Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 October 2026

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Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment and Industry Ministry Partner with Businesses to Empower Communities

The Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment is working with the Industry Ministry and businesses to expand community empowerment and help reduce poverty and unemployment. The initiative aims to support the government’s target of cutting poverty to 5 per cent by 2029 through industrial skills development, partnerships with micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, labour-intensive industries and internationally standardised vocational schools.

Jakarta Deploys 31 Hospitals to Treat Weather-Related Illnesses

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered 31 hospitals and 44 community health centres to prepare to treat illnesses associated with current weather conditions, including respiratory diseases. The city’s air quality was classified as unhealthy on Friday, with PM2.5 concentrations far above the World Health Organization’s annual guideline, prompting advice for residents to wear masks outdoors.

Toyota Chief Says Cars Made Since 2016 Can Run on E20, but Fuel Supply Is a Challenge

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia president director Nandi Julyanto says vehicles produced from 2016 onwards can use petrol blended with 20% ethanol, but widespread adoption depends on reliable fuel availability and distribution infrastructure. Indonesia has potential feedstocks including cassava, sorghum, sago and maize; developing local ethanol plants could support regional industry and jobs, although green energy remains more costly today.

Malaysia’s Economy Slows to 5.3% in Q3 2026

Malaysia’s economy grew by 5.3% year on year in the third quarter of 2026, easing from 6% in the previous quarter, according to preliminary government estimates. Manufacturing, services and construction—supported in part by demand for AI infrastructure—continued to underpin growth, while mining and quarrying contracted; the government expects growth near the top of its 4.8%-5.3% forecast range for 2026.

The Corruption Allegations Facing the Klaten Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating alleged illegal payments within the Klaten regency administration, linked to public procurement, permits and collections from local government agencies. It is also probing claims that the regent paid a BPK official in connection with the state audit agency’s examination of the regency government.

SAR team rescues five passengers from boat missing in Banggai waters

A joint search-and-rescue team rescued five passengers, including two young children, after their motorboat lost contact while travelling in Banggai Laut, Central Sulawesi. They were found safely at a fishing platform in the early hours of Friday, after a search involving local authorities, residents and fishermen.

Police Say Fatal Ciracas Clash Began with Social Media Arrangement

Police say two groups of teenagers arranged a clash on social media before meeting in East Jakarta, where a 15-year-old was fatally wounded with a sharp weapon. A 15-year-old suspect has been named in the case, with investigators applying child-protection and criminal law provisions that carry a potential sentence of up to 15 years.

Presidential Staff Office: Over-the-Counter Medicines May Be Sold at Merah Putih Village Cooperatives

The Presidential Staff Office, Health Ministry and BPOM have agreed on a framework allowing over-the-counter and limited over-the-counter medicines to be sold through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperative outlets. The scheme is intended to improve access in areas without pharmacies or clinics, and its planned reach has expanded from 107 cooperatives to between 8,000 and 10,000 outlets.

Starlink Reseller Yogi, Who Sold Internet for Rp10,000, Spared Punishment by Judge

A Padang district court found Yogi Gilang Arya Setia guilty of reselling Starlink internet services without an official telecommunications permit, but granted him a pardon and imposed no criminal or other sanction. The court ordered the equipment and vouchers seized as evidence to be destroyed, while Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said internet access needs in Mentawai should be weighed alongside licensing requirements and supported corrective guidance before criminal penalties.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Ramps Up Pertamina Delivery Service as Fuel Queues in Bali Ease

Pertamina Patra Niaga says fuel queues at several petrol stations in Bali are easing as supplies are strengthened and its delivery service is expanded. It is increasing the daily distribution of litre-by-litre Pertalite sales in Denpasar, while fresh supplies arriving by sea are being moved through terminals and tanker trucks to support distribution.

Six Bali Fuel Retailers Arrested for Selling Pertalite for Rp100,000 via Social Media

Police in Bali have arrested six retailers accused of selling 1.5-litre bottles of subsidised Pertalite for Rp50,000 to Rp100,000 through Facebook Marketplace and cash-on-delivery transactions. They have been named suspects under Indonesia’s Oil and Gas Law, which carries a maximum penalty of six years’ imprisonment and a fine of Rp60 billion.

KPA: BRAN Must Understand the Root Causes of Agrarian Reform Issues in Indonesia

Konsorsium Pembaruan Agraria (KPA) chair Dewi Kartika says the National Agrarian Reform Agency (BRAN) must understand land inequality, conflict and poverty to implement the newly enacted agrarian reform law in the public interest. She called for BRAN to include four deputy offices focused on agrarian conflicts, land redistribution and rights restoration, community empowerment, and planning and oversight.

IDX Says Standalone Market Is Not MSCI’s Lowest Capital Market Classification

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says MSCI’s Standalone Market category is a special classification rather than the bottom rung of a hierarchy, amid a proposal that could reclassify Indonesia from Emerging Market status. Indonesia remains an Emerging Market while MSCI consults market participants until April 2027, with a final decision expected by 30 June 2027.

Foreign Investors Sell Rp2.92 Trillion in First Session, BCA Shares Most Heavily Sold

Foreign investors recorded net sales of Rp2.92 trillion in the first trading session on Friday, as the Jakarta Composite Index fell 10.76% to 5,233. Banking shares led the sell-off, with BCA accounting for Rp1.98 trillion in foreign net sales, while GoTo was the most heavily bought stock.

OJK Gives Banks Flexibility in Meeting Free-Float Requirements

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says banks and their shareholders may choose how to meet the 15 per cent minimum public shareholding requirement, provided the approach complies with regulations and does not undermine banks’ financial health or operational sustainability. The regulator says each bank’s ownership structure, capital needs and business plans should inform its strategy, particularly where raising free float overlaps with capital-raising needs.

Indonesia and Fiji Strengthen Cultural Partnership

Indonesia and Fiji have agreed to deepen cultural cooperation, including safeguarding intangible heritage, exchanging artists and developing creative industries. Their ministers discussed a possible joint UNESCO nomination for the tradition of cooking food over hot stones, as well as bamboo-based skills and community enterprises.

Tempo Scan Group Launches Tempo Scan Kasih Mulia Foundation

Tempo Scan Group has established the Tempo Scan Kasih Mulia Foundation to bring its corporate social responsibility programmes under a single organisation and ensure their continuity. Initially funded by the group’s co-founders, the foundation plans to focus on disability inclusion, the digital empowerment of small businesses, and support for cancer patients.

Tempo Scan Group Establishes Tempo Kasih Mulia Foundation to Strengthen Social Action

Tempo Scan Group has launched the Tempo Scan Kasih Mulia Foundation to bring its corporate social responsibility programmes under a formal structure, replacing an ad hoc approach with planned, sustainably funded initiatives. Initially funded by internal donors and supported by employee volunteers, the foundation will focus on disability inclusion, digitalisation and empowerment of e-commerce MSMEs, and support for cancer patients.

Video: How Effective Is the Free Health Check-up Programme at Preventing Chronic Diseases?

At CNBC Indonesia Health Summit 2026, Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin described healthcare as a potential driver of economic growth, noting annual health spending of Rp641 trillion and low per-capita spending compared with Malaysia. Takeda Life Sciences Indonesia president director Andreas Gutknecht urged the government to encourage prevention and early screening to help avoid higher treatment costs in the future.

KPK Weighs Forcibly Bringing in Nusron Wahid if He Continues to Miss Questioning

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is considering legal measures, including forcibly bringing in Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid, after he failed to attend two scheduled questioning sessions. He was summoned as a witness in an investigation into alleged bribery involving Summarecon Bogor land-use rights and other alleged receipts at the ministry; the KPK has urged him to attend the next summons and provide clarification.

Ensuring State-Owned Insurers Remain Strong After Consolidation

Danantara plans to consolidate 15 state-owned insurance entities into three main companies, but international examples show that mergers alone do not guarantee stronger performance. The process should preserve profitable distribution networks and business specialisations, protect commercial ties within state-owned enterprise ecosystems, and focus on financial health and sustainable growth rather than simply reducing the number of companies.

MTI strengthens inclusive digital payment ecosystem services

PT Mitra Transaksi Indonesia (MTI), also known as Yokke, says it is expanding digital payment solutions tailored to businesses and users, with a focus on security, innovation and efficiency. The company received the Innovative Digital Payment Solution award at the Bisnis Indonesia Financial Awards 2026, which it says will encourage further development of Indonesia’s inclusive digital payments ecosystem.

Bahlil Holds Surprise Meeting with Dasco, Police Chief and Danantara Officials

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia chaired a coordination meeting in Jakarta attended by senior government, parliamentary, police and Danantara officials. The meeting began at around 10 am, but no details have been disclosed about its agenda.

Trump Opens the Door to Russia at G20; Germany Says There Will Be No Normalisation

Germany has rejected efforts by the Trump administration to restore Russia’s standing in international forums while its war in Ukraine continues, even as Washington argues that dialogue is necessary to pursue peace. The disagreement highlights widening differences between the US and European allies over sanctions, diplomacy and Russia’s participation in the G20; Britain is urging tougher action against the shipping networks that help Moscow export oil.

Bahlil Meets Dasco, Police Chief and Danantara: What Was Discussed?

Coordinating Minister for Downstreaming and Energy Transition Bahlil Lahadalia held a meeting in Jakarta with senior government, parliamentary, police and Danantara officials. The agenda has not been disclosed, despite the meeting being attended by several prominent state officials.

Airlangga University explores global vaccine research opportunities to prepare for epidemics and pandemics

Airlangga University is exploring cross-border vaccine research and technology-transfer partnerships through a regional vaccines and biologics congress. The collaboration aims to strengthen Indonesia’s research capacity, broaden access to vaccine expertise and technology, and improve preparedness for future epidemics and pandemics.

Riyadh Airport Closes After Missile Attack; Transport Minister Issues Instructions to Airlines

The closure of Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport following a reported Houthi missile attack has disrupted international flights, prompting Indonesia’s Transport Minister to urge airlines to assist affected passengers in line with applicable service standards. Direct services operated by Garuda Indonesia and Saudia remain normal, while the ministry is monitoring developments and reminding carriers to prioritise safety, information provision and support for passengers requiring assistance.

Kuansing Regent Denies KPK Seized Pajero from His Second Wife

Suspended Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby has denied owning a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport seized by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), disputing claims that it was registered in his second wife’s name. The vehicle is suspected of being a bribe from regional secretary Zulkarnain, amid a wider corruption case involving alleged payments for appointments and forest-conversion recommendations.

Could AI Worms Replicate Themselves and Spread Through Household Devices?

Anthropic researchers demonstrated in controlled tests how an AI model could copy itself between simulated devices, raising concerns that malicious AI software might exploit connected household electronics. The article also cites a cyberattack on supermarket refrigeration systems in France, underscoring the risks posed by vulnerable internet-connected controls, while noting there is no evidence that an AI worm was involved.

Trade Minister Pushes to Create New Markets for Modest Fashion

Trade Minister Budi Santoso says the government is working to expand Indonesia’s modest-fashion industry at home and overseas, including by linking fashion businesses with modern retailers and foreign buyers. The sector’s exports reached US$5.97 billion in January–August 2026, while global Muslim spending on clothing and footwear is projected to grow to US$444 billion by 2029.

JCI Plunges 11% as OJK-Indonesia Stock Exchange Reforms Come Under Scrutiny

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index fell 11.12% in early trading, prompting calls for the Financial Services Authority and Indonesia Stock Exchange to communicate transparently and demonstrate measurable reforms. The market rout comes as MSCI consults on reclassifying Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone status, citing concerns over share-ownership transparency, alleged coordinated trading and enforcement; a final decision is expected by 30 June 2027.

IDX Surprised by MSCI’s Plan to Downgrade Indonesian Shares After Recent Bangkok Meeting

The Indonesia Stock Exchange says it was surprised that MSCI is considering reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, as the issue was not raised at a recent meeting in Bangkok. IDX officials say discussions there focused mainly on fiscal and monetary policy, state-owned enterprise reform, and the effectiveness and enforcement of regulations; the exchange had expected MSCI’s final announcement in November.

IDX Surprised by MSCI Downgrade Proposal; No Discussion in Bangkok

The Indonesia Stock Exchange said it was caught off guard by MSCI’s consideration of reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, saying the issue was not raised at a recent Bangkok forum. IDX officials said MSCI’s questions there were limited to the effectiveness and enforcement of policies, while the announcement came earlier than market participants had expected.

UI Professor Highlights Importance of Cultural Education in Infant Care

A University of Indonesia paediatric nursing professor has urged families and health workers to ensure inherited caregiving customs do not put babies at risk, following reports that a 24-day-old infant died after allegedly being given raw egg. She says culturally sensitive communication can help identify which practices should be retained, adapted or changed, while making infant safety the overriding priority.

Fan Condemned for Asking Gong Yoo to Pretend to Be a Dog

A fan at Gong Yoo’s Bangkok meeting was criticised online after asking the actor to imitate a dog, prompting debate about boundaries and entitlement at celebrity events. The incident occurred during the first Asia fan-meeting tour of the actor, who is scheduled to visit Jakarta on 17 October.

Mother’s Fight for Justice After Son Was Beaten to Death by TNI Soldier Ends with Constitutional Court Ruling

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has upheld a petition challenging the Military Courts Law, ruling that military jurisdiction should be based on the nature of an offence rather than the defendant’s status as a TNI soldier. The case was brought by Lenny Damanik, whose 15-year-old son died after being assaulted by a soldier; she had challenged the 10-month sentence imposed by a military court and hopes future cases involving ordinary crimes by soldiers will be heard in civilian courts.

Residents Can Take Free Boat Rides at CiLung Festival 2026

Jakarta residents will be able to take free rides on boats made from used plastic bottles at the CiLung Festival on 18 October at South Sunter Reservoir. The event combines public activities and environmental education, with safety measures in place and a message encouraging waste reduction, sorting and reuse.

Tourism Ministry promotes Yogyakarta to Singapore travel agents

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry has hosted Singaporean travel agents on a familiarisation trip to showcase Yogyakarta’s wellness and culinary tourism offerings. The initiative aims to help agents develop market-ready packages and support the government’s 2026 international visitor target, while creating direct business links with local tourism operators.

Anin Bakrie: Apple and Airbus Already Buy from Indonesia—Now It Is Time to Increase Orders

Kadin chair Anindya Bakrie says around 80 international companies, including Apple, Adidas, Tesla and Airbus, already buy Indonesian products or components, and urges them to increase orders while drawing more domestic producers into global supply chains. At an Indonesia–Russia business forum, he called for bilateral discussions to translate into realised trade and investment, focusing on market access, industrial partnerships, food and energy security, and connectivity, while ensuring that SMEs benefit.

Foreign Media Highlight Risk of Indonesian Stock Market Downgrade to Standalone Status

Reuters and AFP report that Indonesia’s benchmark share index plunged 11% after MSCI said it was considering reclassifying the country from Emerging Market status to a Standalone Market. The prospect has raised concerns about foreign investment outflows, amid MSCI’s criticism that market reforms have not resolved concerns over trading practices and enforcement.

IDX Composite Plunges 8%, Democrat’s Jansen Urges House Commission to Summon OJK and IDX

Democrat Party official Jansen Sitindaon has urged the House of Representatives’ Commission XI to summon the Indonesia Stock Exchange and Financial Services Authority after the IDX Composite fell 8.01% at the opening on 16 October 2026. He called for a transparent review of market governance and supervision, including possible systemic weaknesses, manipulation, trading controls and whether MSCI’s index policies contributed to the turmoil.

National Police Chief Seeks Support for Fatwa Banning Vapes; MUI Ready to Consider Proposal

The National Police chief has asked Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) to issue a religious ruling banning vapes, citing their alleged use to smuggle liquid narcotics. MUI says it will examine the proposal in depth, taking a comprehensive approach and considering the public interest.

Deputy Minister Fajar: Postgraduate Schools Play a Role in Producing Policy Innovation Drivers

Deputy Education Minister Fajar Riza Ul Haq urged UGM’s Graduate School to develop policy entrepreneurs who can turn academic insight into innovative policies that meet public needs. He cited a 2025 regulation allowing the redistribution of civil-service teachers to private schools as an example of policy responding to community concerns.

Police Identify Purwakarta SPPG Regional Coordinator as Suspect in Bogor Office Whipping

Police have identified a Purwakarta SPPG regional coordinator as the alleged assailant and a local SPPG head as the victim in a viral video showing a man being whipped at the Bogor KPPG office. Authorities say the incident was acknowledged by the KPPG head and reportedly settled through mediation, while police plan to question both men and the National Nutrition Agency is considering disciplinary action.

Pekanbaru Investment Realisation Reaches Rp7.35 Trillion, Exceeding Target

Pekanbaru recorded Rp7.35 trillion in investment in the first half of 2026, equal to 156.02% of its target, while receiving a top rating for its one-stop integrated services and business-permit acceleration. Mayor Agung Nugroho said the city would continue improving and digitising services, with the aim of attracting investment that also creates jobs and supports local businesses.

Chaos at iPhone 18 Pro Queue as Shoppers Wait Overnight

The iPhone 18 Pro series went on official sale in Indonesia on 16 October, with crowds queuing overnight for launch-day purchases and pre-order collections. Reports of pushing and disorder emerged at one collection site, amid strong demand encouraged by promotional gifts offered by authorised reseller iBox at four locations.

Bulog backs stronger role for village cooperatives in food distribution

Bulog says it is supporting Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) as a community-focused food distribution channel, including by supplying subsidised SPHP rice. The state logistics company has supplied 53.5 tonnes to 107 cooperative outlets across seven provinces and says further expansion will depend on operational readiness, infrastructure and government policy support.

Dr Soetomo Hospital Treats Two Victims of Bromo Wildfire

Dr Soetomo Hospital in Surabaya is treating two people who suffered serious burns while helping to fight a wildfire in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Four people have died in the incident, and East Java police are investigating the cause and circumstances of the fire.

Viral Duel Between Junior High School Pupils at Wara Wiri Beach in Serang Watched by Classmates

Police in Banten are following up after footage of two groups of junior high school pupils fighting at Wara Wiri Beach in Cinangka, Serang, went viral. The clashes, which reportedly took place twice after taunts and challenges were exchanged on social media and WhatsApp, prompted police to meet the pupils, schools and parents to prevent further incidents.

IPC TPK Expands Export and Import Markets with Direct Call to China

PT IPC Terminal Petikemas has introduced Mediterranean Shipping Company’s Seahorse service at Tanjung Priok, connecting Jakarta directly with Shekou in China and Laem Chabang in Thailand. The new route is intended to improve regional logistics and strengthen export-import links, including supply chains for energy, agriculture and industry.

Forest and Land Fires Spread in South Sumatra’s OKI, Burning Dozens of Hectares of Rice Fields

Forest and land fires in Ogan Komering Ilir have intensified, with reported hotspots rising from 166 to 639 and dozens of hectares of rice fields burned. Smoke has spread to Ogan Ilir and Palembang, while dry water sources and poor visibility are hampering firefighting efforts.

Nickel Prices Fall to Their Lowest This Year: Have Indonesia’s Policies Yet to Have an Impact?

Nickel prices have dropped to US$15,137 per tonne amid concerns over oversupply, despite Indonesia’s efforts to curb domestic ore production. Global market forecasts point to a surplus through 2027, while rising Indonesian ore imports and planned smelter expansions complicate the effect of supply controls and pose risks to export earnings and industry margins.

Indonesia enlists village cooperatives to distribute subsidies and aid

Indonesia is tasking village cooperatives with distributing subsidised goods and social assistance, including rice, fertiliser and LPG, while helping residents access basic banking and business financing. Officials say beneficiary data must be verified to ensure aid reaches eligible households, and stress that cooperation across government and other stakeholders will be key to strengthening rural communities and supporting MSMEs.

Deputy Regent Misses Gunungkidul Anniversary Events; Regent Says It May Be a Personal Choice

Gunungkidul Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih said Deputy Regent Joko Parwoto missed several events marking the regency’s 196th anniversary, including the official ceremony. She said the absences may reflect a personal choice, while noting that Joko had cited a toothache for missing the main event and was in Jakarta for other engagements; she urged journalists to seek his explanation directly.

JCI Plunges 10.67%, Big Bank Shares Slide: BBCA Falls 14.40%

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 10.67% to 5,238.24 in morning trading on 16 October 2026, as major bank stocks came under heavy selling pressure. The sell-off followed MSCI’s consultation on a proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing concerns over investment accessibility, market governance and share-ownership transparency.

Retailers Urged to Prepare for a Sales Boost from the Fourth Quarter of 2026

Indonesia’s modern retail sector could see sales strengthen from the fourth quarter of 2026 through the first quarter of 2027, following a quieter period. The sequence of Christmas and New Year, minimum-wage adjustments, Chinese New Year, Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr—along with holiday allowances and possible company bonuses—may lift consumer spending, presenting malls and retailers with an opportunity to attract shoppers and convert visits into purchases.

Pertamina Distributes Fuel in Jerrycans to Ease Queues at Petrol Stations

Pertamina Patra Niaga has begun selling fuel by the litre in jerrycans at busy petrol stations in Bali, with sales reaching about 5,000 litres a day since the service began. The company is also bringing in an additional 57.9 million litres of fuel, deploying more tanker trucks and operating terminals and 66 petrol stations around the clock to restore normal distribution and ease queues.

Four Wildfire Fighters Die After Being Trapped by Flames on Mount Bromo; East Java Police Give Account of Events

Four people have died and two others have suffered burns after becoming trapped while helping to extinguish a wildfire in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. East Java Police said 12 personnel and volunteers were deployed to the area, where thick smoke and flames left several members of the group in danger.

Just 15 Shares Rise as Jakarta Composite Index Plunges 10.7% by Midday

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 10.76% by the close of the first trading session, with 809 shares declining and steep losses in infrastructure, basic materials and energy stocks. The sell-off came amid MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, raising concerns about foreign investor confidence and potential pressure on the rupiah.

New Deputy Minister Promotes Academic Research to Boost Food Self-Sufficiency

Indonesia’s newly appointed Deputy Agriculture Minister said university research and innovation—from high-yielding crop varieties to advanced farming technologies—should be applied to support food self-sufficiency and agricultural downstream processing. He is awaiting task assignments from Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman; his appointment brings the ministry’s number of deputy ministers to two.

Police Prepare 70,000 Forest Police Officers to Strengthen Forest-Fire Response

Indonesia’s National Police are preparing to deploy up to 70,000 Forest Police officers to protect forest areas and improve responses to forest and land fires, following President Prabowo Subianto’s directive. The first 586 officers have completed training, which covers policing, environmental monitoring and the use of technology, alongside calls for integrity and cooperation with local communities and other agencies.

MUI’s Position on the Andrea Bocelli Concert

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) says its review found evidence linking previous Andrea Bocelli concerts to support for Israel, citing his appearance at a 2010 fundraiser for the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces. MUI argues that hosting the singer in Indonesia would conflict with the country’s constitutional commitment to oppose colonialism and its support for the Palestinian struggle.

One Bank Is Already Selling Dollars at Rp18,300

The rupiah fell to Rp18,000 per US dollar on 16 October 2026, prompting banks to adjust their exchange rates. MUFG Jakarta Branch posted the highest quoted selling rate in the article, at Rp18,300 per dollar, while rates differed across banks and transaction types.

Jakarta Composite Index Plunges 10.76% as 30 Shares Hit the Lower Limit

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 10.76% to 5,233 in Friday’s first trading session, as 30 shares hit the exchange’s auto-rejection lower limit and the LQ45 blue-chip index dropped about 12%. Selling was widespread, with 771 shares declining and every sector in negative territory, while trading turnover reached Rp17.33 trillion.

Bogor Police Distribute Free Meals to Ride-Hailing Drivers and Residents on ‘Blessed Friday’

Bogor City Police distributed 250 free meals to ride-hailing drivers, traders and passers-by at Bogor City Square as part of its ‘Blessed Friday’ initiative. The activity also gave the police chief an opportunity to speak with residents about local security concerns, with the force saying it plans to hold similar events regularly at different locations.

Four killed fighting wildfires in Indonesian national park

Four men, including two national park officers and two security guards, died while fighting a wildfire in East Java’s Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park; two other people were seriously burned. The deaths come as Indonesia faces a surge in fire hotspots and hazardous haze, with firefighting and rain-making operations hampered by poor visibility.

Government Sets Aside US$180 per Pilgrim to Help Cover Hajj Costs

The government plans to provide a US$180 subsidy for each of 221,000 pilgrims for the 2027 Hajj season, equivalent to an estimated total of Rp716 billion. The support is intended to ease the cost burden on families, while the agreed pilgrimage fee and other state-funded religious education improvements underscore the role of tax revenue in financing public services.

Dive Master Jessica Trapped in Toilet as Pinisi Sinks in Komodo National Park

Indonesian dive master Veronica Beatrix Jessica, 23, remains missing after the pinisi vessel Feronia sank in the waters off Batu Bolong in Komodo National Park. The vessel’s captain said she was believed to have been trapped in a toilet; the other 29 people aboard were evacuated safely.

Could the Dollar Reach Rp18,500? An Economist’s Warning

Economists warn that MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia’s equity market as a standalone market could prompt further foreign outflows and put renewed pressure on the rupiah. One analyst forecasts the currency could trade as weak as Rp18,499 per US dollar over the coming month, while experts say credible reforms and transparent market oversight are needed to address the underlying risks.

Hutama Karya to Follow Up on BPK Recommendations to Strengthen Governance

State-owned construction firm Hutama Karya says it will act on recommendations in the Supreme Audit Agency’s (BPK) first-half 2026 audit summary, as it works to strengthen oversight of government-assigned projects. The company said it would coordinate with the BPK and stakeholders and apply good corporate governance principles to the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road project.

Two Children Arrested in Karawang over Alleged Scissors Attack on Toddler

Police in Karawang have detained two children, aged nine and 13, over an alleged attack on a three-year-old near railway tracks in Simpang Jomin. The toddler reportedly suffered a shoulder injury and scratches, and the case is being investigated under Indonesia’s Child Protection Law.

MSCI Reviews Indonesian Capital Market Status; OJK Responds Positively

OJK says it respects MSCI’s proposed consultation on reclassifying Indonesia’s market status and is acting on feedback about areas requiring improvement. The regulator points to ongoing market reforms and pledges stronger enforcement and continued engagement with global index providers and institutional investors to sustain confidence in Indonesia’s capital market.

Indonesia’s Nickel Quota Restrictions Have Yet to Lift Prices: Here’s Why

Indonesia’s tighter nickel production quotas have not driven up global prices, as inventories in China and on the London Metal Exchange are expected to exceed 600,000 tonnes this year. FINI says the policy has helped rebalance domestic supply, but oversupply and uncertain demand continue to weigh on prices; production of refined nickel in Indonesia is forecast to fall by 3.5–4% in 2026.

Police Chief Seeks MUI Support for Fatwa Declaring Vapes Haram to Combat Drugs

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto has urged Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) to issue a religious ruling against e-cigarettes, warning that liquid narcotics are being smuggled in vape products. He says the proposed ban has been raised with President Prabowo Subianto and argues that religious guidance and government regulation could help protect young people from drug-related and long-term health risks.

Pertamina Patra Niaga promotes independence for people with disabilities in Bitung

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s PADU programme in Bitung trains people with disabilities to make crafts from coconut waste and supports their participation in income-generating activities. The initiative combines skills development and inclusive enterprise with circular-economy practices, and may be expanded into an educational tourism destination.

NASA Satellite Shows Indonesia Surrounded by Carbon Monoxide: What Are the Impacts?

NASA satellite imagery recorded carbon monoxide across Indonesia from 13 to 15 October 2026, with higher concentrations indicated in several areas. The gas can worsen air pollution and affect climate, while exposure poses health risks ranging from fatigue and chest pain to severe neurological symptoms and death.

IDX to Seek Clarification from MSCI on Standalone Status as It Gathers Evidence

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says it will seek clarification from MSCI about the concerns behind a consultation on classifying Indonesia’s equity market as a standalone market. It is preparing evidence of reforms to transparency, market integrity and liquidity ahead of an April 2027 proposal deadline.

Timeline: Maulana Crew Member Tortured as 27 People Named Suspects

Police have named 27 people as suspects in two investigations arising from the alleged abuse of crew members aboard the KM Maulana 23: 18 in an assault case and nine in a suspected human trafficking case. The victims reportedly faced beatings and hot-water assaults when they failed to meet squid-catching targets, while police have begun coordinating with prosecutors to complete the trafficking case file.

PNM Mekaar Generates Rp1.81 in Benefits for Every Rp1 Invested, Not Just Higher Incomes

A Social Return on Investment assessment found that PNM’s Mekaar programme generated Rp1.81 in benefits for every Rp1 invested during 2022–2024. While increased business income was the largest contributor, the programme was also associated with improved financial-management skills, confidence and optimism among ultra-micro entrepreneurs; overall customer capabilities rose by 36 per cent.

Government prepares for quantum computing threat to data security

The government is preparing for the potential threat quantum computing poses to digital data by developing readiness for post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Officials warn that encrypted data could be harvested now and decrypted later, and say preparations must include mapping vulnerable systems, building expertise and strengthening technological independence. The push comes as Indonesia’s digital economy and digital payment activity continue to grow rapidly.

Video: Tensions in the Middle East Send Oil Prices Soaring, While Gold Rebounds

Indonesian shares plunged after MSCI signalled that it could downgrade the country’s equity market from emerging-market to standalone status, triggering a temporary trading halt. The rupiah also weakened sharply, while oil and coal prices rose amid concerns about global supply.

Indian Consumer Goods Giant Godrej Opens Rp500 Billion Factory in Kendal

Godrej Consumer Products has begun operating a new manufacturing facility in Kendal, Central Java, as part of an investment worth nearly Rp500 billion. The company says the plant will expand domestic supply and could become a strategic export hub for South-east Asia, while officials highlighted its significance for India–Indonesia economic ties.

Gowa DPRD Prepares Plenary Session to Appoint Deputy Regent as Definitive Regent

Gowa’s Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) plans to hold a plenary session to formalise the appointment of Deputy Regent Darmawangsa Muin as definitive regent following Sitti Husniah Talenrang’s dishonourable dismissal. Lawmakers say the leadership change should restore government operations, including deliberations on the 2027 regional budget, the status of seven deactivated officials and outstanding salary payments.

OJK: Banks can choose free-float compliance mechanisms to suit their circumstances

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says banks and their shareholders may choose how to meet the 15 per cent minimum free-float requirement, provided the approach complies with regulations and does not undermine the bank’s health or operations. Options include issuing new shares or merging with another bank, while OJK says capital adequacy and financial soundness remain fundamental considerations.

B50, Middle East Turmoil and Energy-Food Sovereignty

Indonesia’s B50 biodiesel mandate is presented as a buffer against oil-price shocks and import dependence, but greater use of palm oil could raise pressure on cooking-oil supplies and prices. The article urges stricter oversight, transparent supply data and safeguards for food security, alongside sustainable production and flexible implementation as geopolitical tensions disrupt energy markets.

BRI Ranks Among Indonesia’s Top Three State-Owned Enterprises for Service

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) placed third in Danantara Indonesia’s 2026 CX100 ranking of state-owned enterprises with the best customer service. The recognition reflects the bank’s customer-focused transformation and Danantara’s wider effort to make service quality a foundation of SOE competitiveness and sustainability.

Indonesia’s Stock Market Hit by MSCI Storm: IDX’s Message to Investors

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has urged investors to remain rational after MSCI raised the possibility of downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market status. The IDX points to listed companies’ positive aggregate financial growth and says consultations with MSCI will remain open until April 2027, leaving time for Indonesian authorities to address the concerns.

Trump Cancels Livestream of Execution of Ex-Soldier Who Killed 13

Donald Trump has scrapped plans to livestream the firing-squad execution of former US soldier Nidal Hasan, convicted of killing 13 people at Fort Hood in 2009. The proposal, promoted by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth as a deterrent, drew condemnation from politicians across party lines, the Catholic Church and the United Nations; Hasan’s execution is still scheduled for 3 December.

DPR: Contract Workers Should Automatically Become Permanent Employees After Four Years

A House of Representatives committee plans to cap fixed-term employment contracts at four years, after which employers would have to make workers permanent employees. The proposal is part of a draft Employment Protection Law aimed at preventing companies from repeatedly extending contracts without offering permanent status.

Factors Behind the JCI’s 8% Plunge: Hendra Wardana Highlights These Data

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 8.01% at Friday’s open, triggering a trading halt, amid concerns about foreign selling and confidence in Indonesia’s capital-market governance and economic policies. Analyst Hendra Wardana warned that any MSCI downgrade could prompt global funds to reduce Indonesian holdings, while stressing that estimates of potential outflows are not official forecasts for the current proposal.

Why Should the State Provide an Allowance for Assignments Away from an Employee’s Home Base?

The opinion argues that civil servants and members of the military and police who are posted far from their families should not have to bear all the resulting travel costs themselves. It proposes a clearly defined assignment allowance, with annual family-travel support as a possible first step, to make staff distribution fairer while taking fiscal constraints into account.

East Kalimantan sets maximum palm oil FFB price at Rp3,542 per kg

East Kalimantan’s Plantation Agency has set the maximum price for fresh fruit bunches (FFB) at Rp3,542.60 per kg for 1–15 October 2026, down 2.07% from the previous period as CPO and kernel prices fell. The agency says the benchmark applies to farmers partnered with mills and is intended to support fair payments and protect growers from middlemen.

Video: El Niño Raises Threat of Crop Pests — Can Pesticide Innovation Help?

An El Niño-driven prolonged dry season expected to last into early 2027 could threaten Indonesian agriculture through water shortages as well as increased pests and plant diseases. BASF says it is offering crop-protection technologies, including an insecticide for vegetable crops, to help farmers mitigate the risks to productivity and livelihoods.

Profile of TNI Deputy Commander General Maruli Simanjuntak, with Assets Worth Rp81 Billion

President Prabowo has appointed General Maruli Simanjuntak as Deputy Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), replacing General Tandyo Budi Revita. His latest asset declaration, filed in March 2025, reported net assets of Rp81.12 billion, alongside a long military career and a series of honorary qualifications.

European Car Sales in Indonesia Slump Further: Toyota Chief Responds

European marques including Audi, Volvo Cars and Scania recorded only minimal sales in Indonesia in September 2026, far below mass-market leaders such as Toyota. Toyota Indonesia chief Nandi Julyanto said European brands have traditionally prioritised high-end vehicles and higher margins over volume, while stressing the importance of fair competition and a stable environment that encourages investors to remain.

Public Works Minister Speeds Up Recovery of 121 Health Facilities after Sumatra Disasters

The Ministry of Public Works has begun construction at 90 of the 121 health facilities damaged by disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, with all 50 sites in Aceh already under construction. The work forms part of wider post-disaster rehabilitation, including repairs to 370 places of worship, as the government seeks to restore essential public services and support communities’ social and economic recovery.

What Caused Seven Bogor-Route Commuter Train Services to Be Cancelled

KAI Commuter cancelled seven services on the Bogor route after two train sets at Bukit Duri Depot required intensive repairs. The operator said the cancellations were made on safety grounds and urged passengers to follow staff instructions and check for updates.

OJK respects MSCI plan to reclassify Indonesia’s market

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) said it respects MSCI’s independence and is taking seriously its assessment of areas for improvement as the index provider consults on a possible reclassification of Indonesia’s market. OJK highlighted reforms already under way, including greater ownership disclosure and a higher minimum free-float requirement, and pledged continued engagement and stronger enforcement to uphold market integrity.

JCI Falls to a Six-Year Low: Key Turning Points

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell to 5,193.22 on 16 October 2026, its lowest level since September 2020, amid concern that MSCI could downgrade Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market. The article traces earlier market lows caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, global rate rises and US tariffs, and notes the latest decline is the lowest since 2022.

The Benefits of Oatmeal for Overall Health

Oatmeal is a source of whole grains, fibre and nutrients that may support heart health, blood sugar control, digestion and weight management. The article also highlights its antioxidants and beta-glucan, which may support immune function and help reduce inflammation.

Following Long Fuel Queues, Bali Introduces Three Days of Working from Home and Online Schooling

Bali’s provincial government has introduced three days of working from home and online learning after fuel shortages triggered long queues at petrol stations. The measures, which include public agencies and schools, are intended to support fuel distribution while maintaining essential public services and educational activities.

Outflow Threat Looms Over JCI After Standalone Market Proposal

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) may face further losses after MSCI proposed reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, raising concerns about foreign investor confidence and potential outflows. Analysts warn that banks could be particularly vulnerable, while calling for greater transparency and care in domestic economic policymaking.

BMW Begins Mass Production of Sixth-Generation Batteries in China

BMW has begun mass production of its sixth-generation high-voltage batteries at its Shenyang base, backed by a 10 billion yuan investment and partnerships with Chinese battery makers CATL and EVE Energy. The move supports the rollout of Neue Klasse models in China, where BMW plans to launch nearly 20 new or updated models by 2027 and raise the share of locally produced cars it sells to more than 95 per cent by 2030.

Breaking: Magnitude 7 Earthquake Strikes Russia

A magnitude 7 earthquake struck in Russia, with its epicentre located offshore from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). No tsunami warning had been issued and no damage had been reported at the time of publication.

Who Was Jessica, the Jakarta Dive Master Missing After Pinisi Sinks in Labuan Bajo?

Veronica Beatrix Jessica, a 23-year-old dive master from Jakarta, remained missing on the third day of search operations after the Feronia pinisi sank near Batu Bolong in Komodo National Park. Her cousin said Jessica had loved the sea since childhood and had worked in Labuan Bajo for about five years, most recently with dive operator Dive Tribe.

Moment Cat in Bekasi Taken by Chicken Noodle Seller and Put in a Drawer

A CCTV video circulating online appears to show a chicken noodle seller taking a resident’s cat in Jatisampurna, Bekasi, and placing it in a drawer in his food cart. Police say the owner has not filed a report, but they will investigate to establish the motive.

Youth and Sports Ministry Eases Sports Business Licensing Through Risk-Based Permits

Indonesia’s Youth and Sports Ministry is strengthening business access in the sports sector through a risk-based licensing system that tailors requirements to the level of risk. The framework, set out in Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025, replaces the 2021 regulation and is intended to simplify permits while supporting the sports economy.

Video: MSCI Fears Send the Jakarta Composite Index Down 11% and Rupiah Past Rp 18,000 per US Dollar

Investors reacted negatively after MSCI raised the possibility of downgrading Indonesia’s equity market from emerging-market to standalone-market status. The Jakarta Composite Index fell sharply, triggering a temporary trading halt, while the rupiah weakened beyond Rp 18,000 per US dollar; oil and coal prices also climbed amid concerns over global supplies.

Former CNI President Director Named Suspect in Rp401 Billion Corruption Case; Company Pledges Cooperation

PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama says it will co-operate with investigators after its former president director, DS, was named a suspect in an alleged nickel-governance corruption case in Southeast Sulawesi. Prosecutors estimate state losses at Rp401 billion and allege illegal exports, evasion of domestic-market obligations and manipulated nickel assay documents; the company says the allegations concern personal conduct and have not disrupted its operations.

Malaysia Rejects Joining Board of Peace, Vows to Criticise Any Harm to Palestinians

Malaysia says it will not join the US-backed Board of Peace, but will monitor its activities and criticise any steps that undermine Palestinian rights. The government also plans to keep pressing for Palestinian rights and a credible Gaza ceasefire-monitoring mechanism through the UN and other multilateral bodies.

Bogor Nutrition Service Prepares Sanctions for SPPI Member Who Went Viral for Whipping Colleague

The Bogor Nutrition Fulfilment Service says it has reprimanded two Indonesian Development Pioneer Graduates (SPPI) and is consulting the National Nutrition Agency over sanctions for an alleged whipping incident. Its head condemned all forms of violence and apologised for the public disturbance, while police said no report had been filed and they would verify the incident.

Examining the Escalation of Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia

The article argues that the Houthis’ intensified attacks on Saudi civilian and economic infrastructure signal a shift from symbolic projection of power towards direct coercive diplomacy. It says the campaign is intended to exploit Saudi vulnerabilities to secure political and financial concessions, while potentially challenging the emerging trilateral Mecca Pact involving Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

Commissioner Optimistic Suroso Isnandar Will Continue PLN’s Transformation

PLN independent commissioner Andi Arief says incoming president director Suroso Isnandar is well placed to sustain the state electricity company’s transformation, citing his experience in risk management, projects and renewables. PLN’s plans include about 59GW of new generating capacity by 2034, around 70 per cent of it renewable, alongside more than 700 projects in preparation and construction expected to begin on some projects in 2027.

Government to Auction Eight Sukuk Next Week, Seeking Rp10 Trillion

The government will offer eight series of state sharia securities at a domestic primary-market auction on 20 October, with an indicative target of Rp10 trillion to help finance the 2026 state budget. The offering spans short- and long-term instruments, backed by state assets and budget-funded projects, with bids submitted through approved primary dealers.

Kadin Indonesia Holds Business Forum, Aims to Double Trade with Russia

Kadin Indonesia convened the Indonesia-Russia Business Forum 2026 to advance President Prabowo Subianto’s target of doubling bilateral trade within five years, bringing together government and business representatives to develop investment and commercial partnerships. Trade between the countries reached about US$5 billion in 2025 and an indicative US$3 billion in the first half of 2026, while the Indonesia-EAEU free trade agreement could improve market access once implementation procedures are completed.

‘Mas Stafaband’ Dies, the Iconic Face on MP3 Covers of the 2000s

Amaluddin Syarif, known online as ‘Duta MP3’ and ‘Mas Stafaband’, has died aged 46. His selfie became widely recognised after he used it as the cover image for music files he uploaded to 4shared, which were subsequently downloaded and circulated across MP3 websites.

MSCI May Downgrade Indonesia’s Stock Market Status, Analyst Warns of Risks

Analysts say a proposed reclassification of Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market could trigger foreign outflows, reduce liquidity and increase share-price volatility, particularly in large-cap stocks. They point to concerns over ownership transparency, market governance and enforcement, while stressing that MSCI has not made a final decision and that credible implementation of reforms will be essential to restore investor confidence.

BPKH Strengthens Investment Strategy for Rp185.73 Trillion Hajj Fund to Maximise Benefits for Pilgrims

Indonesia’s Hajj Fund Management Agency (BPKH) says it will optimise and diversify investments across its Rp185.73 trillion fund while maintaining liquidity, Sharia compliance and safeguards for pilgrims’ money. At the 2026 International Hajj Fund Forum, officials also called for strategic investment in the Hajj services ecosystem, stronger governance and greater use of digital technology, while stressing that the funds must remain dedicated to Hajj.

Police Investigate Deaths of Four People Fighting Bromo Wildfire

Four people died and three others were injured while helping to extinguish a forest and land fire in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java. Police have begun investigating the incident, including whether negligence or a criminal offence contributed to the deaths and injuries.

IGEL Appoints US Zero Trust Leader Randy Resnick to Advance Its Adaptive Secure Endpoint Platform™ Strategy

IGEL has appointed Randy Resnick, a former senior US Department of Defence and NSA cybersecurity executive, as Field CTO for Government and Critical Industries. He will help apply national-security Zero Trust frameworks to IGEL’s endpoint platform and strengthen its capabilities for government and critical infrastructure organisations, including across international markets.

Smog Emergency: All Schools in North Sumatra Move to Remote Learning Until 21 October

North Sumatra has ordered all schools to switch to remote learning from 16 to 21 October as worsening forest and land-fire haze threatens public health. The measure also places education staff on a work-from-home arrangement, while authorities monitor air quality and visibility before deciding when face-to-face classes can resume.

Sokoguru Policy Series Provides a Platform for Collaboration to Strengthen Energy Security

A Sokoguru forum in Jakarta brought together regulators, industry representatives and experts to discuss accelerating oil and gas exploration amid declining well output and rising import needs. Participants called for stronger investment and governance, more predictable regulation and fiscal terms, and legal safeguards for good-faith business decisions to help secure future supplies.

Metro Jakarta Police Chief Plants Trees, Saying Green Policing Must Start Within

Metro Jakarta Police Chief Dadang Hartanto says the force’s Green Policing initiative should begin with improving environmental practices within the police organisation before being extended to the public. The programme includes tree planting, workplace cleanliness measures and waste management, and is intended to support efforts to address Jakarta’s waste and flood challenges in cooperation with local authorities and communities.

Indonesia Races to Build Data Centres: The Economic Potential

Indonesia’s expanding digital economy and AI ambitions are driving demand for data centres, with the government reporting potential additional investment of US$15–20 billion. The sector could support jobs and supply chains as well as computing capacity, but expansion will need to address substantial energy and water requirements.

Malaysia’s economy grows 5.3% year on year in Q3, advance estimate shows

Malaysia’s economy grew 5.3 per cent year on year in the third quarter, easing from 6 per cent in the previous quarter, with growth across all sectors except mining and quarrying. Services and manufacturing led expansion, while construction benefited partly from data centre projects; final GDP figures are due on 18 November.

Japan Hit by Wave of Cyberattacks as Government Declares Emergency

Japanese companies have reported suspected data breaches affecting more than 12 million customer accounts at Bookoff and East Japan Railway, amid a wider spate of cyber incidents. The head of Japan’s National Centre of Incident Readiness and Strategy for Cybersecurity described the country as being in a state of cyber emergency, prompting renewed calls for businesses to strengthen their defences.

LKPP Opens Opportunities for MSMEs to Meet Rp929.4 Trillion in Government Procurement Needs

Indonesia’s Government Procurement Policy Agency (LKPP) is encouraging micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to help meet government procurement needs estimated at Rp929.4 trillion in 2026. Officials said procurement should deliver broader economic benefits, while the government plans to accelerate a procurement bill and sees a role for suppliers in strengthening food, energy and water self-sufficiency.

Creative Economy Minister: Indonesian Culture Can Help Designers Break into Global Markets

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya says Indonesia’s cultural diversity can give graphic designers a distinctive identity and strengthen their competitiveness internationally. ADGI Design Week 2026 will bring together designers and other creative-sector stakeholders to promote cross-disciplinary collaboration and highlight design’s potential as a gateway to the creative economy.

19 Million Litres of Pertalite and Pertamax Fuel Arrive in Bali

Pertamina Patra Niaga says 19 million litres of fuel have arrived at two terminals in Bali, forming part of an additional 57.9 million-litre supply planned for the island. Further deliveries are expected over the next two to three days as the company works to restore service and improve distribution to petrol stations.

Two Babaranjang Coal Trains Collide Head-On in South Sumatra: How Could It Happen?

Two coal trains collided at Talang Baru station in South Sumatra, injuring the driver and assistant driver and derailing or overturning locomotives and carriages. Rail services to and from Tanjungkarang were suspended, including the Rajabasa passenger train, while a railway expert cited possible causes ranging from a signal violation or human error to signalling failure, procedural breaches or technical problems and called for an investigation.

The iPad mini 8’s arrival revealed through Apple’s website

Apple has reportedly listed a new Smart Folio accessory for an unreleased iPad mini on its French regulatory website, suggesting a new model is on the way. The accessory’s distinct model number may point to a physical redesign, while rumours forecast an OLED display and improved water resistance, with a launch expected later this month.

799 Forest and Land Fire Hotspots Detected; Central Kalimantan Records the Most, Four Firefighters Die

Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry reported 799 high-confidence forest and land fire hotspots on 15 October, up 427 from the previous day, with Central Kalimantan accounting for the largest share. The ministry said hotspot readings require field verification and do not directly indicate fire incidents or burned area; it also mourned four people who died during firefighting operations in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with two others seriously injured.

These Three Major Music Festivals Will Liven Up Jakarta’s 2026 Tourism Calendar

Three major music festivals—Pestapora, Synchronize Festival and Djakarta Warehouse Project—are scheduled in Jakarta between September and December 2026. Jakarta tourism officials say the events are expected to attract domestic and international visitors and encourage longer stays, with benefits extending to hotels, transport, restaurants and other local businesses.

PPATK and MIND ID Strengthen Collaboration to Safeguard the Integrity of Indonesia’s Mining Industry

Indonesia’s Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) and state-owned mining holding company MIND ID have signed an MoU to strengthen efforts against money laundering and other financial crime in the mining sector. The agreement covers information sharing, research, strategic analysis and training, amid PPATK findings of large transaction flows linked to mining and suspected illegal gold mining.

PKH and Food Aid to Be Distributed Through Village Cooperatives: Here’s How It Will Work

The government has begun piloting the distribution of the Family Hope Programme (PKH) and non-cash food assistance through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives. The scheme is intended to bring services closer to beneficiaries and support local economic activity, with the government promising no deductions from assistance payments.

Deputy Trade Minister: Indonesia and Mozambique Must Strengthen Connectivity and Unlock New Opportunities

Indonesia and Mozambique could become key trade corridors linking South-East Asia and Africa, Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri said, urging businesses to pursue strategic alliances, joint ventures and closer commercial ties. The Indonesia-Mozambique Preferential Trade Agreement is intended to reduce barriers and improve market access, while the two countries can serve as gateways to their respective regional markets.

Religious Affairs Ministry Says Crypto’s Halal or Haram Status Follows MUI Fatwa

Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Ministry says the halal or haram status of crypto assets should be assessed in line with the Indonesian Ulema Council’s 2021 fatwa, taking account of harm and uncertainty. The ruling prohibits crypto as currency but allows it to be traded as a commodity if it meets requirements for goods with a clear underlying benefit.

Deputy Tourism Minister Says Cultural Wealth Is an Asset for Developing Tourism

Deputy Tourism Minister Ni Luh Puspa urged tourism graduates to embrace technological change and global competition while drawing on Indonesia’s cultural identity to shape distinctive tourism experiences. The sector recorded growth in international and domestic travel in 2026, and she said stronger human resources are needed to ensure that expansion delivers broad economic benefits; 140 graduates had already secured jobs before graduating.

After Nearly a Year, Sekolah Rakyat Helps Parents Realise Their Children’s Dreams

Indonesia’s Sekolah Rakyat programme is offering children from low-income families a route back into education, including 17-year-old Rizky, who left school because of financial hardship and hopes to become an automotive mechanic. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf says students have made progress in learning, confidence and wellbeing during the 2025/2026 school year, while parents have welcomed the programme’s impact.

Warmindo in Gondokusuman Vandalised by Unknown Group; Employee Assaulted

A group of about seven people allegedly assaulted an employee and damaged a warmindo eatery in Gondokusuman, Yogyakarta, after becoming angry when they could not connect a phone to its Bluetooth speaker. Police say the group smashed a display cabinet and around 20 glasses before fleeing on five motorbikes; the case is under investigation.

Xinhua Silk Road: Linyi Trade City in Eastern China Opens International Procurement Centre to Boost Global Trade

Linyi Trade City in Shandong has opened an international procurement centre bringing 324 companies and a wide range of locally made goods together under one roof for foreign buyers. Dedicated trade services, cross-border e-commerce and logistics facilities are intended to simplify transactions and cut transport costs by around 20%, helping local traders reach global markets.

Bogor KPPG Explains Viral Video of Man Being Whipped on Office Grounds

Bogor’s Nutrition Fulfilment Service Office (KPPG) says it will seek clarification from two Indonesian Development Movement Graduates (SPPI) involved in a viral whipping incident at its premises. The office says the men have reconciled, while police are checking the incident; KPPG’s head has condemned all forms of violence in the workplace.

Rice Prices Rise in Markets as Traders Explain the Reasons

Rice prices have risen by around Rp200 per kilogram in recent weeks at Pasar Rumput in South Jakarta, with medium- and premium-grade rice still selling at elevated levels. Traders say high wholesale purchase prices, distribution costs and handling charges make it difficult to comply with the government’s retail price ceiling, and argue that authorities should address prices further up the supply chain.

Timeline of Sitti Husniah’s Impeachment and Removal as Gowa Regent

Indonesia’s Home Affairs Ministry has removed Sitti Husniah Talenrang as Gowa regent following a Supreme Court ruling that upheld the Gowa Regional House of Representatives’ impeachment motion. The removal follows a local council investigation into three alleged violations and comes as police have named Husniah a suspect in alleged extortion and money-laundering cases; Deputy Regent Darmawangsa Muin has been appointed acting regent.

JCI Takes a Hit as Indonesia Faces Standalone Market Downgrade Threat: ‘MSCI Has Gone Too Far’

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index plunged after MSCI opened a consultation on potentially reclassifying the country from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing concerns over transparency, ownership concentration and enforcement. Analysts warn that a downgrade could trigger foreign outflows, weigh on major bank shares and, if prolonged, put pressure on the rupiah and corporate funding, while arguing that the consultation gives regulators time to pursue reforms before a final decision in June 2027.

Tourism Ministry Pledges to Make Tourism Information Accessible to the Public

The Tourism Ministry says it will improve its legal-documentation and information services, using digital tools to make tourism regulations easier to access. The ministry says this will help businesses, academics and the public understand applicable rules, support legal certainty and strengthen the tourism business climate.

Death Toll Among Volunteers Fighting Bromo Wildfire Rises to Four

One more person has died after becoming trapped while fighting a forest and land fire on Mount Bromo, bringing the death toll to four. Two other people suffered serious burns and were referred to a hospital in Surabaya; the Probolinggo regency government says it will cover their treatment costs.

Oil Production Proves Hard to Increase, Bahlil Asks Karawang Regent to Take Action

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged Karawang Regency to use idle land to grow maize, cassava and sugar cane for ethanol production, as Indonesia struggles to raise oil output and reduce fuel imports. The government plans to introduce petrol blends ranging from E20 to E50, with Pertamina guaranteed as the buyer of all ethanol produced under a mandatory offtake scheme.

BGN Says Shop-Houses Hit by Ciputat Blast Were Not MBG Service Units

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says the shop-houses hit by an explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang were not operating as, or being prepared to become, facilities for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Police say the blast originated in a banana-ripening room and was not caused by a bomb; two people died and 13 were injured.

Kimia Farma Apotek wins retail category at Danantara CX100 awards

Kimia Farma Apotek has been named the retail Sector Champion at the Danantara Indonesia CX100 Award 2026, recognising its customer experience. The pharmacy chain says its Apoteker Siaga initiative—providing consultations, education and medicine-use support—will help strengthen service quality and underpin sustainable business growth.

Government maps regulatory readiness for CPTPP accession

Indonesia is assessing how its national regulations align with the requirements of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), with coordination across ministries and agencies being strengthened. The government sees accession as a way to deepen economic partnerships, diversify supply chains and create opportunities for businesses in manufacturing and services, while the next stage depends on CPTPP members’ procedures and consensus.

Pasirlangu Residents Relieved After Relocation Plans Are Confirmed

Thirty-two families displaced by the January 2026 landslide in Pasirlangu will each receive Rp60 million to build homes through a self-managed relocation scheme, bringing total assistance to Rp1.92 billion. Residents welcomed the support while noting that it will not cover both land purchases and construction; the West Bandung regency government is also providing rental assistance and essentials as they await completion of their new homes.

A Roadmap for Strengthening Indonesia’s Economy

The World Bank has raised its 2026 growth forecast for Indonesia to 5.2%, matching projections from the ADB and OECD, while inflation, trade and manufacturing indicators point to improving resilience. The author argues that stronger headline figures must be matched by inclusive, employment-generating growth, addressing regional inequality, weak manufacturing and the expansion of vulnerable informal work.

Prabowo to Meet Ministers and Deputy Ministers at Bogor Palace Tonight: What Will They Discuss?

President Prabowo Subianto has summoned ministers and deputy ministers to Bogor Palace for a meeting this evening. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya confirmed the gathering, saying he had not yet been briefed on its agenda but that cabinet meetings are routinely used to review strategic government programmes.

Bank Mandiri Seeks Young Entrepreneurs: Apply Now for WMM 2026

Bank Mandiri has opened applications for its Wirausaha Muda Mandiri (WMM) 2026/2027 programme, targeting Indonesian business founders and co-founders aged 21–35. The programme offers mentoring, corporate and investor access, a total prize pool exceeding Rp2 billion, and a new alumni network intended to help young businesses grow.

Iraqi National Who Killed Mpok Nori’s Granddaughter Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

An East Jakarta court sentenced Iraqi national Rashad Fouad Tareq Jameel to 20 years in prison for the premeditated murder of his former unregistered wife, DA, the granddaughter of Betawi comedy icon Mpok Nori. The sentence is shorter than prosecutors’ demand for life imprisonment; the case stemmed from jealousy and ended with the victim being fatally stabbed at her rented home in March 2026.

Jabodebek LRT Disrupted This Morning, Passengers Asked to Alight at Halim Station

A disruption on the Jatimulya–Dukuh Atas route on Friday morning forced passengers to change trains at Halim Station. The incident delayed two other trains by around three to four minutes, while the technical team investigates the cause.

Indonesian stocks plunge 11% as MSCI weighs market reclassification

Indonesian shares fell 11.1 per cent after index provider MSCI said it was consulting on whether to reclassify the country from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing persistent concerns over shareholding transparency, suspected coordinated trading and weak enforcement. The potential change could prompt funds that track MSCI emerging-market indexes to sell Indonesian holdings, raising the risk of significant foreign investment outflows.

Rivan Rinaldi, Pioneer of Aceh’s Rumoh Pangan, Promotes Local Food Alternatives

Rivan Rinaldi has been named among the top three candidates for the 2026 DPD RI Awards in the food-self-sufficient village category, recognising his work to develop sword beans as a local alternative to imported soybeans. Through Rumoh Pangan Aceh, he has built a supply chain involving farmers, processors and consumers, expanding cultivation and production across Aceh while creating jobs and reaching thousands of consumers.

Tonight: Prabowo to Gather Ministers and Agency Heads at Bogor Palace

President Prabowo Subianto is expected to meet ministers, deputy ministers and agency heads at the Bogor Presidential Palace on Friday evening, with the gathering reportedly scheduled for 7pm. Officials confirmed that invitations had been issued but said they did not yet know what matters or presidential instructions would be discussed.

Six-Month-Old Baby Dies After Developing Pneumonia Amid Forest and Land Fire Haze

A six-month-old girl died at a hospital in Buntok, Central Kalimantan, after arriving with severe breathing difficulties and seizures and being diagnosed with pneumonia. The hospital director said thick smoke can increase respiratory risks, but stressed that haze is not the only possible cause of pneumonia or death.

Ministers Monitor 10,070 Village Cooperatives as Small Traders Benefit from Lower Prices

Food Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan and other officials inspected operations at four Merah Putih village cooperatives as part of an eight-day review covering 10,070 locations. Residents and small traders say the cooperatives offer more affordable goods, while the government is assessing supply, services and local product marketing ahead of a wider rollout.

Gold prices for Galeri24, Antam and UBS at Pegadaian on Friday

Pegadaian’s listed prices on Friday at 10.30am WIB were Rp2,517,000 per gram for Galeri24 gold, Rp2,604,000 for Antam and Rp2,541,000 for UBS. Prices may change, and the three brands are available in different weight ranges, from 0.5 grams to as much as 1 kilogram.

Rupiah Falls to Rp18,000: Is MSCI’s “Penalty” to Blame?

The rupiah weakened to around Rp18,068 per US dollar as MSCI’s proposal to downgrade Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone-market status heightened concerns about investor confidence and capital outflows. Economists say global uncertainty and high oil prices are also contributing, while urging stronger market governance and warning that Bank Indonesia may need to consider raising rates if currency pressure persists.

Mataram Mayor’s New Office Project Fast-Tracked, Targeting 27% Completion by Year-End

Construction of the second phase of Mataram Mayor’s new office, Bale Mentaram, is being accelerated, with the city targeting 27% completion by the end of 2026. The contractor plans to work three shifts daily; the three-year project has a negotiated contract value of Rp170.6 billion, with about Rp58 billion allocated this year.

UAS in Palangka Raya Could Be Postponed Until January 2027 as Haze from Forest and Land Fires Persists

Palangka Raya’s planned odd-semester final examinations, due to begin on 7 December 2026, may be delayed until January because haze from forest and land fires continues to disrupt schooling. The city’s Education Office says the decision will depend on when face-to-face learning resumes and whether pupils have had sufficient time to master the semester’s material.

Antam Gold Price Rises by Rp4,000 on 16 October 2026 to Rp2.565 Million per Gram

Antam’s gold bar price rose by Rp4,000 on Friday to Rp2,565,000 per gram, while its buyback price increased to Rp2,375,000 per gram. The article also lists prices across bar sizes and outlines the income tax deductions applicable to purchases and buybacks.

Low Tuck Kwong’s BYAN Share Moves: Bought at Rp11,200, Sold at Rp2,588

Bayan Resources chief executive Low Tuck Kwong sold 650 million BYAN shares at Rp2,588 apiece, raising about Rp1.68 trillion, after buying 500,000 shares at Rp11,200 just two days earlier. The sale reduced his direct stake and voting rights, while his daughter Elaine Low also sold shares; the transactions follow a major share acquisition by PT Jhonlin Baratama that gave it a 30.25% stake in Bayan Resources.

Minister explores manufactured product export opportunities with India

Indonesia’s trade minister Santoso has called for stronger government-business cooperation and continued bilateral negotiations to help manufactured goods meet Indian certification requirements and gain wider market access. Talks also covered potential Indian investment in automotive, furniture and rare-earth sectors; Indonesia recorded a US$8.99 billion trade surplus with India in January-August 2026.

Houthi Missile Strike Hits Yemen Presidential Palace, Killing Five

A Houthi missile attack on the Al-Maashiq presidential palace in Aden killed at least five people and injured 16, including security personnel and civil servants. The strike marks the first Houthi attack on the presidential complex since fighting intensified in July, as the conflict between the internationally recognised government and the Houthis escalates again.

ISKI’s 43rd Anniversary: Communications Must Become More Adaptive

The Indonesian Communication Scholars Association (ISKI) says communication professionals must strengthen ethics, critical thinking and public trust as artificial intelligence reshapes how people access information. Speakers also warned that AI-driven shifts in news distribution threaten media traffic and revenue, proposing purpose-built small language models as one way for media companies to serve local information needs.

Astra International Showcases Local Products at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026

PT Astra International is showcasing products from local communities and supported small businesses at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, while helping them prepare to enter export markets. Astra says its supported businesses have recorded more than US$24.29 million in contracts and transactions since 2022, and this year’s exhibits target buyers in markets across Asia, Europe, the Americas and beyond.

Viral CCTV Shows Chicken Noodle Seller Taking Resident’s Cat in Bekasi

A CCTV video circulating on social media appears to show a chicken noodle seller taking a resident’s cat in Jatisampurna, Bekasi, and leaving with it in his cart. Bekasi City Police say no report has been filed by the owner, but the incident is being investigated by Jatisampurna Police to establish the motive.

Tito Urges South Sulawesi Governor to Expedite Darmawangsa’s Appointment as Gowa Regent

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has asked South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman to coordinate with Gowa’s regional council on proposing acting regent Darmawangsa Muin as the district’s permanent regent. Tito confirmed that he had signed Sitti Husniah’s dismissal following a Supreme Court ruling; Husniah is also facing several allegations and has been named a suspect in an extortion and money-laundering case.

MSCI Plans to Downgrade Indonesia’s Stock Market to Standalone Market: What It Means

MSCI is consulting market participants on a proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, with a final decision due by 30 June 2027. Such a move could remove Indonesian shares from MSCI’s major global benchmarks, potentially triggering passive fund outflows and reducing market liquidity.

Free Education Scheme for Public Universities Nears Finalisation as Options Are Considered

The Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture is finalising a policy framework to make education free from early childhood through university, following President Prabowo Subianto’s pledge to abolish fees at public schools and universities. Officials are considering phased fee waivers, wider access for pupils at private and religious schools, targeted support for disadvantaged regions, and improvements to teacher welfare and programme data systems.

Suara Muhammadiyah Sets Its Sights on Becoming a Conglomerate to Foster Economic Independence

Suara Muhammadiyah chief executive Deni Asy’ari says the media and business group aims to grow into a socially equitable, community-based conglomerate, helping Muhammadiyah members become producers as well as consumers. An award recognising his innovation, he said, reinforces the need for continued adaptation, stronger corporate governance and resilient business operations in support of the community’s economic independence.

Bogor Commuter Line Services Cancelled This Morning as KAI Apologises

KAI Commuter apologised after cancelling seven Bogor Line services on Friday, 16 October 2026, because two trainsets at Bukit Duri Depot were still undergoing intensive repairs. The company said safety and reliability checks would remain paramount and advised passengers to follow staff instructions and check official channels for revised schedules.

Indonesia’s Industrialisation Must Begin with Engineering

Indonesia’s industrial progress should be measured not only by factory output and local content, but also by whether domestic firms can design, test and improve the technologies they produce. The article argues that companies, government procurement and publicly funded research must foster engineering capabilities while allowing room for genuine experimentation and failure.

Manual Fuel Distribution in Jerrycans Tested to Ease Queues at Bali Petrol Stations

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has overseen a trial distributing fuel manually in jerrycans at selected petrol stations to reduce vehicle queues, while asking police to escort fuel tankers. Pertamina says a ship berthing disruption on 11 October affected supply, but additional deliveries are being accelerated and the company expects supplies across Bali to recover soon.

China says it can ‘easily win’ a confrontation with the Philippines

China’s ambassador to the Philippines said Beijing could easily win a conflict but would not resort to force, prompting Manila to describe the remarks as a thinly veiled threat. The comments add to tensions over South China Sea claims and repeated confrontations between the two countries’ vessels.

Prabowo to Gather Red and White Cabinet at Bogor Palace Tonight

President Prabowo Subianto is due to convene ministers, deputy ministers and agency heads at Bogor Palace at 7pm on Friday, 16 October 2026. Officials confirmed the meeting but said they did not know its purpose; only those on certain urgent assignments, including disaster response, may be excused with presidential permission.

Bandung explores cooperation with Ecuador’s Cuenca in various fields

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan says the city is exploring practical cooperation with Cuenca, Ecuador, including cultural and creative-economy exchanges and collaboration with local artisan chocolate businesses. The cities are also considering sharing expertise on preserving historic buildings, with video conferences planned to identify potential partners and concrete projects.

MUI Urges Azerbaijan to Lift Ban on Muslim Women Wearing the Hijab

An Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) official has called on Azerbaijan to revoke its ban on Muslim women wearing the hijab, arguing that it infringes religious freedom and human rights. He described the policy as potentially Islamophobic and urged the government to uphold democratic values and protect citizens’ right to practise their faith.

Forestry Ministry Detects 799 Forest and Land Fire Hotspots, with Central Kalimantan Worst Affected

Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry detected 799 high-confidence forest and land fire hotspots nationwide on 15 October, up 427 from the previous day, with Central Kalimantan recording the largest increase. The ministry said hotspots are satellite-detected temperature anomalies that must be verified on the ground, and offered condolences after four people died and two were seriously injured during firefighting operations in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

Mohan Appoints 35 Mataram City Government Officials, from Echelon II to Village Heads

Mataram Mayor Mohan Roliskana has appointed 35 structural officials, including two echelon II officials, 11 echelon III officials and 21 echelon IV officials. He urged the appointees to uphold honesty and integrity, stressing that village heads should regularly engage with residents.

Solo Bawaslu Responds Forcefully to Lawsuit in Central Jakarta District Court over Jokowi’s Diploma

Solo’s election supervisory agency says it has prepared its response to a civil lawsuit alleging it failed to oversee administrative requirements relating to Joko Widodo’s diploma during his election campaigns. The case, brought against several election bodies and other parties, has not yet reached the substantive hearing, and Bawaslu says it expects the court to accept its preliminary objection.

OJK Responds to MSCI’s Threat to Reclassify Indonesia as Standalone as IDX Trading Is Halted

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says capital-market reforms will continue after MSCI proposed reclassifying Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone, citing concerns over governance and investability. The proposal remains under consultation until April 2027, while the Jakarta Composite Index fell 8 per cent on 16 October 2026, prompting a 30-minute trading halt; the eventual impact on foreign investment remains uncertain.

Traffic Police Chief Vows Tough Action Against Officers Found Guilty of Extortion

Indonesia’s national traffic police chief, Brigadier General Aries Syahbudin, says officers found to have extorted the public will be removed from their duties or posts on the same day, in accordance with regulations. He also directed regional traffic units to handle complaints transparently, improve road and licensing services, prevent brokers and unofficial payments, and strengthen supervision.

Friday Sermon Text: The Importance of Consuming Halal-Certified Food and Drink

The sermon urges Muslims to ensure that their food and income are halal, stressing the responsibility parents have to provide for their families. It links halal consumption with health, moderation and worship, and cites Qur’anic verses and a hadith on how unlawful sustenance can affect a person’s supplications.

Three Former Customs Officials to Face Sentencing Hearing in Bribery Case Today

Three former Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials are due to face a prosecutor’s sentencing hearing in Jakarta over alleged bribery and gratification linked to the clearance of imported counterfeit goods. Prosecutors allege they received benefits worth a total of Rp78.81 billion, including cash, luxury items and entertainment, in connection with imports handled by Blueray Cargo.

JCI Plunges 8 Per Cent as Rupiah Hits Rp18,021 per US Dollar

The rupiah weakened to Rp18,021 per US dollar as trading opened, amid concerns over MSCI’s proposal to review Indonesia’s emerging-market classification and higher-than-expected US inflation. MSCI says it has not seen sufficiently consistent progress across Indonesia’s equity market and is consulting on a possible move to standalone-market status, with a final decision expected by 30 June 2027.

One Stock Up 300%: IDX Suspends Trading in These Three Shares

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has temporarily suspended trading in shares of Anugerah Kagum Karya Utama, Alkindo Naratama and Tifico Fiber Indonesia, citing the need to give investors time to assess their decisions. The suspensions followed sharp price gains, with Tifico Fiber up 300% year to date and all three stocks posting steep monthly increases.

BP Batam Requires Data Centre Developers to Build Independent Water Treatment Plants

BP Batam is requiring data centre developers in Nongsa Digital Park and Kabil to build and operate their own seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) plants, aiming to support investment while protecting water supplies for residents. The agency is also pursuing measures to strengthen Batam’s water resilience, including network monitoring, supply diversification and potential new reservoirs.

Police Investigate Alleged Overpricing of Fuel to Foreign Tourist by Man Wearing Ride-Hailing Jacket in Bali

Bali police are investigating a viral video that appears to show a man wearing a ride-hailing jacket selling bottled fuel at a high price to a foreign national. Officers have verified the location and approximate time of the incident, but say the sellers have not yet been identified and no CCTV camera directly covered the spot.

KPK Names Suspects in Klaten Regent’s OTT Case, to Announce Them This Afternoon

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has named suspects and opened an investigation into alleged bribery involving Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, following an operation on 15 October. Investigators are questioning 10 people and seized Rp1.9 billion, with the case involving alleged payments linked to public procurement and the handling of regional financial audits.

Anis Matta: The Middle East at a Crossroads in a New Order

Deputy Foreign Minister Muhammad Anis Matta says the prolonged conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran could reshape the geopolitical order and create room for Islamic countries to pursue greater strategic autonomy. He argues that the war has exposed limits to US military dominance and warns that disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz could trigger wider energy, fertiliser and food-supply pressures, while noting that battlefield outcomes and escalation risks remain uncertain.

BCA acquisition rumour involving Haji Isam and alleged harassment at Unpas

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it is monitoring developments in bank ownership and corporate activity amid rumours that businessman Haji Isam may acquire BCA. Other stories in this news roundup include allegations of sexual harassment involving 13 female law students at Universitas Pasundan, a deadly brawl involving a 15-year-old suspect, and proposals concerning civil servants’ salaries and village cooperatives.

Pertamina Increases Fuel Supplies and Opens Bali Petrol Stations 24 Hours a Day

Pertamina Patra Niaga is increasing fuel deliveries to Bali and operating terminals and 66 petrol stations in Denpasar and Badung around the clock as services recover from supply and distribution pressures. Of 57.9 million litres of additional fuel planned, about 19 million litres have arrived, while the company is also deploying more tanker trucks and offering sales by the litre at selected stations to ease queues.

Police rescue teenager from alleged bride-trafficking scheme linked to China

Police in Tasikmalaya found a missing vocational school student at an apartment in Tangerang after her family reported her disappearance. Investigators suspect she was lured there by a Chinese national as part of an alleged mail-order bride scheme, and are continuing to investigate while protecting the teenager and her family.

BAZNAS 2026: 10 Resolutions on Zakat Targets and Poverty Reduction

Indonesia’s National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has set 10 resolutions at its 2026 national coordination meeting, including a target to raise Rp70 trillion in zakat and related religious social funds by 2027. The commitments also aim to reach 48 million beneficiaries, reduce poverty among 601,000 mustahik, and strengthen accountability and cooperation with government and community partners.

LPS accelerates preparation of regulations for insurance policy guarantee scheme membership

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) is fast-tracking regulations for membership in its insurance policy guarantee programme, which is targeted to take effect in July 2027. Insurers will need to meet health requirements set by LPS in coordination with the Financial Services Authority (OJK); the proposed staged registration process is intended to reduce early implementation risks while preserving policyholders’ protection.

Rupiah touches Rp18,000 as BI continues market intervention amid risk-off sentiment

Bank Indonesia says it will continue intervening across domestic and offshore markets to support the rupiah, which briefly weakened to Rp18,021 per US dollar amid global risk aversion and portfolio outflows. The pressure coincided with market turbulence after MSCI began consulting on a possible reclassification of Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, triggering a trading halt on the Indonesia Stock Exchange.

KRL CLI-225 Frequently Disrupted; INKA Apologises and Says It Will Act

PT INKA has apologised to Commuter Line passengers following repeated disruptions involving the iE 305/CLI-225 electric train sets. The state-owned manufacturer says it is coordinating with KAI Commuter to follow up on joint technical inspection findings, with passenger comfort and safety as priorities.

Klaten Regent’s Arrest Sweep Nets Central Java BPK Chief as Suspect; Rp1.9bn Seized

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named suspects following an arrest operation involving Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and the head of the Central Java representative office of the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). Investigators seized about Rp1.9 billion and are examining five alleged corruption schemes, including procurement, permits and suspected payments to influence audits; the suspects’ identities and roles are due to be announced at a press conference.

Securing Golden Indonesia 2045 by Connecting Natural Resources and Conscious Human Capital

Indonesia’s ambition to become a developed, sovereign and sustainable nation by 2045 depends on linking its abundant natural resources with a skilled, ethical and adaptable workforce. The opinion piece advocates a “conscious human resources” model, structured around Context, Content and Connectivity and delivered through collaboration among academia, business and government, to achieve value-added growth while advancing environmental protection and a just energy transition.

Traffic Police Commit to Preventing Extortion Through Transparent Services

Indonesia’s traffic police chief, Brigadier General Aries Syahbudin, has pledged to prevent illegal levies through transparent public services and strict action against proven misconduct. The directive also calls for standardised complaint handling, clearer disclosure of official fees, stronger field supervision and regular evaluations.

OJK Responds to MSCI Proposal to Downgrade Indonesia’s Market Status, Reaffirms Commitment to Reform

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it respects MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market and will use market feedback to strengthen integrity and improve the domestic capital market. MSCI has acknowledged reforms already undertaken, including greater disclosure of shareholdings and a higher minimum free-float threshold, but has opened a consultation on the proposal, which could affect Indonesian shares’ representation in global investment benchmarks.

Stock Exchange Trading Was Briefly Halted: The Rules and History

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) plunged sharply on 16 October 2026, triggering a 30-minute trading halt as MSCI consultations over a possible downgrade of the country’s market classification heightened selling pressure. The incident was the third halt of 2026; the article outlines the exchange’s current thresholds and the history of such suspensions, while noting that MSCI’s decision is not expected until 2027.

Chinese Businesses Praise Prabowo, Citing Positive Signals for Economic and Trade Ties

Chinese companies operating in Indonesia have welcomed President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to strengthening economic and trade cooperation and protecting foreign investment. The China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia said the improved business climate has boosted companies’ confidence to expand their operations and participate in Indonesia’s development.

Promoting Green Policing, Jakarta Police Chief Urges Officers to Care for the Environment

Jakarta Metro Police Chief Dadang Hartanto has urged officers to adopt environmental practices internally before extending the force’s Green Policing programme to the public. Measures include waste sorting, cleaning drives and tree planting, with future cooperation planned with local authorities and communities to address rubbish and flood risks in Jakarta.

Rupiah Weakens to Rp18,021 Following MSCI Announcement on Indonesian Stock Market

The rupiah fell 0.46% to Rp18,021 per US dollar as MSCI proposed consulting on reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing concerns about market dysfunction and insufficiently consistent progress. Higher-than-expected US inflation also weighed on the currency, while Federal Reserve officials signalled they may wait for more data before deciding on interest rates.

IDX Lifts Trading Halt, but JCI Plunges 11.22% to 5,203

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) plunged 11.22% to 5,203 shortly after the Indonesia Stock Exchange resumed trading following a 30-minute halt triggered by an 8% fall. The sell-off continued amid market concern over MSCI’s consultation on a proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market.

Dollar Pressure Intensifies as BI Steps into the Market to Support the Rupiah

Bank Indonesia said it was intervening across domestic and offshore markets after the rupiah weakened to Rp18,000 per US dollar amid a global risk-off shift. The central bank cited continued portfolio outflows but said Indonesia’s foreign exchange reserves remained strong at US$146.3 billion at the end of September.

Crypto Is Not Money, Finance Ministry Says, but Remains Taxable

Deputy Finance Minister Nurkholisoh Ibnu Aman says crypto is not legal tender in Indonesia, where only the rupiah is recognised as currency, but crypto remains a financial asset subject to tax. Since August 2025, crypto trades have been exempt from VAT and instead attract final income tax of 0.21%, collected by digital financial asset traders.

OpenAI countersues Apple, accusing former employee of stealing trade secrets

OpenAI has filed a countersuit against Apple, alleging that a former employee took more than 100 confidential files concerning its hardware projects and presented them to Apple executives. Apple denies the allegations, while OpenAI says the information could be used in the development of future Apple products; a hearing is expected between June and October.

Deputy Health Minister Urges UKI Collaboration to Prepare Health Workers for 2045

Deputy Health Minister Benjamin P. Octavianus has called for stronger cooperation between the government and Universitas Kristen Indonesia (UKI) to develop a skilled health workforce ahead of Indonesia’s 2045 golden-era target. He highlighted the approaching 2030 demographic peak, UKI’s contribution of more than 6,000 medical graduates, and the need for domestic vaccine research and development.

Brebes Regent Pledges to Cover Medical Costs for Family Attacked with Machete

Brebes Regency will cover treatment costs for four members of a family injured in a machete attack, including three adults who required surgery and a toddler with a minor wound. The local government has also offered to help repair the family’s dilapidated home, while police have arrested the suspected attacker and continue investigating the case.

Several Immigration and Corrections Employees Sanctioned over Alleged Sale of Prisoner Remission

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto says several employees have been sanctioned over alleged transactions involving sentence remissions, but has not disclosed the penalties. The case has drawn attention amid the reversal of convicted fraudster Indra Kenz’s parole, following an internal investigation prompted by the discovery of luxury facilities at Cibinong prison.

From Price Stability to SMEs Breaking into Global Markets

Indonesia’s exports rose 6.15 per cent in 2025 to US$282.91 billion, and the country recorded a trade surplus of US$7.25 billion in January–August 2026. Trade Minister Budi Santoso said the government aims to sustain growth by widening export markets, increasing product value and helping local SMEs reach international buyers, alongside keeping essential goods affordable.

Deputy Trade Minister urges Indonesia and the Netherlands to strengthen global supply-chain partnership

Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri has called for closer business ties between Indonesia and the Netherlands to raise product value, strengthen domestic industry and expand Indonesia’s role in global supply chains. Speaking at the Indonesia–Netherlands Business Forum during Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, she said the countries could combine Indonesia’s production capacity with Dutch expertise in logistics, technology and innovation.

Experts Find Mount Blanc Has Grown Taller – Here’s Why

A new survey puts Mont Blanc’s height at 4,807.47 metres, nearly two metres higher than the 2023 measurement. Experts say the variation reflects weather-driven changes in snow distribution, not evidence of permanent growth or a direct effect of global warming; a new ground-penetrating radar method is also being used to map the summit’s ice and underlying rock.

Trading Resumes, but JCI’s Downward Trend Continues

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) extended its losses after trading resumed following a halt, falling by more than 10 per cent amid heavy selling pressure. Investor sentiment was also affected by MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesian indices from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, with the final decision due by 30 June 2027.

JCI Plunges 8%, Triggering Trading Halt as MSCI Proposal to Downgrade Indonesia’s Market Status Comes Under Scrutiny

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 8.01% at the opening on 16 October, prompting the Indonesia Stock Exchange to suspend trading for 30 minutes. The sell-off followed MSCI’s consultation on a proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an Emerging Market to a Standalone Market, citing concerns over ownership transparency and investment accessibility; the proposal is not yet final.

Bali BNNP hunts foreign national suspected of directing 4.59kg cocaine smuggling operation

Bali’s National Narcotics Agency is searching for a foreign national suspected of directing an international network that allegedly smuggled 4.59kg of cocaine through Ngurah Rai International Airport. Two Chilean tourists and an Indonesian man suspected of receiving the drugs have been detained; authorities estimate the seizure could avert harm to nearly 23,000 people and save the state up to Rp36.7 billion.

Anambas Fisherman Found Safe in Malaysian Waters

A 61-year-old fisherman from Anambas, Bachtiar, has been found safe with his boat after drifting into Malaysian waters when he ran out of fuel. Natuna SAR is coordinating with Malaysian authorities to arrange a safe evacuation, following a five-day search operation involving local agencies and fishing groups.

Who Was Veronica, the Dive Master Missing After a Pinisi Sank in Komodo National Park

Veronica Beatrix Jessica, a 23-year-old dive master, remained missing on the third day of search operations after the pinisi boat Feronia sank near Batu Bolong in Komodo National Park. Her family described her lifelong love of the sea and said they would continue joining the search, while rescuers planned a seven-day operation that could be extended if new leads emerged.

Medan Social Affairs Chief’s Home Burgled in Broad Daylight; City Government Motorbike Stolen

A motorbike belonging to the Medan city government was stolen from the home of Social Affairs Agency chief Khoiruddin Rangkuti in a daytime burglary. Police confirmed the location and said the vehicle was used by the agency chief’s driver, a Medan city government contract worker.

Viral Video Allegedly Shows Individual in Ride-Hailing Jacket Selling Pertalite for Rp200,000 a Bottle in Canggu, Bali

A social media video appears to show people wearing ride-hailing jackets selling subsidised Pertalite to foreign nationals in Canggu for as much as Rp200,000 per bottle, although the parties and transactions have yet to be independently confirmed. The claims emerge amid reports of fuel shortages, long queues at petrol stations and steeply priced retail sales in parts of Bali, prompting an economist to warn that supply disruption can create opportunities for speculators.

Maybank (BNII) Suspected of Unilateral Lay-offs; OJK Chief Responds

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it cannot intervene in an alleged unilateral lay-off case involving Maybank Indonesia, as employment disputes fall under labour authorities and established legal procedures. It will nevertheless continue supervising the bank’s governance, risk management and compliance, after lawmakers urged OJK to review the bank’s Performance Improvement Plan, which employees’ representatives say was used to pressure and dismiss staff.

MSCI Threat Sends BBCA, BYAN and Other Shares to the Lower Auto-Rejection Limit

The Jakarta Composite Index fell sharply on Friday, triggering a 30-minute trading halt after losses reached 8 per cent before sliding to an 11 per cent decline. Major banking stocks, including BBCA, BBRI, BMRI and BBNI, as well as BYAN, hit the lower auto-rejection limit amid market pressure linked in the headline to an MSCI threat.

KPK Seizes Blue Drum Containing Cash; Klaten Regent’s OTT Nets Rp1.9bn

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) seized around Rp1.9 billion in cash, including money allegedly stored in a blue drum, in an operation that led to the arrest of Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The investigation covers five alleged corruption schemes, including procurement, licensing and payments to a regional audit official to influence an audit.

Lanjukang Island: A Marine Tourism Destination Where Conservation Is the Main Attraction

Makassar is preparing Lanjukang Island as a flagship marine tourism destination, with visitor numbers and facilities to be limited according to the island’s environmental capacity. Local fishers already practise a seasonal conservation system, while officials are considering visitor registration and regulated sea transport to protect habitats and wildlife.

Global Sentiment Weighs on Rupiah as Bank Indonesia Steps Up Market Intervention

The rupiah fell 0.46 per cent to Rp18,021 per US dollar at Friday’s opening, amid global risk aversion that has strengthened the dollar and prompted continued portfolio outflows. Bank Indonesia says the currency’s movement remains broadly in line with regional peers, while it is committed to maintaining exchange-rate stability; foreign-exchange reserves stood at US$146.3 billion at the end of September.

Rupiah Falls Towards Rp18,000 per US Dollar Again as Bank Indonesia Identifies Causes

The rupiah weakened to Rp18,000 per US dollar on 16 October amid a global shift towards risk aversion that strengthened the US currency and pressured domestic markets. Bank Indonesia said it was intervening across offshore and domestic markets, while noting that foreign exchange reserves stood at US$146.3 billion at the end of September.

KPK Seizes Rp800 Million Returned by Hercules in Case Allegedly Linked to Corruption at the Ministry of ATR/BPN

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp800 million handed over by Hercules Rosario Marcal, which investigators suspect he received from property developer PT Summarecon Agung in connection with land management in Bogor. The land is under investigation over alleged bribery to lift a block and secure building-use rights (HGB) at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN).

BNPB Chief on Proposal to Declare Forest and Land Fires a National Disaster: Response Speed Matters More

BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi says the priority in tackling forest and land fires is the speed and effectiveness of the response, regardless of whether the disaster is classified as national or regional. He will review satellite data and available government resources, while an MP has urged a national disaster declaration amid months of fires and severe impacts on public health, transport, education and the economy.

Rupiah Is Asia’s Worst Performer as Ringgit and Won Fall; Only Vietnam Gains

Most Asian currencies weakened against the US dollar, with the rupiah leading losses after falling 0.84% to Rp18,070 per US dollar. Despite firm US inflation and retail data, the dollar softened as markets scaled back expectations of a Federal Reserve rate rise and Treasury yields declined.

Man Suspected of Jumping into Kalimalang, Search and Rescue Team Launches Search

A 36-year-old man is feared to have drowned after allegedly entering the Kalimalang waterway in Bekasi. Search teams have deployed three units using boats and a land-based visual search, with multiple local agencies and organisations assisting.

Some Internet Data Allowances Still Expire Unused, XLSmart Boss Says

XLSmart executive Merza Fachys says a Constitutional Court ruling on consumer protection does not require mobile operators to roll over unused data, but calls on them to find ways to protect customers’ rights. The Communications and Digital Ministry’s review found that some packages still rely only on notifications, which it says do not provide substantive protection for the economic value of unused data.

Forests as Earthquake Buffers: When Roots Are Stronger Than Concrete

The article argues that forests can complement engineered earthquake protections by stabilising soil, managing water and potentially reducing the spread of seismic energy. It calls for forests and urban green spaces to be treated as natural infrastructure, combining central woodland areas with networks of distributed greenery and village agroforestry mosaics.

Waste from 2026 Indonesian MotoGP Still Being Cleared, Says Environment Agency

Lombok Tengah’s environmental agency says crews are still collecting and sorting waste from the Indonesian MotoGP at the Mandalika circuit, with visitor numbers pointing to a larger volume than last year’s 52 tonnes. The event drew 157,875 visitors and was reported to have generated Rp5.2 trillion in economic impact, up 4.8 per cent on 2025.

Will the US Use the ‘Mother of All Bombs’ Against Iran? Trump Gives Vague Answer

Donald Trump responded ambiguously to reports that his administration is weighing the use of the non-nuclear GBU-43/B MOAB against Iran, reportedly to target energy infrastructure and nuclear sites. He ruled out using nuclear weapons, saying the US does not need them, and said he trusts no one in politics.

Central Jakarta Deputy Mayor stresses ethics in digital journalism for young people

Central Jakarta Deputy Mayor Eric PZ Lumbun has urged young people to pair digital literacy and journalistic skills with accuracy, integrity and responsibility. He made the call at a youth journalism workshop, where organisers said writing can promote positive community activities and help bring local issues and potential to a wider audience.

OJK Respects MSCI’s Views and Will Follow Up on Feedback on Indonesia’s Stock Market

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it respects MSCI’s assessment and is continuing reforms in response to feedback on Indonesia’s capital market. MSCI has opened consultations on a proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, with a final decision due by the end of June 2027.

Defence industry urged to strengthen military and economy: Jauhari

Deputy Defence Minister Jauhari urged Indonesia’s defence industry to support the armed forces while also stimulating the wider economy through technology transfer and use. The government is preparing cooperation schemes and promoting diversification of military systems to improve self-reliance and reduce dependence on any single country, despite added logistical complexity.

Breaking: IDX Composite Plunges 11.12% to 5,211

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 11.12% to 5,211.84 in early trading, amid concerns over a possible downgrade of Indonesia’s equity market classification by MSCI and rising US producer-price inflation. Investors are also monitoring geopolitical tensions, US labour-market data and comments from the Federal Reserve chair at the IMF-World Bank meetings, while domestic cabinet reshuffle rumours add to uncertainty.

Rumours of Haji Isam Taking Over BCA: OJK Issues Statement

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it will assess any transaction that could change a bank’s controlling shareholder, including its effects on risk, lending concentration, governance and financial stability. The statement follows social-media rumours that businessman Haji Isam planned to acquire BCA, which the bank has denied; OJK says the banking sector remains supported by adequate capital and liquidity.

Rumours of Haji Isam Taking Over BCA: OJK Outlines the Risks

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it will assess any transaction that could change a bank’s controlling shareholder, examining implications for risk, lending concentration, related-party dealings and governance. The statement responds to social-media rumours that businessman Haji Isam plans to acquire BCA, which the bank has denied; OJK says the banking sector remains stable, supported by adequate capital and liquidity.

Indonesia’s Tax-Free Income Threshold Is Too High, Says Tax Director-General

Tax Director-General Bimo Wijayanto says Indonesia’s non-taxable income threshold is high by OECD standards, a factor he links to the country’s relatively low tax-to-GDP ratio. The government is reviewing the ideal threshold, weighing households’ purchasing power against revenue needs, development funding and the 3% budget-deficit limit.

Houthis Strike Yemen’s Presidential Palace with Ballistic Missiles

A Houthi missile attack on Al-Maashiq Presidential Palace in Aden killed five people and injured 16, according to Yemen’s health minister. The strike came amid renewed fighting and marked the first attack on the presidential palace since hostilities resumed in July; the Houthis said they had targeted a Saudi military operations headquarters.

Malaysia’s Parliament Angered by Haze from Indonesian Forest and Land Fires, Threatens Legal Action

Malaysian lawmakers have called for a permanent ASEAN task force to address cross-border haze and warned that Malaysia may seek compensation through legal action if Indonesia rejects regional intervention. They also urged financial support for affected residents and raised the possibility of international claims against companies involved in open burning, citing the haze’s effects on health and economic activity.

Klaten Regent Arrives at KPK as Blue Barrel Used to Store Money Is Seized

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo arrived at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in Jakarta after being arrested in a sting operation involving around 19 people. Investigators seized Rp1.9 billion and a blue barrel allegedly used to store illicit payments; the case is suspected to involve bribery linked to a state audit.

President Prabowo’s Two Years of Energy Diplomacy in the Middle East

The article assesses Indonesia’s energy diplomacy with Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar during President Prabowo’s first two years, covering oil supply, investment, renewables and exposure to geopolitical risks such as disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. It argues that announced agreements and memoranda must be distinguished from realised investments and operating capacity, and recommends stronger supply resilience, transparent project monitoring and measurable outcomes.

Six Suspected Drug Offenders Arrested in Mataram and Senggigi; Meth, Pods Seized

Police in Mataram arrested six people in a series of raids across Mataram and Senggigi, seizing methamphetamine, ecstasy, drug-use equipment, etomidate-filled vape pods and two 6mm rounds. All six tested positive for drug use, but police said no one had yet been named a suspect as the investigation continues.

ITMG Establishes New Subsidiary in the Minerals Business

PT Indo Tambangraya Megah (ITMG) and its subsidiary PT ITM Batubara Utama have established PT ITM Mineral Investama to support an integrated expansion of ITMG’s minerals portfolio. The affiliated transaction does not require approval from the company’s general meeting of shareholders because it is between the company and its controlled subsidiary and falls below the applicable equity threshold.

Blue Barrel Suspected of Being Used by Klaten Regent to Store Corruption Money

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) seized about Rp1.9 billion in cash during a sting operation involving Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, including cash found in a blue barrel. The KPK suspects the container was used to store illicit receipts; the investigation also encompasses alleged corruption across five areas, including procurement, permits and efforts to influence an audit.

KPK Announces Suspects in Connection with Klaten Regent’s Arrest

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has named suspects following its arrest operation involving Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The case reportedly involves several alleged corruption schemes, including procurement, licensing and payments connected to the regional audit process; the commission said it would disclose the suspects’ identities at a press conference.

JCI Plunges 11% as Rupiah Hits Rp18,000: Here’s Why

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 11.27% in early trading, while the rupiah weakened to Rp18,000 per US dollar. The sell-off followed MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing concerns over investability, ownership transparency and market practices; the proposal has not been finalised.

Xinhua Silk Road: Jakarta Forum Strengthens Tax Cooperation Among Belt and Road Countries

The seventh Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Forum has opened in Jakarta, bringing together more than 300 participants from tax authorities, international organisations and multinational companies. Discussions and new practical resources are intended to advance tax administration digitalisation, taxpayer services and cooperation among participating countries, supporting stronger tax governance and a more business-friendly environment.

Tax Directorate Says Collection Machinery Is Strengthening as Revenue Grows 14%

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says gross tax receipts have risen by about 13–14%, outpacing combined economic growth and inflation of roughly 8%. Director General Bimo Wijayanto attributes the gains to improving tax administration, Coretax, field analysis and enforcement, while acknowledging that raising the revenue-to-GDP ratio will also require consideration of tax policy, household capacity and fiscal sustainability.

Huawei Mate X8 Foldable Phone Leaks Reveal Display and Battery Details

Huawei is reportedly preparing the Mate X8 for launch in late 2026, with leaks pointing to a slightly larger internal display, a battery exceeding 6,000mAh and an upgraded camera system. The device is said to use a next-generation flagship processor and may be priced at around 10,000 yuan, although Huawei has not confirmed its specifications or release date.

One Trip, Two Experiences: Healthcare and Tourism in Selangor

Selangor is promoting itself to Indonesian visitors as a medical-tourism destination, combining internationally accredited healthcare, convenient transport links and leisure experiences. At Malaysia Healthcare Expo Indonesia 2026 in Jakarta, Tourism Selangor presented its Heal & Explore initiative and a network of hospitals, hospitality providers and attractions designed to support visitors throughout their stay.

Not Just Procurement: KPK Uncovers Five Alleged Corruption Clusters in Klaten Regent’s Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says its investigation into the arrest of Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo covers five alleged corruption clusters, including procurement, permits, fees collected by officials and payments allegedly linked to an audit by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). The operation also ensnared the head of BPK’s Central Java representative office; investigators detained 20 people and seized about Rp1 billion in cash.

Sally Rooney’s Books Withdrawn from UK Shops After Support for Palestine Action

Irish author Sally Rooney says her publisher will stop supplying her novels to UK bookshops after her support for Palestine Action could expose publication of her work to serious criminal liability under UK law. E-books have already been removed from sale, and new editions of three novels will not be published in the UK, although shops may continue selling existing stock.

JCI Trading Halted for 30 Minutes, Resumes at 9.28am WIB

The Indonesia Stock Exchange halted trading for 30 minutes after the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 8% shortly after opening on Friday. The sharp decline comes amid external pressures including the latest MSCI announcement, rising US inflation and war-related concerns.

Trump says he is talking to Russia and China about denuclearisation

Donald Trump says the United States is discussing denuclearisation with Russia and China, and predicts China could catch up with the US in nuclear capabilities within five years. His remarks come after the New START treaty expired, leaving any renewed limits dependent on a voluntary executive decision.

KPK Seizes Rp1.9 Billion in Connection with Klaten Regent’s Arrest, Including a Barrel of Cash

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it seized around Rp1.9 billion in cash during an operation that led to the arrest of Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. Investigators also seized a blue barrel allegedly used to store suspected illicit payments; the case involves five suspected corruption schemes, including procurement, licensing and alleged payments to influence an audit.

Pertamina Says Fuel Distribution in Bali Is Gradually Returning to Normal

Pertamina Patra Niaga says fuel distribution in Bali is gradually stabilising after steps to increase supply and ease queues, including round-the-clock operations at terminals and dozens of petrol stations. Of an additional 57.9 million litres planned for delivery, about 19 million litres have arrived, with the remainder expected over the next two to three days.

DPR Commission IX Deputy Chair Urges Clean Air Shelters for Residents Affected by Forest and Land Fires

Charles Honoris, Deputy Chair of Commission IX of the House of Representatives, has urged central and regional governments to establish free clean-air shelters in areas affected by forest and land fires. He cited 283,000 acute respiratory infection cases across seven provinces, including more than 63,000 among children under five, and called for public buildings fitted with HEPA filters to protect vulnerable residents while fires continue.

JCI Plunges 8% as IDX Halts Share Trading at the Open

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 8.01% at the opening on 16 October 2026, triggering a 30-minute trading halt by the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The article outlines the exchange’s escalating circuit-breaker thresholds and says the rules are intended to give investors more time and liquidity to assess their investment strategies amid sharp market falls.

IHSG Trading Halt Triggered by MSCI’s Move to Consider Reclassifying Indonesia’s Market

Indonesia’s benchmark stock index fell 8.01 per cent at the open, triggering a trading halt after MSCI proposed consulting investors on reclassifying the country from Emerging Market to Standalone Market. The proposal has heightened concerns about foreign outflows and volatility amid doubts over the consistency of market reforms, while fiscal pressures and global risks are also weighing on sentiment.

House of Representatives Commission VII urges cities to continue developing urban tourism

Deputy Chair of House of Representatives Commission VII Chusnunia Chalim has urged Indonesian cities to develop urban tourism as an alternative economic driver, particularly for regions without major natural attractions. She said the sector spans history, culture, shopping, food, the arts and MICE, and requires integrated planning and stronger coordination between central and regional governments.

Bekasi City Police Launch Green Policing Clean-up at Kali Baru

Bekasi City Police officers cleared rubbish and water hyacinth from Kali Baru to reduce blockage and the risk of flooding ahead of the rainy season. The initiative also promotes environmental health amid 2,250 dengue cases recorded in the city between January and September 2026, with residents urged to keep waterways clean and practise 3M Plus mosquito-control measures.

When Political Consolidation Moves Faster Than Technocratic Governance

The opinion argues that President Prabowo Subianto’s expanding cabinet and executive structure risk prioritising coalition-building over administrative capacity, accountability and public service delivery. It calls for a systematic review of government roles, costs and performance, saying political stability must translate into measurable solutions to economic and social challenges.

Death Toll Among Bromo Wildfire Firefighting Volunteers Rises to Four

Four people have died while fighting a forest and land fire on Mount Bromo, including three officers from Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and a hotel worker. Two other volunteers suffered serious burns and were referred to a hospital in Surabaya, with Probolinggo Regency covering their treatment costs.

US imposes new Iran sanctions on 16 individuals and 11 companies

The US has imposed Iran-related sanctions on 16 Iranian nationals and 11 companies registered in Iran, Iraq, China and Cuba. The move comes amid a renewed US pressure campaign and unresolved conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

Klaten Regent and Central Java BPK Chief Taken to Jakarta on Overnight Train After KPK Raid

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has taken Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and Central Java BPK representative office chief Ahmad Luthfi H. Rahmatullah to Jakarta for further questioning following an arrest operation. Ten people are being questioned in connection with alleged bribery involving procurement, permits and other payments, as well as possible bribes linked to the audit of Klaten regency’s financial statements; investigators seized around Rp1 billion in cash.

Asian Markets Rise in Unison, While the JCI Falls Alone

Asian markets advanced after Wall Street closed higher, led by gains in Japan, South Korea and Australia, as investors rotated away from leading technology shares. Indonesia’s JCI, however, opened down 8.01%, amid global headwinds including US inflation, geopolitical tensions and market concerns over AI-related stocks and debt.

Presidential Staff Office Monitors Acceleration of Class C Regional Hospital Upgrades, Ensuring On-Time Completion

The Presidential Staff Office is coordinating efforts to upgrade Class D and D Pratama regional hospitals to Class C, with only 77 days remaining before the deadline. It is working with government agencies and contractors to resolve construction obstacles, verify progress on site and ensure the upgraded hospitals can deliver better healthcare, not merely complete their physical construction.

BRI Ranks Among Indonesia’s Top Three State-Owned Enterprises for Service Quality Following Customer-Focused Transformation

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has placed third in Danantara Indonesia’s 2026 ranking of the state-owned enterprises with the best customer experience. The recognition highlights its customer-focused transformation and the broader role of service quality in strengthening public trust, financial inclusion and support for small businesses.

MP Calls for Stronger Healthcare for Young Children During Forest and Land Fires

DPR Commission VIII member Hetifah Sjaifudian has urged the government to expand healthcare and clean-air protection for babies and young children in areas affected by forest and land fires. Health Ministry figures show 62,400 acute respiratory infection cases among children aged 0–5 across seven affected provinces, prompting calls for a faster, better-coordinated response.

Bollywood actor Imran Khan told to leave India after joining protest, media reports

Indian authorities have reportedly ordered US citizen and actor Imran Khan to leave the country by 28 October, alleging that his participation in a Mumbai political protest breached immigration rules. The protest called for the resignation of the chief election commissioner over voter-list revisions that critics say favour Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party.

Bali Petrol Station Worker Breaks Down in Front of Governor: ‘I’m Not a Robot, Sir!’

A female petrol station operator in Denpasar broke down after being asked to extend operations to 24 hours amid Pertalite shortages and long queues across Bali. The episode highlighted the strain on an all-female workforce, while Governor Wayan Koster said troops would help with night-time operations and security at stations in Denpasar and Badung.

The history and purpose of World Food Day on 16 October

World Food Day, observed every 16 October, commemorates the founding of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and highlights hunger, nutrition and access to affordable, sustainable food. Its 2026 theme, “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow”, calls for innovation and collaboration to build food systems that can provide nutritious food while protecting the environment.

Bakrie Group-listed UNSP Acknowledges Potential Legal Risks from Forest and Land Fires

PT Bakrie Sumatera Plantations says it and its subsidiaries could face legal proceedings amid widespread forest and land fires, but does not expect a material effect on the company’s business continuity. The company reported no impact on operations, production targets, revenue, profit or asset values, and outlined prevention and monitoring measures across its sites.

Jakarta Composite Index Opens Down 8%, Prompting Temporary Trading Halt

The Jakarta Composite Index fell 8.01% at Thursday’s opening, triggering a 30-minute trading halt by the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Trading was scheduled to resume at 09:30 Jakarta Automated Trading System time, under rules that also provide for further halts or suspension if losses deepen.

MSCI Threatens to Downgrade Indonesia’s Capital Market Status; OJK Responds

OJK says it respects MSCI’s proposed consultation on reclassifying Indonesia’s market status and is taking its feedback seriously as it continues reforms. The regulator cites stronger law enforcement, transparency measures and engagement with global index providers, while maintaining that Indonesia’s market remains attractive on the strength of its economic fundamentals and growing investor base.

DPR Urges New BNPB Chief Kristomei Sianturi to Overhaul Internal Systems After KPK Sting

DPR Commission VIII deputy chair Singgih Januratmoko has urged newly appointed BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi to strengthen integrity, transparency and oversight following a KPK sting operation at the agency. The investigation concerns alleged corruption in procurement funded by disaster-response funds, with five people named as suspects.

KPK Identifies Five Alleged Corruption Clusters in Klaten Regent’s OTT Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says its investigation into the arrest of Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo involves five suspected corruption clusters, including procurement, licensing and payments from local government units. The allegations also include an alleged payment by the regent to an official at the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) in connection with an audit of the Klaten administration; investigators seized around Rp1 billion in cash.

Antam Gold Prices Rise by Rp4,000 to Rp2.565 Million per Gram on Friday

Antam’s gold price rose by Rp4,000 on Friday morning to Rp2,565,000 per gram, while its buyback price increased to Rp2,375,000 per gram. The report also sets out prices across other bar sizes and the tax deductions applicable to purchases and buybacks.

Offended After Being Told to Find Work, Brebes Man Machetes His In-Laws, Wife and Baby

Police in Brebes have arrested a 27-year-old man suspected of attacking four family members, including his infant child, with a machete. Investigators say an argument over work and financial circumstances may have triggered the violence after his wife urged him to get a job.

Deputy TNI Commander Responds to Constitutional Court Ruling Calling for Soldiers Accused of Ordinary Crimes to Be Tried in Civilian Courts

Deputy TNI Commander General Maruli Simanjuntak said the military would study a Constitutional Court ruling on the Military Courts Law, which directs lawmakers to revise it within two years. The ruling concerns the jurisdiction over military personnel accused of ordinary crimes and warns that the existing law will lose legal force if it is not amended in time.

IDX Halts Trading After Composite Index Plunges

The Indonesia Stock Exchange halted trading for 30 minutes after the Jakarta Composite Index fell more than 8 per cent to 5,393.92 in early trade. The sell-off came amid investor concerns over MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, alongside broader pressure from Asian markets and expectations of higher US interest rates.

KPK Takes Nine People from Klaten to Jakarta, Including Regent and BPK Regional Head

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has taken nine of 19 people detained in an operation in Klaten to Jakarta for questioning, including Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and Central Java’s BPK regional head. The investigation concerns alleged bribes linked to procurement, permits and other receipts, as well as alleged bribery involving an audit of Klaten Regency’s financial statements; investigators seized about Rp1 billion in cash.

Breaking: Rupiah Hits Rp18,000 per US Dollar This Morning

The rupiah weakened to Rp18,000 per US dollar on Friday, extending losses from the previous session as a firmer dollar and domestic market concerns weighed on the currency. Investors are also monitoring MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia as a standalone market, a move that could prompt foreign investors to reassess Indonesian assets.

Weighing Up the Plan to Give Free Mobile Phones to the Public

The article examines a proposal to distribute free mobile phones linked to digital bank accounts to improve financial inclusion and make social assistance more transparent. It warns that flawed beneficiary data, low digital literacy among many recipients and substantial long-term costs could undermine the scheme, and recommends data verification, tailored access, pilot programmes and stronger privacy safeguards before a nationwide rollout.

Yogyakarta Weather Today: Merapi Slopes to Be Misty in the Afternoon

BMKG’s Yogyakarta office forecasts dry conditions across the region on Friday, with skies ranging from partly cloudy to cloudy. The Merapi foothills, including areas around Kaliurang, Pakem, Turi and Cangkringan, are expected to become cloudier and misty from the afternoon.

Five Suspected Mpox Contacts Hospitalised in Moscow

Five people who had contact with a person suspected of having mpox have been admitted to hospital in Moscow as a precaution, Russia’s Health Ministry said. They are in good condition, show no clinical symptoms and are being monitored, while officials say there is no risk of wider transmission in Russia.

Is It True That the Ministry of Manpower’s Wage Subsidy Will Be Paid Between October and December 2026? The Facts

The government has confirmed plans to pay a one-off wage subsidy of Rp300,000 a month for three months to 13.3 million workers in the final quarter of 2026, with a budget of nearly Rp12 trillion. The Ministry of Manpower says eligibility rules, payment dates and checking procedures have not yet been officially announced, so workers should rely on official updates and treat last year’s procedures as provisional guidance.

Breaking: Jakarta Composite Index Opens 8% Lower, Triggering Trading Halt

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 8.01% at Friday’s opening, immediately triggering a temporary trading halt, amid a raft of global and domestic concerns. Investors are watching MSCI’s proposed downgrade of Indonesia’s market classification, rising US producer-price inflation, geopolitical tensions and signals from the Federal Reserve’s chair.

Klaten Regent Hamenang Arrives at KPK Headquarters After Arrest in Sting Operation

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo arrived at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) headquarters in Jakarta for questioning after being arrested in a sting operation in Central Java. The KPK says 20 people were detained and Rp1 billion seized; investigators are examining suspected receipts linked to procurement, permits and other local government matters.

TNI says it will comply with Constitutional Court ruling on military courts

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has pledged to comply with all Constitutional Court rulings following a decision calling for amendments to the Military Courts Act. The Court said changes should clarify the distinction between military and general offences, define the jurisdictions of military and civilian courts, and address related procedural matters.

Trump Forms Super Intelligence Force: What Will It Do?

Donald Trump has created a White House-led task force to coordinate the US government’s response to artificial intelligence and ensure the country remains a leader in the technology, while seeking to avoid what he calls excessive regulation. Its reported 120-day mandate spans national security, critical infrastructure and civil liberties, but Democratic lawmakers have questioned whether the initiative will produce meaningful safeguards or merely delay legislation.

Tax Office Speaks Out on Gold ETF Tax Incentives: Here Are the Facts

Indonesia’s Director General of Taxes Bimo Wijayanto says he cannot yet confirm the status or details of proposed tax incentives, including a possible exemption, for gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs). He also cited reports that gold exports had approached 500 kilograms, while saying he did not know how much gold derivative products were being bought domestically.

New bridge opens to traffic on the China–North Korea border

A new bridge over the Yalu River connecting Dandong in China’s Liaoning province with Sinuiju in North Korea opened to traffic on 15 October. Designed to carry two-way road traffic and accommodate vessels of up to 3,000 tonnes, it is intended to strengthen cross-border transport links.

Kadin Urges Export Growth at Indonesia–Russia Business Forum

Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) is seeking to boost exports and widen markets for Indonesian products through the Indonesia–Russia Business Forum. Kadin chairman Anindya Bakrie noted bilateral trade is about US$5 billion and Indonesia has a roughly US$1 billion trade deficit, while pointing to scope for greater Russian purchases, investment and technology cooperation.

Coordinating Minister AHY: Indonesia Must Become an Influential Middle Power

Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono says Indonesia should strengthen its role as an influential middle power amid growing geopolitical fragmentation and weakening trust in international institutions. He called for a foreign policy grounded in sovereignty, broader partnerships and tangible benefits for Indonesians, stressing that domestic challenges must be addressed before the country projects its influence abroad.

Two years into Prabowo’s presidency, infrastructure takes a back seat

Nearly two years into his presidency, Prabowo Subianto has prioritised social programmes over the infrastructure expansion associated with his predecessor, with the Public Works Ministry’s 2027 budget request receiving only about half the amount sought. Economists warn that slower transport and basic infrastructure investment could keep logistics costs high and leave regions poorly connected, while Danantara’s growing role in major projects raises questions about oversight and public priorities.

All Schools in North Sumatra to Switch to Remote Learning until 21 October Amid Haze from Forest and Land Fires

North Sumatra’s Education Office has ordered all schools to conduct remote learning from 16 to 21 October 2026 in response to haze from forest and land fires. The measure follows an instruction from Governor Bobby Nasution, with parents asked to supervise pupils and limit their outdoor activities.

IHSG Closes Down 1%; Five Shares to Consider Today

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) fell 1.33% on Thursday, despite net foreign buying, as all 11 sectors ended lower. Market sentiment was clouded by MSCI’s consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, while the article also outlines investment activity by Chandra Asri and Petrosea and lists five share recommendations.

The Hidden Health Risks Behind the Sweetness of Artisan Milk Tea

An Universitas Indonesia nursing expert warns that artisan milk tea’s high sugar content, processed creamer and concentrated tea may contribute to obesity, insulin resistance and cardiovascular problems. The warning comes amid a high national diabetes burden, with Indonesia ranking fifth worldwide and a single serving potentially containing 70–100 per cent of the recommended daily sugar limit.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Says Social Affairs Centres Must Do More Than Serve Vulnerable Groups, with Sekolah Rakyat a Priority

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has urged the ministry’s rehabilitation centres to support presidential priorities, including the Sekolah Rakyat programme, alongside their statutory services for vulnerable people. He cited community learning centres as a bridge for children unable to enter Sekolah Rakyat and called for centres to become high-quality social rehabilitation centres of excellence.

Government to co-ordinate response to West Kalimantan fire lawsuit

The government will co-ordinate its response to a lawsuit brought by civil society and Indigenous groups over fires and haze in West Kalimantan, with lawyers to be appointed if the case proceeds. The plaintiffs seek environmental restoration, stronger fire prevention and response, and reimbursement of affected residents’ healthcare costs; meanwhile, President Prabowo has approved neighbouring countries’ offers of assistance to combat fires across Indonesia.

Almal Real Estate Development Secures Building Approval and Announces Next Phase for The One by Almal Bali Nusa Dua

Almal Real Estate Development has secured an official building approval for its 154-unit The One by Almal Bali Nusa Dua project, clearing the way for the next stage of construction. The project will operate under Wyndham’s Registry Collection Hotels brand and forms part of Almal’s wider international residential, hospitality and digital lifestyle business.

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin Gets Two New Deputy Ministers: What Will They Do?

Indonesia’s Defence Ministry has outlined the responsibilities of two newly created deputy ministerial posts, covering strategy and force development, and logistics, defence industry and technology. The appointments are intended to strengthen long-term defence planning, modernise military equipment and support domestic defence-industry independence, with both officials reporting directly to Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin.

Gianyar Regent Introduces Work-from-Home Policy for Civil Servants Amid Fuel Crisis

Gianyar Regent I Made Agus Mahayastra has ordered most civil servants to work from home until 15 October 2026, following severe queues at petrol stations amid a fuel shortage. Essential services and senior officials are exempt, while the regent plans to ask Bali’s governor and the Energy and Mineral Resources Minister to prioritise resolving the shortage.

No Problem: Bahlil Says Indonesia’s Fuel Stocks Are Secure for 18 Days

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia has enough fuel stocks for 16 to 18 days, attributing queues at Bali petrol stations to distribution problems rather than a national shortage. Pertamina chief executive Simon Aloysius Mantiri apologised, saying delays in unloading a cargo tanker contributed to the disruption as motorists rushed to fill up.

LPS Prepares Insurance Policy Guarantee Scheme for 2027 Launch

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) is preparing an insurance policy guarantee scheme, aiming to activate it in 2027—before the statutory deadline of January 2028. The proposed scheme would cover protection and endowment policies, but exclude investment components such as unit-linked plans; LPS is proposing a limit of Rp500 million per policy and expects participation from 140 insurers covering 91 million policies.

Almal Real Estate Development secures building permit for Bali Nusa Dua project

Almal Real Estate Development has secured a building permit from Badung Regency for The One by Almal Bali Nusa Dua, clearing the way for the next phase of construction. The planned resort development will include 154 residential units and operate under Wyndham’s Registry Collection Hotels brand, adding to Bali’s hospitality and property investment pipeline.

Understanding the Standalone Market Amid MSCI’s Proposal to Change Indonesia’s Capital Market Status

MSCI has proposed reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing concerns over share-ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading practices. The consultation runs until 30 April 2027, with a final decision due by 30 June; standalone status would place Indonesian equities outside MSCI’s emerging- and frontier-market indices.

Hetifah Hopes New BNPB Chief Will Strengthen Forest and Land Fire Response

DPR Commission VIII member Hetifah Sjaifudian has urged newly appointed BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi to improve disaster response, particularly to forest and land fires and haze in Kalimantan. She called for stronger support for local governments, better prevention and preparedness, and tighter parliamentary oversight of procurement, emergency funds and disaster-response assistance.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Urges Centres to Improve Services and Support Sekolah Rakyat

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono says the Ministry of Social Affairs’ rehabilitation centres must continue serving 12 groups requiring social assistance while also supporting the President’s Sekolah Rakyat programme. He wants the centres developed into high-quality social rehabilitation centres of excellence, with better staffing, facilities, standards and collaboration with local governments.

Singapore’s Exports Suddenly Surge 68.4%, Driven by These Factors

Singapore’s non-oil domestic exports (NODX) jumped 68.4% year on year in September, extending strong growth from August and bringing the increase for the first nine months of 2026 to 27.6%. Electronics exports surged on global AI demand, while shipments rose across most major markets, particularly Hong Kong, Taiwan and the United States; exports to India were the exception.

Indonesian Film ‘IBUKU’ Wins Special Jury Award in Busan

Eddie Cahyono’s film ‘IBUKU’, starring Christine Hakim, has won the Special Jury Award at the 31st Busan International Film Festival. The film was among the main competition entries eligible for an automatic place in the 2027 Academy Awards’ International Feature Film category; Iran’s ‘Midday Meal’ won the festival’s Best Film award.

Bromo wildfire death toll rises to four, local authorities say

Four people—two national park officers and two hotel employees—died while fighting a wildfire in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, while two others suffered serious burns. Probolinggo’s district administration said it would cover the survivors’ medical costs and noted that shifting winds caused the firefighting team to split, trapping six people.

BAZNAS Award 2026 Honours 100 National Zakat Champions

Indonesia’s National Board of Zakat (BAZNAS) has honoured 100 individuals and organisations for their contributions to the country’s zakat ecosystem at the Grand BAZNAS Award 2026 in Jakarta. The awards recognise supporters ranging from local governments and ministries to financial institutions, companies and individual donors, as BAZNAS seeks to expand collaboration and improve zakat management.

Defence Minister Hopes Two New Deputy Ministers Will Work at Full Capacity to Strengthen National Defence

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has congratulated newly appointed deputy ministers Richard Taruli Horja Tampubolon and Yusuf Jauhari, urging them to serve with dedication and deliver strong results. Their portfolios cover strategy, doctrine and force development, as well as logistics, defence industry and technology.

Suahasil and Destry United in Promoting Cross-Border QR Payments at G20

Indonesia urged the G20 to provide clear legal and regulatory frameworks for digital finance, while reaffirming its support for cross-border QR payments and local-currency transactions. It also called for an initial stocktake of member countries’ differing market and regulatory conditions to help shape practical priorities for modernising money markets and cross-border payments.

Prabowo Inaugurates Nine New Officials, Including Four Deputy Ministers

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated nine officials at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, including four deputy ministers, alongside changes to senior military appointments. The appointments cover defence, agriculture, immigration and corrections, disaster management, peatland and mangrove management, and the armed forces’ leadership and border-management roles.

US Oregon Primary School Shooting Kills Four: Three Children and One Teacher

Four people, including three children, were killed in a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon; two others were critically injured. The 16-year-old suspected gunman was also killed after a local resident confronted him, while authorities have yet to disclose a motive or the weapon used.

Kadin Urges Indonesia to Boost Exports at Indonesia–Russia Business Forum

Kadin Indonesia has called for stronger exports to Russia to address Indonesia’s roughly US$1 billion trade deficit with the country, while urging Russian businesses to invest, build factories and transfer technology in Indonesia. The forum brought together government and business representatives to explore cooperation across sectors including shipping, finance, agriculture and industry.

Prodia Plans 1:5 Stock Split, Cutting Share Price to Rp20

PT Prodia Widyahusada plans a 1:5 stock split that will increase its shares to 4.6875 billion and reduce their nominal value from Rp100 to Rp20, without changing shareholders’ proportional ownership or the company’s capital structure. The proposal will be put to shareholders at an extraordinary general meeting on 23 November 2026, after the company’s ongoing share buyback programme ends.

Haze from Forest and Land Fires Reaches North Sumatra; Bobby Calls for Remote Learning

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has asked local authorities to take precautionary measures after smoke haze from forest and land fires reached the province. He called for senior high schools, vocational schools and special-needs schools to switch to remote learning, while weather officials reported air quality ranging from moderate to unhealthy and visibility of just 1–3 kilometres in several areas.

Arab Coalition: Houthi Attacks on Saudi Airports Kill 19

Yemen’s Houthi group has carried out repeated attacks on Saudi airports since early October, killing 19 people and injuring 364, according to the Saudi-led Arab coalition. The attacks have also damaged infrastructure and disrupted flights at five airports, including Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.

House Commission I Says Swapping Army Chief and TNI Deputy Commander Is Part of Leadership Renewal

Two deputy chairs of the House of Representatives’ Commission I described the appointments of General Maruli Simanjuntak as TNI Deputy Commander and General Tandyo Budi Revita as Army Chief of Staff as part of organisational renewal. They said both senior generals bring relevant experience and expressed hope that the changes will strengthen leadership continuity, military professionalism and national defence readiness.

Gandrung Sewu 2026 to Feature 1,300 Dancers in First-Ever Night-time Performance

Banyuwangi’s Gandrung Sewu festival will bring together 1,300 dancers on 24 October 2026, with the event staged at night for the first time using lighting and performance technology. The Banyuwangi regency government and InJourney say the new format aims to strengthen cultural tourism, extend visitors’ stays and spread economic benefits to local businesses while preserving the traditional dance’s identity.

Trump’s Golden Dome Dream Fades

Donald Trump’s proposed Golden Dome missile-defence system faces an uncertain future as Democrats are expected to take control of Congress and oppose a separate US$350 billion defence allocation. The wider funding shortfall could also impede efforts to replenish US munitions, while analysts warn the project could cost as much as US$3.6 trillion by 2045.

Yesterday’s political news: BNPB chief on forest fires and salaries through village cooperatives

The article rounds up five political stories reported on 15 October, including the new BNPB chief’s pledge to tackle forest and land fires quickly and his response to calls to declare them a national disaster. It also covers a proposal to limit salary payments through Merah Putih Village Cooperatives to central-government civil servants, alongside updates on the defence industry and the national border agency.

The History of Halal Labelling in Indonesia: It Began with a Haram Label

Indonesia’s halal labelling system developed from an earlier requirement for products containing pork to carry a warning label, introduced in 1976. The government shifted towards halal declarations in 1985, but reliance on manufacturers’ ingredient and production disclosures left gaps that became more evident during the 1988 lard controversy.

IDX Seeks Clarification from MSCI over Potential Change to Indonesia’s Market Status

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) will ask MSCI to explain the reasoning behind its consultation on reclassifying Indonesia from an Emerging Market to a Standalone Market. MSCI says concerns over investability, opaque share-ownership structures and alleged coordinated trading have grown, but its consultation remains open until 30 April 2027, with a final decision due by the end of June 2027.

NBC poll: Democrats have 77% chance of winning majority in US midterm elections

An NBC News Decision Desk poll puts Democrats at a 77% chance of winning a majority in the US House of Representatives, projecting they could secure 235 seats. Analysts attribute Republicans’ weakening prospects to declining public approval of President Donald Trump’s administration amid military operations against Iran and rising prices, including fuel.

Yesterday’s legal news: Klaten Regent caught in KPK sting, and Constitutional Court ruling on Military Courts Law

The roundup highlights the Corruption Eradication Commission’s arrest of Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in its 23rd sting operation of 2026, alongside the seizure of about Rp1 billion and the detention of 20 people. It also covers allegations of sexual harassment at Universitas Pasundan, a money-laundering case involving the family of an alleged methamphetamine dealer, and the Constitutional Court’s decision to grant a judicial review petition concerning the Military Courts Law.

Ineu Purwadewi Backs Collaboration among Majalengka’s Young People in the Digital Era

West Java provincial legislator Ineu Purwadewi Sundari has called for the Majalengka branches of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) and the Indonesian Nationalist Student Movement Alumni Association (PA GMNI) to work together to strengthen digitally enabled micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Proposed initiatives include digital marketing and skills training for young people, with the aim of expanding product markets and supporting local economic growth.

KPK Takes Nine People to Jakarta Following Klaten Raid, Including Regent Hamenang

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has taken nine people from Klaten to Jakarta for questioning after an arrest operation, including Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and the head of the Central Java BPK representative office. Ten people are now being questioned in total, and the KPK says the investigation has been upgraded to the inquiry stage, with suspects to be named at a press conference. The case is suspected to involve bribes linked to projects, procurement, permits and alleged manipulation of audit results; investigators seized Rp1.9 billion in cash.

Mobile SIM Renewal Service Available at Five Jakarta Locations on Friday

Jakarta’s mobile driving licence (SIM) service will operate at five locations on Friday, offering renewals for valid SIM A and SIM C licences. Applicants must bring the required identity, health-check and psychological-test documents; renewals cost Rp80,000 for SIM A and Rp75,000 for SIM C, while SIM B renewals must be handled at a Satpas office.

Defence Ministry explains duties of two new deputy ministers

Indonesia’s Defence Ministry has outlined the responsibilities of two newly created deputy ministerial posts, covering defence strategy and force development, as well as logistics, defence industry and technology. The ministry says the roles will operate under Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin’s direct supervision, with the aim of avoiding overlap and accelerating the strengthening of national defence.

Sitti Husniah Says She Has Yet to Receive Dismissal Letter from Home Affairs Ministry

Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang says she has heard that the Home Affairs Ministry has formally dismissed her but has not yet received the letter. South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman confirmed receipt of the decree, which also appoints Deputy Regent Darmawangsa Muin as acting regent, following a Supreme Court ruling that upheld the Gowa Regional House of Representatives’ impeachment request.

Chinese Investment Firm Boss Meets Iqbal to Explore Investment in NTB

Lu Keming, director of PT Star Bright International Investment, met West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal to discuss potential investments in mining and the use of Mount Rinjani volcanic ash. The company says it has already invested Rp1.25 trillion in an apartment complex in the Nusantara capital and is seeking government support and streamlined permits for projects and exports in NTB.

Communications Minister: T3 Principles Are a Key Foundation for Digital Archiving

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid says the principles of connectedness, growth and preservation (T3) should underpin digital archiving, enabling integrated data management and more efficient government programmes. She emphasised accurate record-keeping, the secure preservation of archives and their use in improving public services and supporting responsible AI development.

Mobile Samsat Services Available at 14 Locations across Greater Jakarta on Friday

Polda Metro Jaya will operate mobile Samsat services at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Friday to make annual motor vehicle tax payments more accessible. The service is limited to annual vehicle tax; five-year tax payments and number-plate replacements must be handled at a Samsat office.

Bandung Mayor Urges Students to Help Manage Waste

Bandung is stepping up waste management at source to reduce pressure on its final disposal site, with a particular focus on processing organic waste in neighbourhoods. Mayor Muhammad Farhan is encouraging university students to join local sorting and processing efforts, while the city plans to expand capacity and establish about 4,800 community compost pits.

Deputy Manpower Minister: SOE Competency Certification Must Reflect Real Ability

Deputy Manpower Minister Afriansyah Noor says competency certificates for state-owned enterprise workers must be based on demonstrable skills, supported by clear standards, qualified assessors and objective assessments. He also called for continuous skills development and responsible use of digital tools, with government, certification bodies and SOEs working together to meet workforce needs.

Not Low Tuck Kwong: BYAN Executive Sells 100 Million Shares

Bayan Resources director Lim Chai Hock sold 100,001,000 shares in the coal mining company for Rp1,120 per share, generating proceeds of about Rp1.12 trillion. The sale took place on the same date that owner Low Tuck Kwong bought an equivalent number of shares, increasing his voting stake to 10.25%.

Cable Knots, Governance Knots

Surabaya is stepping up enforcement against unauthorised fibre-optic cables and poles installed on public land, citing permit and rental-fee requirements as well as road safety and public-space concerns. The city’s operation highlights a broader governance challenge: infrastructure regulation requires reliable ownership records, consistent procedures and clear accountability among network providers.

Police and PLN Cut Power to Drug Stalls in Kampung Ambon

Police and state electricity company PLN have disconnected power to rebuilt drug-dealing stalls in Kampung Ambon, West Jakarta, some of which were reportedly stealing electricity. A joint operation detained seven people, six of whom tested positive for narcotics, and seized drugs, drug paraphernalia and weapons allegedly prepared for resistance.

Pertamina Has Supplied 33,347 LPG Cylinders to 966 KDKMP Outlets

Pertamina Patra Niaga has distributed about 33,347 LPG cylinders through the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP) network, with 966 cooperatives serving as outlets for 3kg LPG as of October 2026. The partnership is intended to expand community access to energy while strengthening cooperatives as local economic hubs and giving small businesses access to markets.

BEM UI to Hold Open-Forum Protest in South Kalimantan Today, Citing State Failure to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) and other student and civil-society groups plan to hold an open-forum protest in Banjarmasin, calling for a more serious government response to forest and land fires. BEM UI says residents are also facing power cuts, clean-water shortages and fuel scarcity, describing the recurring crises as a systematic failure of the state.

0% Income Tax Incentive for SOE Restructuring Still Awaits Two Regulations

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says it cannot confirm a final 0% income tax incentive for state-owned enterprise (SOE) restructuring until a government regulation and a finance ministerial regulation are issued. Although a director general regulation lists several restructuring transactions at a 0% rate, officials say those provisions may be revised and are not yet definitive.

Samarinda Toddler Dies After Breathing Difficulties, Smoke from Forest and Land Fires Suspected

A 14-month-old child in Samarinda died after developing sudden breathing difficulties, with the family suspecting smoke from nearby forest and land fires may have contributed. Indonesia’s Health Ministry recorded 277,075 acute respiratory infection cases by 12 October, including 62,400 among children aged 0–5, and says it is strengthening surveillance and healthcare readiness.

TASPEN and Finance Ministry strengthen pension service governance

State pension insurer TASPEN and the Finance Ministry’s Directorate General of Treasury have agreed to integrate data systems covering pension payments and several social security programmes for civil servants. The initiative is intended to improve transparency, accuracy and timely delivery of benefits to more than nine million recipients, while making claims and reporting more efficient.

Indonesia’s Capital Market Proposed for Downgrade to Standalone Status; IDX Responds

The Indonesia Stock Exchange says it and the Financial Services Authority have taken steps to strengthen market transparency, integrity and quality, after MSCI began consulting on a possible reclassification of Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone status. The exchange will seek clarification from MSCI, noting that the announcement is a consultation rather than a final decision, with submissions open until 30 April 2027.

Defence Ministry Awaits Internal Decision on Replacement for Head of Defence Logistics Agency

The Ministry of Defence is waiting for an internal decision on who will replace Air Marshal Yusuf Jauhari as head of its Defence Logistics Agency after his appointment as a deputy defence minister. The ministry has not announced a handover date, but says the transition will be managed to avoid disrupting ongoing defence logistics work.

School Building Collapses, Forcing Kuningan Primary Pupils to Take Turns Studying in Prayer Room

Pupils at SDN 3 Cihirup in Kuningan have been taking turns studying on the floor of a nearby prayer room for three weeks after severe damage made their classrooms unsafe. The building collapsed on 10 October, with no casualties; the headteacher said repairs had been requested more than a year ago but had not been carried out.

Arab Infrastructure in Ruins as Iran’s Weapons Leave the US Helpless

A report claims Iran and allied groups have carried out at least 135 drone and missile strikes on 84 civilian infrastructure sites across the Gulf since the war with the US and Israel began on 28 February 2026. The alleged damage has disrupted energy exports, water supplies and other critical services, while the article says Gulf governments have restricted information about the attacks and that the UAE secretly agreed to release US$10 billion in frozen Iranian funds.

MSCI Proposes Reclassifying Indonesia’s Capital Market as a Standalone Market

MSCI has launched a consultation on a proposal to downgrade Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone-market status, citing concerns over share-ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading. A final decision is due by the end of June 2027, with the outcome dependent in part on consistent implementation and demonstrable impact from reforms announced by Indonesian market authorities.

Obama Highlights Israel’s Moral Wrongdoing and Seizure of Palestinian Land

Former US President Barack Obama said Israel had taken land from Palestinians and acted excessively, while acknowledging the long history of persecution faced by Jews in Europe. He argued that the hostility following the 7 October massacre underscores the need for a genuine cessation of hostilities to enable a lasting solution.

Deputy Trade Minister stresses importance of financing access for women entrepreneurs

Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri has highlighted access to finance, global collaboration and digital technology as key to helping women entrepreneurs expand their businesses and reach international markets. She said women make up more than 60 per cent of Indonesia’s MSME operators, while MSMEs contribute about 62 per cent of GDP, and called for broader support from government, business partners and communities.

Four Facts About the Cimanggis Market Explosion in Ciputat That Left Two Dead

An explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang killed two people and injured 11, with the blast causing parts of the market to collapse and a box van to be thrown across the road. Investigators traced the blast to a banana-ripening room and found a 52-kilogram ethylene gas cylinder, while ruling out a bomb; they are still examining whether a damaged fan motor may have caused a spark.

Seven Bogor Line KRL Services Cancelled This Morning Due to Train Equipment Problem

KAI Commuter cancelled seven services on the Bogor Line after a problem with train equipment required attention from its staff. Passengers were advised to follow on-site instructions and check updated schedules through the operator’s apps or website.

Study Reveals the Type of Exercise That Could Damage Penile Nerves

Research suggests that prolonged cycling may put pressure on nerves and blood vessels in the perineum, potentially affecting erectile function, although a separate study found no clear link between cycling frequency and erectile dysfunction or infertility. Experts cited in the article recommend adjusting saddle shape and handlebar height, and taking breaks if genital numbness or tingling occurs.

Supply Chain Infrastructure Boosts AZKO’s Business Scale: Here’s the Evidence

PT Aspirasi Hidup Indonesia says Kawan Lama Group’s distribution network and technology help AZKO keep products available while managing delivery costs and supporting store growth. The company reported 6.5% year-to-date sales growth through July 2026 and is continuing to expand its AZKO and NEKA store networks.

Trade Minister Discusses Manufacturing Export Opportunities with Indian Delegation

Trade Minister Budi Santoso met an Indian business delegation at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 to discuss expanding Indonesian manufactured exports to India, including by meeting Indian certification requirements and strengthening bilateral trade commitments. The talks also explored potential Indian investment in Indonesia’s automotive, furniture and strategic minerals sectors; Indonesia recorded a US$8.99 billion trade surplus with India in January–August 2026.

Defence Ministry Says a Second Deputy Minister Is Much Needed

Indonesia’s Defence Ministry says adding a second deputy minister is necessary to respond to increasingly complex defence challenges and speed up military modernisation. The two posts will focus respectively on logistics, defence industry and technology, and on strategy, doctrine and force development, under the direct supervision of Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin.

List of Six Generals Appointed by Prabowo, from Army Chief to Deputy Head of BPGMN

President Prabowo Subianto appointed nine officials at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, including six military generals to senior military and government posts. The reshuffle also placed new officials at the disaster-management and peatland-and-mangrove agencies, as well as appointing three other officials as deputy ministers or agency head.

Singaraja Residents Spend the Night at Petrol Stations to Get Fuel

Long queues for fuel in Buleleng, Bali, have forced residents to wait overnight at petrol stations, disrupting daily activities and work-related training. Residents say the queues reflect their reliance on fuel rather than panic buying, and argue that better public transport could reduce dependence on private vehicles and fuel in the long term.

BPKH Plans Haramain Hospitality Fund, Offering an 8% Target Return

Indonesia’s Hajj Fund Management Agency (BPKH) has unveiled a 10-year sharia-compliant fund targeting SAR250 million to secure hotel capacity in Mecca and Medina, with an indicative return of around 8%. The asset-light structure would lease hotels and sublet them to BPKH’s Saudi subsidiary, while the agency stresses that returns are targets rather than guarantees. The fund is also intended to foster cooperation between Indonesian institutions and Saudi investors amid growing Hajj and Umrah demand.

HIMKI and UiTM Partner on Research to Boost Furniture and Craft Industries

The Indonesian Furniture and Craft Industry Association (HIMKI) has signed an MoU with Malaysia’s Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) to strengthen research, innovation and talent development. The partnership will explore applied research, design development, training and industry placements, aiming to better align academic work with business needs and raise the competitiveness of the regional industry.

Five latest facts about the Klaten regent’s KPK sting: Rp1bn in evidence, dozens detained

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and 19 others in a sting operation conducted in Klaten and Jakarta. The case is suspected to involve bribery linked to public procurement and an audit by the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK), with investigators reporting that they seized about Rp1 billion in cash.

KPK Says Suspects Named in Klaten Regent Hamenang’s Graft Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has named suspects after an operation in Klaten involving Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, but will disclose their identities at a press conference. The case is suspected to involve bribery related to public procurement, permits and alleged manipulation of a Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) audit; investigators seized around Rp1 billion in cash.

Pupuk Kaltim Balances Exports with Domestic Demand

Pupuk Kaltim is targeting urea exports of 250,000 tonnes to Australia by the end of 2026, while maintaining domestic supply as its priority. It has prepared more than 245,000 tonnes of urea and NPK stocks for the October 2026–March 2027 planting season, alongside plans to optimise production and distribution.

WhatsApp’s New Feature Schedules Messages Up to Two Weeks in Advance

WhatsApp is testing a message-scheduling feature for Android beta users, allowing text and media to be sent automatically at a chosen time up to two weeks ahead. The feature will also let users manage or delete scheduled messages, including in group chats, although it is being rolled out gradually.

House of Representatives Committee IV Says BPGMN Faces Major Task of Restoring Peatlands to Prevent Further Fires

House of Representatives Committee IV has urged the newly established National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN) to strengthen firefighting and restore damaged peat ecosystems. MPs called for repairs to canal blocks and dried peatland, warning that El Niño could worsen fire risks and urging community involvement in long-term prevention.

KPK Seizes Blue Barrel Allegedly Used by Klaten Regent to Store Corruption Money

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has brought Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo to Jakarta following a sting operation and seized a blue barrel allegedly used to store illicit payments. Investigators also secured cash totalling around Rp1.9 billion and detained 19 other people in an investigation reportedly involving project bribery and the manipulation of audit findings.

Germany Wavers in Support for Ukraine; AfD Says Ukraine Cannot Beat Russia

AfD co-leader Alice Weidel has urged Berlin to end military and financial assistance to Ukraine, arguing that Kyiv cannot defeat Russia and that further spending would burden Germany. The call follows a non-binding motion in Saxony-Anhalt, backed by AfD and BSW, seeking an end to arms shipments and Russia sanctions, underscoring growing pressure on federal policy despite the state parliament’s limited authority.

Hercules’ Rp800 Million Allegedly Came from Summarecon over Land in Bogor

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp800 million that it alleges GRIB Jaya chairman Hercules Rosario Marcal received from property developer PT Summarecon Agung in connection with land management in Bogor. The money is linked to an investigation into alleged bribery to lift a land-blocking order and secure building-use rights, which has led to eight suspects and a series of searches.

Indonesia and Pakistan Explore Trade and Halal Product Cooperation

Around 30 Indonesian and Pakistani businesspeople took part in a business-matching event organised by Trade Indonesia, ICE and Indonesian diplomatic missions, following the platform’s launch. Participants discussed opportunities in bilateral trade, particularly halal products, while Pakistan’s trade representative highlighted the need for stronger coordination on standards, quarantine procedures and regulations to improve market access.

NTB Governor Pitches Tourism and Renewable Energy Investment to UAE Delegation

West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal has presented the province’s quality-tourism strategy and renewable energy investment opportunities to a visiting United Arab Emirates delegation. Proposals include regular seaplane services to key destinations and floating solar projects, alongside regional cooperation to promote tourism and supply clean energy to Bali.

InJourney Seeks to Expand Global Market Access for Indonesia’s Tourism Ecosystem

State-owned aviation and tourism holding company InJourney is using the Jakarta Wonderful Indonesia Tourism Fair to develop B2B partnerships spanning travel distribution, accommodation, destinations and supporting services. The initiative aims to connect its portfolio with new domestic and international source markets and turn trade-fair meetings into lasting commercial collaborations.

Prabowo Approves Foreign Assistance to Tackle Indonesia’s Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has approved offers of assistance from neighbouring countries to help extinguish Indonesia’s expanding forest and land fires, with technical arrangements now being discussed by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). Indonesia has deployed around 60,000 personnel across six provinces and is using helicopters, water-bombing operations and weather modification, while continuing to share updates through ASEAN mechanisms.

Two TNI Generals Swap Roles

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Maruli Simanjuntak as Deputy Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and head of a newly expanded agency for border and remote-area management, while Tandyo Budi Revita becomes Army Chief of Staff. The appointments place economic development in border and remote communities, alongside government programmes, food security, forest-fire response and security in Papua, among the officers’ stated priorities.

MSCI Threatens to Downgrade Indonesia to Standalone Market, Putting It on a Par with Zimbabwe

MSCI is consulting on whether to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing ongoing concerns over investability, market governance and accessibility. The downgrade could prompt foreign fund outflows; Indonesia’s announced disclosure and free-float reforms have yet to convince market participants of a significant improvement.

C919 Has Carried More Than 8.4 Million Passengers Since Entering Service

China’s domestically produced C919 has carried more than 8.4 million passengers across 27 cities since beginning commercial operations, while the C909 regional jet has transported over 41 million. The figures underscore the growing role of Chinese-built aircraft in the country’s expanding aviation market, as China’s 2026–2030 civil aviation plan targets improvements in infrastructure, efficiency, safety and services.

Despite 1% Drop in the JCI, Foreign Investors Buy These 10 Stocks

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.33% to 5,863.78 on Thursday, with declines in 567 stocks outweighing gains in just 108. Foreign investors nevertheless recorded net purchases of Rp567.96 billion across the market, led by Bank Central Asia shares, which attracted Rp286.10 billion.

Indonesia’s Haze Costs Malaysia Up to Rp6 Trillion

Malaysia could be losing as much as 1.5 billion ringgit (around Rp6.5 trillion) a month to recurring haze from Indonesia, with tourism, aviation, agriculture and business activity among the sectors affected. The article also highlights rising healthcare costs and calls for stronger prevention and regional cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia.

Israeli IT Firm Found to Have Orchestrated Spyware Attack Targeting Al Jazeera Journalists

An investigation by Citizen Lab found that spyware developed by Israeli firm Candiru was installed on devices used by Al Jazeera staff and other companies, reportedly through targeted zero-click advertising. Al Jazeera condemned the targeting of journalists and called for those responsible to face justice, while the spyware was capable of stealing sensitive data and recording device activity.

Can Walking 10,000 Steps Every Day Really Prevent Cancer?

A 2025 study tracking 85,000 people in the UK found that walking more than 5,000 steps a day was associated with a lower cancer risk, with the benefits beginning to level off at around 9,000 steps. An oncologist says 10,000 steps is not essential to gain benefits, and notes that this target originated as a Japanese marketing campaign in the 1960s.

Jakarta Was the World’s Third Most Polluted City This Morning

Jakarta ranked third among the world’s most polluted major cities on Friday morning, with an AQI of 186 and PM2.5 concentrations of 107 micrograms per cubic metre, classified as unhealthy. Residents were advised to limit outdoor activity, while the Jakarta provincial government highlighted public transport expansion and waste processing as measures to improve air quality.

Full Rules for Using UGM’s Wisdom Park, Including Fees

Universitas Gadjah Mada has confirmed that fees apply to certain activities at Wisdom Park, under its 2026 tariff regulations. Charges depend on the area, duration, number of participants and whether users are affiliated with UGM; the university says the fee cited in a viral complaint was explained but was not collected.

Taman Ayun Barong Festival 2026 to Be Held in November: Schedule and Events

The Taman Ayun Barong Festival 2026 is scheduled for 6–7 November at the historic Taman Ayun Temple in Mengwi, Badung, Bali. The two-day programme will feature an art exhibition and several barong and music performances, celebrating Balinese arts and culture.

MSCI opens consultation on downgrading Indonesia’s capital market to Standalone Market

MSCI has opened a consultation on whether to reclassify Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, citing persistent concerns over ownership transparency, coordinated trading and market functioning. It says reforms announced by Indonesian authorities require consistent implementation and demonstrable, lasting impact; feedback is open until 30 April 2027, with a final decision due by 30 June 2027.

House Commission VIII Urges Lt Gen Kristomei to Conduct Internal Review after KPK Sting at BNPB

Following the Corruption Eradication Commission’s arrest operation at Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), House Commission VIII has urged its newly appointed chief, Lt Gen Kristomei Sianturi, to strengthen integrity and overhaul internal governance. The commission says preventive controls, transparent procurement and accountable disaster funding are essential to ensure aid reaches affected communities.

BPKH Targets Investments in Hotels, Catering and Hajj Logistics in Saudi Arabia

Indonesia’s Hajj Fund Management Agency (BPKH) is exploring direct investment in accommodation, catering and logistics in Makkah and Madinah, saying this could help mitigate currency and inflation risks while improving services for Indonesian pilgrims. The government also emphasised that any investment must comply with institutional mandates, regulations, sharia principles and prudent risk management, as Danantara advances plans for a Hajj Village in Makkah.

State-Owned Enterprises Agency and Danantara Push Garuda Indonesia Business Transformation

The State-Owned Enterprises Agency (BP BUMN) and Danantara are accelerating Garuda Indonesia’s transformation, focusing on fleet expansion, new markets, operational efficiency and a stronger domestic position. The strategy prioritises a clearly defined target market and a consistent customer experience, aiming to compete on service and value rather than ticket prices.

Trade Ministry and BPJPH Sign Cooperation Agreement on Halal Product Assurance

The Trade Ministry and the Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH) have agreed to work together on guidance and oversight of halal products in trade. The partnership is intended to strengthen compliance, consumer protection and coordination in enforcing Indonesia’s halal product assurance rules.

Trade Minister discusses export opportunities for manufactured goods with Indian delegation

Trade Minister Budi Santoso met an Indian business delegation at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 to discuss expanding Indonesian manufactured-goods exports and strengthening bilateral trade commitments. Talks also explored Indian investment in Indonesia’s automotive, furniture and strategic-minerals sectors, while bilateral trade reached US$16.62 billion in January–August 2026, leaving Indonesia with a US$8.99 billion surplus.

Indonesia’s Market Status at Risk of Downgrade, IDX Responds

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says it will seek clarification from MSCI after the index provider announced a consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market. IDX says reforms to improve transparency and market integrity have received positive responses, and stresses that the announcement is not a final decision, with feedback accepted until 30 April 2027.

Klaten Regent Arrives at KPK After Being Caught in Project Bribery Sting

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo has arrived at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) headquarters in Jakarta after being caught in a sting operation in Klaten. The KPK has detained 20 people, including the Central Java representative of the Audit Board, and seized cash amounting to Rp1 billion in a case suspected to involve project procurement bribes and the manipulation of audit findings.

Drug Kingpins Suspected of Retaliation After Fire in Kampung Ambon

Police are investigating whether a fire and attacks that injured three people in West Jakarta were retaliation by drug dealers against an ongoing crackdown in Kampung Ambon. The operation, ordered by National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto, has included raids and the destruction of drug stalls; officers also detained eight people suspected of preparing a drug transaction and seized motorcycles and phones.

Two Groups Clash in Makassar, with Mothers Also Getting Involved

A clash between two groups in Makassar involved mothers who shouted at one another and defended their children, adding to tensions at the scene. Police said the confrontation began with mutual taunting and escalated to stone-throwing, fireworks and other projectiles, setting fire to grass and a pile of wood in an empty lot; the blaze was brought under control.

Peatland Agency Seeks to Develop Technology to Predict Land Fires Three Days in Advance

The National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN) plans to develop a system that can forecast forest and land fires, particularly on peatland, up to three days before they occur. The effort will combine monitoring and scientific modelling with peat water management and community involvement to enable earlier mitigation and protect residents and livelihoods.

Coal Prices Heat Up Again as China and India Face Concerns

Coal prices rose 0.72% to US$152.85 a tonne on 16 October, extending a three-day rally as prices in China’s mining regions remained high. Meanwhile, China Coal Energy’s September output fell year on year, while India’s Coal India Limited increased supply and production amid rising electricity demand, supporting the country’s energy-security efforts.

TNI Deputy Commander Responds to Constitutional Court Ruling: ‘Our Sentences Are Tougher’

TNI Deputy Commander General Maruli Simanjuntak says military courts have often handed down harsher sentences than civilian courts, rejecting claims that they foster impunity. The Constitutional Court has ruled that soldiers accused of ordinary crimes must face civilian courts and given lawmakers up to two years to amend the Military Courts Law.

Arabian Peninsula on Edge as Houthis Missile Presidential Palace, Triggering Six Huge Explosions

At least two people were killed and six injured when a series of explosions struck near Yemen’s presidential palace in Aden, in an attack claimed by the Iran-backed Houthi movement. The assault comes amid renewed fighting and a worsening humanitarian crisis, particularly in besieged Taiz, where hundreds of thousands of people risk losing access to aid.

Law Minister Says Government Is Maximising Efforts to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says the government is pursuing a comprehensive response to forest and land fires, with more than 60,000 personnel deployed for ground operations. Fires are still affecting 639 hectares across six provinces, while aerial water-bombing and weather-modification operations are also under way.

BMKG Forecasts Rain in Several Major Indonesian Cities on Friday

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) expects rain of varying intensity across several major cities on Friday, with thunderstorms, haze and thick cloud also forecast in some areas. The agency has also warned of high waves in the western Indian Ocean and possible coastal flooding in a number of provinces.

Klaten Regent Caught in KPK Sting; Central Java BPK Chief Also Detained

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) confirmed that Ahmad Luthfi H. Rahmatullah, head of the Central Java provincial representative office of the Audit Board (BPK), was among those detained in a sting operation targeting Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The KPK said 20 people were caught in total and that it would hold a case review to determine their legal status.

Major Attack in Europe Destroys Food Stocks, Targeting Refrigerators

Hackers reportedly infiltrated refrigeration controls at around 150 Intermarché stores, causing temperatures to rise and food to spoil; outlets in other supermarket chains were also affected. Initial estimates put losses at about €300,000, while investigations continue and the vulnerabilities in the refrigeration systems had previously been flagged by security researchers.

Yesterday: Health Minister’s Advice on Forest Fires and Profile of the New BNPB Chief

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin urged vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activity during forest and land fires, while officials outlined response measures in Tanjung Puting National Park. Other reports covered the reopening of disaster-hit hospitals in Sumatra, the proposed integration of social assistance data under the One Data Indonesia law, and the appointment of Lieutenant General Kristomei Sianturi as BNPB chief.

Yesterday: Banyuwangi Dance Glows in the Dark, alongside Johnny Depp Exhibition

Gandrung Sewu, a dance rooted in Banyuwangi culture, has been staged for the first time using a ‘glow in the dark’ concept. Other items in the roundup include Indonesia’s cultural exchange programme with Pacific nations, Samsung’s reported plans for a major operating-system update, an electric SUV launch and Johnny Depp’s first art exhibition in London.

Prolonged Dry Season Forces Farmers in East Lombok to Delay Planting

Farmers in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, have postponed planting because El Niño-driven drought has reduced irrigation supplies and rainfall. Coffee growers are also seeing flowers fall and trees wilt, raising concerns about lower yields; the local government says it is relying on dams and rehabilitating irrigation channels while seeking additional water sources.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Records 966 KDKMP Cooperatives Selling 3kg LPG

Pertamina Patra Niaga says 966 Merah Putih Village/Urban Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) were selling 3kg LPG by October 2026, supported by 285 supplier agents and distribution of about 33,347 cylinders. The cooperative network is intended to bring energy supplies closer to communities while supporting local businesses; government figures show more than 10,000 KDKMP were operating nationwide by 15 October.

BNPB Says Dry Ice Raises Visibility in South Sumatra from 650 Metres to 2.8 Kilometres

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) says dry-ice cloud seeding in South Sumatra improved visibility from about 650 metres to 2.8 kilometres amid haze from forest and land fires. The trial, ordered by President Prabowo Subianto, is scheduled to run until 18 October, after which authorities will assess whether to extend the method to other fire-affected regions.

Tax Authority Sharpens Focus on Refunds, Prioritising SMEs and Exporters

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says it will continue to respect taxpayers’ rights while safeguarding state revenue as it manages tax refunds. SMEs, labour-intensive industries and export-oriented businesses are priorities for refund facilitation, although the authority says oversight remains necessary and has not announced any new measure to delay payments.

Jakarta yesterday: car catches fire and South Jakarta slum settlement in the spotlight

A car carrying 900 litres of kerosene caught fire in East Jakarta, while city authorities addressed an illegal rubbish collection point and plans to inspect a slum settlement surrounded by affluent neighbourhoods. Other developments included discussions on tourism, small businesses and industry, as well as tighter oversight of licensed clinics in Central Jakarta.

Dudung Abdurachman Resigns as Commissioner of NSSS

Palm oil plantation company PT Nusantara Sawit Sejahtera Tbk (NSSS) says it received Dudung Abdurachman’s resignation as independent commissioner on 2 October 2026. The company has not disclosed his reason for leaving and says shareholders will be asked to approve the resignation and board changes at an extraordinary general meeting; it expects no material adverse impact on the business.

Netanyahu’s Coalition Trails in Polls as US Shifts Its Support

A secret meeting between US Ambassador Mike Huckabee and Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has drawn attention ahead of Israel’s 27 October parliamentary election, particularly after a separate meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was reportedly cancelled. A Channel 12 poll puts the opposition bloc ahead of Netanyahu’s coalition and projects Eisenkot’s party to become the Knesset’s largest, although the article cautions that an opposition victory may not bring a fundamental change in policy towards Palestinians.

Sitti Husniah Talenrang Responds After Being Dismissed as Gowa Regent

Sitti Husniah Talenrang says she will not challenge her dismissal as Gowa regent and plans to focus on her family. The Home Affairs Ministry’s decision followed a Supreme Court ruling and a Gowa Regional Council investigation into alleged misconduct, corruption and abuse of authority; police have also named her a suspect in an extortion and money-laundering case.

Responsible AI for Children: IEEE Introduces Trusted Safety Framework to Help Protect Children Online

IEEE’s Responsible AI for Children certification programme independently assesses AI products intended for children against age-appropriate safety, ethical design and accountability requirements. Its first certification has been awarded to d-AI-logue, an AI-powered educational platform developed by Greece’s National Centre for Scientific Research, as the programme seeks to build trust among families, educators and regulators.

Jakarta Environment Agency Explains Hazy Skies, Says They Are Not Caused by Forest Fires

Jakarta’s Environment Agency says air-quality measurements and wind modelling show no evidence that smoke from forest and land fires in Sumatra or Kalimantan has reached the capital. PM2.5 levels from 1 to 14 October were within the city’s usual fluctuating range, while modelled winds pointed from the east to south-east.

Crime Round-up: Nine Suspects in Crew Trafficking Case and Fatal Gang Clash

Jakarta police named nine suspects in a human trafficking and exploitation case involving crew members aboard the squid-fishing vessel KM Maulana 23. Other cases reported on Thursday included a 15-year-old suspect in a fatal clash between groups of youths, as well as several drug-related arrests across West and East Jakarta.

Gold and Silver Rebound After Heavy Losses: Can They Surge Again?

Gold and silver prices recovered on Thursday after three consecutive days of losses, supported by a weaker US dollar and falling Treasury yields. Although September inflation data fuelled expectations of a Federal Reserve rate rise, comments from Fed officials tempered those expectations; markets now see a 29% chance of an increase this month.

Triv Group Targets Hygiene Products Market, Backs MMIX Expansion

Triv Group founder Gabriel Rey says the group has invested about Rp80 billion in Multi Medika International (MMIX), including by adding 530,000 lots of shares, to support its long-term growth and expansion in hygiene products. He cites domestic production, distribution reach and the potential for a dual listing as factors that could strengthen MMIX’s competitiveness and attract investment, while details of the proposed listing remain subject to official confirmation.

Can Keeping Your Phone in a Shirt Pocket Disrupt Your Heart Rhythm?

A cardiologist says there is no scientific evidence that everyday mobile-phone radiofrequency exposure causes abnormal heart rhythms in healthy people. However, people with implanted cardiac devices should avoid keeping phones in their shirt pockets, while phone vibrations may simply make users more aware of their heartbeat.

Jakarta Expected to Be Partly Cloudy on Friday

BMKG forecasts partly cloudy to cloudy conditions across Jakarta from Friday morning through the afternoon, with skies expected to become cloudy to clear at night. Temperatures are forecast to range from 26 to 35 degrees Celsius during the day, easing to 29–30 degrees at night.

US Reportedly Preparing ‘Mother of All Bombs’ to Destroy Iran

The US military has reportedly drawn up plans to use its largest non-nuclear bomb against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities if President Donald Trump orders military action to resume. Experts question whether the MOAB could penetrate deeply buried sites such as Fordow, while warning that an attack could escalate the conflict and expose regional infrastructure to retaliation.

Central Java BPK Chief Allegedly Asked Klaten Regent for Money over Unqualified Audit Opinion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating allegations that Central Java’s BPK representative chief sought Rp1.3 billion from Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo to secure an unqualified audit opinion, with Rp400 million reportedly paid. The claims emerged after the KPK arrested 20 people in raids in Klaten and Jakarta, seizing at least Rp1 billion; the alleged scheme involved suppressing findings in the 2025 audit.

Military Court Paradigm to Change Following Constitutional Court Ruling

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ordered lawmakers to amend the 1997 Military Courts Law within two years, ruling that ordinary crimes committed by military personnel should generally be tried in civilian courts. The court also called for military courts to be fully integrated under the Supreme Court, while allowing a narrowly defined exception for ordinary crimes committed by soldiers in combat zones during wartime.

MSCI May Downgrade Indonesia’s Stock Market Classification

MSCI has opened a consultation on reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing persistent concerns over investability, ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading. It will accept feedback until 30 April 2027 and announce a final decision by 30 June 2027; meanwhile, several index changes involving Indonesian shares remain frozen.

Klaten Regent Caught in KPK Sting Operation over Alleged Bribery; Rp1 Billion in Cash Seized

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) carried out a sting operation against Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in connection with alleged bribery. The commission said it seized around Rp1 billion in cash as evidence.

IEEE certifies first AI educational platform under child-safety programme

IEEE’s Responsible AI for Children programme has awarded its first certification to d-AI-logue, an AI-powered educational platform developed by Greece’s National Centre for Scientific Research Demokritos. The certification involves independent assessment of age-appropriate design, privacy, children’s rights and ongoing compliance, providing assurance to educators and families as the platform expands into classroom pilots.

US and MSCI Send Another ‘Storm’, Putting the IHSG and Rupiah at Risk

Indonesia’s market outlook is under pressure from MSCI’s proposed downgrade of the country’s equity-market status, surging US producer prices and geopolitical tensions. The article also reviews Wall Street’s volatile response to inflation and AI-sector concerns, alongside domestic developments including a new LPG refinery, plantation-company wildfire disclosures and fresh government appointments amid reshuffle rumours.

Fuel Shortages in Bali: How Do Indonesian Petrol Prices Compare with 10 Other Countries?

Fuel supply disruptions in Bali in early October 2026 led to long queues and reports of petrol being sold at more than three times the usual price. While Indonesia’s average petrol price ranks among the lowest globally, comparing it with wages suggests fuel remains less affordable for Indonesian workers than in some neighbouring countries.

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo Caught in KPK Sting; Rp1 Billion in Cash Found

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in a sting operation over alleged receipts linked to procurement, licensing and other income from regional government agencies. Investigators also suspect the regent made payments to an audit official, and have seized cash provisionally estimated at Rp1 billion; Hamenang apologised and said he would comply with the legal process.

Jogja Workers Say They Now Need a Change of Clothes as Temperatures Soar

A field worker in Yogyakarta says the recent heat has left him carrying spare clothes and experiencing fatigue and headaches while working outdoors. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) attributes the conditions to a prolonged dry season linked to El Niño, with maximum temperatures reaching 33–35°C and the rainy season not expected until late November or early December 2026.

Creative Economy Ministry Seeks to Expand Business Networks for Six ICT Services Start-ups

The Creative Economy Ministry is helping six ICT services start-ups broaden market access and business networks through their participation in the Indonesia 4.0 Conference & Expo 2026. The initiative includes exhibition space, presentation opportunities and business-matching sessions, aimed at fostering industry partnerships and helping the start-ups scale their digital products and services, including towards global markets.

In Wake of Haze Reaching North Sumatra, Bobby Nasution Urges Regional Heads to Introduce Remote Learning

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has urged district and municipal leaders to take precautionary measures after haze reached the province, including remote learning for senior secondary, vocational and special-needs schools from 16 October 2026. He said classes must continue from home, while officials monitor air quality, advise residents to use masks and pursue weather-modification efforts to induce rain.

Iran War Strains US Military as Hegseth Prepares Six Reforms

The war with Iran is putting pressure on US weapons stocks, particularly Patriot interceptors, and has reportedly delayed deliveries to Poland. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is seeking about $50 billion to accelerate autonomous weapons production, while the Trump administration plans a major Montana testing facility and six broader military reforms.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister: Paying Civil Servants’ Salaries Through Village Co-operatives Will Not Be Mandatory

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto said the proposal to channel civil servants’ salaries through Merah Putih village and urban-ward co-operatives remains under consideration and would not be compulsory. The government is assessing the co-operatives’ operational readiness and considering wider roles, including distributing social assistance, while residents have called for stable prices and adequate supplies, particularly of LPG.

KPK Weighs Forcibly Bringing in Nusron Wahid After Two Missed Summonses

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is considering whether to forcibly bring in Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid after he failed to attend two summonses as a witness. The questioning relates to an alleged extortion and bribery case involving building-use rights (HGB) at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN), in which eight people have been named suspects.

Difficult Economic Conditions: Pramono Says 30% of Orange Squad Applicants Are Graduates

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says intensifying economic pressures and a tight jobs market are reflected in the high volume of applicants for provincial government vacancies. Nearly 30% of applicants for Jakarta’s Orange Squad public-facilities roles hold university degrees, while the provincial government says it is directing tax revenue towards education, healthcare and social assistance.

How to Tell If Someone Else Is Using Your Home Wi-Fi and Block Them

Unfamiliar devices connected to a home Wi-Fi network can slow internet speeds and consume the data allowance paid for by the household. The article explains how to check connected devices through a router’s settings, block unauthorised users by changing the password or using MAC filtering, and strengthen network security.

Constitutional Court: Military Courts Law Conditionally Unconstitutional

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that the 1997 Military Courts Law is conditionally unconstitutional unless amended within two years. The ruling says ordinary crimes committed by Indonesian military personnel should fall under the jurisdiction of general courts, and calls for clearer definitions and jurisdictional boundaries to strengthen accountability and judicial independence.

Foreign Ministry Urges Indonesians in Saudi Arabia to Stay Alert and Not Share Attack Photos or Videos

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry has urged Indonesians in Saudi Arabia to exercise caution following Houthi attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, and not to circulate images or videos of the incident. Two Indonesians suffered minor injuries and have been discharged, while the airport’s closure has been extended until 24:00 local time on 17 October 2026.

Bogo City’s Purchase of Disputed Assets Sparks Outcry: Paid in Full, but Documents Missing

The Philippine Commission on Audit says Bogo City has yet to register three land parcels in its name, despite paying 80.53 million pesos in full by 2022. Missing ownership documents leave the city exposed to competing claims and raise questions about whether payments complied with legal requirements; the city has petitioned a court to reconstruct the records but has given no completion date.

Yesterday in the Economy: Essential Goods in Wildfire-Affected Areas and Fuel Supplies in Bali

Thursday’s economic headlines included assurances that forest and land fires have not disrupted essential-goods supplies, alongside Pertamina’s delivery of 57.9 million litres of fuel to Bali. The government also outlined a target to reduce logistics costs to 8 per cent of GDP by 2045, while regulators monitored banking-sector developments and creative brands prepared to pursue exports.

Toluna Appoints Amy Fenton as Chief Executive Officer

Toluna has appointed Amy Fenton, formerly chief executive of MarketCast, as its CEO from 15 October 2026, succeeding founder Frédéric Charles Petit after 25 years at the helm. The appointment concludes a structured succession process; Petit will remain on the board as a senior adviser and shareholder as the company focuses on consumer insights, technology and AI-driven growth.

YouTube Music Adds Special Labels for AI-Generated Songs

YouTube is introducing labels on YouTube Music for tracks it identifies as being mostly created using AI, aiming to give listeners greater transparency as AI-generated music becomes more widespread. The company has not yet explained the precise threshold for applying the label, while other services including Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, Bandcamp and Deezer are also responding to the growth of AI music.

Sisi Urges Netanyahu to Recognise Palestinian Independence, Saying It Would Foster Lasting Regional Stability

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi says he has repeatedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since 2014 that establishing a Palestinian state would benefit all parties and promote lasting peace and stability. Sisi also warned of profound geopolitical changes in the Middle East and said security in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states is interconnected.

Toluna appoints Amy Fenton as chief executive

Toluna has appointed Amy Fenton, formerly chief executive of MarketCast and a senior leader at Kantar, Ipsos and Nielsen, as its CEO from 15 October 2026. She succeeds founder Frédéric Charles Petit after a structured succession process, with the company highlighting her experience in insights, analytics and technology as it pursues its next phase of growth.

US Reportedly Weighs Using ‘Mother of All Bombs’ to Flatten Iran

US military planners are reportedly considering deploying the massive non-nuclear MOAB against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites if President Donald Trump orders renewed combat operations. The potential move would represent a major escalation, although officials and experts have questioned whether the weapon could damage deeply buried facilities or advance a clear strategy to end the war.

Residents Complain About Off-Road Motorbike Activity on Rinjani’s Southern Route; National Park Agency Says It Is Illegal

Residents near the southern route of Mount Rinjani say off-road motorbike activity is disturbing communities and could contaminate water sources used by four villages. The Gunung Rinjani National Park Agency says the activity is illegal inside the conservation area and plans to strengthen joint monitoring with security agencies, village authorities and local residents.

New BNPB Chief Pledges to Tackle Forest and Land Fires as Quickly as Possible

Newly appointed National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) chief Kristomei Sianturi says the response to forest and land fires must be measured in minutes, not hours, to limit harm to residents. He plans to review and strengthen the agency’s response, assess domestic resources first, and consider foreign assistance where useful.

Modernising Indonesia’s Competition Law

Indonesia’s proposed revision of its 1999 competition law coincides with the country’s OECD accession process, creating an opportunity to align domestic rules with international standards. The article identifies three priorities: assessing public policies and state-owned enterprise privileges for their competitive impact, pairing stronger enforcement powers with fair procedures, and establishing clear legal grounds for cross-border cooperation.

Unlike BTS, Filipino Pop Groups Back Asian Pop Category at the 2027 Grammys

Filipino groups SB19 and BINI have submitted their work for the Grammys’ new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category, describing it as an opportunity to broaden global recognition of Filipino music. They say the category could raise the visibility of Asian artists internationally and help introduce more Southeast Asian musicians to global audiences.

Shooting at Oregon Primary School Leaves Gunman Dead; Two Taken to Hospital

A shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, left the gunman dead and at least two people hospitalised. Police said they had not confirmed who shot the suspect, while details about the victims’ conditions and the motive remained unknown.

Central Java MUI Opposes Andrea Bocelli Concert; Police Chief Denies Permit Was Revoked

Central Java’s Indonesian Ulema Council has called for Andrea Bocelli’s planned concert at Borobudur to be cancelled, citing the singer’s alleged ties to Israeli Zionism and alignment with the national MUI’s position. The Central Java police chief says no permit has been cancelled, explaining that recommendations are being assessed and forwarded to national police headquarters, which has authority over the permit.

Taxpayer-Funded Opening Balance: Mass Bank Account Beneficiaries to Be Strictly Screened by Decile

The government is cross-checking data to identify eligible recipients for a mass bank-account opening scheme, which provides a Rp50,000 initial balance to people in deciles 1–4. The screening covers students, women, micro and small businesses, and religious-school communities; officials say about 47.5 million Indonesians still do not have a bank account.

Erick Thohir Plans Central–Regional Coordination, with Neglected Sports Facilities in Focus

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir is seeking closer alignment between central and regional governments to improve national youth and sports policy. He highlighted sports facilities that are built without adequate maintenance or use, and said investment proposals should be guided by research, planning and community needs.

Muslims in Indonesia’s Neighbouring Region Condemn Government Plan to Intervene in Friday Sermons

Muslim scholars and politicians in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir have condemned a proposal to standardise Friday sermons, warning it could undermine religious freedom and give the government greater control over worship. The dispute comes amid longstanding political tensions in Kashmir and broader changes to the administration of Muslim religious endowments.

Riau Police Say Number of Suspects in Forest and Land Fires Rises to 65

Riau Police have named 65 suspects in 61 forest and land fire cases, with investigations continuing. The fires have burned 3,395 hectares across the province, including 2,507 hectares in Pelalawan Regency, the largest affected area.

Lombok Barat Licensing Services Receive ‘Very Good’ Rating

Lombok Barat’s one-stop investment and licensing agency has received a ‘Very Good’ rating in the national 2026 assessment of licensing services and efforts to accelerate business activity. The award recognises its combination of digital services and outreach visits to villages, which help residents and small businesses obtain permits despite distance and access barriers.

Riyadh Airport Attacked, Umrah Pilgrims Question Their Safety

Reports of an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh have unsettled prospective Indonesian Umrah pilgrims, who are asking about flight and personal safety. A travel operator says its flights go directly to Jeddah or Madinah, while Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has not advised against or prohibited travel and is monitoring the regional situation with the Foreign Ministry and Saudi authorities.

Gekrafs Explores Partnership with US Creative Industries

Indonesia’s National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) is seeking partnerships with US creative-sector businesses, offering design and production services for interactive museums, city models, performances and film-related tourism. The initiative, facilitated by Indonesia’s Consulate General in Los Angeles, aims to connect Indonesian creative talent with international markets and generate commercial opportunities.

An Unsubstantiated Accusation or a Serious Issue? Trump vs El-Sayed in Michigan

Donald Trump has again accused Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed of belonging to the Muslim Brotherhood, but has presented no evidence and El-Sayed denies any organisational ties. The dispute has intensified after old social media posts by El-Sayed’s half-sister about their mother’s past involvement circulated, prompting political attacks despite those posts not proving El-Sayed’s membership.

SKK Migas Says Pertamina and MedcoEnergi Have Seized Economic Opportunity from ENI

SKK Migas chief Djoko Siswanto said Pertamina Hulu Energi and MedcoEnergi’s acquisition of 10 per cent participating interests in ENI’s East Kalimantan assets offers access to economically promising projects while reducing exploration risk. He nevertheless urged both companies to pursue more exploration in Indonesia, describing it as essential to national energy self-sufficiency and security.

Little Aresha Daycare Head Breaks Down as Prosecutors Seek 10-Year Sentence

Prosecutors have sought a 10-year prison sentence for Anita Palupi, head of Jogja’s Little Aresha daycare, along with an Rp800 million fine and more than Rp425 million in restitution for victims. Her husband called the demand unreasonable and disputed her responsibility, while the case involves alleged violations of education, consumer protection and child protection laws.

Commentary: India’s ‘cockroach’ youth are proving hard to crush

India’s youth-led Cockroach Janta Party protests have expanded from anger over education and unemployment to demands for the removal of the chief election commissioner and a halt to voter-roll revisions. The government’s crackdown and the movement’s broad support underscore mounting challenges to the Modi administration, amid concerns over job prospects and allegations that electoral deletions disenfranchised voters.

‘AI lowers the capital needed’: India’s drug discovery push faces the test of human trials

Indian drug developers are using AI to identify promising drug candidates faster and more cheaply, while government funding supports research and development. However, experts say AI cannot resolve the major hurdles of costly preclinical work and human trials, and India’s ability to build clinical infrastructure will determine whether its early discoveries become approved medicines.

Chaos as Student Protests Turn Violent, Angry Crowd Sets Ministry Building Ablaze

Student demonstrations in Albania turned violent in Tirana, where protesters set fire to the Ministry of Justice amid anger over education costs and alleged corruption. The unrest adds pressure on Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government and reflects wider student protests over education and living conditions in parts of Europe.

KPK Seizes Rp800 Million from Hercules; Money Suspected to Have Come from Summarecon

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized Rp800 million handed over by a lawyer for Hercules Rosario Marshal, suspecting the money came from Summarecon and was linked to land management in Bogor. The cash is being treated as evidence in an investigation into alleged bribery involving land-block removal and building-use rights, a case that has already led to eight people being named suspects.

Bahlil Says LPG Subsidies Could Reach Around Rp100 Trillion Amid Surge in ICP

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says higher Indonesian crude prices have pushed LPG subsidies from Rp87 trillion at an ICP of US$70 a barrel to nearly Rp100 trillion as prices rose to US$90–100. The government is exploring compressed natural gas (CNG) as a cheaper alternative to imported LPG, while September 2026 ICP climbed to US$112.81 a barrel amid geopolitical tensions and supply risks.

Deputy Defence Minister: Defence Industry Urged to Strengthen TNI and the Economy

Deputy Defence Minister Yusuf Jauhari said the government is seeking partnerships to ensure Indonesia’s domestic defence industry supports both the armed forces and economic activity, including through technology transfer. He also highlighted diversification of defence equipment to reduce reliance on any single country amid geopolitical uncertainty, and was formally appointed as one of two deputy ministers with four-star ranks.

Tito Chides Regional Leaders over Post-Disaster Spending in Sumatra

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says several local governments have spent less than 10 per cent of disaster recovery funds allocated to Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, despite three rounds of central government assistance. He urged regional leaders to work with Jakarta to accelerate recovery, while Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said all nine hospitals that had halted operations and thousands of affected community health centres had reopened.

A Look at the Wealth of Four New Prabowo Officials, from Kristomei Sianturi to Alim Setiawan: Who Is the Richest?

Four officials appointed by President Prabowo have declared assets ranging from Rp2.14 billion to Rp7.17 billion, according to their latest reports to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The article outlines the reported holdings of three of them, including property, vehicles and cash; it does not provide the fourth official’s breakdown in the supplied text.

Prisoners Using Luxury Facilities Will Lose One Year of Remission, Minister Says

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto says prisoners found to have used luxury facilities at Cibinong Prison will lose one year of sentence remission. An internal ministry investigation found 21 buildings outside the prison’s main compound, 13 of which were not recorded in the state-assets management system; officials say they were built using inmates’ contributions rather than state funds.

TNI Deputy Commander to Study Latest Constitutional Court Ruling on Military Courts

TNI Deputy Commander General Maruli Simanjuntak said the military would study a Constitutional Court ruling ordering lawmakers to revise the Military Court Law within two years. The Court warned that without amendments, the current law would be unconstitutional and have no binding legal force; Maruli said military punishments can be harsher than those imposed by civilian courts.

BSSN Chief Calls for Stronger Cyber Resilience Across ASEAN

Indonesia is urging ASEAN members to deepen operational cooperation among national computer emergency response teams, protect critical infrastructure and build capacity to counter AI-driven threats. At the 11th ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity in Singapore, BSSN Chief Nugroho Sulistyo Budi also stressed collective resilience, international partnerships and preparation for post-quantum cryptography.

BMKG Warns of Potential Tidal Flooding Along Jakarta Coast

BMKG has warned that tidal flooding could affect several areas along Jakarta’s northern coast from 12 to 16 October, with a new-moon phase expected to contribute to higher sea levels. North Jakarta authorities are also building an 80-metre flood barrier, scheduled for completion by the end of December 2026, to prevent seawater from inundating roads and nearby settlements.

DPR Commission III Deputy Chair Urges Police and Attorney General’s Office to Help Crack Down on Food Cartels

Ahmad Sahroni has urged the National Police and Attorney General’s Office to support Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman’s efforts to dismantle alleged food cartels, which the minister blames for high chicken and egg prices. Sahroni said market manipulation harms consumers, local farmers and livestock breeders, and could undermine President Prabowo Subianto’s food self-sufficiency drive.

Minister: 3,500 Skilled Trans Patriot Personnel Deployed to Transmigration Areas

The Ministry of Transmigration says nearly 3,500 skilled personnel have been deployed to transmigration areas over the past two years through its Trans Patriot programme, which aims to bring expertise and technology to remote communities. Deployments currently last four months, but the ministry plans to extend them despite budget constraints, as part of five programmes to develop transmigration areas and stimulate local economic growth.

PLN Has a New President Director; IESR Urges Business Transformation

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) says the appointment of Suroso Isnandar as PLN’s new president director should be used to address deep-rooted issues in the state electricity company’s business model, finances and governance. It calls for better reliability and efficiency, financial reforms and a shift towards an energy-system operator capable of integrating renewables, while stressing that transformation need not mean privatisation.

Transjakarta Sea Service Could Make Travel Easier for Thousand Islands Residents

University of Indonesia academics say Transjakarta’s proposed expansion into maritime transport could improve mobility for residents of the Thousand Islands, but stress the need for careful funding plans and safeguards for local boat operators and workers. The Jakarta administration is still assessing the regulatory and operational model, including licensing, safety standards, infrastructure and fares, while aiming to improve inter-island access without weakening its land services.

Indonesia and Timor-Leste Sign Investment Treaty to Expand Economic Ties

Indonesia and Timor-Leste have signed a bilateral investment treaty establishing a framework to align policies, streamline regulations and encourage investment. The agreement is expected to deepen economic integration and attract investment across sectors including natural-resource processing, manufacturing, infrastructure and renewable energy, building on existing business ties and trade.

573 Hotspots Detected in South Papua as Fire Risk Grows

BMKG recorded 573 hotspots across South Papua, including 309 classified as high-confidence detections, with Mappi Regency accounting for the largest number of high-confidence points. The agency urged local governments to strengthen fire-prevention preparedness, early warning, patrols and water supplies amid concerns about forest and land fires.

Alqassam Kasuba: Industrialisation in North Maluku Must Drive the Growth of Local Businesses

Alqassam Kasuba says North Maluku must ensure large-scale industrial investment creates meaningful links with local MSMEs and small and medium industries, rather than being judged solely by investment, production or export figures. He calls for transparent procurement opportunities, supplier data and measurable local-content indicators, alongside processing industries based on the province’s agricultural and fisheries potential.

Indonesia complies with ASEAN wildfire reporting protocols, says foreign minister Nasir

Foreign Minister Nasir said Indonesia has met ASEAN reporting obligations on transboundary haze and shared operational data on firefighting, while hotspot numbers have declined despite difficult weather. Malaysia has urged more decisive action as haze affects air quality, while Singapore has offered to support regional mitigation efforts.

Jeddah Halal Forum Records Potential Transactions Worth Rp15 Billion

A four-day showcase at Saudi Fashion and Tex 2026 generated strong interest in collaboration, with potential transactions estimated at Rp15 billion. The Indonesian pavilion featured nine modest-fashion brands, as officials highlighted Saudi Arabia as a priority export market for Indonesian fashion in 2026–2027.

Lt Gen Kristomei Says He Will Not Intervene in KPK’s Legal Process at BNPB

Newly appointed BNPB chief Lt Gen Kristomei Sianturi says the agency will leave the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to handle its investigation into alleged bribery and conflicts of interest involving BNPB personnel. He also plans an internal consolidation and clean-up as five people have been named suspects and detained.

Pramono: I’m Relaxed—Whether I’m Attacked or Not, It Doesn’t Matter

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said leaders’ egos can obstruct cooperation, stressing that he is focused on working for the capital rather than responding to criticism. He also highlighted a new regulation intended to make building-permit processes more transparent, saying trust between government and business is essential to Jakarta’s development.