed, officials say their use will depend on the substance of the forthcoming Government Regulation and may be revised.

Planning to Start a Business? Capital Alone Is Not Enough—Key Steps to Avoid the Wrong Strategy

Starting a business requires more than securing capital: entrepreneurs must plan the partnership terms, assess the market and location, and design a functional outlet. These preparations are especially important for food and beverage franchises, where consistent products and reliable daily operations are essential before opening to customers.

Indonesia’s Bargaining Power in Tackling Transnational Crime Has Increased

International relations analyst Andrea Abdul Rahman Azzqy says Indonesia has strengthened its diplomatic leverage in tackling transnational crime, particularly human trafficking linked to online gambling, and securing support for victims abroad. He says the government is shifting from responding to cases after they arise towards preventing people from becoming victims, but needs to extend protection across all partner countries and prepare evacuation plans for Indonesian migrant workers in East Asia if conflict escalates.

Analyst: Foreign Ministry Has Turned Distance into a State Presence for Indonesians Abroad

International relations analyst Andrea Abdul Rahman Azzqy says the Foreign Ministry and Indonesian missions have strengthened protection for Indonesians overseas by using digital registration and proactive outreach. He also points to the institutionalisation of migrant-worker protection, from pre-departure education and training to safeguards while workers are placed abroad.

Home Affairs Minister on Indonesian Law: Laws Are Made Only After Problems Arise

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says Indonesian regulation-making is often reactive, with laws drafted or amended only after problems emerge. He urged officials to anticipate future issues and stressed that effective enforcement also requires capable personnel, adequate infrastructure and sufficient budgets.

On KONI’s 88th Anniversary, Marciano Outlines Multi-Championship Initiatives

KONI chair Marciano Norman outlined a series of multi-sport events intended to strengthen the development of elite athletes, including beach, martial arts, indoor and youth PON competitions. He said future events must be run efficiently without burdening public finances, with the 2028 National Sports Week hosted by East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara using existing venues and Jakarta for events without available facilities.

Demak to Protect 91.8% of Its Rice Fields Despite Industrial Estate Expansion

Demak Regency plans to protect 50,863.53 hectares, or 91.8% of its rice fields, in a revision of its 2011–2031 spatial plan, while also proposing to expand an industrial estate in Sayung. Officials say the plan must balance food security and protection of productive farmland with industry, infrastructure and settlement needs, and the revised plan is targeted for completion at regency level in 2026.

Switzerland tightens rules to protect children online

Switzerland plans to require major communication platforms and search engines, including AI-powered services, to assess and mitigate risks to children. The proposed law would also prohibit profiling-based advertising to minors and require platforms to provide easy ways to report suspected illegal content, while excluding smaller services.

PT CNI President Director Suspected of Falsifying Export Documents in Rp401bn Nickel Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office alleges that PT CNI’s president director and shareholder, identified as DS, illegally exported nickel without meeting domestic market obligations, using export documents allegedly issued through irregular procedures. The case is estimated to have caused Rp401 billion in state losses, which the company has repaid, while investigators also recovered cash allegedly linked to the case. The investigation has included the arrest of a former Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry secretary-general and the naming of several individuals and PT CNI as suspects.

Indonesia welcomes China’s proposal for joint rice research hub

Indonesia has welcomed China’s proposal to establish a joint rice research and development centre, with talks focused on agricultural technology suited to local conditions, including in Merauke. The partnership could bring together Indonesian ministries, BRIN and Chinese research institutions, and aims to improve productivity while supporting farmer incomes, jobs and local processing industries.

Syngenta Empowers Farmers Through Biotechnology in Maize

Syngenta Indonesia is promoting biotechnology maize hybrids intended to improve yields and reduce the labour and costs involved in cultivation. At its NK Festival in Central Java, the company presented three seed varieties and offered farmers agronomic advice, amid climate, pest and labour challenges in a province that produced 3.7 million tonnes of dry shelled maize in 2025.

Underwater Drone Deployed as One Victim of Komodo National Park Shipwreck Remains Missing

Search teams have deployed an underwater drone to depths of up to 90 metres, but Veronica Beatrix Jessica remains missing three days after the Feronia sank in Komodo National Park. A combined force of 104 personnel and 15 vessels is searching the area, while Veronica’s family joined the operation and held a prayer gathering at the site.

Fuel Distribution Disrupted, Queues of Vehicles Stretch at Several Petrol Stations in Manado

Pertalite shortages and delayed fuel deliveries have caused long queues at petrol stations in Manado, North Sulawesi. Pertamina Patra Niaga is bringing in a 3,000-kilolitre cargo through the Bitung Integrated Terminal and deploying staff to manage queues and maintain service.

KPK Questions Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo at Klaten Police Headquarters

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo at the Klaten City Police headquarters after he was reportedly caught in a sting operation. Police said the investigation was ongoing and that they were providing facilities and security; several civil servants and private-sector individuals were also arrested.

Batteries and Lights at Mount Rinjani Hiking Shelters Feared Stolen

Batteries, inverters and lights powered by solar panels have gone missing from several hiking shelters on Mount Rinjani in West Nusa Tenggara, with the park authority suspecting theft. The facilities were installed for climbers’ use, and the authority is discussing internally whether to report the incident to police.

Heavy Rain Triggers Flooding and Landslides in Aceh, Affecting National Roads and Farmland

Heavy rain has triggered floods and landslides in Aceh Tenggara, damaging 154.74 hectares of agricultural land and disrupting traffic on the Kutacane–Blangkejeren national road. The disaster has affected 2,787 people across 783 households, though authorities reported no deaths or evacuations; emergency crews are clearing debris and repairing damaged infrastructure.

KPK Seizes Rp800 Million from GRIB Chairman Hercules in Bribery Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp800 million (approximately US$48,000) allegedly linked to a bribery case involving the processing of land-use rights for PT Summarecon Agung. The money was handed over by a lawyer representing GRIB Jaya chairman Hercules Rozario Marshal; eight people have been named as suspects in the broader case involving officials at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN).

Bahlil: All Indonesian Villages to Have Electricity by 2029–2030

The government aims to connect every village in Indonesia to electricity by 2029–2030, using the Village Electricity Programme and assistance for new household connections. Bahlil Lahadalia said millions of homes across roughly 11,000 villages remain without electricity, with rollout targets increasing from around 1,400 villages in 2025 to more than 4,000 in 2026.

PACK Parent Reportedly in Talks to Acquire 80% Stake in Gunbuster Nickel: Potential Impact on Shares

CNGR Advanced Material, parent of PACK, is reportedly exploring the purchase of an 80% stake in Gunbuster Nickel Industry, potentially after the smelter’s restructuring is completed in early 2027. Analysts say a deal could strengthen CNGR’s position and create synergies, but its direct benefit to PACK depends on the transaction structure, while investors should weigh execution risks, the company’s valuation and the durability of earnings.

SGU develops Sinergizi to strengthen local food security

Swiss German University, Tangerang Regency and Japan’s Hokkaido University are developing Sinergizi, a framework linking nutrition, food innovation and local economic empowerment. The initiative includes testing a high-protein seasoning made from over-fermented tempeh and exploring Tangerang as a living laboratory, with a five-year collaboration planned through 2031.

Bekasi National Integration Forum Proposes Establishing Branches Down to Village Level

The Bekasi Regency National Integration Forum (FPK) is proposing local branches in villages and urban wards to identify and address social tensions before they escalate into open conflict. The initiative would strengthen dialogue among diverse communities in the industrial district and is in line with a 2006 Home Affairs Ministry regulation on regional national integration.

Jakarta MRT Phase 2A remains on track despite 4,000 archaeological finds

Jakarta MRT Phase 2A has reached 65.1 per cent completion and remains ahead of its initial targets, with the Bundaran HI–Kota underground line scheduled to open in 2029. More than 4,000 archaeological finds uncovered during construction are being documented and preserved, while the project has adjusted engineering plans to protect significant remains and plans a public gallery at Jakarta Kota Station.

DOOH Plans Rights Issue of 154.7 Billion Shares, with Potential 95% Dilution to Fund INET Acquisition

PT Era Media Sejahtera (DOOH) plans to issue up to 154.78 billion new shares, potentially diluting existing shareholders by about 95%, to repay a loan from its new controlling shareholder and fund its expansion into AI infrastructure. The company intends to invest in INET through a subsidiary while transforming itself into a holding company; the plans remain subject to shareholder and regulatory approval.

Jakarta Tourisindo develops JXB App to make things easier for tourists

Jakarta Tourisindo is developing JXB App to bring together information on tourism, hotels, food and supporting facilities in the capital, with plans for it to become a tourism super app and aggregator. The state-owned regional company says the platform will support tourism promotion and Jakarta’s global-city ambitions, while also preparing initiatives for the city’s 500th anniversary in 2027.

KPK Seizes Rp800 Million from Hercules’ Lawyer in ATR/BPN Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp800 million handed over by a lawyer for Hercules Rosario Marcal, who is suspected of receiving the money from property developer PT Summarecon Agung. Investigators say the funds are linked to land management in Bogor and an alleged bribery scheme to lift a land-blocking order and secure building-use rights; eight people have been named suspects in the wider ATR/BPN case.

Indonesia to Announce Jakarta Vision at WCCE 2026 Forum

Indonesia plans to unveil the Jakarta Vision at the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy, with the document intended to inform a future UN resolution and keep the creative economy on the global development agenda beyond the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The conference is also expected to foster international collaboration and knowledge-sharing, while opening up greater market and investment opportunities for creative economy players.

Five Ministries and Institutions Sign Joint Decree to Synchronise Integrated Criminal Justice Procedures

Five Indonesian ministries and institutions have signed a joint decree to coordinate the implementation of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. The agreement is intended to align responsibilities, prevent overlapping authority and inconsistent interpretations, and strengthen coordination across the criminal justice system.

Source of Ciputat Explosion Traced to Banana-Ripening Room

Police say the fatal explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang originated in a room used to ripen bananas, and preliminary checks found no evidence of a bomb. Investigators are examining a 52-kilogram ethylene gas cylinder, its delivery hose and a fan motor as they seek to establish the cause; two people were killed and 13 injured.

The Secret Behind Nature’s Colours, from Plants and Rocks to Mountains, According to the Quran

The article presents the natural world’s diversity of colours and living forms as signs of divine creation and wisdom, arguing that nothing in the universe exists without purpose. It contrasts this religious interpretation with materialist and atheist explanations that, it says, focus on natural phenomena without addressing their origins or persistence.

Uma Palak Lestari to Showcase Food-Security Energy Innovations to ASEAN Council on Petroleum Delegation

The community group Uma Palak Lestari in Bali is preparing to host about 150 delegates from ASEAN member states on 28 October 2026, showcasing renewable-energy systems integrated with agriculture. The Pertamina Patra Niaga-supported initiative combines solar and micro-hydro power to improve irrigation, farm mechanisation and crop processing, with the aim of strengthening food security and local livelihoods.

Construction of Permanent Housing for Disaster Survivors in Bener Meriah, Aceh

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas is building 64 permanent homes for survivors of the hydrometeorological disaster that struck Bener Meriah on 25 November 2025. Construction is 5% complete, with completion targeted for 31 December 2026; similar housing is also planned in three other sub-districts.

SUN backs 100-gigawatt solar power project in Indonesia

Solar power developer SUN is expanding its role as an independent power producer to support Indonesia’s planned 100 GWp solar programme and increase private-sector participation. The company says it has developed more than 500 MW of solar capacity across over 400 projects, and is broadening its offer to include energy storage, electric vehicles and digital energy management.

Indonesia speeds up post-disaster health facility recovery in Sumatra

Nearly all regional public hospitals and community health centres in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra have resumed operations after floods and landslides, with six support health centres still being repaired. The government has set a three-year rehabilitation and reconstruction period for 2026–2028, while Interior Minister Tito Karnavian urged regional governments to speed up spending of central-government assistance, whose disbursement remains uneven.

Woman Killed After Being Struck by Whoosh Feeder Train in Bandung

A 47-year-old woman died after being struck by a Whoosh feeder train in Bandung on Thursday afternoon. Police said witnesses found her beside the tracks after the train passed, and her body was taken to Hasan Sadikin Hospital for further examination.

The Jakmania Says Points Deduction for Persija Would Be Unjustified

The head of Persija supporters’ group The Jakmania says a points deduction against Persija should not be linked to an attack on the Persib U18 team’s convoy in Batang, arguing that the relevant regulation is still being drafted and the incident occurred outside the stadium perimeter. He urged the public to await the ongoing legal process and said those responsible should be held accountable to prevent similar incidents and ensure justice.

Three Officials Vie for West Lombok Regional Secretary: Who Are They?

Three West Lombok officials have made the final shortlist for the post of regional secretary, with Deputy Regent Nurul Adha saying she expects the permanent appointment to be completed by next month. The appointment is pending coordination with the West Nusa Tenggara governor and administrative processing by the Ministry of Home Affairs; a permanent secretary is also needed to oversee the regional budget team ahead of discussions on the 2027 budget.

Police Investigate Viral Video Allegedly Showing Man Whipped at Bogor Nutrition Service Office

Police in Bogor are investigating a viral video that appears to show a man being whipped, after the head of the local Nutrition Fulfilment Service confirmed the incident occurred. He said it involved a dispute between two staff members from Purwakarta and took place outside the office building; police said no report had yet been filed.

Maybank Indonesia Launches ‘Fast Remittance’ Feature on M2U ID App

Maybank Indonesia has partnered with cross-border payments provider NIUM to launch a digital international transfer feature on its M2U ID app. Initially available for transfers to Europe, the UK, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore, the service costs US$10 per transaction, with a promotional fee of US$2.50 until December 2026.

Leaked Information: US Considers Using ‘Mother of All Bombs’ Against Iran

The US military is reportedly considering the GBU-43/B MOAB as part of potential new strikes on Iran, including against energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities. Its ability to destroy deeply buried sites is in doubt, and no decision has been made; the option could also serve as a dramatic show of force as President Donald Trump faces pressure to end the conflict.

Danantara Indonesia Drives Governance Transformation Across State-Owned Enterprises

Danantara Indonesia says it is seeking stronger oversight, inter-agency cooperation and professional, sustainable management across state-owned enterprises (SOEs). PT Taspen’s 2026 governance assessment, scoring 99.19 and earning a “Most Trusted Company” rating, is presented as an example of progress and a contribution to Danantara’s transformation agenda.

Boat Capsizes in Heavy Surf; Octopus Fisherman Missing in Tulungagung

A 31-year-old octopus fisherman went missing after a small boat carrying him and his younger brother capsized in heavy waves off Ngalur Beach, Tulungagung. Search teams recovered the boat and oars but had not found him by Thursday afternoon, prompting local disaster officials to coordinate further efforts with the Trenggalek search and rescue agency.

Transmigration Minister Meets Chongqing Deputy Mayor: A Successful Transmigration City

Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara says Indonesia hopes to learn from Chongqing’s transformation of a resettlement area into a major economic centre. He highlighted the city’s economic interventions, job creation and downstream processing as potential models for developing new economic zones in Indonesian transmigration areas.

Deputy Head of BP BUMN Visits KDKMP Outlets as Pertamina LPG Products Support Economic Growth

BP BUMN Deputy Head Aminuddin Ma’ruf visited community cooperatives in Jakarta and Banten, where Pertamina Patra Niaga supplies LPG alongside everyday goods and local MSME products. The network has distributed about 33,347 LPG cylinders, with 966 KDKMP outlets selling 3 kg LPG as of October 2026, extending access to energy and markets at community level.

Government Says Mass Account Provision Will Be Accompanied by Financial Education

The government says its subsidised mass account programme will include financial education to reduce misuse, including accounts being traded for online gambling. Officials and the International Labour Organization warn that broader access to digital financial services and online loans does not necessarily improve wellbeing unless people can manage their finances and withstand economic shocks.

Maybank Indonesia Launches Fast Remittance, Enabling 24-Hour Foreign-Currency Transfers

Maybank Indonesia has introduced Fast Remittance through its M2U ID App, allowing customers to send money overseas at any time for a fixed transfer fee regardless of transaction size. Developed with global payments infrastructure provider NIUM, the service is designed to provide near-real-time transfers and an additional digital channel for international remittances.

Cimanggis Market Begins Clean-up after Blast Kills Two

Police have begun cleaning and repairing the affected area of Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang after a blast killed two people and injured 11, aiming to restore trading activity. Investigators are still determining the cause, examining 18 CCTV recordings and components found at the scene, including a 50-kilogram ethylene gas cylinder, a hose and a dynamo.

Sokoguru Policy Series: A Collaborative Platform to Strengthen National Energy Security

The Sokoguru Policy Series brought regulators, industry figures, academics and energy observers together to discuss accelerating oil and gas exploration amid rising demand and declining well output. Speakers called for stronger governance, investment certainty, technology and cross-sector collaboration to increase reserves, support energy self-sufficiency and reduce import and fiscal pressures.

Trade Ministry and Hippindo Facilitate 4,100 Barcodes for MSME Products

The Trade Ministry and retail association Hippindo have facilitated 4,100 barcodes for MSME products to help businesses prepare for modern retail and export markets. The initiative is intended to improve product identification and management while strengthening market access and competitiveness; Food Station Tjipinang Jaya and Hippindo also signed an MoU to expand domestic trade collaboration.

Bromo Wildfire Death Toll Rises to Four

The death toll from a wildfire in the Mount Bromo area has risen to four after Hendra Rony Wagiyanata died from burn injuries. The victims include a TNBTS officer, members of the joint firefighting team and two hotel security guards.

BSI Aims to Open Jeddah Branch by January 2027 at the Latest

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) expects its Jeddah branch to begin operating by January 2027, pending Saudi regulatory approval, with preparations for its premises and IT infrastructure about 80% complete. The expansion is intended to serve Indonesian hajj and umrah pilgrims and broaden BSI’s presence in Saudi Arabia; the bank plans to recruit around 70% of the branch’s staff locally.

Indonesia Optimistic as Exports Rise and Trade Surplus Reaches $7.25 Billion

Indonesia recorded a US$7.25 billion trade surplus in January–August 2026, with exports rising 4.74 per cent year on year to US$193.64 billion, while the economy grew 5.45 per cent in the first half. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan said stronger exports, new markets and improved farmer purchasing power could support growth and livelihoods; at the opening of TEI 2026, exporters also signed 168 MoUs worth US$13.2 billion.

Bekasi Student Threatened with Gunfire While Chasing Phone Snatcher

Police say a 17-year-old student in Bekasi was threatened with an airsoft gun after three motorbike-riding suspects snatched her mobile phone; one allegedly fired at her as she pursued them. Four people have been detained, with police investigating their alleged roles and seizing the weapon and other evidence.

Police Arrest Suspected Motorcycle Robber in Tanjung Priok

Police in North Jakarta have arrested a 21-year-old man suspected of robbing an online motorcycle-taxi driver in Tanjung Priok, following an investigation and a search in Kampung Muara Bahari. Two suspects are now in custody, while police are pursuing a third alleged accomplice who has been placed on the wanted list.

Obama: Military strength does not guarantee Israel’s long-term security

Former US President Barack Obama criticised Israel’s approach to the conflict in the Middle East, warning that military superiority cannot ensure lasting security. He said Israel must recognise that millions of Palestinians will remain in the region and that the stronger party has greater responsibility to break the cycle of violence.

Indonesia Opens Data Centre Investment Opportunities to Finnish Companies

Indonesia and Finland are exploring cooperation on data centres and computing infrastructure, with Nokia’s involvement in an Indosat project cited as an example of existing collaboration. Finland is offering expertise, including experience supported by a cool climate and electricity supply that is more than 95% free of fossil fuels, while Indonesia aims to spread data-centre capacity beyond Batam and West Java.

Asep Surya Atmaja One Step Closer to Becoming Bekasi’s Definitive Regent

Bekasi Regency Council is due to hold a plenary session to propose that acting regent Asep Surya Atmaja be appointed as the area’s definitive regent. The proposal will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs through the West Java provincial government, following the dismissal of former regent Ade Kuswara Kunang after his conviction in a corruption case.

Opposition TV Station Raided, Broadcast Cut and Management Taken Over

Turkish authorities raided opposition broadcaster Halk TV in Istanbul, halted its broadcasts and appointed trustees to take over the company amid a corruption investigation into its owner, Cafer Mahiroglu. The move has drawn condemnation from opposition figures and press-freedom groups, who warn it could further restrict independent reporting and access to diverse viewpoints in Turkey.

West Jakarta Urges Owners to Demolish Buildings on Jakarta Provincial Government Land

West Jakarta officials have issued a first warning letter to owners of buildings on land belonging to the Jakarta provincial government in Kembangan Utara and are urging them to demolish the structures voluntarily. If the owners do not comply, the authorities plan to proceed through further warnings before enforcement; the site, formerly a city park, has been illegally filled and developed with semi-permanent buildings.

Press Council Rules Forum Keadilan TV Podcast Breached Journalistic Code of Ethics

Indonesia’s Press Council has ruled that a Forum Keadilan TV podcast making allegations of bribery at Nahdlatul Ulama’s congress breached the Journalistic Code of Ethics, citing inadequate evidence, lack of balance and defamation. The broadcaster must remove some of the disputed content, provide a proportionate right of reply and apologise to Saifullah Yusuf and the public.

Presidential Advisory Council Sets Three Strategic Areas, Bamsoet Outlines Responsibilities

Indonesia’s Presidential Advisory Council (Wantimpres) has agreed to organise its work into three areas—politics, law and security; social welfare; and the economy and finance—to sharpen advice to President Prabowo Subianto. Bamsoet said the new structure should improve coordination and produce data-based, actionable recommendations on issues ranging from national security and poverty to investment, jobs and economic growth.

Kediri Regent Says KDKMP Is Not a Competitor to Other Traders

Kediri Regent Hanindhito Himawan Pramana said the 344 planned Merah Putih Village/Urban Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) in the regency are intended to distribute subsidised goods, not compete with traditional markets and traders. The local government is preparing sites and checking building permits, while the national government is monitoring operational readiness at 10,070 cooperative locations ahead of a planned simultaneous launch on 15 October 2026.

Danantara Indonesia Trust secures US$100 million in annual funding

Danantara Indonesia has pledged at least US$100 million a year to its Trust for philanthropic programmes in health, education and sanitation. Among the initiatives announced are scholarships for 1,343 specialist doctors and funding for HPV vaccinations, intended to strengthen healthcare access and accelerate cervical cancer prevention.

Woman Motorcyclist Left Lying in Bogor Road After Collision with Another Motorcycle

A woman riding a Honda BeAT was injured after her motorcycle reportedly clipped another motorbike on Jalan Mayor Oking in Citeureup, Bogor. She suffered injuries to her temple and lip and was taken to Annisa Citeureup Hospital for treatment.

The Jakmania Chairman Urges Members to Behave Responsibly and Avoid Harming Others

The chairman of Persija Jakarta supporters’ group The Jakmania has urged members to put the club’s interests first and avoid conduct that harms others, following an attack on a Persib U18 team convoy. He said supporter misconduct, including fireworks and the Batang incident, can expose Persija to competition sanctions and fines, and called for stronger member oversight and positive engagement online and in the community.

Backed by 11, Former Police Chief Runs for Chair of Democrats in West Nusa Tenggara

Former West Nusa Tenggara Police Chief Hadi Gunawan has registered to lead the provincial Democratic Party, backed by 10 district party branches and the acting provincial board. His rival, Gema Ahmad Muzakkir, has also completed registration, with the party’s extraordinary regional conference set to decide the contest in Mataram.

Nusantara Capital Affected by Wildfires as Garuda Palace Disappears in Haze

Smoke from forest and land fires across parts of Kalimantan has enveloped the Nusantara capital area, obscuring prominent buildings including Garuda Palace. Government work remains normal, but the air around the central government district was classified as unhealthy, prompting warnings to wear masks and ongoing firefighting and weather-modification efforts.

CNI President Director Named Suspect in Nickel Corruption Case, State Losses Put at Rp401.65bn

Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office has named Derian Sakmiwata, president director of PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama (CNI), a suspect in an alleged nickel governance corruption case involving exports between 2017 and 2020. Investigators say the company evaded domestic-market obligations using allegedly falsified documents and unauthorised export recommendations; the state’s losses are estimated at Rp401.65 billion, and Sakmiwata has been detained for 20 days.

Deputy Coordinating Minister for the Economy Praises Banjarbaru Coffee at TEI 2026

Deputy Coordinating Minister for the Economy Dradjad Hari Wibowo praised Banjarbaru’s Herborneo coffee at the 41st Trade Expo Indonesia, saying local products and MSMEs can help broaden business opportunities and improve welfare. Banjarbaru’s participation gives local producers access to potential buyers and partners, while sustained quality, production capacity and market support will be essential to turn the exposure into lasting sales.

InJourney Expands Business Partnerships in Indonesia’s Tourism Sector at JWITF 2026

State-owned tourism and aviation holding company InJourney is using the Jakarta Wonderful Indonesia Tourism Fair to pursue B2B partnerships across travel distribution, accommodation, MICE and aviation services. It aims to connect its portfolio of destinations, hotels and related businesses with new domestic and international markets, with discussions expected to lead to commercial agreements and ongoing collaboration.

ILO Says Access to Digital Finance Does Not Guarantee Public Well-being

The ILO says wider access to digital financial services, including online loans, does not necessarily improve people’s well-being and can deepen debt when financial literacy is lacking. It argues that financial inclusion should be measured by people’s ability to manage day-to-day finances and withstand economic shocks, not simply by account ownership or access.

Can Data Centre Testing Really Cause a Power Cut?

Indonesia’s data centre association says large-scale load testing can disrupt electricity systems if it is poorly planned and coordinated, but it does not automatically cause city-wide outages. There is no verified technical evidence linking Batam’s two-day power cut on 12–13 October to a data centre test; preliminary findings from PLN have instead pointed to a wild animal.

Joint Task Force Raids Kampung Ambon, Seizing Methamphetamine and Bladed Weapons

A joint team of 210 officers from the National Police, the National Narcotics Agency and Jakarta Metro Police raided a suspected drug-trafficking site in West Jakarta’s Kampung Ambon. Several suspected users and dealers were detained, and officers seized methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, cash and bladed weapons.

Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government to Upgrade Lakidende Sports Facilities

Southeast Sulawesi has redirected funds earmarked for Lakidende Stadium construction to upgrade existing sports facilities in Kendari. The 80-day project will cover a range of venues and is intended to improve public access and support local athlete development.

13 Unpas female students allegedly sexually harassed; House urges impartial investigation

A senior House of Representatives member has called for a thorough, transparent investigation into alleged sexual harassment of 13 female law students at Pasundan University, reportedly involving several lecturers. He urged the university to protect victims and witnesses, provide support, and impose sanctions if allegations are substantiated, as the university has formed an investigative team.

Anthropologist Reveals Lombok Nobility’s Display of Wealth During Funeral Rites

An anthropological study finds that Sasak aristocratic families in Lombok expressed wealth and authority through elaborate funeral processions, ornate gravestones and distinctive coffins. These practices helped reinforce social status and royal legitimacy, while material differences also reflected hierarchies within Sasak communities.

Bali fuel queues gradually ease as Pertamina steps up distribution

Fuel queues in Bali are beginning to ease after Pertamina increased deliveries, kept terminals operating around the clock and arranged for some petrol stations to remain open 24 hours. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the distribution system was being improved following delays caused in part by a fuel tanker’s late arrival, while the military is helping secure deliveries and officials have urged the public not to misuse subsidised fuel.

Indonesia Urged to Seize Opportunity to Attract Capital Relocated Amid Middle East Conflict

An INDEF researcher says prolonged conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Gulf, is damaging Indonesia’s economy but could also prompt investors to move capital to safer destinations. She urged the government to act quickly to attract that investment, arguing it could support the rupiah, market growth and national development.

Immigration and Corrections Ministry Wins Best Zakat Supporter Award at Grand BAZNAS Awards 2026

Indonesia’s Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has received the Best Ministry Supporting Zakat award at the 2026 Grand BAZNAS Awards. The ministry says the recognition acknowledges civil servants’ contributions to zakat through BAZNAS and will encourage continued social giving and support for community welfare.

BI: Cross-border trade offers NTT opportunities for economic growth

Bank Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara representative office says closer trade links with Timor-Leste and Australia could widen markets for local products and improve distribution efficiency. It also highlights processing industries, renewable energy and tourism as key to adding value, creating jobs and attracting investment in the province.

Gus Ipul Says Social Assistance at Village Cooperatives Will Be Paid Without Deductions

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf says recipients can collect PKH and non-cash food assistance at operational Merah Putih village cooperatives, where state-owned bank agents will provide services. He stressed that no fees or deductions will be imposed, while officials inspect 10,070 cooperatives nationwide as the programme is rolled out.

Home Affairs Ministry receives 615 submissions from regions, with fiscal issues most prominent

Indonesia’s Home Affairs Ministry received 615 submissions from local governments through its Reboan dialogue forum, with 86 focused on regional finances, fiscal matters and intergovernmental transfers. The ministry says the forum connects regional leaders with central government and channels issues requiring action by other ministries to the relevant officials.

Data Centres Pose Threat of Water Crisis, AHY Warns

Infrastructure Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has urged data centre operators to assess water demand and environmental impacts carefully before building facilities. He warned that rising industrial and digital-economy demand must not undermine local communities’ access to clean water, which should be allocated fairly among households, agriculture and industry.

Danantara Indonesia Trust Launches Clean Water and Scholarship Programmes

Danantara Indonesia Trust is expanding its social programmes in education, healthcare, and clean water and sanitation, including scholarships for 800 students and improved water access for about 230,000 people in East Nusa Tenggara. Its three initiatives will also support healthcare workers, with the foundation aiming to build partnerships that deliver lasting, scalable benefits.

Tito Calls for More Proactive Legislation

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has urged lawmakers and government officials to draft legislation that anticipates emerging problems, rather than responding only after they occur. He said the approach should also guide local governments, which produce thousands of regional regulations subject to evaluation and harmonisation.

Sumbawa’s Batu Pampang Beach Tragedy: Three Tourists Dead, One Still Missing

Three of four 19-year-old tourists swept away by currents while swimming at Batu Pampang Beach in Sumbawa have died; one remains missing. Search teams recovered two bodies on the second day and planned to resume the search for the remaining tourist on Friday morning.

Students at Banda Aceh Special School Enjoy Free Nutritious Meals, Leave Notes Requesting Menu Items

Students at the YPAC special school in Banda Aceh have received the Free Nutritious Meals programme for nearly two years, with the school saying it has boosted pupils’ enthusiasm and stamina while easing costs for families. Students sometimes write requests on their meal trays, and the school coordinates with the kitchen to accommodate safe menu preferences.

Jakarta MRT uncovers more than 4,000 artefacts revealing historic Asian trade

Archaeologists working on Jakarta MRT’s Phase 2A construction have uncovered more than 4,000 artefacts and structures, including ceramics from several Asian countries that provide evidence of historic regional trade links. MRT Jakarta plans to curate and display the discoveries at a gallery in Jakarta Kota Station, while construction continues alongside efforts to preserve the city’s cultural heritage.

Malaysia and Indonesia Begin Talks to Tackle Fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan

Malaysia and Indonesia have begun formal discussions on coordinating efforts to tackle forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan as cross-border haze worsens. Malaysia is also planning to raise the issue at an upcoming ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting, with the bilateral talks potentially bolstering regional cooperation on emergency response and fire prevention.

Bromo Wildfire Death Toll Rises to Four

A fourth member of a firefighting team has died from severe burn injuries sustained while tackling a forest and land fire in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The victim, Manggala Agni officer Hendra Rony Wagiyanata, had been receiving intensive treatment after becoming trapped by flames in the Mentigen area of Probolinggo; two other injured personnel remain under care.

Banyuasin Regency prepares 6.5 hectares for Sekolah Rakyat

Banyuasin Regency in South Sumatra has set aside 6.5 hectares of land for a proposed Sekolah Rakyat, a government initiative intended to broaden access to education. The local administration has been asked to clarify the land’s legal status and add about 0.3 hectares to accommodate supporting facilities, including a FIFA-standard football pitch.

Supreme Court Sentences Former Syekh Yusuf Hospital Director to Two Years; Prosecutors Probe Others

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has sentenced Salahuddin, a former director of Syekh Yusuf Regional Hospital in Gowa, to two years in prison for corruption involving National Health Insurance service-fee funds. Prosecutors say the executions of three convicted former hospital officials will not end the investigation, as they continue to examine whether others were involved in an alleged Rp3.3 billion loss to state finances.

Zulhas: Village cooperatives to distribute subsidised rice at Rp12,500 per kilogram

Co-ordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan said Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives will distribute subsidised rice at Rp12,500 per kilogram, alongside other government assistance and subsidised goods. He stressed that recipient data must be checked to ensure aid reaches eligible residents, while the government works to improve the cooperatives’ readiness and develop them into local economic hubs.

The Jakmania Await the Conclusion of Legal Proceedings over Batang Attack

The chairman of Persija supporters’ group The Jakmania has apologised for an attack on the Persib U18 team’s convoy at a rest area in Batang and says the organisation will await the police investigation before imposing sanctions. He pledged support for law enforcement and urged the public not to draw conclusions from partial social-media footage.

Former Intelligence Chief Sues Netanyahu, Exposing Israeli Prime Minister’s Failings

Former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar has sued Benjamin Netanyahu for defamation, disputing the prime minister’s account of intelligence warnings before the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023. Bar acknowledges intelligence failures but says Netanyahu was repeatedly warned of the risks and pursued policies that left Hamas stronger; Netanyahu rejects the allegations. The dispute comes amid renewed scrutiny of the government’s response and ahead of Israel’s parliamentary election.

A Financing Ecosystem for Industrial Decarbonisation

Indonesia is developing a Green Industry Service Company (Gisco) to connect manufacturers with technology providers and lenders, easing the high upfront costs of industrial decarbonisation. The initiative, backed by World Bank support and targeted for launch in the second half of 2026, comes as a carbon capture and utilisation pilot at Petrokimia Gresik demonstrates potential emissions cuts and production of import-substituting soda ash.

BI Deputy Governor: Regional Islamic Economy Development Needs Three Strategies

Bank Indonesia Deputy Governor Solikin M Juhro says regional Islamic economic development should focus on stronger coordination among stakeholders, halal value chains and wider access to appropriate financing. National and regional bodies are also being urged to integrate Islamic economic priorities into development plans; 27 provinces have included them in long-term and medium-term plans, while 23 have added related indicators to their medium-term plans.

Rifky sheds the pressure of targets by rediscovering his first love, swimming

Indonesian para-swimmer Maulana Rifky Yavianda is aiming to approach 53 seconds in the 100-metre S12 freestyle at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, having won gold in 55.53 seconds in Hangzhou. Rather than let expectations weigh on him, he plans to focus on enjoying swimming, improving his time and following his coaches’ instructions.

China and North Korea Open Bridge After 12-Year Delay

China and North Korea have opened the 3.026-kilometre New Yalu River Bridge, a four-lane crossing linking Dandong and Sinuiju that was completed in 2014 but delayed by unfinished border facilities and the pandemic. The bridge is expected to improve logistics and support bilateral trade, although analysts say sanctions will constrain any immediate revival of commerce to pre-sanctions levels.

PBNU Respects Azerbaijan’s Hijab Policy but Urges Protection of Students’ Right to Learn

Nahdlatul Ulama’s executive board (PBNU) says it respects Azerbaijan’s authority to set school policies, while stressing that all pupils must be able to attend lessons. Azerbaijan’s new uniform rules, which ban clothing deemed contrary to secular principles, have prompted protests and reports that hijab-wearing girls were turned away from school, drawing criticism from Turkey.

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo Arrested by KPK Along with 19 Others

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it detained Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and 19 other people in a sting operation spanning Klaten and Jakarta. The investigation is believed to involve alleged receipts linked to procurement, licensing and other income from local government agencies, as well as an alleged payment by the regent to an auditor; about Rp1 billion in cash has been found so far.

Indonesian Consulate in Johor Bahru Facilitates Rp4.2 Billion Indonesia-Malaysia Business Deals

The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru facilitated two agreements worth a combined US$234,000 at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026. They cover an Indonesian processed-food export contract and prospective investment and business-development cooperation spanning sectors including oil and gas, workforce training and tourism.

KPK Seizes Rp1 Billion in Klaten Regent Sting; 20 People Arrested

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested 20 people, including Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, and seized an estimated Rp1 billion in cash. The investigation concerns alleged bribery involving public procurement, licensing and other payments within Klaten regency administration, as well as an alleged bribe connected to an audit by the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK).

Ukraine Deposits Seeds in Norway’s Arctic for First Time Since 2022

Ukraine has deposited 773 seed samples in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, its first contribution since Russia’s invasion began in 2022. The deposit, part of a wider international transfer of more than 16,000 samples, strengthens protection of agricultural genetic resources amid the conflict.

KPK prepares 35 witnesses to expose alleged Rp22.27bn bribery in East Java grants case

KPK prosecutors plan to call between 28 and 35 witnesses in the trial of four defendants accused of paying Rp22.27 billion in bribes linked to East Java provincial assembly grant allocations. The alleged payments involved an advance-payment scheme for projects funded by grants, with prosecutors claiming fees could reach about 20 per cent of project values.

When More Than Just Businesses Grow: PNM Creates a Wider Impact for Its Clients

PNM’s Mekaar programme generated Rp1.81 in social value for every Rp1 invested between 2022 and 2024, with increased business income accounting for the largest share of benefits. The programme’s impact also extended to employment, financial knowledge, confidence and optimism, illustrating how microfinance and mentoring can influence clients’ families and communities as well as their businesses.

Over Haji Isam BCA Takeover Rumour, OJK Continues to Monitor Developments in the Banking Sector

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it is monitoring ownership changes, consolidation and corporate actions in the banking sector following a rumour that Haji Isam would acquire BCA. BCA has denied the rumour, while OJK says any material change in control would be assessed for its effects on bank risks, competition, lending, liquidity and financial stability.

Proposal to Treat Zakat as a Tax Credit Discussed by Religious Affairs Minister and Tax Directorate

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar says the MUI has issued a fatwa on fair taxation, prompting a proposal to treat zakat payments as tax credits rather than merely deductions from taxable income. The Finance Ministry has formed a task force with the MUI to consider the proposal, which would change how zakat is recognised under Indonesia’s current tax framework.

Data Centre Stocks Suddenly Plunge in Unison: Here’s Why

US shares in data-centre and AI infrastructure companies fell sharply after hotter-than-expected consumer inflation pushed Treasury yields higher and fuelled expectations of further Federal Reserve rate rises. The sell-off reflects growing concern that heavily indebted operators may face higher financing costs and that large-scale AI investment may not deliver expected returns; server-hardware suppliers were also hit by broker downgrades.

DPR Urges New PLN Chief to Prevent Power Disruptions Across Regions

A member of the House of Representatives’ Commission XII has urged newly appointed PLN president director Suroso Isnandar to prioritise electricity reliability and address outages across the country. She called for a comprehensive review of generation, transmission and distribution systems to prevent recurring disruptions and safeguard households, public services and businesses.

BSI International Expo 2026 to Help Local Products Reach Global Markets

BSI International Expo 2026 will showcase Indonesian brands that have already entered international markets at Jakarta International Convention Center from 23 to 25 October. Under the theme “Buy Local, Go Global”, the event aims to encourage young people to support domestic products, strengthen local brands’ competitiveness and boost the national economy.

Magnitude 4.1 Earthquake Shakes Bogor and Surrounding Areas, BMKG Says

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck near Bogor on Thursday afternoon, with the epicentre on land 26 kilometres south-west of Bogor city. No damage has been reported, and Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has urged residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks.

Sidkon Djampi Backs Safe Santri Programme, Says Pesantren Must Be Safe Spaces

West Java Regional Legislative Council member Sidkon Djampi has backed the Religious Affairs Ministry’s Safe Santri programme and the creation of anti-violence task forces at Islamic boarding schools. He says lasting protection requires consistent oversight, education for caregivers and accessible, victim-safe reporting mechanisms, alongside a culture that respects students’ dignity and rights.

Fuel Queues in Bali Gradually Ease as Pertamina Says 19 Million Litres of Additional Supply Have Arrived

Pertamina Patra Niaga says fuel queues in Bali are gradually easing after 19 million litres of an additional planned 57.9 million litres arrived at two terminals between 14 and 17 October 2026. The company has deployed 108 tanker trucks, extended terminal and service-station operations to 24 hours, and opened 66 petrol stations around the clock in Denpasar and Badung to improve supply and reduce queues.

Danantara, INA and TPIA Complete Investment in CA-EDC Project, Targeting 2027 Operations

Danantara Investment Management, Indonesia Investment Authority and Chandra Asri Pacific have completed their strategic investment partnership for a CA-EDC facility, which is 80% built and is expected to start commercial operations in 2027. With annual capacity planned at 400,000 tonnes of caustic soda and 500,000 tonnes of EDC, the project aims to cut chemical imports, strengthen domestic industrial supply chains and support Indonesia’s downstream-industry agenda.

West Halmahera PGA Urges Residents to Avoid Area Within Two Kilometres of Mount Ibu

Mount Ibu recorded 103 eruptions on Wednesday, with ash columns reaching 200–600 metres above the summit, while its alert status remains at Level II (Advisory). The volcano monitoring post urged residents and visitors to stay at least two kilometres away, including a 3.5-kilometre sector to the north of the active crater, and advised precautions against volcanic ash.

Creative Village at WCCE to Foster Cross-Border Collaboration, Says Creative Economy Ministry

The Creative Village at the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy will showcase Indonesian and international creative products while connecting local industry players with global partners. Organisers hope the event will expand market access and investment opportunities and turn exchanges of ideas into practical economic cooperation.

The Different Roles of Prabowo’s Newly Appointed Deputy Defence Ministers

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Air Marshal Yusuf Jauhari and General Richard Taruli Horja Tampubolon as deputy defence ministers, assigning them separate portfolios. Richard will oversee defence strategy, doctrine and force development, while Yusuf will focus on defence industry and logistics, with priorities including domestic production, diversified procurement and AI-enabled drones.

The 5th Nigerian–Indonesian Investment & Trade Forum (NIITF), 20–21 October 2026

The 5th Nigerian–Indonesian Investment & Trade Forum will take place in Jakarta on 20–21 October 2026, bringing together business leaders and investors to discuss trade, investment and strategic partnerships. The event will offer networking, investment discussions, joint-venture and trade opportunities, and factory visits, with the stated aim of strengthening economic ties and shared growth between Nigeria and Indonesia.

Following the Pangdam and Metro Police Chief, Jakarta Prosecutor’s Office Head to Receive Three-Star Rank

The head of the Jakarta High Prosecutor’s Office is set to receive a rank equivalent to three stars, following similar changes for the Jaya Military Regional Commander and the Metro Jaya Police Chief. President Prabowo Subianto approved the Attorney General’s Office proposal through Presidential Regulation No. 45 of 2026, which also sets the structural grades for the Jakarta office’s leadership positions.

Police arrest alleged drug dealer in West Jakarta’s Tambora district

Police have arrested a 34-year-old man in Tambora, West Jakarta, on suspicion of drug trafficking after seizing suspected methamphetamine, ecstasy pills and vape liquid containing etomidate. The case began with a tip-off from residents, and the suspect has been taken in for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Newly appointed Deputy Agriculture Minister Alim wants university research to support self-sufficiency

Newly appointed Deputy Agriculture Minister Alim Setiawan Slamet says university research and innovation should be put to practical use to advance food self-sufficiency and downstream processing of agricultural products. He is awaiting a division of responsibilities from Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, after being appointed by President Prabowo Subianto.

Government Opens Embassy in Israel as Public Anger Erupts and US Flag Is Burned

Thousands of people protested across Colombia against the government’s decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem and restore ties with Israel, alongside a closer relationship with the United States. The move reverses policies adopted under former president Gustavo Petro and has drawn condemnation from Palestinian officials, who say it risks violating international law and undermining Colombia’s diplomatic position.

15-year-old named suspect in fatal brawl in East Jakarta

East Jakarta police have named a 15-year-old as a child in conflict with the law in connection with a fatal clash between two groups of teenagers in Ciracas. A 15-year-old victim died after being struck in the neck with a sharp weapon, and police say the suspect could face charges carrying a sentence of up to 15 years, with proceedings taking account of his age.

BSI: Rights Issue to Strengthen Financing and Meet Free-Float Requirements

Bank Syariah Indonesia plans a rights issue of up to 6.8 billion shares to expand its financing capacity and raise its public shareholding from 9.9 per cent to meet minimum free-float requirements. The proceeds will support business growth, as the bank reports strong financing and deposit growth and aims to strengthen its capital position ahead of 2027.

MP calls for support to help Sekolah Rakyat pupils access university

Hetifah Sjaifudian has called for guidance and support to help pupils at Sekolah Rakyat pursue higher education, including access to eligible scholarship programmes. The appeal followed concerns raised by pupils and parents in Samarinda, as the government says graduates should either continue to university or enter skilled employment as part of efforts to break the cycle of poverty.

BP BUMN and Danantara Push Garuda Indonesia Business Transformation

BP BUMN and Danantara are urging Garuda Indonesia to accelerate a focused transformation centred on fleet expansion, new markets, customer experience and a stronger domestic presence. The strategy aims to improve operational efficiency and strengthen competitiveness through service quality and differentiation, rather than relying primarily on ticket prices.

Peatland Agency Chief Says Prabowo Wants Peatlands Rewetted, Experts to Be Involved

The newly appointed head of Indonesia’s Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency says President Prabowo Subianto has directed it to prevent peat fires by restoring wet conditions, particularly during extreme dry seasons. The agency also plans to work with communities and specialists to protect and restore peatlands and mangroves while supporting livelihoods through suitable crops.

Broken-Down Lorry Causing Congestion on MT Haryono Street Has Been Cleared; Traffic Returns to Normal

A broken-down concrete mixer lorry caused lengthy congestion on MT Haryono Street towards Halim, but police said it was repaired and had left the scene. Traffic has since returned to normal after motorists were reported using the Transjakarta bus lane to bypass the queue.

Pertamina Fuel Tanker Arrives in Bangli as Motorists Cheer After Queuing for 14 Hours

A Pertamina Patra Niaga tanker delivered 16 tonnes of Pertalite to a petrol station in Bangli, Bali, where around 200 motorcyclists had been waiting for hours amid fuel shortages. Pertamax had been out of stock for three days, while police monitored the queue and warned against buying fuel in bottles or jerrycans.

Pekanbaru City Government Earns ‘Very Good’ Rating for Investment Climate

Pekanbaru’s city government has received a ‘Very Good’ rating in the 2026 national assessment of local licensing services and efforts to accelerate business activity. The recognition comes as the city reports Rp7.35 trillion in investment realisation in the first half of 2026, exceeding its target, alongside economic growth above the Riau provincial average.

Rp8 Million Salary Offer Leads to Suspected Online Prostitution in Surabaya

East Java Police have named two suspects in an alleged human-trafficking case involving online prostitution in Surabaya and Sidoarjo. A 19-year-old woman from South Sumatra was reportedly recruited with a promise of Rp8 million a month, and investigators say the suspects used MiChat to find customers; the investigation is continuing.

Drug Den in Kampung Ambon Rebuilt After Demolition

Police say suspected drug dealers have rebuilt stalls in Kampung Ambon, West Jakarta, after authorities previously demolished them. A joint operation found seven people and seized drugs, weapons and other items; electricity was cut at several rebuilt sites, which PLN said were illegally connected to the grid.

BRI Strengthens the Foundations of the People’s Economy Through Merah Putih Village Co-operatives

Bank Rakyat Indonesia is supporting the development of Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Co-operatives, providing financial services through its BRILink Agent network and community assistance. Government visits to co-operatives in Lampung and East Java are intended to check operational readiness and ensure subsidised goods reach residents at regulated prices.

Indonesia faces wildfire challenges ahead of Prabowo’s second year

Indonesia is still battling wildfires as President Prabowo Subianto’s second anniversary approaches, with more than 72,000 hectares burned across six priority provinces and smoke affecting communities in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The fires have also damaged wildlife habitat, prompting rescues and relocations, while the recurring crisis raises pressure on the government to strengthen prevention and response.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Stresses Forkopimda’s Role in Tackling Forest and Land Fires in East Kalimantan

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has urged regional leaders and law enforcement agencies in East Kalimantan to coordinate more closely on preventing and controlling forest and land fires. He called for a shift from firefighting to prevention, reinforced the ban on land clearing by burning during the emergency period, and urged firm legal action against companies and individuals responsible.

Close to Iran, These Groups Have Drawn Saudi Arabia into an Endless War

Saudi Arabia has taken sharply different approaches to two Iran-aligned groups: it led a military intervention against Yemen’s Houthis, while using diplomatic and economic pressure against Lebanon’s Hezbollah. Riyadh’s choices reflect not only the groups’ ties to Tehran, but also direct security threats, local political realities and the risk of a wider conflict.

Wife and Children of Drug Kingpin Ko Erwin Accused of Receiving Drug Proceeds

The wife and two children of Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, have gone on trial in Mataram over alleged money laundering involving funds from his drug business. Prosecutors say the family used the money to buy property and vehicles, while police previously seized assets estimated at Rp15.3 billion from them.

Government to Trial New CNG Gas Cylinders to Curb LPG Imports

Indonesia is preparing to trial 3kg compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders for household use as it seeks to reduce annual LPG imports of 7–8 million tonnes and lower the cost of energy subsidies. The government says CNG could draw on abundant domestic gas, while a new Cilamaya refinery is already supplying part of LPG demand in Jakarta and West Java.

BPBA: 153.7 hectares of farmland affected by flooding in South-east Aceh

Flooding after prolonged heavy rain has affected 153.74 hectares of farmland in South-east Aceh, including rice and maize fields, while landslides have disrupted roads and damaged water-supply infrastructure. The disaster has affected 783 households, or 2,787 people; no deaths or evacuations have been reported, and emergency response teams are clearing debris and assisting residents.

Pupuk Indonesia prepares 8.5 tonnes of subsidised fertiliser for Tambakrejo KDKMP

PT Pupuk Indonesia has prepared 8.5 tonnes of subsidised fertiliser for the Tambakrejo village cooperative in Sidoarjo ahead of the coming planting season. The cooperative is part of a nationwide effort to expand distribution, with eligible farmers able to buy fertiliser using their identity cards if registered in the e-RDKK system.

Iran insists shipping in the Strait of Hormuz must have Tehran’s permission

Iran says all vessels seeking to pass through the Strait of Hormuz must coordinate with its armed forces, which it says control and monitor the waterway. The strait remains closed, disrupting oil distribution and contributing to higher fuel prices in the United States and elsewhere, amid tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Pegadaian’s Role in Fast-Tracking the Bullion Bank Ecosystem with Danantara

Pegadaian reported a net profit of Rp6.59 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 84.4% year on year, and is expanding its integrated gold business under state investment agency Danantara. The company says its bullion-bank ecosystem—from vault storage and processing to retail—supports Indonesia’s downstreaming agenda by turning raw gold into higher-value products and contributing to domestic growth.

Looking for a Campsite, He Finds a 390-Million-Year-Old Treasure

A man searching Google Maps for a campsite in Quebec stumbled upon a suspected meteorite impact crater, prompting a difficult field expedition by geologists. The crater is about 25 kilometres wide and is estimated to be 390 million years old, adding to evidence that Earth still holds geological surprises.

Buol Gold Mining to Be Regulated as Anwar Hafid Pushes for Legalisation and Environmental Protection

Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid says the province is working to issue community mining permits in Buol, allowing local residents to mine legally and benefit more directly from gold resources. He has urged the district government to organise mining activity while emphasising that residents’ livelihoods must be considered and environmental protection maintained.

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution to Use Weather Modification to Reduce Haze

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution says cloud-seeding efforts will be carried out in stages, beginning around Lake Toba, to bring rain and reduce haze caused by forest and land fires. If the rain-making operation is unsuccessful in some areas, the province may use dry ice to lift smoke away from the ground and limit disruption to residents.

China Welcomes Prabowo’s Commitment to Protect Foreign Investment

The China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia says President Prabowo Subianto’s pledge to protect all investment sends a positive signal to Chinese investors and could strengthen economic ties between the two countries. The statement comes amid major investment at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, where realised investment has reached about US$20 billion, with a further US$7 billion planned.

Deputy Minister Fajar Inspects Construction of New Senior High School in Sleman, Designed to Accommodate Students with Special Needs

Deputy Education Minister Fajar Riza Ul Haq inspected construction of a new state senior high school in Berbah, Sleman, funded by an Rp8.51 billion government grant. The school is planned to accommodate about 324 students from the 2027/2028 academic year, with facilities including disability access and dedicated toilets; officials said infrastructure expansion must be matched by teaching quality.

Dadapan Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Lamongan to Employ Up to 35 Workers

The Dadapan Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Lamongan is expected to create 30–35 local jobs and process up to 50 tonnes of waste a day into refuse-derived fuel and recyclable materials. The project is 35 per cent complete and has an allocated state budget of Rp84.185 billion, with wastewater treatment and a residue landfill also planned.

3C Merges with Datalec to Create Liquid-Cooling and Data Centre Services Platform

3C and London-based Datalec Precision Installations have merged to form 3C Datalec, a global provider of design, construction and operational services for AI data centre infrastructure. Backed by four investors, the group plans to hire 200 engineers and open facilities in Poland, Canada and the US over the next year, as demand for high-density AI computing drives growth in liquid cooling.

Two Trucks Collide on Cakung Toll Road, Killing One; Microsleep Suspected

A collision between a tanker truck and a trailer on the Cakung Toll Road in East Jakarta killed one person, with microsleep suspected as the cause. Emergency crews evacuated the victim to hospital, and traffic, which was briefly disrupted during the response, has since returned to normal.

Indonesia Says It Is Regularly Reporting on Forest and Land Fire Response to ASEAN

Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir says Indonesia has met all regular reporting requirements to ASEAN’s haze-control centre and that the number of fire hotspots is declining despite difficult weather. Malaysia and Singapore have acknowledged Indonesia’s response, while Malaysia is seeking more effective action and plans to raise transboundary haze at an upcoming ASEAN meeting.

Attorney General’s Office Names PT CNI Director a Suspect in Nickel Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office has named PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama director DS a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving nickel governance from 2017 to 2020. Investigators allege illegal nickel exports and bribery, while the company has returned Rp401 billion in state losses identified by BPKP; DS is to be detained for 20 days.

Attorney General’s Office Names PT CNI President Director Suspect in Rp401bn Nickel Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office has named PT CNI president director and shareholder DS as a suspect in an alleged nickel-governance corruption case involving illegal exports and manipulated nickel assay results. Prosecutors say the case caused Rp401bn in state losses, which PT CNI has since repaid; the investigation also involves several other suspects, including a former senior Energy Ministry official.

Finance Minister explores JBIC support for infrastructure and energy projects

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has discussed potential Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) support for Indonesian infrastructure and energy projects, including a waste-to-energy facility in West Java. Talks also covered energy security, carbon pricing and regional cooperation, while separate meetings with the World Bank, IFC and Singapore addressed fiscal credibility, SME financing, exports and ASEAN connectivity.

Pertamina Increases Fuel Supplies as Bali Petrol Station Services Gradually Stabilise

Pertamina Patra Niaga has added fuel supplies and expanded distribution operations in Bali, with services at several petrol stations beginning to stabilise. About 19 million litres of a planned 57.9 million-litre top-up have arrived, while terminals and dozens of stations are operating around the clock to ease queues and meet demand.

Bank Aceh Pledges to Strengthen Aceh’s SMEs Through Promise Impact Programme

Bank Aceh Syariah says it will continue working with the ILO’s Promise Impact programme to help small and medium-sized enterprises in Aceh improve financial literacy, business management, digitalisation and access to formal financial services. The partnership also supports the region’s patchouli business ecosystem, with the aim of helping local businesses grow, reach wider markets and create jobs.

ALPS appoints Brian Turnbow to lead development of next-generation AI data centres

Italian scale-up ALPS has appointed Brian Turnbow as its AI Technical Director to lead its expansion into AI and high-performance computing infrastructure. Its energy-to-compute strategy prioritises sites with available power, renewable energy and the reuse of existing industrial assets, with Italy identified as a priority market amid growing constraints on grid connections.

Indonesia to Begin Crypto Tax Information Exchange in 2027

Indonesia will begin exchanging cross-border tax information on crypto-assets in 2027 after adopting the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF). The framework is intended to strengthen transparency and tax oversight of digital-asset transactions, as the country reports more than 23 million digital-asset consumer accounts and agencies clarify their respective regulatory roles.

Former President and First Lady Stand Trial in Torture Case

Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are due to appear in a New York federal court on new allegations that they helped oversee a repressive system involving the torture of dozens of people, including three US citizens. Both are expected to plead not guilty and deny wrongdoing; the allegations add to an existing US drug-trafficking case and remain to be proven in court.

Religious Affairs Minister Explains Crypto Tax: Taxation Does Not Mean It Is Deemed Halal

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar said taxing crypto transactions is a means of monitoring a high-risk market, not an endorsement of the activities or a religious ruling that they are permissible. Crypto is prohibited as currency under an Indonesian Council of Ulama ruling, although trading it as a commodity or asset may be allowed if it meets certain conditions; the article also outlines recent changes to crypto regulation and taxation.

KPK Arrests 20 People and Seizes Rp1 Billion in Connection with Klaten Regent Sting Operation

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested 20 people and seized about Rp1 billion in cash in a sting operation involving Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The probe concerns alleged bribes connected to procurement, permits and other receipts from local government agencies, as well as an alleged bribe to an auditor at the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK).

AP Assures Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport Flights Are Not Affected by Haze

Angkasa Pura Indonesia says flights at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Aceh remain unaffected by smoke haze from forest and land fires elsewhere in Sumatra. The airport is monitoring conditions with meteorological and air navigation authorities and says any operational decisions will prioritise flight safety.

DPD Meets 10 Central Java Private University Leaders to Discuss Impact of Decile Changes

The Regional Representative Council (DPD) gathered leaders from 10 private universities in Central Java to hear concerns about changes to social welfare data deciles affecting prospective recipients of the Indonesia Smart Card (KIP) scholarship. Universities say some students have been moved beyond the programme’s eligibility threshold and are seeking shorter review periods, university-level verification and a transition period when national data are updated.

Repairs to Disaster-Hit Hospitals and Community Health Centres in Sumatra Nearly Complete, Says Home Affairs Minister

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says all regional general hospitals and community health centres damaged by disasters in Sumatra have resumed operations, with six health posts still being restored. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said the disasters affected nearly 100 hospitals, 1,000 community health centres and 2,000 auxiliary centres; wider rehabilitation and reconstruction work is targeted for completion by 2028.

Tax Chief Speaks Out on 0% Final Income Tax for SOE Restructuring

Indonesia’s tax director-general says the government is awaiting a government regulation and finance ministry regulation before clarifying a 0% final income tax treatment for six types of state-owned enterprise (SOE) restructuring transactions. The tax-object codes are already listed in a director-general’s regulation, covering share transfers and gifts, capital restructuring, business-line transfers and debt forgiveness.

Sky House BSD+ Marks New Chapter with Construction of Esplanade Tower

Sky House BSD+ has broken ground on Esplanade Tower, a new residential development beside AEON MALL BSD CITY offering apartments and two-storey SOHO units. The project is positioned to serve residents and professionals while drawing on BSD City’s expanding residential, business, education and technology ecosystem; units start at around Rp400 million, with developer instalments available for up to 100 months, subject to terms and conditions.

Fuel Distribution and Punctured Lorry Tyre Cause Congestion on Gilimanuk–Denpasar Route

Traffic heading from Gilimanuk to Denpasar was congested around Soka and Jelijih in Tabanan on Thursday, with fuel distribution and a large lorry with a punctured tyre contributing to delays. Police monitored and managed traffic, while the reverse route and fuel deliveries towards Jembrana remained clear; conditions had begun to improve but were not yet back to normal.

Two women arrested in Tamansari after allegedly possessing illegal prescription medicines

Police in West Jakarta arrested two women after finding them with Tramadol, Trihexyphenidyl and Hexymer, medicines allegedly held without marketing authorisation. Investigators say the women named two suspected suppliers who are being sought, and the case is being pursued under Indonesia’s 2023 Health Law.

Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo’s Career Record: Klaten Regent Caught in KPK Sting, and His Declared Wealth

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo was arrested in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation over alleged bribery involving local government procurement and possible payments connected to an audit. The case has drawn attention to his political career, from serving on Klaten’s regional council to becoming regent in 2025; the source headline also refers to his wealth, but the article provides no figures.

Bintan Regency Government focuses on restoring essential services after power disruption

Bintan Regency is prioritising the restoration of public services following a power outage that disrupted residents’ daily activities and government operations. The regent said health and administrative services must be fully accessible again, while PLN reported that electricity across Bintan had been restored to all 173,681 customers.

Khozin highlights disharmony behind proposal to elect regional heads without deputies

DPR Commission II member Muhammad Khozin says a proposal to elect regional heads without their deputies stems from widespread conflict between the two offices, which he says affects more than half of regional administrations. He argues that unclear divisions of responsibility leave deputy regional heads dependent on delegated authority and says PKB is pushing for election regulations to be revised, although formal discussions remain a long way off.

Commuters Bear the Brunt as INKA Trains Suffer Further Disruptions

Two INKA-built commuter train sets developed technical problems, prompting the cancellation of five services on the Bogor and Cikarang lines. The incidents follow earlier failures involving another INKA train, raising fresh concerns for passengers as KAI Commuter and INKA investigate the causes.

Pope Leo Undergoes Physiotherapy After Lung Surgery

Pope Leo XIV is recovering well after surgery to remove a malignant lung tumour, with chest X-rays showing progress as expected. The Vatican says he has resumed work and is undergoing physiotherapy while awaiting biopsy results to determine whether the cancer has spread.

Global Markets Seek Green Energy Products, Bahlil Says They Are Worth More Than Fossil-Fuel Products

Bahlil Lahadalia says products made using clean energy are increasingly favoured by global markets and can command higher value than those produced with fossil fuels. Indonesia’s plans for renewables, solar power, batteries and bioenergy are intended to strengthen industrial competitiveness, attract investment, reduce energy imports and create jobs.

Danantara Indonesia Explores Technology Investment in Six Strategic Sectors Through DTIIF 2026

Danantara Indonesia will use its 26–28 October 2026 technology investment forum in Jakarta to connect projects in six priority sectors with international investors, technology companies and research institutions. It aims to turn innovation into commercially viable projects and measurable investment, with Google and Microsoft among the companies expected to participate.

One-Hectare Plot in Plesedan, Bantul, Catches Fire After Resident Burns Rubbish

A fire burned around one hectare of land beside the Jogja-Wonosari road in Bantul after a resident left rubbish burning unattended. Firefighters extinguished the blaze after two and a half hours; no injuries or deaths were reported, although traffic was temporarily slowed during the operation.

Klaten Regent Hamenang Questioned at Police Station After KPK Arrest

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in an arrest operation and is questioning him at Klaten Police Station. Nineteen other people were also detained, and investigators have found around Rp1 billion in cash; the case is suspected to involve bribes connected with projects, procurement, permits and the handling of audit findings.

Bulog Boosts Rice Supplies to Support KDKMP Operations

Perum Bulog says it has supplied rice to 1,250 Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives (KDKMP) and plans to expand distribution to around 8,000 locations. The initiative is intended to improve access to food and support the government’s village-level economic programme, alongside efforts to maintain food availability and price stability.

Attorney-General’s Office Names Mining Executive as New Suspect in Nickel Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Attorney-General’s Office has named PT CNI president director DS a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving nickel governance in Southeast Sulawesi from 2017 to 2020. Prosecutors allege unlawful nickel exports, irregular export and mining-plan approvals, and payments to officials, with state losses estimated at about Rp401 billion; DS has been detained for 20 days.

Culture Ministry brings Pacific and Indonesian artists together under IPCC 2026

Indonesia’s Culture Ministry has brought artists from Indonesia and the Pacific together for a Yogyakarta residency and showcase, using traditional arts and shared cultural practice to strengthen people-to-people ties. Fiji’s culture minister praised the programme and proposed exploring a bilateral memorandum of understanding covering heritage preservation, education, artist exchanges and joint productions.

FAO praises Indonesia’s progress in reducing hunger ahead of World Food Day 2026

The FAO says Indonesia’s prevalence of hunger fell from 18.4% in 2004–06 to 6.3% in 2023–25, crediting investment in agriculture, irrigation and food logistics. It is calling for broader innovation and more inclusive investment to make nutritious food affordable and accessible, particularly for low-income communities and small-scale farmers.

Deputy Finance Minister Sets Limits on Hajj Fund Investments and Outlines Danantara’s Role

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung said Hajj fund investments must meet their fiduciary and Sharia mandates, prioritising financial soundness rather than social benefit alone. He said Danantara could provide a more suitable funding channel for projects whose benefits are primarily public, helping protect pilgrims’ savings while supporting a productive and sustainable Hajj fund ecosystem.

South Kalimantan Police DVI Team Identifies Four Virgo Ship Victims

The South Kalimantan Police Disaster Victim Identification team has identified four more people who died in the sinking of the Virgo Transport 8, bringing the total identified to 81 of the 82 bodies received. Fifty-three people remain missing after the vessel sank in the Java Sea on 13 September 2026; 190 people have been found, including 108 survivors.

Indonesia explores stronger exports and support for SMEs with IFC

Indonesia and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) are discussing ways to expand export financing and strengthen domestic supply chains, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, services and fisheries. The cooperation also aims to widen MSMEs’ access to finance and digital financial services, while IFC plans to move some senior roles from Singapore to Jakarta.

Army Chief Tandyo Says Prabowo Has Ordered Faster Government Programmes, Including in Papua

New Army Chief of Staff General Tandyo Budi Revita says the Indonesian Army will help accelerate President Prabowo Subianto’s strategic programmes, including village cooperatives, public schools and food security, as well as assist with peatland fires. He also identified Papua as a priority, citing both public welfare and security concerns, and referred to recent arrests in Maybrat as part of efforts to deter armed groups.

Klaten Regent’s Arrest in Graft Sting Suspected to Involve Bribery, Including BPK Audit

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says its sting operation targeting Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo may involve alleged payments related to procurement, permits and other local government receipts, as well as a suspected payment to a BPK official concerning an audit. Around Rp1 billion was seized, while those detained were being questioned in Klaten and Jakarta.

Sumatra Health Sector Rehabilitation Makes Significant Progress

Health services in disaster-hit parts of Sumatra have largely resumed, with nearly all regional hospitals and community health centres fully operational and only six auxiliary health centres yet to reopen. Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian also urged local governments to accelerate the use of additional central-government funding, noting that some areas had spent less than half of their allocations.

Minister outlines four pillars of water self-sufficiency in Indonesia

Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has set out four pillars of water self-sufficiency: access to safe water and sanitation, water for food production, water sustainability, and data analytics to guide decisions. He said integrated management and cross-sector collaboration are essential to address regional shortages and interconnected risks, while supporting Indonesia’s food, energy and economic security.

Banyuwangi Regency Holds Free Health Checks for Santri Ahead of National Santri Day

Banyuwangi Regency is providing free health checks to 28,000 santri across 45 Islamic boarding schools as part of events leading up to National Santri Day 2026. The programme combines screenings and treatment referrals with health education, reflecting the local government’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of pesantren communities.

South Jakarta City Government stresses fire prevention during dry season

South Jakarta officials are urging residents to take precautions against fires during the prolonged dry season, particularly by avoiding the burning of rubbish. The city will also hold an earthquake drill at the mayor’s office on 21 October 2026, followed by exercises at 112 schools and 10 government buildings, as part of efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness.

Ahead of WCCE 2026, Government Communications Agency Seeks to Put Regional Creativity on the Global Stage

Indonesia’s Government Communications Agency (Bakom) is working with media outlets to raise the global profile of creative-economy products and talent from across the country ahead of the World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE) 2026. The sector’s GDP grew 6.86% in 2025 to Rp1,757.87 trillion and employed 27.4 million people, underlining its economic significance as Jakarta prepares to host the conference in October.

DPR Commission VIII Urges Kristomei to Improve BNPB and Strengthen Its Integrity

DPR Commission VIII Deputy Chair Singgih Januratmoko has urged newly appointed BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi to strengthen the agency’s integrity, improve internal governance and ensure disaster funds are managed transparently. The appeal follows a recent corruption case at the agency, with the commission pledging to oversee reforms while cautioning against generalising misconduct across the entire organisation.

KAI Says South Sumatra LRT Services Remain Normal Despite Haze

KAI and the South Sumatra Light Rail Management Agency say LRT services in Palembang are running to schedule despite haze, with safety precautions including advice for passengers to wear masks. The network carried more than 3.3 million passengers in the third quarter of 2026 and recorded on-time performance above 99.9 per cent for both departures and arrivals.

Police Tell Residents to Stop Burning Sweet Wrappers After Bogor Complaints

Police in Bogor have warned workers at a site in Sukamulya village to stop burning used sweet and medicine packaging to recover aluminium foil. The activity had reportedly been going on for four months, and authorities cited potential respiratory health impacts and fire risks.

Bank Aladin Syariah Wins TASPEN Award for Pension Payments

Bank Aladin Syariah has received TASPEN’s top award in the small-bank category for its performance in facilitating pension payments. The bank reported net profit of Rp38.3 billion in the second quarter of 2026 and says it will strengthen operations and partnerships to maintain reliable service for pensioners.

Samsung prepares major Galaxy OS operating system update

Samsung is reportedly developing a major overhaul of its software, potentially debuting as One UI 10 or Galaxy OS alongside the Galaxy S28 flagship phones. The plan is said to include deeper AI integration with Google and optional paid third-party AI services, although details remain unofficial and could change.

PBNU stresses unity and religious knowledge in the digital age

Nahdlatul Ulama’s central board has urged its members to uphold unity and strengthen religious learning as digital technology brings challenges including misinformation, bullying and moral concerns. Its leaders also outlined five strategic roles for santri, while East Java’s NU branch announced a series of National Santri Day events in October.

Petojo Selatan Subdistrict Urges Businesses to Help Maintain Public Order

Petojo Selatan officials are involving local businesses in efforts to identify and prevent disturbances to public order through a participatory assessment programme. The initiative aims to encourage shared responsibility for public spaces and make the area safer and more comfortable for residents and businesses.

Unusual! 43 Plastic-Bottle Boats Set to Sail on Sunter Lake

Forty-three boats made from used plastic bottles by Jakarta’s Orange Troops will feature in the 2026 CiLung Fest at South Sunter Lake. The festival aims to raise awareness of waterway cleanliness and waste sorting, while showcasing reuse and recycling through public activities and an on-water parade.

How a 19-Year-Old Earned Rp12.3 Billion with Just Rp7.5 Million in Start-up Capital

Mike Satterlee, a 19-year-old entrepreneur, built a 3D-printing business from his parents’ basement after investing Rp7.5 million in his first printer. A successful product promoted on Instagram fuelled rapid growth, with annual revenue now reaching Rp12.3 billion; the story highlights reinvestment, social media marketing and gradual scaling.

Sawarna MSMEs Use AI to Expand Their Market

Banana-chip producers in Sawarna, Lebak Regency, are using AI and digital marketing tools to reach customers beyond the area’s tourist trade. An initial evaluation found higher self-reported digital-marketing skills and increased online promotional activity and recorded transactions after a training programme run by Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya University.

Car Carrying 900 Litres of Kerosene Catches Fire Near Halim Airport

A car carrying 900 litres of kerosene caught fire on a road near Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in East Jakarta after flames reportedly emerged from its exhaust. The driver struck a street-light pole in a bid to stop, and firefighters extinguished the blaze; no casualties were reported.

Advocate urges public to change attitudes towards disability

Disability advocate Angkie Yudistia has called for a shift from pity towards respect for disabled people’s abilities, work and contribution to society. Her remarks followed Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s meeting with children from the Aku Menari community, during which he offered a presidential palace auditorium as a place for the group to practise.

16-year-old student nearly becomes mail-order bride to Chinese national in Tangerang

Police in Tasikmalaya rescued a 16-year-old vocational school student who was allegedly targeted in a mail-order bride scheme involving a 35-year-old Chinese national in Tangerang. Investigators are treating the case as suspected sexual violence and are examining whether others were involved; the girl has returned to her family and is receiving support.

KPK Reveals Klaten Regent’s Arrest in Bribery Probe

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says its arrest of Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo is linked to alleged bribery involving procurement and other matters in the Central Java regency government. Investigators are also examining suspected payments to an official at the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) in connection with an audit; the KPK has 24 hours to determine the status of those detained.

Public Relations: Joint Team Again Arrests Ammunition Supplier to KKB in Waena

A joint task force and Papua Police have arrested two people suspected of links to a network distributing firearms and ammunition to the armed criminal group (KKB) in Jayapura. Police say one suspect was allegedly an intermediary and was on a wanted list; the latest arrests bring the number detained in the case to 19 since March.

General Tandyo on Reports He Could Become TNI Commander: ‘That Is Beyond My Control’

Newly appointed Army Chief of Staff General Tandyo Budi Revita declined to speculate about reports that he could become the next TNI commander, saying the matter was beyond his control. He said the Army would support the government’s priority programmes, including the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives and food security initiatives, while stepping up efforts to extinguish forest and land fires.

Deputy Communications Minister Praises Private-Sector Partnership Supporting Free Nutritious Meals for Children with Special Needs

Deputy Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Angga Raka Prabowo praised a government-private sector partnership providing the Free Nutritious Meals programme to children with special needs in South Tangerang. The Grab-OVO CSR initiative uses local merchants and digital ordering and delivery, and has reportedly reached around 5,000 pupils across 12 regencies and municipalities since 2024.

Living Coral Reef Used as Stage Decoration at Bima MTQ Goes Viral

A video showing live coral used to decorate the stage at a district-level Qur’an recitation event in Langgudu, Bima, has prompted criticism over the apparent disregard for marine conservation. Local tourism activist Bang Gis says the coral appeared alive and warns that removing it from the sea is prohibited and harms the marine ecosystem; the subdistrict head did not respond to a request for comment.

Indonesia’s Data Centre Capacity Projected to Exceed 1,000 Megawatts

Indonesia’s operating data centre capacity stands at about 540 MW and is projected to surpass 1,000 MW by 2030 as demand for digital infrastructure grows. APJII says new facilities should be developed across the regions, with data centres also supporting local internet businesses, technology jobs and telecommunications infrastructure.

Unpas Forms Investigation Team to Probe Alleged Sexual Abuse by Lecturer

Universitas Pasundan has formed an investigation team to examine allegations of sexual violence by lecturers against students, with reports so far identifying two lecturers. The university says it will impose proportionate sanctions on anyone found responsible, while its prevention and response task force continues to support victims; the move follows a student protest demanding a safe campus environment.

Danantara Targets Rp1.66 Trillion a Year in Philanthropic Funding, with Three Key Priorities

Danantara Indonesia Trust aims to provide the Indonesian Government with at least US$100 million (around Rp1.66 trillion) annually for social programmes in education, healthcare, and clean water and sanitation. As it enters its second year, the foundation is expanding partnerships and setting out initiatives that include scholarships for 800 students, climate-resilient water and sanitation projects in East Nusa Tenggara, and support for healthcare workers in underserved areas.

Co-operatives Minister Checks KDKMP Operations in East Java, Says Rollout Will Be Gradual

Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono inspected several Merah Putih village and urban-ward co-operatives in East Java, saying they are beginning operations gradually and are stocked with subsidised essentials and government assistance. Coordinating Food Affairs Minister Zulkifli Hasan said the initiative is intended to shorten distribution chains and keep prices in line with government rules, while acknowledging that the large cross-government programme may still have gaps.

Struggling in Europe, VW launches an appealing model in China

Volkswagen has launched the ID Era 8X, a large extended-range electric SUV developed with its Chinese partner SAIC, as the company faces planned job cuts, model reductions and possible factory closures in Germany. Its long combined range, advanced driver-assistance technology and relatively low Chinese-market price could make it attractive globally, although European tariffs may complicate any decision to export it.

Nine Short Quranic Verses Reveal Allah’s Greatness in the Food We Consume

The article reflects on Quran 80:24–32, which urges people to consider how rain and the earth produce food for humans and livestock. It links the passage’s list of crops and plants to the importance of food for energy, growth and bodily maintenance, presenting plant life as a sign of Allah’s creative power.

Jakarta LPDP scholarship offers study options in New York and Australia

Jakarta is preparing a provincially funded overseas scholarship programme for 50 to 75 students in 2027, with Rp100 billion allocated and study destinations including New York, the UK, Australia and Asian countries. The programme, coordinated with the central government’s LPDP, will cover a broad range of fields and is expected to extend opportunities to children and people with disabilities.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Urges Firm Action Against Forest and Land Fire Offenders in South Sumatra

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman has called on law enforcement to prosecute companies and individuals found to have deliberately started fires or negligently managed them in South Sumatra. He also urged local authorities, the military and police to intensify prevention, firefighting and public education as the region awaits rain expected towards the end of November 2026.

20 rescued green turtles released back into the wild

Twenty of 22 green turtles rescued from a suspected smuggling operation off Serangan Beach in Bali have been released after veterinary checks found them fit to return to their natural habitat. Two remain under treatment, while authorities say the response combines law enforcement, animal care and conservation amid continuing threats from illegal trade and human activity.

Forensic Team Investigates Cimanggis Market Blast; Fruit-Ripening Room Suspected

Indonesia’s National Police Forensic Laboratory is examining a second explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang, with investigators provisionally suspecting the fruit-ripening room that uses ethylene gas. The precise cause and factors behind the blast remain undetermined pending forensic results.

Bakom: Indonesia’s Economic Growth Must Be Inclusive and Empower Communities

Government Communications Agency expert Fithra Faisal Hastiadi says Indonesia’s target of 8 per cent economic growth by 2029 must benefit communities, particularly the informal sector and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). He argues that formalising small businesses and improving access to support and finance can help them grow, while ensuring economic gains translate directly into public welfare.

East Java Police Investigate Bromo Fire That Killed Three

East Java Police are investigating the circumstances of a wildfire in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park that killed three people and injured three others. Twelve people, including park personnel and volunteers, had gone to help tackle the blaze; authorities are questioning witnesses and have urged the public to stay away from the affected area.

KPK Arrests 20 People in Connection with Klaten Regent’s Sting Operation, Including Civil Servants and BPK Personnel

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 20 people in a sting operation in Klaten and Jakarta, including Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, civil servants and private-sector figures. The case is suspected to involve bribery linked to procurement, permits and other local government receipts, as well as alleged payments to Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) personnel to influence an audit; investigators seized about Rp1 billion in cash.

Zulhas: Village Cooperatives to Curb Leakage in Subsidised Aid

Food Affairs Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan says Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives will distribute government assistance and subsidised goods to reduce leakage and ensure aid reaches eligible recipients. The cooperatives are also intended to shorten supply chains, buy local farmers’ and fishers’ output, and support more even economic growth, although the programme will require time to establish and train managers.

Library Visits in Jakarta Top 5.1 Million by October 2026

Jakarta’s libraries recorded more than 5.12 million visits by October 2026, alongside substantial borrowing, returns and on-site reading. The provincial library service says it is expanding access and strengthening literacy through improved collections, digital services and public programmes.

BNPB Chief to Calculate Forest and Land Fire Area Using SiPongi and NASA Satellite Data

BNPB chief Lt Gen Kristomei Sianturi says the agency will verify the area affected by forest and land fires using data from SiPongi and NASA, after its estimate of about 600 hectares was questioned by images circulating on social media. The results will be made public, while the immediate priority is preventing deaths caused by the fires.

Police Name Five Suspects in Fatal Beating of Farmer After Drunken Brawl in Indramayu

Police have arrested five men in connection with the death of farmer Sanudin, 44, in Indramayu, less than 24 hours after the incident. Investigators say the violence began during a dispute between two brothers, with several participants allegedly under the influence of alcohol; one suspect is accused of stabbing Sanudin three times in the back.

Dubai Police Add Hybrid Lamborghini to Their Fleet

Dubai Police have added a Lamborghini Temerario to their fleet of high-performance patrol cars, continuing a line-up that already includes several Lamborghini models. The electrified supercar will mainly support the Tourism Police Department’s public-facing work in busy visitor areas, while a similar model used by Italy’s state police is equipped for urgent organ transport.

KPK Arrests Klaten Regent over Suspected Project Bribery and Manipulation of BPK Audit

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in a sting operation over suspected bribery linked to projects and alleged payments to a BPK official concerning an audit. Nineteen other people were also detained in Klaten and Jakarta, and investigators seized cash initially estimated at Rp1 billion.

Central Java Gathers 600 Research Works; Luthfi Calls Them a Breakthrough for Regional Development

Central Java Province has collected 600 research submissions and produced 51 policy briefs with recommendations for regional development. Governor Ahmad Luthfi said the findings should be implemented in practice, and strategic proposals covering food security, the environment, the economy, micro and small businesses, and health were handed to the provincial government.

Central Java Provincial Government Enlists 123 Universities to Tackle Poverty

Central Java says its poverty rate fell to 9.21% in March 2026, with 81,250 fewer people living in poverty than a year earlier. The provincial government is working with 123 universities on community programmes, while a national initiative plans around 2,000 scholarships for village empowerment cadres and their children.

KPK Detains 20 People in Klaten Regency Government Raid, Including Regent Hamenang

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detained 20 people in a sting operation involving the Klaten regency government, including Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. Officials were questioned in Klaten and Jakarta, while investigators seized cash initially estimated at around Rp1 billion; the case and the detainees’ formal status have not yet been disclosed.

Bulog Bojonegoro moves to stabilise premium rice stocks and prices

Bulog’s Bojonegoro branch has prepared 200 tonnes of premium Setra Ramos rice for Bojonegoro, Tuban and Lamongan, to be sold at the maximum retail price of Rp14,900 per kilogram. The move is intended to maintain access to premium rice amid high paddy prices, alongside wider 2026 distribution targets for subsidised-price and food-aid rice.

Rupiah Under Pressure as US Dollar Strengthens on 15 October 2026

The rupiah is expected to face pressure after US September inflation exceeded forecasts, strengthening the dollar and lifting Treasury yields amid expectations that the Federal Reserve may keep rates high or raise them further. Analysts forecast trading around Rp17,900–Rp17,950 per US dollar, while Bank Indonesia’s 5.75 per cent policy rate and foreign-exchange reserves of US$146.3 billion are among the domestic buffers against volatility.

Bromo Fire Kills Three

A forest and land fire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park area of East Java has killed three people, after six were reportedly trapped by the flames. Authorities are carrying out an evacuation and have yet to confirm the victims’ identities or the cause of the fire.

School roof collapses in Pakistan, killing 29 pupils and a teacher

Thirty people, including 29 pupils and a teacher, were killed when the roof of a private school in Peshawar collapsed, with around 20 children also reported injured. Police have arrested the school’s owner, and the incident follows another fatal school-roof collapse in Lahore earlier this year.

BSI International Expo 2026 Targets Rp4 Trillion in Transactions, Courts Gen Z

Bank Syariah Indonesia’s 2026 international expo will bring together 426 exhibitors from the halal industry and aims to double transactions to Rp4 trillion, with a stronger focus on domestic MSMEs. The event is also designed to engage Gen Z with local brands and halal lifestyle offerings, while creating business-matching and export opportunities.

Bogor Man Found Dead Sitting at Home After Foul Odour Alert

A 57-year-old man was found dead in a sitting position at his home in Gunung Putri, Bogor, after residents reported a foul smell. Medical personnel found no signs of violence, and he is suspected to have died of illness, although the exact cause remains unconfirmed; his family declined an autopsy.

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo Arrested in KPK Sting; Civil Servants and Private-Sector Figures Also Detained

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, along with civil servants from the regency government and private-sector figures, in its 23rd sting operation of 2026. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained; the arrest adds to a series of high-profile anti-corruption operations this year.

OJK Responds to Haji Isam-BCA Takeover Rumours, Monitoring Risks and Banking Stability

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it will assess any transaction that could change a bank’s controlling shareholder, amid reports of a possible acquisition of BCA by businessman Haji Isam that the bank has denied. Its review would cover risks, lending concentration, related-party transactions, governance and potential effects on competition and financial stability.

New BNPB Chief Sets Wildfire Response Target: ‘As Soon as Possible’

Newly appointed BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi says responses to forest and land fires must be measured in minutes, not hours, to prevent further harm to residents. He plans to inspect affected locations after coordinating internally and says the priority is an effective response, regardless of whether the disaster is classified as national or regional.

Land Dispute Resolved, Construction of 440 Permanent Homes in Agam to Accelerate

Agam Regency has resumed and accelerated construction of 440 permanent homes for people displaced by disasters, after local authorities and residents agreed on the use of former plantation concession land. The project is targeted for completion by December 2026, alongside other communal and individually built housing schemes intended to help residents move out of temporary accommodation.

Broken-Down Lorry in Cawang Towards Halim Causes Traffic Jams, Delays 10 TransJakarta Routes

A broken-down lorry near the entrance to the Jagorawi Toll Road caused heavy congestion in Cawang, delaying 10 TransJakarta services. Traffic on MT Haryono heading towards Halim was also moving slowly, with some car and motorbike drivers entering the dedicated bus lane.

Strong Signs Indonesian Workers Should Head Abroad: The Skills They Need

Indonesia could expand overseas worker placements as ageing and shrinking populations in countries such as Japan, South Korea and Singapore increase demand for labour. Industry Minister M Sarmuji said the opportunity depends on vocational training and relevant skills, while technology-driven changes at home mean economic growth is creating fewer jobs than before.

Dompu Regent Appoints 304 Officials, Including 11 Department Heads

Dompu Regent Bambang Firdaus has sworn in 304 officials in the West Nusa Tenggara regency, including 11 senior department heads whose selection process had taken eight months. The appointments also covered administrative and functional posts, school principals and civil servants, as Firdaus urged the new appointees to fulfil their duties in service of the region.

Maguwoharjo Ring Road to Get Height Barriers, Vehicles Over 4.2 Metres Barred

Temporary height-restriction barriers are planned on the northern ring road in Maguwoharjo, Sleman, to protect traffic and construction works on the Solo–Yogyakarta–NYIA Kulon Progo toll road. Vehicles taller than 4.2 metres will be directed to alternative routes, although officials said the barriers had not yet been installed and could not confirm when they would be put in place.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Sulawesi Promotes Independence for People with Disabilities through Bitung Terminal

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s Bitung terminal is supporting KALEB Community through training that turns coconut waste into handicrafts, building skills and income opportunities for people with disabilities. The programme uses around 20 kilogrammes of coconut waste each month and may expand into an inclusive educational tourism destination to broaden sales and community engagement.

IM3 Gives Customers the Chance to Win an iPhone, BYD Car and More

IM3 has launched the fourth edition of its Pesta Poin programme this year, letting customers choose their preferred prizes, including a BYD electric car, an iPhone and a Samsung Galaxy tablet. Running until 31 December 2026, the promotion requires customers to earn a ticket through qualifying purchases or payments and redeem it via the myIM3 app; Indosat says the loyalty scheme could also support revenue growth.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens Fuel Supply and Distribution as Services in Bali Gradually Stabilise

Pertamina Patra Niaga says fuel services in parts of Bali are gradually stabilising after it increased supplies, deployed more tanker trucks and extended terminal and petrol station operations to 24 hours. Of a planned additional 57.9 million litres, about 19 million litres have arrived, while the remainder is expected over the next two to three days.

KPK Seizes Rp1 Billion in Klaten Regent’s OTT Arrest

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) seized about Rp1 billion in cash during an operation that detained Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and 19 other people in Klaten and Jakarta. The investigation is suspected to involve state officials’ receipts linked to procurement and licensing, as well as an alleged payment by the regent to an audit official at the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK).

Profile: Maulana Bungaran Appointed Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed lawyer M Maulana Bungaran as Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections, replacing Silmy Karim. The appointment is formalised in a presidential decree; Bungaran has a legal background and held advocacy and organisational roles linked to Gerindra and Prabowo-Gibran’s 2024 election dispute.

MDIY, CIMB Niaga and Industry Ministry Support Faster Green Transformation for SMEs

MR.D.I.Y. Indonesia, CIMB Niaga and the Industry Ministry have trained 100 small and medium-sized industry (SMI) businesses and local suppliers in ESG, financial management and sustainable business practices. The initiative supports the government’s Green SMI programme and aims to help local businesses improve efficiency, competitiveness and access to markets while adopting greener practices.

Underground river exploration in Gunungkidul Karst

The supplied page contains only the headline and site navigation; it provides no article text or details about the underground river exploration. The subject appears to be an exploration of the Gunungkidul karst region, but its purpose and findings cannot be established from the material provided.

KPK Seizes Rp1 Billion in Cash During Arrest of Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in a sting operation and seized cash provisionally estimated at around Rp1 billion. Other people, including a local government civil servant and private-sector individuals, were also detained; the KPK has 24 hours to determine their status.

Police Coordinate with PLN to Address Illegal Electricity Connections in Kampung Ambon

Police are working with state electricity company PLN to deal with illegal power connections at homes, boarding houses and unauthorised buildings in Kampung Ambon, as part of a wider operation targeting drug misuse and trafficking. Authorities said seven men were detained and stressed that restoring safety in the area requires both law enforcement and community involvement.

Two Victims of Ciputat Market Explosion Receive Further Treatment, with Burns Covering up to 82 Per Cent of Their Bodies

Two victims of the explosion at Pasar Cimanggis in Ciputat have been referred for specialist care after suffering burns covering 58 to 82 per cent of their bodies. The blast killed two people and injured 11; police are examining CCTV footage and physical evidence, including a 50-kilogram ethylene gas cylinder, as they investigate its cause.

Sumba Is Quietly Changing: A Revolution Behind Its Ikat and Savannas

Internet access is helping East Sumba’s ikat-weaving communities reach customers beyond the island, including overseas buyers, while enabling digital payments and access to exhibitions. BAKTI Komdigi infrastructure has expanded connectivity, although 26 villages remain classified as telecom blind spots; online sales are still nascent but offer local artisans new economic opportunities.

Sumba’s Quiet Revolution: Change Is Under Way Behind the Savanna and Its Weaving

Expanding internet access in East Sumba is helping traditional weavers reach buyers beyond the island, secure exhibition opportunities and accept digital payments. Although 26 villages remain without adequate coverage and online commerce is still nascent, connectivity is creating new economic opportunities while supporting the preservation of local traditions.

Constitutional Court Grants Full Petition Challenging Military Courts Law

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has granted in full a judicial review petition challenging the 1997 Military Courts Law, ruling that the law must be revised within two years or it will lose binding legal force. The ruling calls for clearer distinctions between military and ordinary criminal offences and jurisdiction, as well as reforms to military justice, a decision welcomed by petitioners seeking ordinary-court trials for alleged crimes by military personnel.

Bekasi Regency relies on BSH to safeguard irrigation supplies for northern farmland

Bekasi Regency is relying on the newly operational Bendung Sungai Hulu (BSH) to maintain irrigation supplies to 7,252 hectares of farmland across seven northern districts during the year’s dry season. Farmers say the controlled water distribution has enabled simultaneous planting and reduced the risk of drought, supporting the local government’s food self-sufficiency efforts.

TNI and Australian Defence Force Hold Joint Amphibious Exercise in Banongan, Situbondo

The Indonesian Navy Marine Corps and the Australian Defence Force conducted an amphibious operation as part of the 2026 Keris Woomera joint exercise in Situbondo, East Java. The exercise is intended to strengthen their ability to operate together and coordinate land, sea and air forces in support of regional security stability.

Central Java Police Chief Denies Cancelling Andrea Bocelli Concert at Borobudur Temple

Central Java Police Chief Roy Hardi Siahaan says his force has neither cancelled nor recommended revoking permission for Andrea Bocelli’s planned concert at Borobudur Temple. The permit process is being handled by the National Police headquarters, which is yet to confirm whether approval has been issued.

ANTARA Wins Award as Best Media Supporter of Zakat

ANTARA has received the National Zakat Agency’s award for best media supporter of zakat. The recognition highlights the media’s role in raising public understanding of zakat and supporting a more collaborative, accessible zakat ecosystem in Indonesia.

On Foreign Aid to Tackle Forest and Land Fires, BNPB to First Assess Government Resources

President Prabowo Subianto has approved offers of assistance from neighbouring countries to combat forest and land fires, but the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) will first take stock of resources available domestically. Officials say the response must involve local and central government, communities and the BNPB, while technical discussions continue on what support can be provided from abroad.

OJK Issues New Regulation to Improve Banks’ Business Plans

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) expects a new regulation on bank business plans to improve the quality of banks’ strategic planning and make supervision more forward-looking and risk-based. The regulation, which updates rules dating from 2016, sets requirements for planning, governance, reporting and oversight, and treats business plans as strategic management tools rather than mere compliance documents.

Pramono to Inaugurate An-Nur Floating Mosque in Ancol Tomorrow

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says he will inaugurate the An-Nur Floating Mosque in Ancol as part of efforts to complete projects left unfinished in the capital. He also cited the removal of abandoned monorail pillars, improvements to access to Jakarta International Stadium and plans to develop Sumber Waras Hospital into an international hospital as priorities for resolving long-standing issues and strengthening public trust.

KPK Arrests Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in 23rd Sting Operation of 2026

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in its 23rd sting operation of 2026. The commission also detained civil servants from Klaten Regency Government and private-sector individuals, and has 24 hours to determine their legal status; the report places the arrest amid a series of KPK operations throughout the year.

Bahlil Makes Field Visit to Check Free Electricity Connections in Karawang

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia inspected free household electricity connections and rural grid upgrades in Karawang, where 93 prospective customers are to benefit from a new 50 kVA transformer. The government plans to expand its free installation programme to 250,000 homes in 2026 and 400,000 in 2027, while acknowledging that around 11,000 villages nationwide remain without electricity.

Kebon Sirih Reaches Final of 2026 Benyamin Sueb Award

Kebon Sirih in Central Jakarta has advanced to the final judging stage of the 2026 Benyamin Sueb Award, with its neighbourhood management, cleanliness efforts and creative-economy and cultural activities among its strengths. Ten urban villages are competing, and the award ceremony is scheduled for 30 October 2026.

KKP to Build 10 Fishing Villages on Simeulue Island

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is funding the construction of 10 Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih fishing villages in Simeulue Regency, Aceh, during the 2026 budget year. Each project is worth between Rp4 billion and Rp9.8 billion, and all have been formally contracted, with construction under way at some sites.

Gowa Regent Sitti Becomes First Regional Leader Impeached Under Prabowo

Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang has become the first regional head to be impeached since President Prabowo Subianto took office in October 2024, after the Supreme Court upheld Gowa’s regional council’s request. The Home Affairs Ministry has dismissed her and appointed Deputy Regent Darmawangsa Muin as acting regent; the article also recounts the unsuccessful impeachment effort against Pati Regent Sudewo, who was later charged in a corruption case.

Fuel Shortage Sees Some Galiran Market Traders in Klungkung Choose Not to Trade

Trading activity at Galiran Market in Klungkung fell during the Buda Cemeng Klau celebration, with daily stall levy revenue dropping from its usual Rp9 million to Rp7 million and reaching just Rp2 million on the celebration’s peak day. Market officials said the holiday was the main reason traders stayed away, while the possible effect of fuel shortages remains under investigation.

MP calls for greater military discipline after deputy commander and Army chief reshuffle

A member of the House of Representatives has urged the Indonesian military to strengthen discipline following the appointment of new officials to the posts of TNI Deputy Commander and Army Chief of Staff. The new Army chief also said the service would continue and accelerate President Prabowo’s strategic programmes, including village cooperatives, People’s Schools and food security initiatives.

Suzuki Carry Destroyed by Fire Near Halim Airport as Flames Blaze

A black Suzuki Carry caught fire on Jalan Angkasa near Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in East Jakarta at about 4.36pm on Thursday. Firefighters extinguished the blaze; no injuries were reported, and traffic has reopened, while the cause remains unknown.

Indonesia calls for stronger ASEAN cybersecurity resilience

Indonesia has urged ASEAN members to deepen operational cooperation among national cyber response teams and strengthen protections for critical information infrastructure, while building capacity to address emerging threats such as AI-driven attacks, ransomware and online fraud. The call came as the bloc welcomed its 2026–2030 Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy, a five-year roadmap for sharing threat intelligence, building capabilities and coordinating emergency responses.

Forestry Minister: Land access route to be opened to tackle Tanjung Puting fires

The government plans to build an approximately 1.5-kilometre land route and install 30 to 40 bore wells to improve access to fires in Tanjung Puting National Park. The measures will support ground crews and firefighting operations alongside aerial efforts, helping prevent the fires from spreading into the park’s core zone.

BNPB Chief Hands OTT Case Over to Law Enforcement

BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi says the agency will not intervene in the investigation into a recent anti-graft commission sting operation and will respect the legal process. The KPK has named five people as suspects in an alleged procurement corruption case, while the agency plans an internal review and may replace officials if necessary.

Central Java Nominated for 2026 Jamsostek Award for Strengthening Worker Protection

Central Java has been nominated for the 2026 Jamsostek Award for expanding employment social security coverage, particularly among informal and vulnerable workers. Coverage rose from 36 per cent in 2024 to 39 per cent in 2025, with programmes protecting religious teachers and tobacco-sector workers, although a substantial gap remains among the province’s predominantly informal workforce.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Wiyagus stresses Forkopimda’s key role in tackling forest and land fires in East Kalimantan

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has urged East Kalimantan’s regional leadership coordination forum, Forkopimda, to strengthen cooperation in preventing and responding to forest and land fires. He called for a shift from firefighting to prevention, including public education and enforcement of the Home Affairs Minister’s ban on land-clearing by burning during the emergency period.

Police Chief and Law Minister Sign Joint Decree on Criminal Justice System to Prevent Overlapping Rules

Indonesia’s Law Ministry and five institutions have signed a joint decree to coordinate the implementation of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. The agreement is intended to prevent overlapping authority, improve cooperation across the criminal justice system and ensure more consistent, effective and fair legal proceedings, while preserving each institution’s independence.

BPJS Kesehatan Partners with PP Muhammadiyah to Strengthen the National Health Insurance Programme

BPJS Kesehatan and Muhammadiyah’s higher education council have signed an agreement to embed the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme in university activities, including research, internships and curriculum development. The partnership will reach 165 Muhammadiyah-affiliated universities and aims to improve public understanding of health coverage and its role in protecting households from financial risk.

Jogja Palace Opens Recruitment for Conservators: Here Are the Requirements

The Yogyakarta Palace is recruiting conservators to address staffing shortages at its Conservation Laboratory, which cares for and restores the palace’s historic collections. The 2026 roles are open to graduates in relevant disciplines, with applicants required to meet administrative criteria and be willing to observe palace dress and conduct conventions.

Infrawil and PANRB Ministries Strengthen Cooperation on Bureaucratic Reform

The PANRB Ministry and the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure and Regional Development are strengthening coordination on bureaucratic reform, focusing on integrated digital public services, civil-service management and national priority programmes. Their discussions included a national housing services ecosystem and merit-based talent management, with both ministers seeking reforms that deliver tangible benefits to the public.

Indonesia’s e-sports chief targets youth potential for global stage

Indonesia’s E-sports Association (PB ESI) plans to develop young gamers through structured talent pathways, sports-science training and stronger protections for young athletes, while guarding against online gambling. Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir said the government views sport as a tool for national branding and economic growth, citing 154 million gamers and a commitment to longer-term athlete development.

Net5.5G Intelligent IP Network Summit Highlights Importance of Secure, Resilient IP Networks to Drive Growth in the AI Era

The Net5.5G summit, held alongside the Global Ultra-Broadband Forum 2026, spotlighted cybersecurity risks amplified by AI and the need to build security and resilience into telecoms networks from the outset. GSMA Intelligence published a cybersecurity architecture white paper, while ITU-T SG13 and WBBA launched an initiative encouraging operators to strengthen network resilience and use AI to support new business growth.

Central Jakarta Mayor Urges Proper Records Management to Prevent Legal Problems

Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin has called on local government units to improve the management of public records, warning that disorganised archives can complicate proof of asset ownership and the validity of administrative documents. The 2026 Records Management Awareness Movement involved dozens of city units, districts and urban villages, and is intended to bring practical improvements rather than remain a ceremonial event.

Yusril Urges Restraint in the Creation of Excessive Regulations

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for regulations to be based on genuine needs and focused on solving public problems, warning that lengthy, complicated rule-making can delay development, public services and investment. A national legal development forum set out four action priorities, including regulatory impact analysis, harmonising regional laws and evidence-based review, to strengthen legal certainty and improve implementation.

Gresik Regency to Fund Tutoring and Quranic Studies for Sekolah Rakyat Pupils

Gresik Regency is funding academic tutoring and Quranic-study support for pupils at Sekolah Rakyat, with 75 Year 11 students currently receiving preparation for academic tests and university entry. The initiative forms part of the regency’s broader effort to tackle poverty through education, alongside plans to extend academic support and local measures to help eligible children enrol.

Traffic Jams on MT Haryono Road Towards Halim as Cars and Motorbikes Enter Busway

Heavy congestion was reported on Jakarta’s MT Haryono Road towards Halim, with queues stretching from Cikoko Station in Cawang and traffic moving slowly. Some car and motorbike drivers were seen using the Transjakarta bus lane, while the road in the opposite direction remained clear.

Three Chinese Nationals and One Indonesian Charged over Morowali Riot

Police in Central Sulawesi have named three Chinese nationals and one Morowali resident as suspects following a disturbance at PT Astima Konstruksi (Askon). Investigators cite witness statements and video footage, and say one suspect was found with a machete and an excavator linked to the case; all four face charges of property damage and collective violence and are to be detained for further questioning.

KPK Arrests Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in Sting Operation

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in a sting operation in the regency. The commission has not yet disclosed the identities of all those detained or details of the case, and has 24 hours to announce their legal status.

BGN Permanently Closes SPPG Facility in Batang

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency has permanently closed a community nutrition service kitchen in Bawang, Batang Regency, following a suspected mass food-poisoning incident. While local authorities have yet to receive the official laboratory findings, meal distribution will be transferred to nearby kitchens, and the regency is tightening food-safety oversight.

Red and White Village Cooperatives Expected to Drive Rural Economies

Deputy Cooperatives Minister Farida Farichah said Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) are intended to stimulate village economies and give residents better access to affordable essential goods. The ministry will monitor supply, distribution and transactions, while addressing the main challenge of improving public awareness and understanding of the cooperatives.

XLSmart 5G Speed Tests in Yogyakarta and Surakarta: The Results

Tests of XLSmart’s 5G network in Yogyakarta and Surakarta recorded download speeds of up to 564 Mbps, including consistent connectivity aboard a train between the two cities. The company says its 5G Blanket Coverage now spans 23 cities and regencies across Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta, supported by more than 9,600 5G base stations.

Homeowners in Indonesia Can Now Configure Otis Homelifts and Get Price Estimates Online

Otis has launched an online platform in Indonesia that lets homeowners configure its Gen3 Villa Homelift, review standard specifications and obtain an initial price estimate. The tool is intended to make it easier for prospective buyers to explore tailored home mobility solutions, with Otis sales representatives following up on enquiries.

BRAN and Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment: Agrarian Reform Must Go Hand in Hand with Community Empowerment

The National Agrarian Reform Agency (BRAN) and the Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment are strengthening cooperation to link land redistribution with programmes that improve livelihoods. The initiative aims to use poverty data to identify priority areas and ensure land recipients receive planning support and assistance so agrarian reform can contribute to higher incomes and poverty reduction.

Indonesia to Prepare UN Resolution on Creative Economy Ahead of WCCE

Indonesia plans to resubmit a draft UN General Assembly resolution on the creative economy in conjunction with the fifth World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE), scheduled for 21–23 October 2026. The proposal will reflect the conference’s outcomes and continue Indonesia’s efforts to promote the creative economy as a driver of sustainable development; the event has confirmed participation from representatives of 51 countries and seven international organisations.

Uzbek Hospitality Group TEG Completes US Business Combination

Uzbekistan-based hospitality and tourism group TEG has completed its business combination with StageWise Strategies Corp., becoming the first Uzbek company to trade in the US market. The combined company, TEG Overseas, Inc., plans to use its public-market access to fund acquisitions and expand its hospitality and MICE portfolio amid rapid growth in Uzbekistan’s tourism sector.

West Papua Provincial Government Prepares Task Force to Accelerate TB Control

West Papua is forming a cross-sector task force to improve tuberculosis detection and treatment, after child case-finding reached only 41 per cent of its target by September 2026. The provincial government will require agencies to incorporate TB programmes into their 2027 plans and budgets, while addressing barriers including poverty, access to healthcare and stigma.

Halal Industry Urged to Become Indonesia’s New Economic Engine

Garuda TV’s Economic Briefing 2026 discussed how Indonesia can turn the implementation of mandatory halal certification, beginning on 18 October 2026, into a driver of economic transformation. Speakers called for stronger collaboration across the halal value chain and alignment of halal assurance with product safety and quality, with the goal of boosting competitiveness, investment and exports.

Pramono Says Jakarta Residents’ Tax Contributions Fund School Renovations and Flood Mitigation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said residents’ tax contributions are being used for school renovations, education support, public transport expansion and flood mitigation. He cited projects including renovations at 19 schools, extensions to the Jakarta LRT and river normalisation, while stressing that transparent spending is essential to rebuild public trust.

School Roof Collapse Kills Dozens of Pupils

At least 28 people, including 27 pupils and a teacher, were killed when the roof of a private school in Peshawar collapsed during lessons. Rescue teams are still searching for pupils trapped beneath the rubble, and local authorities have ordered an investigation into the cause.

Motorcycle Theft in East Jakarta’s Cililitan Caught on CCTV

A motorcycle was stolen from a home in Cililitan, East Jakarta, in the early hours of Sunday, with CCTV footage showing the suspect surveying the neighbourhood before breaking into the property. The victim says thefts are frequent in the area and has reported the incident to police, hoping the motorcycle will be recovered and the perpetrator arrested.

Deputy Cooperatives Minister urges prompt upgrades to substandard KDKMP outlets

Deputy Cooperatives Minister Farida Farichah has urged that Red and White Village Cooperative (KDKMP) outlets that do not meet suitability standards be upgraded before they begin operating. In Lamongan, 90 of 140 targeted outlets have been inspected, with the findings to determine whether each is suitable, suitable subject to conditions, or not yet suitable.

KP2MI and Industry Ministry strengthen cooperation on migrant worker training

Indonesia’s migrant worker protection ministry and the Industry Ministry have expanded their partnership to prepare skilled workers for overseas employment, broadening training beyond manufacturing to other fields offered through the ministry’s vocational institutions. The initiative will align training with employer demand and includes competency certification and placement support, with training capacity of up to 11,000 participants a year and funding through the state budget and eligible KUR loans.

New Danza D9 launched: how does it differ from the previous generation?

BYD has launched the New Danza D9 with a larger second-generation Blade Battery, more power and support for ultra-fast Flash Charging, alongside upgrades to its cabin and suspension. The model is priced at Rp1.08 billion and adds comfort and convenience features for a vehicle that has already been used by more than 10,000 Indonesian customers.

Uhamka and Smartin to Build a Culture of Student Investment Through Investment Club

Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof Dr Hamka (Uhamka) and futures advisory firm Smartin are establishing an investment club to improve students’ financial literacy through discussions, training and trading competitions. A university survey found strong interest but limited participation: 45 per cent of respondents had no investment products, while 75 per cent said a club would support their learning.

Forestry Minister: Stronger Government–Volunteer Cooperation Needed to Curb Forest and Land Fires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni says closer coordination between government agencies, volunteers and local communities is essential to tackle fires, including around Central Kalimantan’s Tanjung Puting National Park. The government plans to equip 15 nearby villages to establish Fire Awareness Communities and will combine ground operations, bore wells, water bombing and weather modification.

BCA’s SME lending grows 6.9% to Rp134tn by July

BCA’s lending to small and medium-sized enterprises reached Rp134 trillion in July 2026, up 6.9% year on year and well ahead of the banking industry’s 1.2% average growth. The bank says it is expanding support through targeted financing and business development programmes, while maintaining prudent lending and reporting non-performing loans of 1.8% as of August.

Police Name Nine Suspects in Human Trafficking Case Involving KM Maulana 23 Crew

Police have named nine suspects in an alleged human trafficking case linked to abuse of crew members aboard the KM Maulana 23, detaining seven of them. The investigation concerns alleged recruitment, confinement, work-related punishment and falsification of departure documents, while a separate case over the abuse of four crew members has resulted in 18 suspects being named.

Mother of Teenager Killed by TNI Soldier Welcomes Constitutional Court Ruling on Military Justice

Lenny Damanik, whose 15-year-old son was killed by a TNI soldier, welcomed a Constitutional Court ruling requiring amendments to the Military Justice Law and stating that soldiers accused of ordinary crimes should be tried in civilian courts. The Court gave lawmakers up to two years to revise the law, saying civilian jurisdiction is important for accountability, judicial independence and preventing impunity.

Tanjungpandan Prison Adds 28 Official Phone Booths and Signal Jammers to Prevent Illegal Mobile Phone Use

Tanjungpandan Class IIB Prison has added 28 official telecommunications booths for inmates and installed signal jammers to curb the use of illegal mobile phones. The measures aim to strengthen security while preserving inmates’ ability to communicate with their families, a right provided for under Indonesia’s 2022 Corrections Law.

High School Student Dies After Being Struck by Train in South Lampung

A 17-year-old student was killed after being struck by a train at a crossing in Haduyang village, South Lampung. Police are investigating the circumstances and identified him through coordination with schools, after establishing that he had transferred to a school in East Lampung.

Prabowo Approves Foreign Assistance to Tackle Fires Causing Regional Haze, Says Foreign Minister

President Prabowo Subianto has approved foreign assistance to help combat forest and land fires, with technical discussions involving Indonesia’s disaster management agency now under way. The government has deployed about 60,000 personnel across six provinces, while Malaysia and Singapore have also signalled efforts or readiness to assist amid worsening regional haze.

Prabowo’s New BNPB Chief Kristomei Sets Out Plans to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Newly appointed BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi says the response to forest and land fires must be rapid and coordinated, while the decision on whether to declare a national disaster remains open. He plans to work with central and regional governments, the military, police and communities, and says any international assistance will be assessed alongside Indonesia’s available resources.

Ahead of Mandatory Halal Rules, BPJPH Reports More Than 10,000 Certification Applications a Day

Applications for halal certification have surged to more than 10,000 a day ahead of Indonesia’s mandatory halal requirement taking effect on 18 October 2026, up from a typical 6,000–7,000. BPJPH chief Ahmad Haikal Hasan described the increase as evidence of growing public awareness, while speakers at a business forum said the policy could also strengthen the halal value chain and support economic growth.

Culture Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Sustained Indonesia–Pacific Cultural Diplomacy

Culture Minister Fadli Zon says cultural diplomacy can build trust and deepen Indonesia’s partnerships with Pacific nations amid geopolitical tensions, climate change and digital transformation. At a seminar in Yogyakarta, he called for sustained cooperation spanning artist residencies, cultural knowledge-sharing and climate adaptation, and set out five practical priorities for ongoing collaboration.

PLN CEO Replaced; Bahlil Calls It a ‘Routine Corporate Action’

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the replacement of state-owned PLN’s chief executive was a routine corporate decision made under the authority of the company and the direction of President Prabowo Subianto. Shareholders appointed Suroso Iskandar to replace Darmawan Prasodjo, with PLN’s independent commissioner saying the new leadership is expected to continue the company’s transformation; Bahlil did not link the change to a recent blackout in Batam.

Depok Public Order Agency Removes Illegal Street-Vendor Structures in Cimanggis

Depok’s Public Order Agency demolished around 80 street-vendor structures built on state land, pavements and drainage channels in Cimanggis, following complaints from local residents. Authorities say cleared public space will be restored, while several sites with disputed or special land ownership status will require further review; more enforcement operations are planned.

BRI Strengthens the Foundations of the People’s Economy through Merah Putih Village/Urban-Ward Cooperatives

BRI is supporting the development of Merah Putih Village/Urban-Ward Cooperatives (KDKMP) through banking services, including its BRILink Agent network, to improve access to finance and support productive businesses in rural communities. Government visits to cooperatives in Lampung and East Java are assessing their readiness to supply subsidised goods and strengthen food security.

249 Magelang Residents Suffer Suspected Food Poisoning After Eating Fruit Ice

At least 249 people in Kajoran district, Magelang regency, have reported symptoms of suspected food poisoning after eating fruit ice, with 121 receiving hospital observation. Health officials are investigating the outbreak; around a third of those in hospital are likely to require inpatient treatment.

Profile: Alim Setiawan Slamet, IPB Rector Appointed Deputy Agriculture Minister

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed IPB University rector Alim Setiawan Slamet as Deputy Agriculture Minister, replacing Sudaryono, who has been named head of the National Nutrition Agency. The profile traces Alim’s academic career, university leadership roles and involvement in national higher-education initiatives, including the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka programme.

Starlink Access Suddenly Restricted Without Warning: What Happened?

Ukrainian officials say SpaceX restricted Starlink service without warning, disrupting drone operations and forcing some missions to be cancelled. The company has not provided an official explanation, despite the satellite network’s central role in Ukraine’s battlefield communications.

Dompet Dhuafa Praised by Religious Affairs Minister for Sending Preachers to Remote Areas and Overseas

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar praised Dompet Dhuafa’s programmes sending preachers to Indonesia’s disadvantaged, frontier and outermost regions and to Muslim communities overseas. He said inclusive, moderate preaching can promote interfaith harmony and help the world understand Indonesia’s peaceful approach to Islam.

Indonesia’s Crypto Market Grows as Investors Urged to Understand the Risks

Indonesia’s crypto transaction value rose 12.87% month on month to Rp23.16 trillion in August 2026, while the number of digital financial asset consumer accounts reached 23.21 million. As trading options expand to include spot crypto, staking, futures and tokenised US shares, a Bittime executive has urged investors to understand each product’s mechanics and risks before investing.

DJP responds to proposal for Rp142.2 trillion in potential wealth-tax revenue

Tax Director General Bimo Wijayanto said CELIOS’s estimate of Rp142.2 trillion in annual revenue from a wealth tax could inform fiscal policy, while stressing that the government would assess the proposal using its own data and considerations. CELIOS proposes a progressive 1–2 per cent tax on individuals with net wealth above Rp84 billion, presenting it as a way to raise revenue without increasing the burden on lower- and middle-income groups.

Drivers Say Fuel Crisis Is Making It Hard to Work, Voices Raised at Bali’s Thursday Protest

Participants at the 73rd Bali Thursday protest called for provincial minimum wages to meet decent-living standards and urged the government to address worsening fuel queues. A driver said shortages were preventing him from working, while protesters highlighted the gap between Bali’s 2026 minimum wage and their estimate of the cost of a decent standard of living.

General Maruli Takes Up TNI Deputy Commander Role While Retaining BNPPDT Post

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed General Maruli Simanjuntak as deputy commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), replacing General Tandyo Budi Revita. Maruli will also continue as head of the National Agency for Border and Remote Regions Management (BNPPDT), under a presidential decree formalising the dual appointment.

After Appointing Seven Officials, Rumours Swirl of Prabowo Cabinet Reshuffle; Bahlil Responds

Rumours that President Prabowo Subianto may reshuffle his Cabinet have surfaced after he appointed seven officials, with reports suggesting the Energy and Mineral Resources Minister could be replaced. Bahlil Lahadalia said he continues to hold that ministerial post alongside the Downstreaming and Energy Transition portfolio at the President’s direction, and is ready to carry out both roles.

The Figure Known as ‘Mbah’ Behind Chilean Couple Who Smuggled 4.5kg of Cocaine into Bali

Bali authorities say a Chilean couple arrested with 4.5kg of cocaine were acting under the direction of a network linking an individual in Chile to a figure known as ‘Mbah’ in Indonesia. Investigators have also detained an Indonesian man who was allegedly ordered to receive the drugs, and are still searching for Mbah as they investigate the cocaine, valued at Rp15 billion and believed intended for foreign consumers in Bali.

BNPB Chief Responds to Proposal to Declare Forest and Land Fires a National Disaster

BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi said the status of the forest and land fires would be assessed, stressing that the speed and effectiveness of the response matter more than whether the disaster is labelled national or regional. He plans to review satellite data and map available government resources, while an MP has called for national disaster status amid months of fires and their impacts on health, education, aviation and the economy.

Prabowo’s Newly Established Agency Maps 500 Peatland Areas to Prevent Fires

The National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency will map around 500 Peat Hydrological Units and prioritise restoring peatland moisture to reduce recurring fires. Its head says canal mapping and canal blocking are planned, while the agency also aims to involve local communities and protect their livelihoods through sustainable economic activity.

Police Arrest Eight Suspected Drug Users in Kampung Ambon

West Jakarta police have detained eight people suspected of preparing to conduct a drug transaction in Cengkareng. Initial urine tests found seven positive for substances indicated to be methamphetamine and amphetamine; police are continuing their investigation and have seized motorcycles and mobile phones as evidence.

Inside Indonesia’s 2026 wildfire crisis

Indonesia’s 2026 fires have burned more than 202,000 hectares in verified government data through July, while independent estimates for January–August put the toll substantially higher. The crisis has caused hundreds of thousands of respiratory illnesses, damaged homes and disrupted flights, while smoke has spread across borders; unusually dry conditions linked to El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole are prolonging the fire season.

Eight US states sue OpenAI over ChatGPT safety risks

Eight US states have filed separate lawsuits accusing OpenAI of misleading consumers about ChatGPT’s safety and failing to adequately disclose known risks. They seek court-ordered changes and stronger safeguards, with some suits also calling for limits on the development of AI models that can improve themselves.

Danantara Indonesia Trust to Receive US$100 Million a Year

Danantara Indonesia has pledged to provide its philanthropic trust with at least US$100 million annually to support health, education and sanitation initiatives. The funding includes support for specialist-doctor scholarships and HPV vaccination, with the trust also launching partnerships intended to address Indonesia’s shortage of medical specialists and improve public health.

Leaking Pipes and Idle Water Systems Fuel Clean Water Crisis: AHY’s Plan

Indonesia aims to reduce non-revenue water from 33% to 25% by 2029, addressing leaks in ageing municipal water networks through a government task force and potentially performance-based investor contracts. The government is also identifying drinking water systems with unused capacity—about 28,000 litres per second in total—and plans to tackle distribution bottlenecks so more households can be served.

Bahlil Says Cabinet Reshuffle Is the President’s Prerogative

Coordinating Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said any cabinet reshuffle, including a change in the Energy and Mineral Resources portfolio, is a matter for President Prabowo Subianto to decide. He denied knowing reports that Pertamina president director Simon Aloysius Mantiri would be appointed energy minister, as Bahlil currently holds that role alongside his new coordinating minister post.

Blast at Cimanggis Market Damages Seven Shop Units; BGN Says Site Was Not an SPPG Facility

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says a blast at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang damaged seven shop units but was not connected to the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The agency says none of the affected buildings was an operating or planned nutrition service unit or warehouse, and that food supplies for the programme remain unaffected.

WIKA Supports Public Works Ministry in Restoring Drinking Water Access in North Sumatra after Disasters

PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) is working with the Public Works Ministry to rehabilitate and rebuild water-supply infrastructure damaged by floods and landslides in three North Sumatran regencies. The project is designed to restore or improve drinking-water access for 995 households, with facilities undergoing pre-commissioning and flow tests as of mid-October 2026.

BSI Urges Young People to Take Pride in Using Local Halal Products

Bank Syariah Indonesia is targeting Generation Z to strengthen the market for domestic halal products and help Indonesian brands expand globally, drawing on the country’s large Muslim population. Its 2026 International Expo will bring together 426 exhibitors and include a business hub designed to connect local enterprises, including MSMEs, with prospective buyers and partners.

Indonesia opens new LPG plant in West Java with 52,800-tonne capacity

A new LPG plant in Cilamaya, West Java, can produce 52,800 tonnes of LPG a year, enough to meet an estimated 10–15 per cent of demand in West Java and Jakarta. Built by private Indonesian firm PT Energi Nusantara Perkasa for US$36.93 million, the facility also produces condensate and returns residual gas to Pertamina Hulu Energi Offshore North West Java.

Sitti Husniah Responds After Being Dismissed as Gowa Regent

Sitti Husniah Talenrang says she has heard about her dismissal as Gowa regent but has not yet received the official letter. South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman confirmed receiving the dismissal decision and the appointment of deputy regent Darmawangsa Muin as acting regent; Gowa’s Regional House of Representatives says it will prioritise an orderly transition and continuity of public services.

Highlighting the Important Role of Urban Villages in City Development Through the BSA

Jakarta’s provincial government says urban villages are vital to city development because they can mobilise local community resources and deliver practical improvements. The Benyamin S Award recognises village heads who foster clean, comfortable and prosperous neighbourhoods through innovation and collaboration, with ten finalists selected for the 2026 award.

BSI Chief Explains Rights Issue Aim: Raising Share Free Float to 15%

Bank Syariah Indonesia plans a second rights issue of up to 6.8 billion shares to support continued financing growth and strengthen its funding structure. The bank also aims to lift its public share free float from 9.91% to the minimum 15% threshold, with a view to qualifying for the LQ45 index.

Disaster Recovery Task Force Praises Progress in Restoring Sumatra’s Health Sector

Home Affairs Minister and disaster recovery task force chief Muhammad Tito Karnavian said nearly all regional hospitals and community health centres in disaster-hit parts of Sumatra were fully operational, with six auxiliary health centres still to reopen. He praised the Health Ministry’s response and urged local governments to speed up spending from additional central government funds, noting that some areas had used less than half of their allocations.

Jakarta Ranks 15th in Global Public Transport Survey

Jakarta ranked 15th among 20 cities with the world’s best public transport in Time Out’s 2026 survey, with 79.2% of local respondents rating services positively. Taipei topped the list, followed by Singapore, based on residents’ assessments of transport quality and satisfaction.

Daughter of Journalist Burnt to Death Moved as Constitutional Court Grants Military Justice Challenge

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has granted a judicial review challenging the Military Courts Law, ruling that soldiers who commit ordinary criminal offences should be tried in civilian courts. Eva Meliani Boru Pasaribu, whose journalist father was killed in an arson attack in Karo, said the decision gave her hope that the case could be clarified and that a soldier allegedly involved could face trial in the general courts.

Student Brawl in Bekasi Was Triggered by Challenge on Social Media

Police have detained six junior secondary school pupils after a clash near the Jakarta–Cikampek toll road left one student injured. Investigators say the two groups arranged a two-on-two duel through Instagram direct messages, prompting renewed calls for parents, schools and communities to monitor children’s online activity.

Antam’s Downstreaming Business Surges: The Evidence

Antam’s downstreaming projects are beginning to boost production and earnings, with its Mempawah alumina refinery contributing Rp257.6 billion in profit in the first half of 2026. Phintraco Sekuritas forecasts 2026 net profit of around Rp11.6 trillion and retains a buy recommendation on ANTM shares, citing growth across its battery, aluminium and bauxite value chains.

Student Demonstration Descends into Chaos as Government Building and Banks Burn

Tens of thousands of students protested in Tirana over education costs, limited job prospects and alleged government corruption, with the demonstration escalating into arson and clashes with police. The unrest adds to pressure on Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government, while officials condemned the violence and warned that those responsible would face legal consequences.

Prabowo’s Two-Year Milestone: Building an Indonesia That Can Withstand the World

As Prabowo Subianto approaches two years in office, the article argues that Indonesia’s progress should be measured by its resilience across food and energy security, human development, industrial competitiveness and institutional reform. It highlights rice reserves, plans for 100 gigawatts of solar capacity, expanded health checks and licensing reforms, while calling for transparent implementation, stronger public services and measurable accountability.

Jambi BKSDA says five trained elephants remain healthy amid fires

Jambi’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) says five trained elephants remain healthy, with blood tests finding no infectious diseases as veterinarians continue monitoring them. The agency is checking reports of wildlife potentially affected by fires, including possible sun bear claw marks, while fires have burned 4,356 hectares across the province.

Carrying Police Chief Suyudi’s Message, Traffic Police Chief Urges Officers to Respond Swiftly to Public Complaints

National Traffic Police Chief Brigadier General Aries Syahbudin has urged traffic officers to respond quickly to public reports made through the 110 service, stressing that policing should be judged by its impact on the public rather than activity counts. He also called for officers to be deployed where and when they are most needed, and for law enforcement to be carried out professionally and fairly.

10 Countries with the Highest Chicken Meat Consumption

China led global chicken meat consumption in 2022, followed by the United States and Brazil, while Indonesia ranked seventh with 4.077 million tonnes. Per-capita consumption tells a different story, with the US far ahead of China; global demand is projected to keep rising, driven in part by Asia and other developing regions.

Amaludin Syarif, the Iconic Face on MP3 Covers, Dies

Amaludin Syarif, whose photograph became a familiar cover image for Indonesian MP3 files shared online, has reportedly died aged 46. His story illustrates an unexpected slice of Indonesia’s early file-sharing culture: he uploaded favourite songs to 4Shared with his own photo, which was then widely copied and circulated.

Lemhannas Stresses SOEs’ Role as Defenders of the Nation

Lemhannas Governor TB Ace Hasan Syadzily has urged state-owned enterprises to balance commercial goals with their responsibilities to the state, as Pertamina develops both its legacy oil and gas business and lower-carbon energy operations. Their meeting also covered renewable-energy training, carbon-trading expertise and strengthening the legal framework for cooperation, whose existing agreement runs until 2028.

Minister urges environmental checks for water-intensive data centres

Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Communications Minister Meutya Hafid say data-centre development must account for water and energy demands and protect communities’ access to essential resources. They call for cross-sector planning and demand assessments before permits are issued, as geopolitical shifts drive growing investment interest in Indonesia.

Magnitude 4.1 Earthquake Shakes Bogor

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck near Bogor, West Java, on Thursday afternoon, with tremors felt in Pamijahan and Kabandungan. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said the quake’s epicentre was on land, 26 kilometres south-west of Bogor city, at a depth of five kilometres; no information on damage or cause was immediately available.

Indonesia eyes Russian partnership to boost IT and shipbuilding industries

Indonesia has identified five areas for potential industrial cooperation with Russia, including digital technology, shipbuilding, railway equipment, machinery and chemicals. Proposals include developing fishing vessels and exploring a urea plant in Vladivostok, as Jakarta seeks projects with strong implementation potential and expects BRICS membership to support investment and industrial ties.

BSI Targets January 2027 Opening for Jeddah Branch

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) aims to begin operating its Jeddah branch by January 2027, after completing preparations and securing final approval from Saudi regulators. The branch will open services in stages and must meet a requirement for around 70% of its workforce to be Saudi nationals, marking BSI’s expansion beyond its existing Dubai branch.

Badung Regency Officials Distribute Food and Drinking Water to Residents Queuing for Fuel

Badung Regency has deployed officials to 38 petrol stations across six districts to distribute food and water to residents delayed by fuel-supply disruptions. The local government has also mobilised health, transport and public-order personnel, with ambulances on standby, as queues affect workers, small businesses and transport providers.

Lemhannas Governor Meets Mulawarman University Rector

Lemhannas Governor TB Ace Hasan Syadzily met Mulawarman University Rector Abdunnur ahead of a planned Lemhannas Goes to Campus event on 22 September 2026. The programme is intended to strengthen young people’s national identity and help students assess information amid what Ace described as a global climate of competing narratives and foreign influence.

DPD: Public Awareness Key to Success of Free Health Check Programme

The Regional Representative Council (DPD) says public awareness and cooperation among local institutions are essential to the success of Indonesia’s free health check programme. At a Semarang health centre, officials said about 8,000 of the 28,000 residents in its service area have yet to take part, while screenings have also highlighted high rates of tooth decay among primary-school children.

BNPB chief targets fastest possible response to forest and land fires

Newly appointed BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi says responses to forest and land fires must be measured in minutes, with public safety the priority. He plans to assess fire data from Sipongi and NASA and calls for coordination among national and regional governments, the military, police and communities before determining whether additional foreign assistance is needed.

Magnitude 4.1 Earthquake Shakes South-west of Bogor City

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck south-west of Bogor City in West Java at 17:58 local time on 15 October 2026, at a depth of 5 kilometres. The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said its preliminary data may be revised, and no information on impacts or damage was available when the report was issued.

Rainy Season Approaches, but Ciayumajakuning Temperatures Still Reach 37.2°C: BMKG Explains Why

Temperatures in Ciayumajakuning have eased from an early-October peak of 37.2°C, although the region remains hot as it moves towards the end of the dry season. A BMKG official attributed the recent heat to the dry-season peak and the sun’s position, with most of the area expected to enter the rainy season in December; residents were urged to guard against fires.

Three Firefighters Die While Tackling Wildfire on Mount Bromo

Three people, including a national-park staff member and two hotel security guards, have died and three others suffered serious burns while tackling a wildfire near Mentigen in the Mount Bromo area. The cause of the deaths is under investigation, with police collecting evidence at the scene.

Askrindo Wins Profit Growth Award at BIFA 2026

State-owned insurer Askrindo received BIFA 2026’s Profit Growth Excellence award after posting consolidated profit of Rp1.69 trillion in 2025, the highest growth among insurers with assets above Rp3 trillion. The company attributed its performance to prudent strategy, risk management and stronger governance, while also citing digital transformation and adoption of PSAK 117; it plans to expand support for MSMEs and national strategic projects and take part in government-led insurance-sector streamlining.

Prabowo Suddenly Appoints Alim Setiawan as Deputy Agriculture Minister: What Will His Role Be?

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed academic and IPB rector Alim Setiawan Slamet as a deputy agriculture minister, giving Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman two deputies. Alim said he would support national food self-sufficiency and agricultural downstreaming, including by bringing university research and innovation into government programmes, but is still awaiting details of his assignment.

IDSurvey and BKI Collaborate to Develop Residents’ Skills Through Nglarangan Village Programme

BKI and IDSurvey Group have launched a village development programme in Nglarangan, Temanggung, featuring welding training intended to build residents’ practical skills and create new livelihood opportunities. The initiative is planned through 2028, with support spanning education, the environment and local enterprise, and a phased approach towards community independence.

Bakom: Halal Mandate for MSMEs Requires a Sustained Approach

Government Communications Agency expert Fithra Faisal Hastiadi says the implementation of mandatory halal certification for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) must be supported by continuous outreach and guidance, rather than treated as a one-off deadline. He cited limited information and cash flow as barriers, while pointing to a 2026 programme offering free certification to 1.35 million eligible MSMEs; the halal mandate is set to begin on 18 October 2026, with no postponement.

NTB DPRD urges provincial government to seek judicial review over out-of-region number plates

An NTB provincial legislator has urged the provincial government to seek a judicial review to establish a legal basis for regulating vehicles registered outside the region but operating there. He says the vehicles use locally funded roads without contributing directly to regional revenues, and argues that the rules should distinguish regular operational vehicles from those merely passing through.

House of Representatives Commission VII hopes new ANTARA directors will bring change

Commission VII chair Saleh Partaonan Daulay has urged ANTARA’s new board to drive positive change while preserving the national news agency’s historic role. He said the agency’s legacy and archives should inspire its leadership to strengthen its contribution to Indonesia and adapt to changing times.

Reconstruction Reveals Route Used to Mobilise Vocational Students for Violent Demonstration

Bekasi police have reconstructed how vocational school students travelled from several meeting points to Jakarta, as part of an investigation into alleged online efforts to mobilise them for a demonstration that turned violent. Investigators are examining an Instagram group and the alleged role of a 23-year-old former student, while the police chief urged families and schools to protect young people from being drawn into unlawful activity.

Baznas offers zakat-funded support to residents facing illness and online loan debt

Indonesia’s National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) says it aims to support people facing medical costs, disaster emergencies and burdensome online loan debt through zakat-funded assistance. It is also expanding digital payment access through partnerships with banks, hoping to build public trust and increase the country’s zakat contributions.

KAI Jakarta upgrades Gambir Station ahead of Christmas and New Year

KAI’s Jakarta operating region is refurbishing facilities at Gambir Station ahead of the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year travel period. Work includes renovating northern-area toilets and the luxury service lounge, with the projects scheduled for completion by late November and before the year-end holidays, respectively.

Surabaya City Council urges faster repairs to state schools

Surabaya City Council Deputy Speaker Bahtiyar Rifai has urged the city government to speed up data collection and repairs at state schools ahead of discussions on the 2027 regional budget. He cited a shortage of classrooms at SDN Semolowaru IV, where four of 12 classes study in the afternoon and some pupils use the library, and called for verified, needs-based funding and better coordination between municipal agencies.

BPKH Highlights Hajj Costs and Inflation, Pledges Sustainable Fund Management

Indonesia’s Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) says it is balancing the protection of pilgrims departing soon with the interests of future pilgrims, amid rising Hajj costs, global inflation and demographic change. Its supervisory board chair says sustainable management requires fair operating costs, preservation of pilgrims’ virtual account values and intergenerational financial fairness, particularly given an average waiting period of around 26 years.

Health Facility Recovery in Sumatra Nearly Complete, PRR Task Force Chief Says

Nearly all hospitals and community health centres in disaster-hit areas of Sumatra have resumed full operations, with only six auxiliary health centres still to be restored. Task Force chief Muhammad Tito Karnavian urged local governments to speed up recovery spending, noting that additional central-government transfers remain underused despite a three-year rehabilitation and reconstruction programme.

BKPM: Indonesia–Timor-Leste Investment Treaty to Expand Economic Cooperation

Indonesia and Timor-Leste have signed a bilateral investment treaty intended to strengthen economic ties and create a framework for expanded investment cooperation. The agreement covers investment promotion, facilitation and protection, building on growing Indonesian business activity in Timor-Leste and bilateral trade worth a reported US$150 million.

Constitutional Court Gives Two Years to Revise Military Courts Law

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ordered the House of Representatives and the Government to comprehensively revise the 1997 Military Courts Law within two years, or the law will lose its binding legal force. The changes must clarify the division of jurisdiction over military personnel accused of ordinary crimes and bring military justice fully under the Supreme Court; the ruling follows a challenge to military courts’ authority to try such cases.

Foreign Minister: President Agrees to Accept Neighbouring Countries’ Help to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has approved accepting assistance from neighbouring countries to tackle forest and land fires, with the aid mechanism now being discussed by Indonesia’s disaster agency. Malaysia has offered an aircraft, three helicopters and 52 firefighters, as Indonesia says it has already deployed more than 60,000 personnel and aircraft for firefighting and weather-modification operations.

Netflix lays off 1,000 staff in its biggest cuts since 2022

Netflix is reportedly laying off about 1,000 employees, or six per cent of its workforce, in its largest round of job cuts since 2022. The company says the changes are intended to support business growth, while maintaining that its finances remain strong and that it will continue investing in areas with significant potential.

Tito: Rehabilitation and Reconstruction of Sumatra’s Health Sector Making Significant Progress

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian says almost all hospitals and community health centres in disaster-affected parts of Sumatra have resumed full operations, with six auxiliary health centres still to be restored. He urged local governments to speed up recovery spending, noting that some regions had used less than half of their additional central-government transfers despite substantial funding support.

Bahlil Says Global Markets Are Looking to Green Products

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says global buyers increasingly consider the energy used in manufacturing, giving products made with clean energy the prospect of higher value and stronger market acceptance. Indonesia’s power and renewables plans—including 69.5 GW of new generating capacity, 100 GW of solar power, and bioenergy initiatives—are intended to support industrial competitiveness, attract investment and create jobs.

Disability Advocate Praises Gibran for Opening Palace Space to Children with Disabilities

Disability advocate Angkie Yudistia praised Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka for welcoming children with disabilities from the Aku Menari Community to the Vice-Presidential Palace and offering them its auditorium for rehearsals. She said the gesture conveys that state spaces should be open to all Indonesians, while stressing that inclusion must lead to lasting opportunities for people with disabilities.

Benyamin S Award Seeks to Revive Jakarta’s Culture of Mutual Cooperation

The Benyamin S Award is being presented as a way to revive gotong royong, or mutual cooperation, by recognising neighbourhood-level leadership and collaboration between residents, government and private partners. Organisers say the model, including festivals funded without Jakarta’s regional budget, could be replicated in other Indonesian cities.

Coordinating Minister: State Budget Should Help People Become Self-Reliant, Not Dependent on Social Assistance

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has called for poverty-reduction spending to shift from charitable aid towards programmes that build economic independence. He said the budget should expand access to work, business opportunities and higher incomes, while social assistance remains focused on people needing protection, particularly older people and those with disabilities.

DPR Commission VII Urges ANTARA to Prioritise MSME Issues

Saleh Partaonan Daulay, chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission VII, has urged state news agency ANTARA to give greater prominence to the empowerment of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). He also called for ANTARA’s assets and funding to be safeguarded, arguing that stronger resources would help it expand its programmes nationwide and contribute to social, political and economic change.

Profile of Maruli Simanjuntak, Now Appointed Deputy Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed General Maruli Simanjuntak as Deputy Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), replacing General Tandyo Budi Revita. The profile traces Maruli’s career through Kopassus, presidential security and regional commands, culminating in his appointment as Army Chief of Staff in 2023 and now deputy TNI commander.

Sally Rooney Can No Longer Sell Her Books in the UK After Supporting Palestine Action

Irish novelist Sally Rooney’s publisher, Faber, has halted distribution of her books in the UK after concluding that it cannot legally pass her royalties to her because of her support for the proscribed group Palestine Action. The decision, agreed with Rooney, follows the group’s designation under UK anti-terrorism law; sales in other countries will not be affected.

Ubisoft Continues Cost-Cutting, Lays Off Staff and Closes Studio

Ubisoft plans further job cuts, including around 100 roles in Germany and 70 at its Singapore studio, while also shutting down Finland’s RedLynx. The moves form part of a broad cost-cutting drive that has already led the French games company to cancel projects and close studios around the world.

Magnitude 4.1 Earthquake Shakes Bogor, with Hypocentre at a Depth of 5 Kilometres

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck the Bogor area of West Java at 5.58pm on Thursday, with its epicentre about 26 kilometres south-west of Bogor City and its hypocentre five kilometres below the surface. Residents reported feeling the tremor, while BMKG also recorded a separate magnitude 3.5 earthquake north of Sukabumi earlier in the evening.

Nine Companies, Including Haji Isam’s Listed Firm, Respond to Forest and Land Fires

Nine plantation companies have responded to the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s requests for clarification over forest and land fires, with most saying operations and 2026 production targets remain on track and that there has been no material financial impact. Haji Isam-linked Pradiksi Gunatama reported fires near its concession but said harvesting and mill processing continued normally; investors are also monitoring possible supply-chain, environmental and legal consequences if conditions worsen.

BNPB chief stresses cross-agency collaboration in disaster response

BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi says disaster management requires coordinated action by central and regional governments, the military, police and communities, rather than relying on BNPB alone. He will first assess available resources to address incidents including forest and land fires, floods and volcanic eruptions, before determining whether additional or international assistance is needed.

Suroso Isnandar’s education and career as PLN’s new chief executive

Suroso Isnandar was appointed president director of state-owned electricity company PLN on 14 October 2026, succeeding Darmawan Prasodjo. An electrical engineering graduate with experience spanning power generation, load dispatch, digital technology, risk management and renewables, he takes the helm as PLN faces the task of maintaining reliable supply while supporting the energy transition.

Indonesia Has Built No Modern Fishing Ports in 10 Years — Here’s Why

Indonesia has not built a genuinely modern fishing port for about a decade, Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono said, citing a lack of funding during his first term. The government is now preparing upgrades at four sites, with international financing supporting several projects, aiming to improve cleanliness, sustainability and the competitiveness of the country’s fisheries industry.

How Much Wealth Do the Two New Deputy Defence Ministers, Richard Tampubolon and Yusuf Jauhari, Have?

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Richard Tampubolon and Yusuf Jauhari as deputy defence ministers, with portfolios covering military strategy and force development, and defence logistics, industry and technology. Their reported asset declarations put Tampubolon’s net wealth at Rp10.04 billion and Jauhari’s at Rp8.43 billion, based on filings cited in the article.

Lombok Tengah Government to Pay Part-Time PPPK Salaries in November 2026

Lombok Tengah regency says it will pay part-time government contract employees in November 2026, using Rp7 billion allocated in the 2026 revised budget. Of 4,542 part-time PPPK employees, funding is currently available for 1,223, leaving about 3,319 still unpaid; the revised budget is awaiting consultation with the West Nusa Tenggara provincial government and approval by the local council.

Archaeological Discoveries Will Not Disrupt Jakarta MRT Project Completion Target

PT MRT Jakarta says archaeological discoveries during construction of Phase 2A will not delay the project, with the handover of finds scheduled in line with construction progress. The 65.10 per cent-complete project is ahead of its target and includes design changes to preserve historic remains in Jakarta Kota.

Fuel Shortage in Karangasem: Paediatrician Walks 7km to Treat Patients

Paediatrician Ni Wayan Kurnia Wati walked seven kilometres to Karangasem Regional General Hospital after fuel shortages caused long queues at petrol stations. The hospital says the shortage is already affecting patient visits and staff punctuality, although referral services and ambulance fuel supplies remain adequate for now.

Judicial Commission Flags Dual Oversight of Judges with Supreme Court

Indonesia’s Judicial Commission says overlapping internal and external oversight responsibilities with the Supreme Court have caused institutional discord and uncertainty over follow-up to alleged judicial misconduct. Its chair is calling for amendments to the Judicial Commission Law to strengthen the commission’s authority, while stressing that closer cooperation—not rivalry—is needed to protect judicial integrity and accountability.

Harrowing Images Show Palangka Raya Choked by Thick Orange Haze

Forest and land fires have blanketed Palangka Raya in thick orange smoke, with the city’s air quality index reportedly reaching 2,052, an extremely dangerous level. Fires have burned 1,444 hectares in the city, while authorities recorded 887 fire incidents there since June and more than 11,000 hotspots across Central Kalimantan, raising serious health concerns, particularly for children and older people.

PWI and Lemhannas Strengthen Civic Education for Journalists

The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) and the National Resilience Institute (Lemhannas) have renewed their cooperation to strengthen journalists’ national awareness and professional development. The agreement includes leadership education, training in national values, information and speaker exchanges, and academic activities, amid concerns over cognitive warfare and the influence of AI-driven information distribution.

Police Arrest Seven People in Kampung Ambon, Seize Dozens of Bladed Weapons and Methamphetamine

Police arrested seven people during a renewed anti-drugs operation in Kampung Ambon, West Jakarta, seizing cannabis, methamphetamine, suspected synthetic cannabis, dozens of bladed weapons and other items. Authorities said the weapons may have been intended for use against officers, and PLN cut electricity at suspected drug-den sites over alleged power theft.

Jakarta Education Office: Industry-SMK collaboration key to meeting hybrid and EV era

Jakarta’s education authority says sustained partnerships between vocational schools and industry are essential to prepare workers for the shift towards hybrid and electric vehicles. A training programme for 60 vocational teachers and instructors is intended to strengthen their expertise, ensuring school learning keeps pace with industry needs, including vehicle maintenance and repair.

Foreign Universities Set to Partner with Jakarta’s LPDP Scholarship Scheme

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said the city is in talks with overseas universities including New York University and Columbia, as well as institutions in the UK and Australia, for the Jakarta LPDP scholarship programme. The scheme, established under a 2026 gubernatorial regulation and scheduled to begin in 2027, will offer 50–75 scholarships, prioritising academically strong applicants from low-income Jakarta families and providing a broad range of study fields and destination countries.

All MKTR’s Oil Palm Plantations Are in Central Kalimantan, but Operations Remain Normal, Company Says

PT Menthobi Karyatama Raya (MKTR) says forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan have not materially disrupted its operations or changed its 2026 production target, despite all its oil palm plantations being located in the province. The company says it is helping prevent fires from spreading, while Central Kalimantan has recorded the country’s largest area of burned land amid difficult firefighting conditions.

Indonesia’s Exports Grow 4.43%, with Logistics Key to Businesses Reaching Global Markets

Indonesia’s exports totalled US$167.03 billion in January–July 2026, up 4.43% year on year, creating opportunities for local businesses to expand overseas. At Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, Lion Parcel highlighted its international shipping service, which reaches more than 220 destinations, and its B2B logistics solutions as support for exporters.

Jakpro Executives Receive Innovative CEO and CFO Awards for 2026

Jakpro president director Iwan Takwin and finance director Bima Tesdayu have received national awards recognising innovation in executive leadership and finance. The Jakarta-owned company says the recognition will encourage it to strengthen governance, financial management and its contribution to the capital’s infrastructure and public facilities.

Religious Affairs Ministry Unveils Three Strategies to Boost Productive Zakat and Community Independence

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has outlined three approaches to strengthen productive zakat: improving empowerment programmes, expanding cross-sector collaboration, and making better use of data and digital tools. The measures are intended to help zakat recipients build independent livelihoods and increase zakat’s impact on economic empowerment, although the article details only the first two strategies.

New China–North Korea border bridge officially opens to traffic

A new road bridge across the Yalu River linking Dandong in China and Sinuiju in North Korea has opened to public traffic. Designed for two-way, four-lane traffic and larger vessels, it is expected to improve cross-border trade and people-to-people exchanges, replacing an older crossing with significant weight and capacity restrictions.

Co-operatives Minister Checks KDKMP Operations in East Java, Says Rollout Will Be Gradual

Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono visited several Merah Putih village and urban-ward co-operatives in East Java to review their readiness, as operations begin in stages under President Prabowo Subianto’s direction. He said subsidised staples, government assistance and supporting facilities were available at operating outlets, which are intended to bring services closer to beneficiaries and help villagers become independent entrepreneurs.

OpenAI’s Trade Secrets Allegedly Leaked After Employee Left for Apple

OpenAI alleges that a former employee downloaded more than 100 confidential files about unreleased products before joining Apple and presented them to Apple’s senior leadership. Apple denies the allegations, saying the phone numbers cited were not used by the employee and that its internal investigation found no evidence the files were stored on its servers; the dispute highlights intensifying competition over AI talent and intellectual property.

Akulaku Finance Strengthens Customer Personal Data Protection

Akulaku Finance Indonesia says it will strengthen internal oversight, technology and risk mitigation after an investigation uncovered suspected misuse of customers’ personal data to apply for financing unlawfully. Police in West Java are investigating possible use of artificial intelligence and face-swapping technology, with several suspects detained and losses estimated at hundreds of millions of rupiah.

AI Technology Speeds Up Assessments, but Decisions Still Require Human Assessors

Daya Dimensi Indonesia has introduced PortrAI, an AI-enabled assessment approach designed to gather and analyse behavioural evidence more dynamically and shorten talent-assessment processes. The company says AI can support evidence gathering, but validity, fairness and final decisions still depend on sound methods and human assessors’ professional judgement.

BNPB Chief Lt Gen Kristomei Reveals Prabowo’s Order: ‘Keep Going!’

Newly appointed BNPB chief Lt Gen Kristomei Sianturi says President Prabowo has urged him to carry on with the agency’s disaster-response work. Kristomei plans to prioritise coordination across government, the military, police, meteorological agencies and communities as Indonesia confronts hazards including forest fires, floods and volcanic eruptions.

Profile: Satyawan Pudyatmoko, Appointed Head of the Peatland Management Agency

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed forestry academic Satyawan Pudyatmoko as head of the National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency, with Major General Sriyanto named as his deputy. Pudyatmoko brings extensive academic and government experience in forest conservation and peatland restoration to the role.

Immigration and Corrections Minister Warns Staff: ‘One Person’s Misconduct Affects Everyone’

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto has urged corrections staff to prevent misconduct, warning that wrongdoing by one employee damages the whole institution. He said authority over food supplies, canteens, telephone services and cooperatives has been decentralised, and called for transparent management and stronger governance to improve staff welfare and restore public trust.

I-EU CEPA Opens Trade and Investment Opportunities between Indonesia and Sweden

Indonesia’s Deputy Trade Minister says the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement could widen market access, attract sustainable investment and improve businesses’ global competitiveness, including through stronger ties with Sweden. Bilateral trade between Indonesia and Sweden averaged 5.91 per cent annual growth from 2021 to 2025, reaching about US$872.2 million last year, while Swedish direct investment in Indonesia totalled US$344.4 million over the period.

S&P Global Forecasts Singapore’s GDP Growth to Slow to 4.6%

S&P Global Market Intelligence forecasts Singapore’s real GDP growth will ease from 5.7 per cent in 2026 to 4.6 per cent in 2027, as AI-related activity normalises and external demand weakens. Technology trade and investment are expected to remain key growth drivers, but risks include higher energy and food prices, tighter global financial conditions and supply-chain disruption.

On Its 28th Anniversary, Government Urged to Strengthen Komnas Perempuan’s Institutional Framework

Komnas Perempuan has urged the government and House of Representatives to establish a stronger legal basis guaranteeing its authority and independence, alongside adequate, sustainable funding. Its leaders say the commission’s current Presidential Regulation framework and resources have not kept pace with its workload, despite its role in combating violence against women and upholding women’s rights.

Khofifah Holds Low-Cost Market to Protect Sumenep Residents’ Purchasing Power

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has brought a low-cost market to Batuputih Laok village in Sumenep, offering staple foods at prices below those charged by some local shops and markets. The initiative aims to ease household expenses and sustain residents’ purchasing power, while also providing a sales outlet for local small and medium-sized industries.

Coordinating Minister Sugiono Visits Free Health Checks at a School

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono visited a Jakarta school to review the delivery of the Free Health Check programme for students, part of President Prabowo Subianto’s national preventive-health agenda. As of 13 October 2026, the programme had reached 106.3 million people, or 81.84 per cent of its 130 million target for the year, with checks for students covering physical and mental health alongside targeted screening and prevention measures.

UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung Handles Alleged Sexual Abuse by Lecturer

UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung’s task force is investigating allegations of sexual abuse by a lecturer against a female student, after students staged a campus protest. The university says the case remains under review, the complainant is being supported, and any sanctions will be recommended if the allegations are substantiated; identities are to remain confidential.

Minister Bahlil inspects village electrification programme on Karawang’s northern coast

Co-ordinating Minister for Downstream Industry and Energy Transition Bahlil Lahadalia inspected village electrification and new electricity connection assistance in Muara Baru, Karawang. The government aims to connect every village nationwide by 2029–30, with more than 4,000 homes targeted for electrification in 2026, and has urged local authorities and PLN to identify households still without power.

Home Affairs Minister Pledges to Ensure Local Regulations Are Well-Targeted

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian says the ministry will oversee local regulations to ensure they comply with higher-level laws and address community needs. He called for more proactive, evidence-based rulemaking and highlighted coordination with the Law Ministry, State Secretariat and regional authorities on harmonisation.

Inmates in Luxury Wing at Cibinong Prison to Lose Remission for a Year

Justice and Immigration Minister Agus Andrianto says inmates who used the unauthorised luxury wing at Cibinong Prison will be denied remission for one year. An internal investigation into prison staff is ongoing, while officials say the unregistered building was privately funded and that staff found responsible could face severe disciplinary action.

Indonesia and Finland Explore Cooperation on Data Centres and AI Infrastructure

Indonesia and Finland are exploring cooperation on data centres and computing infrastructure to support digital transformation, AI adoption and improved public services. Discussions include Nokia’s role in a major data-centre project with Indosat, potential smart-city collaboration in Nusantara, and Finland’s experience with energy-efficient data centres; Indonesia says digital social-protection services for an estimated 50 million beneficiaries will require robust digital and AI capacity.

Pertamina to Set Rest Breaks After Bali Petrol Station Worker Breaks Down from Exhaustion

A petrol station employee in Denpasar confronted Bali Governor Wayan Koster, saying she was exhausted and had not been able to sit or take a break during a busy overnight shift. Pertamina Patra Niaga said it is coordinating with station operators to ensure working hours, shifts and rest periods comply with regulations, and has sought active Indonesian military personnel to help operate stations and ease staff fatigue.

Wildfire Smoke Poses a Threat to Vulnerable Groups as Health Minister Budi Urges People to Stay Indoors

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has urged older people, young children and pregnant women to stay indoors when smoke from forest and land fires spreads. He advised anyone who must go outside to use a mask—preferably an N95—as well as eye and skin protection, and to wash carefully on returning home.

Maruli Takes on Dual Role as Head of BNPPDT, Reveals Prabowo’s Directive for Remote Areas

Deputy TNI Commander General Maruli Simanjuntak says President Prabowo has expanded the remit of the National Agency for Border and Remote Area Management (BNPPDT) to include remote regions, with a focus on improving local livelihoods. Maruli said the agency will coordinate with relevant ministries and may draw on TNI personnel stationed in the areas, but stressed that its work is not solely a military responsibility.

Experts uncover more than 4,000 artefacts during Jakarta MRT Phase 2A project

Archaeologists working on the Jakarta MRT Phase 2A route have uncovered more than 4,000 artefacts and historical remains, including ceramics from across Asia that point to the archipelago’s longstanding international trading links. The finds will be curated for public display in a planned gallery at Jakarta Kota station, while construction on the project’s Bundaran HI–Kota line continues.

ASDP Aims to Expand Learning Access to 700 Students at Six Schools

ASDP Indonesia Ferry’s Bakauheni branch plans to extend its teaching programme to more than 700 pupils across six primary, junior secondary and senior secondary schools. The initiative uses employee volunteers and practical, interactive lessons to build students’ knowledge, confidence and motivation, supporting the company’s commitment to quality education under SDG 4.

Gandrung Sewu Dance to Be Developed with ‘Glow-in-the-Dark’ Concept

InJourney and Banyuwangi Regency are developing the Gandrung Sewu cultural festival with a glow-in-the-dark concept, with the 2026 performance scheduled for 24 October at Boom Marina Beach. The organisers say the event is intended to strengthen Banyuwangi’s cultural appeal, support local economic benefits and attract visitors, with 1,300 dancers expected to perform.

Government Targets US$17.5 Billion in Transactions at TEI 2026 to Boost National Exports

The government is using Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 to promote higher-value exports, with a target of US$17.5 billion in transactions from 1,873 exhibitors and 30,000 visitors. President Prabowo Subianto’s message, delivered by Bahlil Lahadalia, emphasised downstream processing and industrialisation as ways to increase the value of natural resources; Indonesia recorded a US$7.25 billion trade surplus in January–August 2026.

The correct steps for performing ghusl according to Islamic law

Ghusl, or the obligatory ritual bath, is required in certain circumstances, including after sexual intercourse, ejaculation, and the end of menstruation or postnatal bleeding. In the Shafi’i school commonly followed in Indonesia, its two essential requirements are the intention and ensuring water reaches the entire body; other steps, such as washing the hands and performing ablution beforehand, are recommended practices.

Constitutional Court Calls for Full Integration of Military Courts Under Supreme Court

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that the 1997 Military Courts Law must be revised within two years, requiring the military court system to be fully integrated under the Supreme Court. The Court said military judges’ recruitment, appointments and career administration remain under the TNI Commander, and warned that the law will lose binding force if lawmakers fail to amend it by the deadline.