Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 19 October 2026

Showing 501-1,000 of 1,486 articles

East Java Police Say Case of Alleged Abuse of Child with Special Needs Resulting in Death Is Being Handled in Accordance with the Law

East Java Police say they are handling the death of a 10-year-old child with special needs in line with Indonesia’s juvenile justice law, as the suspected perpetrator is under 12. Investigators say they are working with probation and social-work professionals while seeking to respect the victim’s family’s rights and sense of justice.

Malaysia offers three helicopters and 52 personnel to help Indonesia fight fires

Malaysia has offered three helicopters and 52 personnel to support Indonesia’s firefighting efforts, while Jakarta is assessing the technical and logistical arrangements for receiving foreign assistance. A joint force of more than 60,000 personnel has been deployed, and President Prabowo Subianto has approved accepting help from neighbouring countries as the fires’ impacts cross borders.

Forestry Ministry Sanctions 32 Companies and Pursues Criminal Cases Against 125 Entities over Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on 32 companies linked to areas totalling 12,926.74 hectares affected by fires, while 125 legal subjects are facing criminal proceedings. The ministry says cases could also lead to claims for compensation for forest damage, and investigators are developing evidence to identify those responsible, including beneficial owners.

BRI Director Buys 1.1 Million BBRI Shares Worth Rp2.97 Billion, Boosting Investment in the Bank

BRI Commercial Banking Director Alexander Dippo Paris Y.S. bought 1.1 million BBRI shares for Rp2.97 billion on 16 October 2026, more than doubling his holding to 1.915 million shares. The purchase was made at Rp2,700 per share, above the market closing price of Rp2,640, and follows another purchase in June; the transaction is a disclosed insider investment, but does not by itself indicate the shares’ future performance.

MUI says opposition to Andrea Bocelli concert is in line with the Constitution

Indonesia’s Council of Indonesian Ulama (MUI) has firmly opposed plans for an Andrea Bocelli concert in the country, citing the singer’s alleged support for Israel and the 1945 Constitution’s commitment to opposing colonialism. The council urged the government to block the event, while also calling for the growth of creative industries not affiliated with Israeli Zionism.

MSCI Proposal Could Put Pressure on Indonesia’s Bond Market, 10-Year Government Bond Yield Briefly Hits 7.33%

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia warns that a proposed MSCI reclassification of Indonesia’s equity market could trigger wider outflows, affecting government bonds and the rupiah. The 10-year Indonesian government bond yield briefly reached 7.33% even as US Treasury yields fell, pointing to additional domestic pressures and potentially limiting Bank Indonesia’s scope to ease monetary policy.

Koster Claims Fuel Shortages Have Not Disrupted Bali Tourism

Bali Governor Wayan Koster says fuel shortages have not affected tourism, citing increases in international and domestic flights and overseas visitor numbers in October, despite complaints from tourism operators about delays and cancellations. Officials say supplies are recovering, with Bali holding 30 million litres of Pertalite and 10 million litres of Pertamax; the Energy Minister plans to extend fuel reserves from 11–12 days to 15 days.

President Prabowo Summons BI, OJK Chiefs and Several Ministers to the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto met senior economic ministers and financial regulators at Merdeka Palace, bringing together officials responsible for fiscal, monetary, investment and financial-sector oversight. No official agenda or decisions have been disclosed, although the meeting comes amid attention to Indonesia’s economic conditions, capital markets and the Jakarta Composite Index.

Indonesia guarantees safety of shrimp and spices bound for the US

Indonesia says its US-bound shrimp and spice shipments have met radioactive-contamination safety requirements, with certificates issued by agencies recognised by the US FDA. From October 2025 to September 2026, certified shrimp exports totalled 95,438 tonnes worth Rp16 trillion, while certified spice shipments were valued at Rp48 trillion; none were rejected by US regulators as the country closed the emergency response to the Cs-137 incident in Banten.

Tito Karnavian Reveals Why Peatland Fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra Are Difficult to Extinguish

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says fires in peat soil can burn for longer beneath the surface, making them harder to extinguish than fires on mineral soil. He outlined methods to saturate peatland with water, including natural or artificial rain and water from nearby sources, while noting that chemical treatment is being used where those options are limited.

After the Fires, Do Palm Plantations Emerge?

The opinion article argues that Indonesia must prevent burned or degraded land from becoming an easier route to commercial development, particularly for palm oil. It proposes assessing land’s ecological and social value before investment, using a Natural Positive Index, and shifting from land-bank expansion towards productivity, restoration and long-term natural-capital management.

Cotecna Group acquires Energon Labs to expand pharmaceutical testing capabilities in India

Cotecna Group has acquired Hyderabad-based Energon Labs, adding specialised pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, medical-device and packaging testing services to its global Life Sciences platform. The deal expands Cotecna’s reach in India, a major pharmaceutical manufacturing hub, and strengthens its ability to serve regulated markets worldwide.

At Commissioners’ Request, Jasa Marga to Hold Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting on 25 November

Jasa Marga will hold an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders (EGMS) on 25 November 2026 following a request from its Board of Commissioners, although the agenda has not yet been disclosed. The meeting will be conducted electronically, and eligible shareholders can propose agenda items subject to regulatory requirements and an October deadline.

Criticised over Human Rights, EU Still Expands Migration Cooperation with Eastern Libya

The European Union is providing an additional €25 million to expand migration-control cooperation with authorities in eastern Libya, including border management, maritime search and rescue, and efforts to combat human trafficking. The decision has drawn renewed criticism because rights groups have documented abuses against migrants and refugees in Libya, raising concerns about the EU’s reliance on security forces operating under Khalifa Haftar amid the country’s political fragmentation.

Gusti Marrel: Young People Must Get Directly Involved in Environmental Issues

Gusti Marrel says young people should play a greater role in environmental protection and ESG, combining classroom learning with practical work. He argues they need access, support and clear opportunities to begin taking action, including through small initiatives in their local communities.

Police Shooting of Colleague in Pondok Cabe Allegedly Linked to Bullying

Investigators are examining whether bullying by the victim’s colleagues towards the alleged shooter was a factor in the fatal shooting at the Pondok Cabe Marine and Air Police headquarters. The victim’s family lawyer says the alleged bullying was directed at the suspect, not the victim, while investigators continue to gather evidence, including CCTV footage, and investigate the source of the long-barrelled firearm.

Hong Kong electronics fairs attract more than 61,000 buyers

Hong Kong’s Autumn Electronics Fair and electronicAsia drew more than 61,000 buyers from 141 countries and regions, with over 3,200 exhibitors showcasing electronics, AI and robotics technologies. Organisers said survey findings point to continued industry optimism and growing AI adoption, while the events helped companies pursue international sales, investment and partnerships.

Singapore Dollars Sell Well as Rupiah Weakens, Bringing Multiple-Fold Gains

Money changers in Central Jakarta report increased sales of Singapore dollars as the rupiah weakens, with one customer exchanging S$20,000 for Rp319 million. Other foreign-currency holders are also cashing in on higher exchange rates, while some customers exchange rupiah for Saudi riyals for travel and religious purposes.

BP Tapera urges developers to explore FLPP vertical housing opportunities

BP Tapera has urged developers to consider low-rise vertical housing under the government’s FLPP subsidised mortgage scheme, saying buildings of four or five storeys could be a practical option. The government is also considering longer mortgage terms of up to 40 years and is directing urban housing towards vertical and transit-oriented developments amid limited land availability.

Law enforcement urged to investigate toddler’s death after fall from balcony

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged investigators to establish how a three-year-old girl died after falling from a hotel balcony in Samarinda, including whether parental negligence played a role. The commission says authorities should review available CCTV footage and stresses parents’ legal duty to protect children under the Child Protection Law.

Foreign Minister: Indonesia Seeks UN Security Council Seat and WHO Director-General Role to Strengthen Multilateral System

Indonesia says it will pursue a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council and supports Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin as a candidate for WHO director-general, presenting both bids as part of a broader effort to strengthen multilateralism. Foreign Minister Arrmanatha C. Nasir highlighted Indonesia’s history of peacekeeping and its contributions to UN bodies, stressing that the country aims to bring practical ideas and solutions to international forums.

Huawei’s Starlight Targets Mid-range Phones and Online Consumers

Huawei is reportedly preparing to launch Starlight, an online-only smartphone sub-brand aimed at affordable, high-performance mid-range devices. The move could broaden the reach of Huawei’s Kirin chipsets and HarmonyOS, while helping the company compete with brands such as Redmi, iQOO and Realme.

Bulog Sulteng Partners with Agricultural Extension Workers to Support Corn Self-Sufficiency

Bulog’s Central Sulawesi office is working with agricultural extension workers in Sigi to improve corn production forecasting and the purchase of farmers’ harvests. The province has a 2026 domestic procurement target of 3,300 tonnes, with more than 800 tonnes collected by mid-year; the coordination is intended to strengthen market certainty, food security and local farmers’ welfare.

Zulhas Says Indonesian Fishers Are Struggling, but Their Fortunes May Soon Change

Co-ordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan says many Indonesian fishers lack financing and basic facilities, leaving them indebted to middlemen and forced to sell catches at low prices. The government plans to build thousands of Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih fishing villages, with cold storage and other supporting infrastructure, as part of efforts to improve fishers’ livelihoods and the quality of their catch.

Forest Crackdown: Komjak Urges Probe into Beneficial Owners

The Judicial Commission (Komjak) has urged prosecutors and the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force to investigate the beneficial owners behind forest-area violations, not only operational-level offenders. It also called for impartial and auditable law enforcement, protection of smallholders’ rights, and restoration of reclaimed forest areas, citing state revenue collections of around Rp13.24 trillion.

Police Chief Says Foreign Parties and Neighbouring Country Involved in Indonesian Forest Fires

National Police chief Suyudi Ario Seto says foreign interests are implicated in a number of corporate-linked forest and land fire cases, including companies connected to a neighbouring country. Investigators are examining 98 cases and gathering evidence before naming company owners and shareholders as suspects.

Cak Imin’s Blunt Response to the Suspected Bullying Death of a Child with Down’s Syndrome in Surabaya

Co-ordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar says preventing bullying requires sustained co-operation between schools and families, including efforts to address children who bully. His remarks follow the suspected bullying-related death of a 10-year-old child with Down’s syndrome in Surabaya.

MUI Calls for Istisqa Prayer to Seek Rain and Help Tackle Forest and Land Fires

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged Muslims to perform communal Istisqa prayers for rain as forest and land fires worsen across several regions, while calling on the President and authorities to step up their response. It also stressed that deliberate burning which endangers people and damages the environment is forbidden under Islamic law, and appealed for coordinated firefighting and public health precautions.

Bekasi Teenager Travels to Bali to Meet PUBG Boyfriend, Sparking Parental Concern

A 17-year-old girl from Bekasi travelled alone to Karangasem, Bali, to meet a boyfriend she had met through PUBG. Concerned about the two teenagers’ safety, the boyfriend’s parents contacted police, who referred the girl to local social services and municipal officers to arrange her return home.

Houthi Threat Prompts Saudi Arabia to Require Skyscraper Staff to Work from Home

Staff at Riyadh’s 99-storey Kingdom Centre have been told to work from home amid the threat of Houthi attacks, while the complex’s shopping centre remains open. The move comes as attacks and interceptions intensify across Saudi Arabia, with schools switching to online learning and Riyadh’s international airport still closed.

Zulhas and Sudaryono Crack Down on MBG Collusion, from Foundations to CCTV

Food Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan says the government is rooting out alleged collusion in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, including arrangements involving foundations and service units, and warned deliberate violations could be taken to court. The National Nutrition Agency is also tightening kitchen hygiene and beneficiary data checks, while piloting a central CCTV monitoring system with AI at around 70 kitchens to help enforce operating standards.

IDX to Exclude All HSC Shares from JCI Calculation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) will exclude shares classified as having High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) from the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI), while adding affiliation status to disclosures of shareholders with stakes above 1%. The moves follow MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia as a Standalone Market and come amid sharp falls in the JCI; the IDX says the HSC measure is intended to make the index more representative and is not a delisting.

BPKH Partners with Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam to Strengthen Hajj Economy Development Opportunities

Indonesia’s Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has signed an MoU with Brunei’s Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam to explore investment and business cooperation in Islamic finance and the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem. Areas under consideration include infrastructure, hospitality and healthcare, with the agreement also opening the way for collaboration involving affiliated companies and financial institutions.

TEI 2026 Secures 168 MoUs Worth US$13.2 Billion, Trade Ministry Highlights Post-Agreement Challenges

Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 recorded 168 memoranda of understanding worth US$13.2 billion on its opening day, alongside 16,000 buyers from 134 countries and 1,873 exhibitors. The Trade Ministry says the agreements must now be followed up and converted into actual trade, as signed MoUs do not in themselves guarantee completed transactions.

Indonesian Consulate in Johor Bahru Repatriates Migrant Worker Who Had Been in a Coma

The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has arranged the return of a migrant worker from North Sumatra after she was treated for a brain haemorrhage and coma in a Malaysian hospital. She will undergo further medical assessment in Batam before travelling on to Medan, with Indonesian agencies coordinating her care and repatriation.

UN Secretary-General: Security Council Must Be Reformed as Permanent Members Start Wars

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for reform of the Security Council, arguing that its five permanent members no longer reflect today’s global realities. He said permanent members sometimes initiate wars in defiance of international law, weakening the UN’s ability to advance peace and security, and praised Indonesia’s calls for more inclusive multilateralism.

Balancing Economic Growth, Human Rights Ministry Prepares Presidential Regulation on Business and Human Rights

The Human Rights Ministry is preparing a presidential regulation to assess businesses’ compliance with human rights principles, including a corporate human rights audit mandate set out in the national development plan. The draft has completed harmonisation and is expected to be submitted to the President for signature, as Indonesia also prepares for OECD accession.

Commission III Says Police Services Have Improved Over the Past Two Years

DPR Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni says the National Police’s public service has improved over the past two years, citing more responsive complaint handling, a more humane approach and stronger internal oversight. He hopes the improvements will continue under Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto, who has urged officers to focus on community needs and provide practical solutions.

Perbarindo Holds 12th National Congress, Sets Out Direction for BPR and BPRS Industry

Perbarindo’s 12th National Congress brought together industry leaders and regulators to review the association’s work and set priorities for 2026–2030, including governance, regulatory flexibility and digital transformation. The association highlighted positive growth in BPR and BPRS assets, lending and deposits through July 2026, while calling for policies better tailored to these banks’ role in financing micro and small businesses.

Bamsoet Urges Mandatory Disaster Insurance for Mining and Plantation Companies

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo has urged the government to require medium-sized and large mining and plantation companies to insure against forest fires and floods. He proposes a state-private insurance consortium overseen by the Financial Services Authority, with premiums based on environmental risk and protection for affected communities; insurance would not exempt companies from legal liability or environmental restoration.

Indonesian Listed Companies Association pledges involvement in capital market reform

The Indonesian Listed Companies Association (AEI) has pledged to work with regulators, the stock exchange and other stakeholders to strengthen transparency, market infrastructure, governance and legal certainty after market turmoil linked to MSCI’s classification announcement. BCA’s planned share buyback may help support sentiment, but analysts warn it cannot ensure a broader recovery as markets remain exposed to global and domestic economic conditions; the Jakarta Composite Index fell sharply before partially recovering on Monday.

MSCI Issue Hits IDX Composite, Airlangga Responds

Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto attributed the IDX Composite’s sharp fall to negative market sentiment, while saying the new 7 per cent lower auto-rejection limit had helped contain the decline. The sell-off followed MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesia’s capital market as a standalone market, a process Airlangga said would continue until June next year.

COP17 Opens in Armenia to Review Global Biodiversity Progress

COP17 has opened in Yerevan, where countries are due to conduct the first global review of collective progress under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The assessment will identify implementation gaps and guide priority action towards the framework’s 2030 targets.

BPK identifies two weaknesses in DGT system hindering tax optimisation

Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) found that the Directorate General of Taxes’ information system is inadequate at detecting late or underpaid taxes and at validating tax invoices against transactions and VAT returns. The gaps could leave administrative penalties uncollected and undeclared invoices undetected; BPK has urged the Finance Minister to evaluate the system and follow up on prior recommendations.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Explains Why Rice Prices Remain High Despite Indonesia’s Self-Sufficiency

Deputy Agriculture Minister Muhammad Saleh Mustafa says private-sector pricing practices and differences between rice varieties help explain why prices remain high despite Indonesia achieving rice self-sufficiency. The government plans to strengthen regulation and rely on state logistics agency Bulog to absorb production and help keep prices stable.

KPK Prosecutors Refer Silmy Karim and Others’ Case to Central Jakarta District Court

KPK prosecutors have submitted the case file in an alleged extortion and gratification scheme involving foreign nationals’ stay-permit applications to the Central Jakarta Corruption Court. The commission alleges that eight suspects obtained about Rp145.5 billion between 2022 and 2026, with the first hearing date yet to be set.

Tangerang Regency Urges Pupils Not to Join 20 October Demonstration in Jakarta

Tangerang Regency has urged primary and lower-secondary pupils not to attend a planned demonstration in Jakarta on 20 October, telling them to focus on school and avoid being influenced by calls circulating on social media. The education department said the appeal followed provincial guidance and coordination with police, while parents were asked to supervise children outside school hours.

BNN: Drug distribution through vapes threatens young people

Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN) says the use of vapes to distribute narcotics poses a serious threat to young people, as traffickers exploit the devices to evade authorities. It is urging the government to fast-track regulations banning e-cigarettes, alongside stronger law enforcement, distribution monitoring and public education.

Battered: How Long Will It Take the JCI to Recover from the MSCI Shock?

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) sank to its lowest level since 2020 after MSCI opened a consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market. Previous MSCI-related sell-offs have taken between one and six trading sessions to turn around, but foreign investors have continued selling even during rebounds, and the current consultation could make this episode more severe.

Cianjur Disaster Agency Extends Drought Emergency Alert Until November

Cianjur’s disaster management agency has extended its drought emergency alert by a month, through November 2026, as rainfall remains low and the seasonal transition is delayed. Tankers continue to deliver 20,000 litres of clean water daily to four districts, while El Niño is expected to have an impact into 2027.

Food Deputy Coordinating Minister: Iron and steel smelting must not be located in Greater Jakarta

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq says iron and steel smelters should not operate in Greater Jakarta, citing risks to air quality, public health and food safety. His remarks follow the Cesium-137 contamination at an industrial facility in Cikande; the emergency response phase has ended, but follow-up action by relevant agencies will continue.

Police Officer Shoots Police Officer; Lawyer Says Four Bullets Were Found in Victim’s Head

A lawyer for Bharatu Laurentius Fernandez Lawai says four projectiles were found in the victim’s head, citing information from the autopsy and photographs, and questions whether more than one person was involved. Jakarta Metro Police say the fellow officer suspected of the fatal shooting has been detained and is being questioned as the legal process continues.

Dony Oskaria Summoned to the Palace, Ready to Buy Up State-Owned Company Shares

BPI Danantara COO Dony Oskaria said the investment agency plans to increase its stakes in state-owned companies with strong fundamentals, as Indonesian equities face pressure after MSCI proposed downgrading the market to standalone status. He was unable to confirm whether his meeting with President Prabowo Subianto would address the MSCI move, while describing the market downturn as normal volatility.

Dudung Says 97 Companies Face Legal Proceedings over Forest and Land Fires: ‘We Are Taking This Seriously’

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurrachman says 97 companies in Kalimantan and Sumatra are being processed legally in connection with forest and land fires. He said the government, with President Prabowo Subianto’s close attention, is maintaining intensive monitoring and cross-sector coordination to tackle the fires and protect communities.

IMF: China Is Making Proactive Efforts to Uphold Multilateral Trade

An IMF official welcomed China’s efforts to defend a rules-based multilateral trading system and said its companies’ overseas investment could help spread digital and green-energy technologies. He warned that geopolitical fragmentation and prolonged energy shocks could weigh on trade and growth, while the IMF raised its 2026 Asia growth forecast to 4.8 per cent.

Foreign Minister Tells UN Secretary-General Multilateralism Is a Necessity

Foreign Minister Arrmanatha C. Nasir said Indonesia considers multilateralism essential as global challenges grow more complex and opportunities for dialogue narrow. He called for urgent UN reform to strengthen the voice of developing countries, improve the organisation’s effectiveness and keep it relevant, while reaffirming Indonesia’s support for Palestinian independence and self-determination.

US Dollars at Money Changers Become a Target as Indonesian Stocks Plunge

Demand for US dollars surged at Jakarta money changers as Indonesia’s benchmark stock index fell sharply, pushing up exchange rates amid a weakening rupiah. The market turmoil followed MSCI’s proposal to consider downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market status over concerns about transparency and market enforcement.

Indonesian Stocks Extend Losses for Third Day, Fall 3.64% to 4,996

Indonesia’s benchmark stock index fell 3.64% to 4,996 on Monday, marking a third straight session of losses amid uncertainty over MSCI’s planned market reclassification, tighter IDX trading limits and regulatory fines linked to alleged coordinated trading. Weakness across Asian technology shares and concerns over AI investment returns added to the pressure, while global oil, gold and interest-rate developments shaped broader market sentiment.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Presidential Advisory Council Member Highlights the State’s Role in Improving Public Welfare

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has established a direction centred on a stronger state role in public welfare, despite two years being too short to resolve all national challenges. He pointed to economic growth and social indicators, as well as programmes spanning nutrition, villages, fisheries, small businesses and strategic industries, while urging continued action on food security and productive job creation.

PSS Supporters Injured in Madiun Toll Road Crash Undergo Surgery

Two PSS Sleman supporters injured in a crash on the Madiun toll road remain in hospital, with one having undergone surgery for a severe head injury. Four people died and 11 others were injured; Sleman Regency authorities, the club, supporters and Jasa Raharja are helping cover treatment and other costs.

Apple May Start Selling OLED iPad mini on 6 November 2026

Apple may begin selling its next-generation compact iPad mini with an OLED display on 6 November 2026, following a planned overnight rearrangement of its Apple Store displays. The device is expected to be announced around 28 October alongside several other products and may cost about US$799, roughly US$200 more than its predecessor.

PPP NTB in Turmoil: Moh Akri Sacked but Claims He Was Appointed Acting Regional Chairman

PPP’s internal dispute in West Nusa Tenggara has escalated, with the party’s regional leadership saying Moh Akri was expelled and will be replaced as an MP, while Akri says the party’s central board appointed him acting regional chairman. The competing claims centre on rival decisions by the central board and the party’s reconciliation efforts ahead of the 2029 election.

Pertamina President Director Promises Long Fuel Queues in Bali Will Not Recur

Pertamina President Director Simon Aloysius Mantiri apologised for fuel queues in Bali and pledged to prevent a repeat after deliveries were disrupted by a late fuel tanker from Java. The government says supplies have recovered, with Pertamina increasing the number of tankers serving Bali from three to seven and raising its local reserve target from 11 to 15 days.

Komjak Praises Satgas PKH’s Performance During Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years

The Judicial Commission has praised the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force (Satgas PKH) for reclaiming more than 6.2 million hectares of forest land and transferring over Rp13.24 trillion in non-tax state revenue to the treasury since its establishment in February 2025. It says it will continue monitoring the legal process, transparency and protection of smallholders, while stressing that reclaimed land must also be restored and put to productive use.

Lawyer Outlines Initial Suspected Motive in Police Shooting of Fellow Officer in South Tangerang

A lawyer for Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez says investigators are examining claims that the alleged shooter, a fellow police officer, had been angered by bullying from the victim’s colleagues. Investigators are also probing the source of the long-barrelled firearm and reports that the suspect may have a mental health condition; the suspect has been detained and will face legal proceedings.

Europe on Edge: Five Countries Hit by Simultaneous Unrest, Not Just France

Protests over the cost of living, public services, alleged corruption and housing have swept France, Italy, Albania, Belgium and Portugal. Demonstrations turned violent in several locations, while Portugal’s housing protest highlighted a 124% rise in home prices between 2015 and 2024, putting pressure on governments across the region.

Culture Ministry Plans to Revitalise Muara Takus Temple

The Ministry of Culture is preparing restoration and revitalisation work at the Muara Takus Temple complex in Kampar, Riau, where weathering and salt damage have affected the structures. Archaeologists also believe the complex may extend beyond its four known temples, prompting plans for further excavation and mapping to guide protection and future development.

State-Owned Enterprises Agency Praises ESG NOW Leadership Forum & Awards 2026

Tedi Bharata, Deputy Head of the State-Owned Enterprises Regulatory Agency, praised Republika for promoting environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues through its 2026 leadership forum and awards. He said sustainability is central to state-owned enterprises’ business transformation and national resilience, and called for greater collaboration between SOEs, private businesses and local governments to accelerate ESG adoption.

Video: Demand Grows for Tasty, Nutritious Drinks That Support a Healthy Lifestyle

Growing interest in health and wellness since the Covid-19 pandemic has increased demand for nutritious, enjoyable health drinks, according to Hotto founder and chief executive Guntur. Hotto reported 20% year-on-year sales growth in the first half of 2026 and is developing products aimed at digestive health and daily nutritional needs.

Tanah Tinggi Timur Street Upgrade, Including Pavements, Completed in Central Jakarta

A 150-metre improvement project on Tanah Tinggi Timur Street in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, has been completed as part of the third-quarter 2026 area improvement programme. The work upgraded pavements and gardens, while corporate social responsibility funding from PT Parani supported a pond and fountain; local officials have called for ongoing maintenance.

Three Waste-to-Energy Projects Under Construction Could Generate 100 MW

Three first-phase waste-to-energy facilities in Denpasar, Bekasi and Greater Bogor are under construction and are expected to generate a combined 100 MW while processing more than 1,500 tonnes of municipal waste daily. Construction remains on track for commercial operations in the first half of 2028, backed by a financing panel of 34 financial institutions that has received commitments exceeding US$4 billion.

Crack! Giant Cotton Tree Falls on a Food Stall in Panggang, Gunungkidul

A large cotton tree fell onto a semi-permanent food stall in Girisekar, Panggang, causing damage estimated at Rp20 million but no casualties. The tree was being felled when strong winds shifted its fall towards the stall; the tree cutters and stall owner agreed to settle the matter amicably.

Tito Explains Why Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra Are Difficult to Extinguish

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says fires in peatland areas of Kalimantan and Sumatra are difficult to extinguish because flames can persist below the surface. Authorities are using weather modification and chemical treatments to cool peat, while fires continue across six provinces, with more than 1,300 hectares reported burnt in the previous 24 hours.

Airlangga Says IHSG Fall Is Due to Negative Sentiment

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the Jakarta Composite Index’s decline was a normal response to negative market sentiment, after it briefly fell below 5,000 before recovering. The government is monitoring MSCI’s consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia to standalone-market status, while the Indonesia Stock Exchange has temporarily tightened its lower auto-rejection limit to curb volatility.

Ahmad Luthfi Awards Scholarships to 424 Ma'had Aly Students and 58 Santri Penggerak

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has awarded scholarships to 424 Ma'had Aly students and 58 Santri Penggerak under the Pesantren Obah programme. The grants provide Rp1 million per semester for six semesters, while the provincial government also plans to foster collaboration between students at general universities and pesantren-based higher education institutions.

Government Takes Legal Action Against 97 Companies over Forest and Land Fires

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurrachman says 97 companies in Kalimantan and Sumatra are being processed through legal channels over forest and land fires. He said the action reflects the government’s commitment to enforcement, with President Prabowo Subianto closely monitoring the response and agencies continuing cross-sector coordination.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Makes ESG the Foundation of Community Empowerment

Pertamina Patra Niaga is embedding environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles in community programmes that link renewable energy, local livelihoods and circular-economy initiatives. Its SAGARI Berdikari mango-farming programme has created four new farming groups and recorded a Social Return on Investment of 2.23, earning the company an award for social innovation and circular-economy impact.

Prabowo Summons Economic Ministers and BI Governor to the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto summoned a group of economic ministers, Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti and OJK chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi to the Presidential Palace. The meeting’s agenda was not disclosed, although officials indicated it might cover economic issues including downstreaming, while the MSCI matter had already been discussed at the Indonesia Stock Exchange.

KCIC Records More Than 1 Million Foreign Nationals Travelling on Whoosh

More than one million foreign nationals have travelled on the Whoosh high-speed railway in its first three years of commercial operations, with Malaysians accounting for about 43 per cent. KCIC says it has carried 18.2 million passengers overall and expanded daily services, while reporting a 99.4 per cent punctuality rate and no accidents.

Communications Minister Outlines Three Priorities for Indonesia’s Digital Transformation at Bali Tech Week 2026

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid set out a three-part digital transformation agenda—connectivity, growth and protection—at the opening of Bali Tech Week 2026. She highlighted broad internet and 4G coverage, support for digital talent and start-ups, and the need for secure services, child protection and clear regulation to ensure technology delivers economic and public-service benefits.

Chinese Ambassador Boasts of Easy Victory over Manila, Angering the Philippines

The Philippines has formally protested remarks by Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan that Beijing could easily defeat Manila if it used force, prompting calls from Philippine senators for his expulsion. The dispute comes amid escalating confrontations between the two countries in the South China Sea and renewed tension over China’s territorial claims.

Bahlil Deploys Seven Fuel Tankers to Secure Bali’s Supplies

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has ordered an increase in fuel shipments from Java to Bali, raising the number of vessels from three to seven after delays caused queues at petrol stations. He has also instructed officials to increase Bali’s fuel reserve target from 11 to 15 days, while denying that the province’s fuel allocation was cut.

Agriculture Minister Amran writes to police chief Suyudi, urging decisive action against food mafias

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has asked the new National Police chief to ensure food-related fraud is fully investigated, citing alleged abuses involving poultry, eggs, rice and cooking oil. The government says consumers may have lost an estimated Rp89 trillion through overpriced fortified rice, while enforcement agencies have identified hundreds of suspected offenders and producers.

Government Identifies 97 Companies Involved in Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police have identified 97 companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, with the findings now being pursued through legal processes. By 13 October 2026, police had named nine suspects in corporate-linked cases and 223 suspects in cases involving individuals, while warning that offenders face prison terms of up to 10–12 years.

Analysts Say BBRI Shares Are Undervalued: Is It Time to Buy?

Analysts say Bank Rakyat Indonesia’s recent share-price fall has made its valuation attractive, with a dividend yield that could reach 10%, potentially creating an opportunity for long-term investors to accumulate shares gradually. They also caution that investors should monitor asset quality, credit growth and non-performing loans as the bank navigates a challenging economic environment.

OnePlus Ace 7 Pro Design Leaks Ahead of Launch

Images purportedly showing the OnePlus Ace 7 Pro have surfaced on Weibo days before the Ace 7 series is due to launch in China. Reports also point to a 200-megapixel main camera, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, built-in fan cooling and a 9,000mAh battery.

Cirebon People’s School Builds Students’ Discipline and Character

Cirebon’s Integrated People’s School says its 24-hour residential education programme is helping students develop more disciplined routines and respectful behaviour. The school also provides daily necessities and has enlisted support from other schools and university cadets to address staffing constraints among caregivers.

East Java wins overall title at national FIKSI for the first time

East Java has won the overall title at the 2026 Indonesian Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Festival (FIKSI) for the first time, taking 18 medals. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa said the achievement reflects the province’s efforts to foster entrepreneurship through school programmes, while education officials credited structured coaching and training.

Andre Rosiade Responds to Resident’s Request, Fish Seller Receives Motorised Tricycle

Gerindra MP Andre Rosiade has provided a motorised tricycle to Zulkifli, a 60-year-old itinerant fish seller in Padang, following a request made during a visit to the city in July. The vehicle is intended to make it easier for him to transport fish and support his small business and household income.

Listyo Sigit Receives Prabowo’s Instructions on Oversight of Priority Programmes

Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo says President Prabowo Subianto has given him specific instructions to oversee and coordinate national priority programmes and address strategic issues. Sigit said the Presidential Staff Office would work to support the government’s agenda, including the President’s Astacita vision and 17 priority programmes.

Tangerang Regency Government steps up monitoring of pupils to prevent them joining protest

Tangerang Regency’s Education Office has directed schools to monitor pupils and prevent them from taking part in a planned demonstration in Jakarta on 20 October 2026. The office also urged parents to supervise children outside school hours, while leaving public-order monitoring to the police.

Zulhas Says Fish Prices Could Be Regulated Like Rice, with Government-Set Price Ceilings

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan says the government is discussing reference prices for selected fish species to improve fishermen’s welfare and the value of their catches. The proposed system could involve Red and White Fishing Villages buying fish and supplying nutrition service units, but would require investment in cold storage and other fisheries infrastructure; details have not yet been finalised.

Before UN Secretary-General, Foreign Minister Reaffirms Indonesia’s Unwavering Support for Palestine

Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir told UN Secretary-General António Guterres that Indonesia’s support for Palestinian independence and self-determination remains steadfast, in line with the country’s constitutional commitment to world peace. He also called reform of the United Nations urgent, citing challenges including climate change, pandemics, artificial intelligence and new security threats.

Former Forest Fire Site in West Sumatra Planted with Oil Palm

Authorities in Dharmasraya have found newly planted oil-palm seedlings on forest land that burned in August, prompting a ban on cultivation at the site and a police investigation. Officials say the area is limited production forest and that planting there may constitute a deliberate breach of environmental rules; the regency is also stepping up patrols and plans to restore the forest.

Cabinet Members Begin Arriving at the Palace in Maung Vehicles

Members of the Red and White Cabinet have begun using Maung MV3 vehicles as official cars, with several seen arriving at the State Palace in Jakarta. Some ministers who have already received the vehicles are still using other cars, while Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto has previously praised the Maung’s comfort and interior features.

Housing Minister Says Home Renovation Aid Will Reach Those Who Need It

Housing and Settlement Areas Minister Maruarar Sirait says the government is checking household income and housing conditions to ensure its home renovation assistance reaches the most vulnerable families. North Jakarta has 174,000 uninhabitable homes, while 2,000 homes are allocated for renovation there in 2026; work is scheduled from 26 October to 26 December.

Jakarta Composite Index Plunges as Capital Market Reforms Are Put to the Test

The Jakarta Composite Index fell sharply after MSCI began reviewing whether to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, citing concerns over ownership transparency, coordinated trading and enforcement. The review has intensified scrutiny of reforms announced by Indonesian authorities, with the article arguing that credible implementation and measurable accountability—not a short-term rebound in share prices—will be essential to restoring investor confidence.

Conglomerate-Owned Issuers Join Forces to Buy Back Their Undervalued Shares

Several companies owned by Indonesian conglomerates have announced share buy-backs totalling billions of rupiah as the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) slumped amid MSCI-related market concerns. The plans include up to Rp1 trillion each from Barito Pacific, Chandra Asri Pacific, Barito Renewables Energy and Dian Swastatika Sentosa, with Petrindo Jaya Kreasi allocating Rp500 billion; the announcements come as regulators have imposed substantial fines on some of the issuers.

The New Criminal Codes and the Challenge of Ensuring Legal Certainty

Indonesia’s new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code took effect on 2 January 2026, replacing a framework rooted in colonial law. Their success will depend on consistent implementation that protects human rights, provides legal certainty and coordinates criminal justice institutions while preserving their independence.

Saudi Arabian Airspace Is Unsafe, Except Above Mecca and Medina

Yemen’s Houthi group has warned people to stay away from Saudi oil facilities and claimed that Saudi Arabian airspace is unsafe apart from the skies over Mecca and Medina. The threat comes amid disruption to flights following Houthi missile and drone attacks, with regional governments urging citizens to postpone Umrah travel.

60 Journalists Reach the MediaMIND 2026 Final

Sixty journalists have advanced to the final of the fifth MediaMIND journalism competition, selected from 782 registrants and 612 submitted works. Finalists will visit MIND ID group companies’ operating sites to learn first-hand about mining, mineral downstreaming and the sector’s contribution to national development.

Indonesia develops quantum-resistant security to protect its digital economy

The government is developing post-quantum cryptography and establishing a national task force led by BSSN to guard against future decryption of data stolen today. The initiative comes as digital transactions and the digital economy expand, alongside major data-centre and technology investment plans that support Indonesia’s 2027 growth target.

List of 10 Former Diponegoro Military District Commands Now Under Mataram Command

Ten military district commands have been transferred from Military Regional Command IV/Diponegoro to the newly established XXVI/Mataram Command, one of 204 new Indonesian military units inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto. Officials said the reorganisation is intended to focus territorial management and security, with five commands from Yogyakarta and five from Central Java.

Prosecutors Appeal MXGP Land Corruption Ruling, Citing Rp50 Million Fine

West Nusa Tenggara prosecutors have appealed to the Supreme Court against an appeals-court ruling in the Samota MXGP circuit land-procurement corruption case, arguing that the Rp50 million fines are too low compared with the roughly Rp500 million sought. They also want the appeal to revisit the possible involvement of former East Lombok regent Ali Bin Dachlan, while the appellate court increased prison terms for three defendants and found two public valuers guilty.

LPS prioritises SCV implementation at 140 rural banks and Islamic rural banks

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) will prioritise the implementation of Single Customer View (SCV) reporting at 140 rural banks and Islamic rural banks with assets above Rp500 billion, aiming to improve customer-data accuracy and speed up deposit-claim payments. The move follows cases in which unrecorded deposits accounted for most deposits deemed ineligible for reimbursement, and forms part of a phased programme under LPS Regulation No. 4 of 2024.

Metro Jakarta Traffic Police Ease Congestion During the Evening Commute

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police Traffic Directorate deployed officers at major roads and junctions to manage congestion as commuters left work. Officials said the operation also aims to assist road users and improve safety, while urging the public to obey signs and officers’ directions.

Bahlil Denies Bali’s Fuel Quota Has Been Cut by 50%: ‘I’m Increasing It’

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia denied reports that Bali’s fuel allocation had been cut by half, saying he had ordered it raised from the equivalent of 11 days’ supply to 15 days. He attributed recent queues at petrol stations to delays in fuel-carrying ships docking, while Buleleng’s regent had reported receiving less than half of the regency’s normal daily requirement.

MP Says Immigration Performance Has Been Good Over the Past Two Years

Commission XIII MP Mafirion says immigration services and oversight have improved during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. He cites a sharp rise in enforcement against foreign nationals in 2025, while stressing that authorities must improve inter-agency coordination and track foreigners’ activities—not merely their entry into Indonesia.

Why Prabowo Wants Indonesia to Be Prosperous, Not Just Wealthy

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says President Prabowo Subianto’s vision is for Indonesia to become a prosperous welfare state rather than simply a wealthy country, where higher incomes can also drive up prices. The government has launched a regional financial access index dashboard to identify gaps and guide more evenly distributed development across regions and communities.

Pramono Opens Two Retention Ponds in East Jakarta to Help Control Flooding

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has inaugurated two retention ponds in Cipayung, East Jakarta, with a combined storage capacity of 36,550 cubic metres. Designed to retain rainwater and support water conservation, the sites also include public amenities and form part of the provincial government’s long-term flood-prevention efforts.

Batam Education Office to Resume In-Person Learning on 20 October

Batam’s Education Office will resume face-to-face classes for early childhood, kindergarten, primary and junior secondary pupils on 20 October, after air quality improved to a moderate level. Schools must continue monitoring pupils’ and staff members’ health and be ready to adjust activities if pollution worsens.

One Million University Graduates Have Been Unemployed for a Year; Government Turns to Internship Programme

Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs says around one million bachelor’s degree holders have been without work for a year, highlighting the challenge of matching educated workers with available jobs. The government is funding internships at companies to help graduates gain the experience employers demand, while also pointing to green industries and the energy transition as potential sources of new employment.

MSCI Warning Should Spur Indonesia’s Market Reforms, Says Lawmaker

A House Commission XI lawmaker says MSCI’s review should prompt concrete improvements to transparency, governance and ownership disclosures in Indonesia’s capital market. The warning comes amid sharp market volatility and projections of USD 3 billion to USD 6 billion in potential outflows if Indonesia is reclassified, with currency weakness and higher yields posing risks to businesses and household spending.

IMIP Enlists Bahodopi Residents in Sustainable Waste Management

PT Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) has involved residents of Bahodopi in a waste-to-groceries scheme, exchanging recyclable household waste for subsidised basic goods. The programme collected more than 450kg of recyclable materials, with an estimated value of Rp1.44 million, and builds on community waste-bank activities that have generated more than Rp35 million in deposits since 2024.

New hope for Timbulsloko residents after 10 years of tidal flooding

Residents of Timbulsloko in Demak are pinning their hopes on a government-led, nature-based coastal protection initiative after a decade of erosion and tidal flooding. The village has become a pilot site for protecting Java’s northern coast, with mangrove planting marking the start of the effort to help restore the community and its livelihoods.

House Commission II to Summon KPU and Bawaslu over Alleged Insertion of Article into KPU Regulation

The House of Representatives’ Commission II plans to summon the General Elections Commission (KPU) and Election Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu) over allegations that Article 18(3) was inserted into KPU Regulation No. 19/2023. The issue will be examined as part of the commission’s review and future revisions to election legislation, while the KPU says it previously submitted the complete draft regulation to lawmakers and the government.

Kombes I Wayan Winaya Officially Appointed Denpasar Police Chief

Kombes I Wayan Winaya has taken over as chief of Denpasar Police, replacing Kombes Leonardo David Simatupang in a handover ceremony led by Bali Police Chief Irjen Pasma Royce. The new leadership is expected to continue existing programmes while introducing innovations to improve public services.

Indonesia Needs Rp18.03 Trillion for Second Phase of Waste-to-Energy Projects

Daya Energi Bersih Nusantara estimates that the second phase of waste-to-energy projects across eight cities will require about US$1 billion (Rp18.03 trillion), with construction targeted to begin in 2027 and operations in 2029. Financing interest has exceeded US$4 billion, while a one-stop service with Danantara is intended to streamline permits, land acquisition and power-purchase agreements.

Coordinating Minister: Community Funds Could Boost Community Empowerment

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar says waqf and other community funds could help strengthen self-reliance and alleviate poverty. The government plans to revise the legal framework for managing these funds, while the Religious Affairs Ministry is tasked with addressing poverty under Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2025.

Perbarindo Urges Rural Banks to Strengthen Governance and Risk Management

Perbarindo chairman Tedy Alamsyah has called on conventional and Islamic rural banks to strengthen capital, consolidate and improve governance and risk management, while aligning their future direction with the needs of micro and small businesses. Industry figures through July 2026 showed year-on-year growth across assets, lending and deposits, with Islamic rural banks recording faster growth in several areas.

Jakarta Composite Index Cuts Losses but Closes 3.64% Lower at 4,996

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) recovered from an intraday drop of 5.36% but still ended Monday down 3.64%, amid heavy trading and declines across every sector. The sell-off followed MSCI’s consideration of moving Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone status, raising concerns about international capital outflows; foreign investors have already recorded net sales of US$4.88 billion this year.

vivo S70 Set to Launch in November 2026 with a ‘Telephoto Extender’

vivo is expected to unveil the S70 in China in November 2026, with reports pointing to a detachable telephoto extender and a larger telephoto sensor than its predecessor. The accessory could bring enhanced zoom photography to a mid-range handset at a lower cost than buying a flagship phone.

Roy Suryo Asks Prosecutors to Bring Jokowi and His Original Diploma to Court; Refly Harun: ‘We Find It Strange’

Roy Suryo’s lawyers have asked prosecutors to summon former president Joko Widodo and present his original diploma as evidence in the ongoing trial at the East Jakarta District Court. They said his presence could clarify the case and prevent proceedings from dragging on; the judge told prosecutors to take note of the request.

French Mayor Beaten in West Bank; 10 Suspects Arrested

Israeli police have arrested 10 suspects over attacks on a French mayor and an American photographer in the West Bank, amid mounting international concern about settler violence. The incidents have intensified domestic political criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and renewed scrutiny of Israel’s record in prosecuting attacks by settlers.

Danantara Chiefs Rosan and Dony Arrive at Presidential Palace After OJK Head

Danantara Indonesia chief executive Rosan Perkasa Roeslani and chief operating officer Dony Oskaria arrived at the Presidential Palace for a meeting led by President Prabowo Subianto, with Dony saying it would cover economic-sector coordination. OJK chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi was also present as Indonesia’s stock market faced pressure following MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying the market from emerging to standalone status; officials declined to confirm whether the issue would be discussed.

Wantimpres Member: After Two Years, Prabowo’s Government Is Ensuring Public Welfare

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo says the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration have established a stronger role for the state in securing welfare, including food, energy, education and healthcare. He cited 2025 economic and social indicators as evidence of resilience, and urged the government to turn its foundations into tangible results over the remaining three years of its term.

BNPPDT to Continue Development in Border and Remote Areas

Indonesia’s National Agency for Border and Remote Area Management (BNPPDT) chief Maruli Simanjuntak says he will continue existing programmes and expand the agency’s work under its new mandate. The agency is expected to coordinate development across ministries, improve residents’ welfare and economic opportunities, manage border posts, and address unresolved boundary issues.

Fined Rp1.5 Trillion, DSSA Writes to OJK

Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA) has formally responded to Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) after the regulator imposed a Rp1.5 trillion fine relating to trading in its shares. The company says the sanction has had no material effect on its finances or operations and plans a share buy-back of up to Rp1 trillion, citing market volatility and its aim of supporting shareholder value.

DSSA Writes to OJK, Says It Respects Sanction and Will Co-operate

Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA) has told the Financial Services Authority (OJK) that it respects the regulator’s Rp1.5 trillion fine over trading in its shares and will co-operate with the applicable process. The company says the penalty has no material effect on its finances or operations and plans a share buyback of up to Rp1 trillion between 19 October 2026 and 18 January 2027.

ITS Develops Futechi Farm to Modernise Poultry Farming

Students at the Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS) have developed an automated, IoT-based system for laying-hen farms, designed to improve efficiency and productivity for small and medium-sized operators. The platform automates feeding, egg collection and monitoring, and has already sold three units in East Java and Papua, supporting wider access to modern farming technology and national food security.

Two years of the Culture Ministry: sustaining Indonesia’s cultural legacy

Since its re-establishment in October 2024, the Ministry of Culture has expanded heritage protection, museum restoration and programmes supporting the arts, film and music. The government has also launched the Rp6 trillion Indonesia Raya Fund, with Rp500 billion disbursed this year, to support cultural initiatives and strengthen transparent programme delivery.

100 GW Solar Power Programme Could Save Rp 74 Trillion a Year and Create Millions of Jobs

Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs estimates that a 100 GW solar power programme could save Rp 74 trillion annually and create about 5.5 million jobs, with investment needs of Rp 1,100 trillion. The programme is also intended to expand electricity access, support renewable-energy industrialisation and cut greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 140 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Police Investigate Car Crash That Killed Student in Mampang

Police are investigating a collision in South Jakarta’s Mampang Prapatan district that killed a 14-year-old pedestrian. The crash involved a Mitsubishi Pajero, the victim, a parked Toyota Avanza and a Hyundai; investigators have seized the Pajero and documents linked to its driver as evidence.

West Java Governor Announces 62 Job Vacancies in Indramayu, Including Overseas Roles

West Java’s government has advertised 62 vacancies at 23 companies through an online job fair, including nursing work in Germany and construction jobs in Malaysia. The governor and Indramayu regent say expanding industry could reduce local unemployment, while stressing the need to prepare residents for industrial employment and support related business opportunities.

JCI Rebounds from the 4,900s as Bank Mandiri and Adaro Shares Trim Losses from 5% Drop

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) recovered during Monday’s second trading session, returning above the 5,000 psychological level after falling as much as 5% by the end of the first session. Infrastructure, property and industrial stocks, alongside shares including Bank Mandiri and Adaro, helped narrow the decline, although the index remained down 3.53% at 14:51 WIB; BCA and BRI shares continued to weigh on it.

Eight Rogue Pertalite Resellers Arrested in Bali, Selling Fuel for Rp 200,000 a Bottle

Police in Bali have arrested eight people accused of buying Pertalite at petrol stations and reselling it at sharply inflated prices during a fuel shortage. Officers seized fuel stored in jerrycans and plastic bottles, as well as proceeds from sales of up to Rp 200,000 per bottle.

Empowering MSMEs: From Business Development to the Need for Decent Housing

Indonesia’s 57 million MSME operators contribute 60.5% of national GDP and employ 97% of the workforce, but their empowerment should extend beyond business growth. MSME entrepreneur Hevi Novianti has called for more inclusive, sustainable policies that also help operators and employees access decent, affordable housing.

Legislation over Prabowo’s Two Years in Office Strengthens Citizens’ Rights, Including Domestic Workers’

Over the first two years of the Prabowo administration, Parliament passed a number of significant laws, including revisions to the Criminal Procedure Code intended to strengthen the rights of people facing legal proceedings. The article highlights the legislative process and provisions on access to information and legal assistance, while noting the wider range of laws passed during the period.

POCO X8s Launch Draws Closer After Securing Thai Certification

The POCO X8s has received certification from Thailand’s NBTC, adding to its listings with several international certification bodies and suggesting a global launch is approaching. Reports point to a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, 12GB of RAM and Android 16, although the manufacturer has not yet confirmed its specifications, price or launch date.

Banggai Police Chief Investigated over Suspected Stockpiling of Subsidised Fuel

Propam investigators in Central Sulawesi are examining the Banggai police chief and one officer over alleged misuse and stockpiling of subsidised fuel in Banggai Laut. Authorities seized 575 jerrycans of diesel and petrol bound for Taliabu, and the provincial police have taken over the case and are preparing it for a professional ethics hearing.

Unram Designs Reconstruction of Sade Village to Keep Traditions Alive

The University of Mataram’s rapid-response team has prepared technical designs and cost estimates to rebuild structures in Sade, combining traditional architecture and locally sourced materials with fire-safety measures. The plan aims not only to restore buildings damaged by fire but also to preserve the village’s cultural identity and improve the safety and sustainability of the settlement.

Airlangga Says Some Oppose Indonesia’s Progress, Citing the IMF

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says foreign parties, including the IMF, opposed Indonesia’s ambitions to develop an aircraft industry. He argues that long aircraft-order backlogs at Airbus and Boeing create an opportunity to revitalise Indonesia’s aerospace sector, including the prospect of building aircraft with capacity for 100 passengers.

Police Shooting Police Case: Lawyer Suspects More Than One Perpetrator

The lawyer for Bharatu Laurentius Fernandez Lawai, who was allegedly killed by a junior officer at the Air Police Directorate headquarters, suspects that more than one person was involved. Police say the alleged shooter, an officer identified as AR, has been detained and is being investigated; the victim’s body was returned to his family and buried in Larantuka.

IWIP Pledges to Prioritise Indonesian Human Resources in Implementing ESG

PT Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park says developing Indonesia’s human resources is a priority in its contribution to sustainable development and the implementation of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles. The company made the statement after receiving an award at Republika’s ESG NOW Leadership Forum & Awards 2026, where speakers called for measurable action, transparency and cross-sector collaboration on sustainability.

Haze from Forest and Land Fires Seen from the Skies over Central Kalimantan

Drone footage captured the effects of forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan on 18 and 19 October. Authorities have recorded tens of thousands of hotspots since the start of the year and continue suppression efforts, while haze has spread to neighbouring countries amid unusually hot, dry conditions linked to a strong El Niño.

Macron rejects Interior Minister Nunez’s resignation after unrest in France

President Emmanuel Macron rejected Interior Minister Laurent Nunez’s resignation after widespread rioting and looting during weekend protests, amid criticism of the authorities’ response. The unrest left nearly 1,000 law-enforcement officers injured and around 2,400 people arrested, while businesses reported substantial damage and losses.

Agriculture Minister Amran strengthens transformation to achieve food self-sufficiency

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says collaboration, innovation and higher productivity are essential to sustaining Indonesia’s food self-sufficiency and modernising farming. The ministry plans to strengthen rice production while developing strategic crops such as soybeans and garlic, with universities contributing research and technology to improve farmers’ output and livelihoods.

Mount Agung Climbing Closed from 21 October to 5 November for Pujawali

Climbing on Mount Agung in Bali will be suspended across all routes from 21 October to 5 November 2026 for the Pujawali ceremony at Pura Pasar Agung. Organisers and East Bali’s forest management authority have asked guides and visitors to respect the closure to protect the sacred area and ensure the ceremonies proceed safely and smoothly.

Waste Fire Near Water-Gallon Factory in Balaraja Sends Thick Smoke into the Sky

A fire broke out among factory waste near a water-gallon factory in Balaraja, Tangerang Regency, on Monday, with thick black smoke rising over the area. Three fire engines were deployed and crews were still working to cool the site at 3.30pm; the cause has not yet been established.

ISEF 2026 Secures IDR 3.16 Billion in Financing and Trade Deals

The Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival 2026 recorded IDR 3.16 trillion in sharia financing and trade commitments, alongside IDR 6.05 trillion in money-market and foreign-exchange cooperation commitments. Bank Indonesia Deputy Governor Solikin M. Juhro said the priority is to translate these deals into inclusive public benefits by strengthening halal value chains, expanding sharia finance and using digital transformation to improve literacy and access.

Culture Minister: Traditional Music Must Be Preserved and Developed

Culture Minister Fadli Zon says traditional music should be safeguarded and developed so it can be passed on to future generations. The 2026 Indonesian Traditional Music Festival in Wonosobo will feature performances, a seminar on the future of gamelan and exchanges among cultural practitioners, while providing a platform for local artists.

Aramco, Saudi Arabia’s Money-Making Machine: How Rich Is It, and Why Is It a Target?

A missile attack on Saudi Aramco’s Dhahran headquarters caused a limited fire and damaged the top three floors of an office building, although there were no casualties and no reported production disruption. The article outlines Aramco’s global operations, refining and production capacity, and financial performance, underscoring the potential implications for energy infrastructure and oil supplies if attacks spread.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Says Government Has Done Its Utmost to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Coordinating Minister Dudung Abdurachman says government agencies, security forces and local communities have been fully mobilised to combat forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan over the past two months. The response includes helicopters, water-bombing aircraft, weather-modification operations and research-based firefighting methods, although fires continue; the government says it will intensify efforts and remains open to foreign assistance.

Sumatran Orangutan Repatriated After Being Trafficked to India

Indonesia has repatriated a male Sumatran orangutan, aged between 18 and 20 months, from India. The animal had been found in an apartment in Mumbai in November 2024 and arrived at Kualanamu International Airport on 19 October 2026, following efforts by the Ministry of Forestry.

Government Cuts Maximum Retail Prices for Subsidised Fertiliser by 20%

The government has cut the maximum retail prices of subsidised fertiliser produced by state-owned Pupuk Indonesia by 20%, with the revised rates taking effect on 22 October 2025. Farmers in Lampung and Riau say the reduction is easing production costs, while they stress the importance of reliable supplies during peak planting periods.

4,364 Drug-Laced Vape Cartridges Destroyed; Deputy Minister Calls for Trafficking Network to Be Investigated

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Lodewijk Freidrich Paulus said authorities must pursue the networks behind drug trafficking after destroying 4,364 vape cartridges containing narcotics. The cartridges were seized during an alleged smuggling operation using a land transport route towards Java; officials warn that disguising narcotics in e-cigarettes poses particular risks to young people.

Indonesian Navy destroys Rp34.9bn worth of narcotic vapes amid crackdown

The Indonesian Navy destroyed illicit vape cartridges worth Rp34.9 billion after intercepting them on a passenger bus at Bakauheni Port, saying the seizure may have prevented 13,000 to 22,000 people from being exposed to drug abuse. The operation is part of a series of maritime narcotics interceptions in 2026, as authorities warn that trafficking networks continue to exploit Indonesia’s ports and sea routes.

Poltracking’s Public Satisfaction Ratings for Each Area of Prabowo’s Government

A Poltracking survey found the highest public satisfaction with the Prabowo-Gibran government in education, defence and security, social and cultural affairs, and health. Satisfaction was lowest in the economy, where 57.8% of respondents were dissatisfied, while ratings for law enforcement and anti-corruption were also negative overall.

Dudung Says 97 Companies Face Legal Proceedings over Forest and Land Fires

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurahman says 97 companies in Kalimantan and Sumatra are facing legal proceedings over alleged involvement in forest and land fires. The government has not declared the fires a national disaster, saying it remains capable of managing the situation, while President Prabowo Subianto is due to review the response with officials including personnel on the ground.

Forestry Ministry sanctions 32 companies over forest and land fires

The Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on 32 companies linked to fires affecting 12,926.74 hectares across seven provinces. Enforcement includes licence suspensions, mandatory ecosystem restoration, revoked permits and criminal investigations, with authorities also considering compensation claims and scrutiny of beneficial owners.

Halal Requirement Delayed; BPJPH Chief Babe Haikal Says Halal Belongs to All Communities and Citizens

Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Agency says a delay in mandatory halal certification for several categories until 2028 will not affect its efforts to extend the requirement across sectors. Chief Ahmad Haikal Hasan said the agency would maintain its targets so the public can feel confident using products and consuming halal food.

Transforming the Correctional System

Indonesia’s Ministry of Immigration and Corrections is seeking to shift the correctional system away from punishment alone towards evidence-based justice, rehabilitation and social reintegration. Its programmes include agricultural and fisheries initiatives involving inmates, which officials say build skills while contributing to national food security; nationwide harvests were estimated at more than 123,000 kilograms of produce.

Rupiah weakens to Rp18,046 amid prospect of tighter Fed policy

The rupiah fell 19 points to Rp18,046 per US dollar at Monday’s close, as markets weighed the possibility of further Federal Reserve tightening. Currency analyst Ibrahim Assuabi said geopolitical tensions also contributed to sentiment, while Bank Indonesia’s JISDOR rate edged stronger to Rp18,050 per dollar.

Public Works Ministry Restores Sanitation Infrastructure in Seven Disaster-Hit Aceh Regencies

The Public Works Ministry is rehabilitating landfill and waste-management facilities in seven Aceh regencies affected by disasters, aiming to restore basic services and reduce environmental pollution risks. Projects include new landfill cells, leachate treatment plants, retaining walls and access-road repairs, with the largest facility serving about 641,000 people in North Aceh.

Vietnam’s Economy Could Grow by 9%: Why Is Indonesia Falling Behind?

Vietnam recorded economic growth of 9.95% in the third quarter of 2026, with Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto attributing its performance to free-trade agreements, electronics exports and special economic zones. He said Indonesia had previously sidelined opportunities in electronics and aerospace, while digital transformation now offers a chance to accelerate industrial development.

Mobile Phone Top-Up Shop Looted During Manggarai Clash

A mobile phone top-up shopkeeper in South Jakarta reported losses of more than Rp2 million after a mob smashed the shop’s display case and took chargers and phone cards during clashes in Manggarai. Police have detained six people, while Jakarta’s provincial government and security forces have agreed to establish a joint post to help prevent further violence.

Bahlil Denies Bali’s Fuel Allocation Has Been Cut by 50%

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has denied reports that Bali’s fuel allocation was cut by half, saying the government has instead increased supplies to cover 15 days’ demand, up from 11. Recent queues at petrol stations were attributed to delays in fuel-carrying ships, while local officials reported severe shortfalls in Buleleng and Tabanan.

Bekasi–Angke KRL Door Fails to Close, Staff Guard It Through to Manggarai

KAI Commuter says a door on the Bekasi–Angke Commuter Line service 5045 failed to close properly on Monday morning, prompting a rail security officer to remain beside it throughout the journey. The train was taken to Manggarai for initial inspection and repairs before continuing to Angke, and the affected trainset was later replaced for further checks.

Prabowo Summons OJK Chief to Palace Amid Questions Over MSCI Move

President Prabowo Subianto summoned OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi to the Presidential Palace, as the Indonesian stock market reacted to MSCI’s consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market status. Friderica did not confirm whether the issue would be discussed, but said she had prepared a full briefing for the President and would update reporters after the meeting.

NTB Cultural Council Calls on Young People to Help Advance Regional Culture

The West Nusa Tenggara Regional Cultural Council is inviting young people to help shape the direction of cultural development in the province through a long-term policy blueprint. The plan, which runs to 2045, is nearing completion and is expected to be made available to the public in December 2026; the council says cultural advancement should be a broad-based social movement, not solely a government or institutional responsibility.

Shaggydog Vocalist Urges Young People to Preserve Culture and the Environment

Shaggydog vocalist Heruwa has urged young people to learn about local traditions and history, saying cultural knowledge can help them retain their identity amid rapid technological change and modernisation. He also called on the public, particularly the younger generation, to use natural resources responsibly and protect the environment.

Singapore Targets Three More Indonesian Companies over Haze, Bringing Total to 10

Singapore’s National Environment Agency has issued notices to three Indonesian companies over fires on their concession land in Kalimantan, which may have contributed to haze reaching Singapore. The notices bring the number of Indonesian companies targeted under Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act to 10 and require firefighting measures and plans to prevent further fires.

UI GreenMetric Prepares Sustainability Rankings for Cities and Companies

UI GreenMetric at the University of Indonesia is developing sustainability rankings for Indonesian cities and regencies, alongside companies operating in the country, with results due in December 2026. The assessments will draw on public data, AI-assisted research and expert validation, and are intended to encourage better sustainability policies and practices.

Bahlil Orders Bali’s Fuel Reserves Increased to 15 Days

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has instructed Pertamina to raise Bali’s fuel reserve capacity from around 11–12 days to 15 days, adding seven ships to support deliveries from Java. He said recent queues stemmed from a technical berthing delay rather than a cut in Bali’s fuel allocation, and clarified that the 15-day figure represents rolling tank capacity, not a fixed stock that is used up before replenishment.

Presidential Chief of Staff Sigit Meets Prabowo at the Palace and Receives Special Instructions

Presidential Chief of Staff General Listyo Sigit Prabowo said President Prabowo Subianto gave him specific directions on the Presidential Staff Office’s responsibilities, particularly oversight of national priority programmes and strategic issues. Prabowo also held a limited meeting on forest and land fires, where Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman was due to report on earlier discussions and seek guidance on next steps.

Jabodebek LRT Monitors and Evaluates Safety and Service Quality

The Transport Ministry’s Directorate General of Railways conducted a monitoring and evaluation exercise at Jabodebek LRT on 15–16 October 2026 to assess compliance with minimum service standards. Inspections covered safety, accessibility and passenger information at five stations and 10 trainsets, with staff addressing several minor findings during the review.

OJK assesses potential impact of MSCI proposal on Indonesia’s financial stability

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is assessing whether MSCI’s proposed reclassification of Indonesia’s equity market could pose a serious risk to financial-system stability, with any significant effects potentially referred to the Financial System Stability Committee. OJK says the banking sector remains resilient, citing strong capital and liquidity indicators, although MSCI’s consultation has unsettled domestic share trading and its final decision is not due until June 2027.

General Maruli Takes Over as Head of BNPPDT from Tito Karnavian, Says Role Will Extend Beyond Border Management

General Maruli Simanjuntak has taken over as head of the National Agency for Border and Remote Areas Management (BNPPDT), succeeding Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian. He said the agency’s expanded remit includes improving welfare in border communities that could serve as national buffer zones, while continuing existing programmes and addressing border-management priorities.

At Plenary Session, Jakarta Legislator Raises Alarm over Rp200bn Cut to Health Insurance Funding

A Jakarta council member has criticised a proposed Rp200 billion reduction in 2027 funding for health insurance contributions for low-income residents, warning that it could undermine universal health coverage. He also called for clarity on beneficiary numbers and urged the city to issue employment registration numbers to 3,600 part-time contract health workers whose employment entitlements remain incomplete.

Maruli Officially Takes Charge of BNPPDT, Border Residents’ Welfare a Priority

General Maruli Simanjuntak has formally taken over leadership of the National Agency for Border and Remote Areas Management (BNPPDT), with improving residents’ welfare identified as a central priority. The agency is expected to continue border development, address unresolved boundary issues and improve services and economic opportunities in remote regions through inter-agency coordination.

Timbulsloko in Demak Chosen as Pilot Site for North Java Coast Protection Programme

Timbulsloko in Demak has been selected to pilot a nature-based coastal protection approach combining mangrove restoration with modular HexBRIck breakwaters. The initiative forms part of plans for 15 hybrid coastal management segments from Serang to Gresik, addressing severe erosion, land subsidence and flooding while aiming to safeguard local livelihoods.

KFC Operator Fast Food Indonesia Appoints Achmad Baiquni as Director

Fast Food Indonesia shareholders have approved Achmad Baiquni’s appointment as Director I for 2026–2030, replacing Dalimin Juwono. Baiquni brings extensive banking experience, including serving as president director of state-owned Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) from 2015 to 2020.

OJK prepares MSME financing based on regional economic potential

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) plans to map regional economic potential and work with commercial banks and rural banks to direct more sustainable credit to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including businesses currently lacking access to loans. Its wider programme includes business mentoring, market access, improved credit assessment and integrated financing data, as total MSME financing across financial services reached Rp1,956 trillion in August 2026.

Unhas and DPR RI Expertise Agency Collaborate to Accelerate Legislation

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) and the Indonesian House of Representatives’ Expertise Agency have partnered to explore fast-track legislation in Indonesia’s law-making system. The collaboration aims to bring academic research into policymaking while ensuring responsive regulations, public participation and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Rupiah Weakens Again as MSCI Concerns and Oil Prices Weigh

The rupiah fell to Rp18,046 per US dollar on 19 October, pressured by global inflation risks and domestic market uncertainty, including a proposal for MSCI to reclassify Indonesia as a Standalone Market. Rising oil prices and changes to the exchange’s trading rules have added to investor caution, although stronger enforcement could bolster market credibility over time.

Jusuf Hamka Plans Rp5 Trillion Share Buying Spree, with BBCA in Focus as Prices Tumble

Entrepreneur Jusuf Hamka says he and a consortium of businesspeople plan to buy up to Rp5 trillion worth of shares amid pressure on Indonesia’s stock market, with large-cap stocks including Bank Central Asia among those attracting attention. The plan remains an announcement on social media, with no details yet on the stocks, allocations or transactions involved.

51 Orangutans Rescued from Forest and Land Fires in West Kalimantan; Some Are Stressed and Underweight

Fifty-one orangutans were rescued from fire-affected areas in Ketapang and North Kayong, West Kalimantan, between 6 August and 10 October 2026. Rescuers said some animals were distressed, malnourished or injured, while 27 from the PT KALE plantation area and its surroundings require continued care at a rehabilitation centre.

Two Weeks Before the Election, Trump Supporters Discuss Martial Law

Some pro-Trump activists have discussed invoking emergency powers, including martial law, if they believe the November midterm election is fraudulent. The discussion comes amid low approval ratings for Donald Trump and scrutiny of the Justice Department, but the reported developments do not establish that the administration plans to impose martial law.

West Kalimantan Environment Agency Calculates Forest Damage to Set Fines for Fires

West Kalimantan’s Environment and Forestry Agency is assessing the extent of forest damage caused by forest and land fires to establish the basis for potential fines against those responsible. The agency says expert evidence and reliable calculations are needed, and has not yet determined the damaged area or any fine amount.

UN Suddenly Halts Food Aid for 500,000 Gaza Residents: Why?

The UN World Food Programme says a funding shortfall will force it to stop monthly assistance to 500,000 people in Gaza and reduce rations for those who continue receiving support. Despite some improvement after the ceasefire, the agency says severe food insecurity and ongoing humanitarian needs persist, with winter approaching and its funding for operations in Gaza and the West Bank far below requirements.

Gibran Paradox: Second-Best Known After Prabowo, Yet Trails KDM in Vice-Presidential Poll

A Parameter Politik Indonesia survey puts West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi ahead of incumbent Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka in the 2029 vice-presidential electability stakes, despite Gibran’s much higher public recognition. The results suggest that name recognition alone may not translate into voter support, while 20.8 per cent of respondents remain undecided.

Indonesian Embassy in Brussels Urges Citizens to Exercise Caution Amid Demonstrations

Indonesia’s Embassy in Brussels has urged Indonesian citizens in Belgium to stay alert as demonstrations have spread and turned violent. The advisory asks them to avoid protest sites, follow local authorities’ guidance and monitor official updates, after Belgian police arrested 195 people at protests against education policy and budget cuts.

Bali Extends Odd-Even Fuel Purchase System Until 23 October

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has extended the odd-even vehicle registration system for fuel purchases at all petrol stations until Friday, 23 October, as the province responds to fuel shortages. He said the system has helped ease queues, while officials estimate current stocks can meet Bali’s needs for the next 11 to 12 days, with supplies expected to increase.

KAI Ethics Council Dismisses All Complaints, Finds Bildad Thonak Not Guilty

The Indonesian Advocates Congress (KAI) ethics council has dismissed all complaints against lawyer Bildad Thonak, ruling that the allegations were not proven. The complainant, Izhak Rihi, says he will appeal to KAI’s national board, while Thonak’s lawyer says they may take legal action to recover Rp150 million in unpaid fees and respond to alleged defamation.

Governor Luthfi: Land for Batang AI Data Centre Available, from 2 to 58 Hectares

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi says land at the Batang Integrated Industrial Estate is available for a proposed AI data centre, with plots ranging from one hectare to 58 hectares. The project remains under review, while concerns about water use and the facility’s substantial water and reliable electricity needs have yet to be resolved or fully discussed.

AEI: MSCI Review a Chance to Accelerate Improvements and Boost Indonesia’s Capital Market Competitiveness

The Indonesian Issuers Association (AEI) says the MSCI review should spur structural reforms to make Indonesia’s capital market more credible and competitive globally. It has called for stronger transparency, healthier free float, reliable market infrastructure and consistent enforcement, while stressing that reform must serve long-term investor confidence rather than merely meet an index’s criteria.

Viral Smoke Seen Rising from the Ground in Mamuju, West Sulawesi

Smoke was seen emerging from the ground in Botteng village, Mamuju, on Sunday, prompting the West Sulawesi disaster agency to investigate. Officials suspect an underground fire but have yet to establish the cause, and have urged residents not to dig or take other action near the site.

BNPB urges health checks for frontline firefighters

BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi has called for comprehensive medical examinations, including chest X-rays, for firefighters exposed to smoke, alongside clearer command structures and accurate staffing data at joint operational posts. The report also details the severe health impacts and fatalities linked to forest and land fires, including deaths among responders in South Sumatra and at Mount Bromo.

Fire at Canadian Military Base Kills Four Soldiers and Injures Dozens

A fast-moving fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta killed four military personnel and left dozens injured, including 19 who were critically hurt. Prime Minister Mark Carney described it as one of the worst peacetime tragedies to affect Canada’s armed forces on home soil; the fire broke out during an outdoor training exercise and was fuelled by strong winds.

Pajangan in Bantul Records Indonesia’s Longest Rain-Free Period

BMKG says Pajangan in Bantul, Yogyakarta, has recorded 161 consecutive days without rain, the longest period among observation points nationwide. Several other locations in Bantul and Gunungkidul have also endured prolonged dry spells, as much of Indonesia remains in the dry season and some areas have gone more than four months without rain.

At Prabowo’s Direction, Trenggono to Step Up Fish Farming and Aquaculture

Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono says Indonesia will shift towards aquaculture to meet rising domestic demand, improve export competitiveness and make fisheries more sustainable. A large shrimp-farming project in Waingapu, East Nusa Tenggara, is targeted for completion by the end of 2027, with planned production of about 52,000 tonnes and more than 7,000 jobs, including around 3,000 for local residents.

Observer: Dividing Presidential Advisory Council’s Work Could Improve Decision-Making

A University of Brawijaya policy and political analyst says the Presidential Advisory Council’s three work areas could help President Prabowo Subianto make better strategic decisions through cross-sector analysis and clearer advice. He urged the council to prioritise legal fairness, social welfare outcomes and inclusive economic growth, and to produce evidence-based recommendations coordinated across its fields.

Bayyaya’ Art Connection Highlights the Impact of Forest and Land Fires Through Monologue

Bayyaya’ Art Connection has used a monologue inspired by a fatal land-fire incident in Ketapang to draw attention to the human and environmental toll of recurring fires in West Kalimantan. Organisers and panellists say art and public discussion can broaden awareness and encourage prevention, while stressing that environmental messaging should be grounded in research and evidence.

Riau BKSDA entrusts Sumatran tiger’s care to Kasang Kulim Conservation Institution

Riau’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency has placed a Sumatran tiger caught in a trap cage in the Kampar Peninsula landscape at Kasang Kulim Conservation Institution while it is observed and DNA samples are tested. The agency said limited rehabilitation-cage capacity prompted the temporary arrangement, and the enclosure has been isolated from visitors.

Two INKA CLI-225 Commuter Trainsets Back in the Workshop Yet Again

Two INKA iE305/CLI-225 trainsets have returned for repairs, prompting KAI Commuter to cancel some Bogor–Jakarta Kota services on Monday morning. The cause of the faults has not been disclosed; the operator says safety and reliability checks will take priority and has urged passengers to consider alternative travel times.

Israeli Attacks Kill Four Gaza Residents, Including a Child

Israeli attacks across Gaza killed four Palestinians, including a child, on Sunday, according to medical sources. Gaza health authorities reported seven bodies and 25 injured people arriving at hospitals in the previous 24 hours, while cumulative death tolls since the October 2025 ceasefire and the start of the Israel–Hamas conflict continued to rise.

Astra-Backed MSMEs Record Rp104.9 Billion in Potential Transactions at TEI

Astra and its supported village enterprises and MSMEs recorded Rp104.9 billion in potential transactions at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, including Rp103.14 billion in prospective exports and Rp1.76 billion in domestic retail deals. The agreements span agricultural and food products destined for markets including Australia, Japan, India, the UK, South Korea and Pakistan, supported by an export-readiness programme run with the Trade Ministry and Kadin Indonesia.

Get Ready to Pay: iPhone Duo Launch Date in Indonesia Revealed

Apple’s first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, is scheduled to launch in Indonesia on 30 October 2026, according to a billboard advertisement in Jakarta. A pre-order date has not been confirmed, although 23 October is being speculated based on previous iPhone launches.

Widiasih keen to begin preparations for Paralympics amid tougher competition

Indonesian para-powerlifter Ni Nengah Widiasih says she wants to focus on preparing for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics after winning bronze at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya. With competition expected to intensify, she is also working to recover from a shoulder injury and improve her world ranking to secure a place at the Games.

34 Global Banks Interested in Financing Indonesia’s Waste-to-Energy Projects

Denera says 34 domestic and international financial institutions have expressed interest in financing the second phase of Indonesia’s waste-to-energy programme, with indications exceeding the estimated US$1 billion requirement by as much as 3.6 times. The funding would support projects at eight locations, while government-backed one-stop services are intended to resolve key land, permitting and power-purchase risks for investors.

Prabowo summons officials to discuss ongoing wildfire response

President Prabowo Subianto summoned senior officials to discuss the government’s response to ongoing forest and land fires, following a ministerial meeting on mitigation chaired by Coordinating Minister Dudung Abdurachman. Officials did not disclose hotspot figures or whether the fires might be declared a national disaster, while the meeting also covered current political developments.

MPR Says Legal Form of PPHN Is Leaning Towards an MPR Decree

Discussions within the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) are leaning towards establishing the proposed State Policy Guidelines (PPHN) through an MPR decree, but constitutional limits on the assembly’s powers remain a key obstacle. The MPR is examining whether a decree, legislation or no additional instrument is appropriate, alongside how any guidelines would relate to the existing 2025–2045 National Long-Term Development Plan.

Three Suspects Named over Attack on Persib U-18 Team Bus on Batang Toll Road: Their Alleged Roles

Police have named three men from West Jakarta as suspects in an attack on a bus carrying Persib Bandung’s under-18 team at a rest area in Batang. Their alleged actions range from assaulting a team member and damaging the bus to stealing two suitcases; they face charges carrying possible prison terms of up to seven years.

Pupil Killed after Being Hit by Car in Mampang

A 14-year-old Year 9 pupil at SMPN 43 Jakarta died after being struck by a car in South Jakarta’s Mampang Prapatan district in the early hours of Sunday. Education officials said the driver had been taken into police custody for further handling; social media posts alleged the driver was intoxicated and had used drugs, but this was not confirmed in the officials’ statements.

Minister: Indonesia Must Set Its Own Pace for AI Development

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said Indonesia should decide the pace of AI development according to its own capabilities, rather than follow other countries or technology companies. The government is seeking input from experts and industry while preparing AI regulations, a development roadmap and digital talent programmes that balance innovation with fundamental human protections.

Pertamina chief promises Bali fuel shortages will not happen again

Pertamina chief executive Simon Aloysius Mantiri apologised for recent fuel supply and distribution problems in Bali, promising they would not recur after queues eased. Pertalite consumption rose sharply during the disruption, prompting emergency measures including an odd-even licence-plate rule that Bali Governor Wayan Koster extended until 23 October 2026.

51 Orangutans Rescued from Forest and Land Fires in West Kalimantan

Rescue teams saved 51 orangutans from fire-affected areas in Ketapang and North Kayong between 6 August and 10 October 2026, with 30 found near PT KALE’s oil palm plantation. More than 90 per cent of the plantation’s high-conservation-value area was reportedly burned, leaving many animals injured or malnourished and prompting calls for habitat restoration and further rescue efforts.

Eight Bali Retailers Arrested for Selling Fuel for Up to Rp200,000

Police in Bali have arrested eight people across five cases of alleged fuel misuse, accusing them of reselling subsidised Pertalite and other fuel at Rp100,000–Rp200,000 per bottle during a shortage. Authorities say the practice could disrupt public fuel supplies and warn that suspects found with substantial evidence may face charges carrying a maximum six-year prison sentence.

Jakarta Strengthens Preparations for Haze from Forest and Land Fires; Chico Hakim Urges Public to Follow Official Updates

Jakarta’s provincial government says it is maintaining precautions after satellite monitoring detected smoke from fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan passing high above the Greater Jakarta area. It has readied health facilities and pollution-control measures, including water-mist systems, while urging residents to rely on official information and noting that local emissions remain a factor in air quality.

UI Academic: MSCI’s Concerns Are About Market Governance, Not Indonesia’s Economy

University of Indonesia academic Buddi Wibowo says MSCI’s concerns about Indonesia stem from capital-market governance, transparency and investor protection, rather than the country’s economic fundamentals. He says clearer share-ownership disclosures, stronger free-float rules and a timetable for demutualising the Indonesia Stock Exchange are needed to address the issues raised by global investors.

Island and Eastern Regions of Indonesia Still Have Limited Access to Finance

The 2025 Regional Financial Access Index shows a persistent divide, with many island and eastern regions in the lowest access categories while most districts and cities in Java score higher. The government says it will use the newly launched index dashboard and local-government funding to target gaps; thematic financial-inclusion support had reached Rp2.52 trillion, or 42.47% of its allocation, by the third quarter of 2026.

NTB Prosecutors Appeal Ruling Against Three Defendants in MXGP Samota Land Corruption Case

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor’s Office has appealed the appellate court sentences for three defendants in a corruption case involving land acquired for the MXGP Samota circuit, saying the penalties remain too lenient to satisfy a sense of justice. The case concerns a 70-hectare purchase by Sumbawa Regency for Rp52 billion, which investigators said caused state losses of Rp6.7 billion; the money has since been returned.

Volunteer Brings Meals to Forest Firefighters

A 72-year-old volunteer, Sumiyah Isdiwati, has been preparing and distributing meals to firefighters battling forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. Smoke from the fires continues to blanket parts of Indonesia, worsening air quality and posing health risks to the public.

Man in Bogor Mobbed After Allegedly Stealing Eight Packs of Cigarettes

Residents in South Bogor detained and assaulted a man accused of stealing eight packs of cigarettes from a convenience shop, before police took him into custody to prevent further violence. The alleged victim later forgave him and did not file a police report, according to officers.

Dar Et Tauhid Islamic Boarding School Temporarily Suspended After Sexual Abuse Case; Students to Study Remotely

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has recommended suspending activities at Dar Et Tauhid Islamic boarding school in Bekasi after a teacher was named a suspect in the alleged sexual abuse of 10 female students. Students have been sent home and will continue their education through distance learning or transfer to other schools, while the ministry requires child-protection safeguards and support for victims before the school can reopen.

Poltracking Poll: Gerindra at 22.9%, PDIP at 13.4% and Golkar at 9.1%

A Poltracking national survey puts Gerindra first in party electability at 22.9%, followed by PDIP and Golkar. The pollster says seven parties could clear the parliamentary threshold if it remains at 4%, although NasDem is listed at 3.9% in the survey results.

New BNPPDT Chief General Maruli to Continue Development of Border and Remote Areas

General Maruli Simanjuntak has taken over as head of the National Agency for the Management of Borders and Remote Areas (BNPPDT), following his appointment by President Prabowo Subianto. He is expected to continue work on border-area development, border-crossing posts and national boundary issues, with the aim of improving welfare and creating new economic centres.

Key Takeaways from the IMF/World Bank Meetings

The article argues that governments should put economic growth back at the centre of their agendas, linking investment and employment with tax revenues and development. It advocates simpler, technology-enabled and partnership-based tax systems, alongside fiscal discipline and restraint in using broad subsidies to cushion energy and food price shocks.

Governor: Mangrove Planting Combined with HexBricks Technology to Tackle Erosion in Demak

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi says mangrove planting, supported by the locally produced HexBricks system, will help protect Demak’s coast from erosion and tidal flooding. The Timbulsloko pilot will assess mangrove growth, sedimentation and community benefits as part of a wider hybrid strategy combining nature-based solutions with coastal infrastructure.

Minister: Government Developing Empowerment Curriculum for Islamic Boarding Schools

The government is developing an empowerment curriculum for Islamic boarding schools and madrasah aliyah to help graduates enter the workforce or become self-employed. The initiative is aimed partly at students from lower-income households and could draw on the agribusiness model pioneered by Al-Ittifaq Islamic Boarding School in Bandung.

14-Year-Old Student Killed After Being Hit by Pajero in South Jakarta’s Mampang

A 14-year-old student died after being struck by a Mitsubishi Pajero on Jalan Mampang Prapatan in South Jakarta early on Sunday. The Pajero also hit two other vehicles, and police are investigating the cause of the crash.

A New Look for Jakarta Schools: More Modern, Safer and Accessible to Students with Disabilities

Jakarta’s provincial government has completed major renovations at several schools, replacing ageing buildings with modern, multi-storey facilities featuring lifts, fire-safety systems and disability access. The upgrades have enabled SMPN 91 to move from two shifts to one, while officials stress that emergency preparedness and long-term maintenance are essential to ensuring the investment benefits students and staff.

Amran Responds to Industry Minister: Broken Rice Issue to Be Decided at Coordination Meeting

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says the government will discuss how to supply broken rice to food manufacturers at a limited coordination meeting, citing national stocks of 4.5 million tonnes. The issue follows industry complaints that domestically produced broken rice costs nearly twice as much as imports, undermining the competitiveness of products such as vermicelli.

Bahlil Adds Seven Fuel Tankers to Bali, Pertalite Reserves Now Sufficient for 15 Days

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has increased the number of fuel tankers serving Bali from three to seven and instructed Pertamina to raise Pertalite reserves from 11–12 days to 15 days. The move follows shipping delays that cut stocks to as little as three to four days and caused queues at petrol stations; additional stocks, tanker trucks, round-the-clock operations and an extended odd-even traffic scheme are also being used to ease distribution.

Indonesia’s Pertalite Fuel Stocks Cover 16–18 Days, While Pertamax and Other Fuels Exceed 20 Days

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says national fuel reserves remain adequate, with Pertalite stocks sufficient for 16–18 days and other fuel types covering more than 20 days. Recent queues were attributed to distribution bottlenecks rather than a national shortage; Bali’s supply has recovered, and additional vessels and overland transport are being used to improve deliveries.

Dudung: Malaysia to Send Helicopters and Personnel to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Malaysia has prepared three helicopters and 52 personnel to assist Indonesia’s response to forest and land fires, although operational arrangements—including fuel distribution—must first be agreed. The assistance follows President Prabowo’s approval to accept support from neighbouring countries, as Indonesia deploys more than 60,000 personnel and aircraft for firefighting and weather-modification operations.

Indonesia Ends Emergency Response to Cesium-137 Contamination

Indonesia has ended the emergency response to radioactive contamination at the Modern Cikande industrial area after inspections found radiation levels below the threshold at 12 affected sites, with no new contamination detected. Nearly 10,000 people were screened and 11 treated for internal exposure; monitoring and follow-up measures will continue as industrial activity returns to normal.

Indonesian Shares Plunge as Foreign Analysts Issue Warning

Indonesia’s benchmark share index fell to a six-year low after MSCI said it was considering downgrading the country from emerging-market to standalone status. Investors and analysts warned that the move could constrain access to international capital and trigger spillover effects in the rupiah and domestic bond yields, while regulators have introduced trading controls and imposed major fines over alleged market manipulation.

Can Getting Caught in the Rain Cause Flu and ‘ masuk angin’? Myth or Fact?

An IPB University lecturer says rain and wet hair do not directly cause flu or the common cold, which are viral infections. However, prolonged exposure to cold may affect the respiratory tract, while rainwater can carry pollutants; people with conditions such as asthma or rhinitis should take extra care.

Ampotech and Buskowitz Energy join forces on integrated energy solutions

Ampotech and Buskowitz Energy are collaborating on integrated solutions combining energy efficiency, rooftop solar and battery storage for commercial and industrial customers in the Philippines. The companies are currently working on 3.3 MWp of solar projects linked to PEZA locator companies and are exploring an AI-powered monitoring proof of concept for Buskowitz’s existing solar portfolio.

IDX Applies 7% Asymmetric Lower Limit Rule Until Year-End

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has set a 7% daily lower price limit for shares under its Auto Rejection Lower mechanism from 19 October to 31 December 2026, with approval from the Financial Services Authority. The temporary safeguard is intended to curb volatility and give investors more time to assess market information; the IDX will review it after year-end.

bank bjb Invites the Public to Take Part in Semarang 10K 2026, with a Running Ticket Available Simply by Saving

bank bjb is offering customers and prospective customers the chance to obtain a ticket for Semarang 10K 2026 by placing funds through selected savings schemes between 15 October and 15 November 2026. The event, scheduled for 13 December in Semarang, will close the 2026 Ultimate 10K Series and is also expected to support local tourism and economic activity.

Ministry finds depression and anxiety symptoms among teenagers four times higher than among adults

Indonesia’s Health Ministry says screening data from 71 million people found more than 380,000 children showing signs of depression and nearly 380,000 showing signs of anxiety, with symptoms among teenagers reportedly four times more common than among adults. Officials cited online risks including cyberbullying and digital sexual violence, and outlined community-based screening, early intervention and treatment measures to support children’s mental health.

Roy Suryo Challenges Jokowi to Produce His Diploma in Court

Roy Suryo’s lawyers have asked the court to order prosecutors to present Joko Widodo and the diploma allegedly seized by investigators at the next evidentiary hearing. The judge urged prosecutors to consider the request for the sake of an efficient trial, while prosecutors said witnesses and evidence would be presented according to their planned sequence.

Prolonged Dry Spell in Mataram: River Levels Fall as Temperatures Hit 37°C

A prolonged dry spell in Mataram has lowered river levels by at least 30 centimetres and pushed temperatures as high as 37°C. The city’s disaster management agency says conditions remain manageable, with no reports of crop failures or dried-up community wells, and forecasts rain from the third week of November.

Why Falling Global Oil Prices Are Pushing Gold Higher

Gold prices rose on Monday as weaker oil prices eased inflation concerns, supporting the precious metal amid uncertainty over the US Federal Reserve’s interest-rate outlook. Investors are now watching the Fed’s rate-setting meeting and upcoming US personal consumption expenditure inflation data for clues on monetary policy.

How to Free Up Phone Storage Without Deleting Important WhatsApp Chats

WhatsApp users can reclaim phone storage by removing unneeded media while keeping their conversations and message text intact. The guide recommends backing up chats first, then using Manage Storage to identify large files, frequently forwarded media and Channel downloads for deletion.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs says state remains capable of handling forest and land fires

Dudung Abdurachman says Indonesia has sufficient capacity to manage forest and land fires without declaring them a national disaster, citing the roles of the disaster agency, military, police and other institutions. He said the government welcomes assistance from other countries but must first coordinate its delivery and operational requirements, including fuel distribution and logistics.

Rumah Zakat Steps Up Forest and Land Fire Response in Kalimantan and Sumatra

Rumah Zakat has expanded firefighting, health services and essential aid in response to forest and land fires and smoke haze affecting communities across Kalimantan and Sumatra. Its reported assistance includes 38,740 masks, 15,000 litres of clean water and emergency food, while its chief executive has called for stronger cross-sector collaboration in prevention, response and community preparedness.

Companies Urged to Make ESG Part of Business Strategy

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has urged companies to integrate environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles into their business and investment strategies. The move is intended to sustain industrial competitiveness while ensuring economic growth supports long-term sustainable development.

BCA Sets Aside Rp5 Trillion for Share Buyback, Rp3.5 Trillion Already Spent

Bank Central Asia has allocated up to Rp5 trillion for a 12-month share buyback programme, of which around Rp3.5 trillion had been used by September 2026. The programme resumed on 19–21 October after BBCA shares fell 6.84 per cent to the lower auto-rejection limit, with the bank saying the buyback reflects confidence in its fundamentals and may help stabilise the Indonesian capital market.

South Jakarta Junior High School Pupil Killed After Being Hit by Pajero

A 14-year-old junior high school pupil was killed after being struck by a Mitsubishi Pajero in Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta, in the early hours of Sunday. The Pajero also collided with other vehicles, leaving two people injured; education officials confirmed the victim attended SMPN 43 Jakarta.

House of Representatives Calls on Government to Review 8% Ride-Hailing Commission Policy

A House of Representatives commission has called for a review of the eight per cent cap on ride-hailing app commissions, saying drivers report no corresponding rise in their take-home pay. The review would assess net earnings after operating costs and ensure the revenue-sharing policy benefits drivers while balancing users’ interests and investment in digital transport.

Astra-Backed MSMEs Record Rp104.9 Billion in Potential Deals at Trade Expo Indonesia

MSMEs supported by PT Astra International and its foundations recorded Rp104.9 billion in potential transactions at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, including Rp103.14 billion in prospective exports and Rp1.76 billion in retail partnerships. The agreements cover a range of agricultural and processed products destined for markets including Australia, Japan, India, the UK, South Korea and Pakistan, reflecting efforts to expand small businesses’ access to domestic and international buyers.

Another Tanker Catches Fire After Striking a Mine in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps says a tanker caught fire after striking a sea mine in the Strait of Hormuz, without identifying the vessel or specifying when the incident occurred. The report comes amid Iran’s effective blockade of the strategic waterway and a series of similar incidents, raising further concerns over a route carrying a significant share of global oil and gas supplies.

Amran Sends Officials to Inspect Broiler Farmers Facing Bankruptcy

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has ordered officials to assess the financial distress facing independent broiler farmers and propose solutions. Farmers say low live-bird prices and high feed costs are causing losses of Rp4,000–Rp5,000 per bird, and warn that many could shut down within two months if conditions persist.

Indonesia launches new push to protect Java’s northern coast

Indonesia has launched a coastal-resilience programme in Demak, combining infrastructure such as embankments and breakwaters with nature-based measures including mangrove restoration. The initiative forms part of the wider Giant Sea Wall project, targeting threats to communities and economic activity along Java’s northern coast; officials say a master plan is complete and a presidential regulation is expected to support implementation.

JCI’s Mid-Session II Losses Narrow: Here’s Why

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) recovered above the 5,000 psychological level on Monday, narrowing its losses after falling sharply earlier in the session. The rebound was supported by reduced declines in infrastructure, property and industrial shares, alongside buying in several stocks; market rumours that Danantara would buy deeply discounted state-owned company shares also circulated.

UGM Advocacy Forum Reports Violence Against Seven Students at Jogja Protest

The UGM Advocacy Forum has asked Yogyakarta police to follow up on allegations that seven students were assaulted during a 1 September protest, with some reportedly suffering injuries requiring stitches. Police say they have conducted preliminary inquiries and gathered CCTV footage, but need a formal report and supporting evidence to proceed further.

Bali Governor Extends Odd-Even Fuel Purchase Scheme Until Friday

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has extended the odd-even vehicle-plate system for purchasing subsidised fuel until Friday, after the measure helped ease queues at petrol stations. Fuel reserves currently cover an estimated 11 to 12 days, and the provincial government aims to increase this to 15 days while stepping up deliveries from Java.

Bahlil Asks Pertamina to Increase Bali’s Fuel Reserves After Queues at Filling Stations

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has asked Pertamina to raise Bali’s fuel reserves from 11 to 15 days after delayed shipments from Java caused shortages and long queues at petrol stations. Pertamina has increased the number of fuel-carrying vessels serving the island from three to seven, while national fuel stocks remain above minimum standards.

Turning market access into sustained exports for Indonesia

Indonesia’s exports rose 4.43% year on year to US$167.03 billion in January–July 2026, while the Trade Ministry facilitated 1,021 MSMEs through overseas business meetings that generated US$58.06 million in purchase orders and a further US$275.61 million in potential deals. The article argues that market access must be followed by practical support—including standards guidance, financing and logistics—and better tracking of orders, shipments and repeat purchases to build lasting export relationships.

BMPD, MES, BPJPH and Bandung’s UIN Hold Final Event for Halal Certification Assistance for Hundreds of MSMEs

West Java’s Regional Banking Consultative Body (BMPD) and partner institutions have supported 115 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from 11 banks through halal certification, with the businesses verified and assisted up to certificate issuance. The initiative comes ahead of the full implementation of mandatory halal certification on 18 October 2026, and aims to strengthen the province’s halal supply chain and improve MSMEs’ competitiveness and market access.

Different Generations, Different Car Preferences: Gen Z Chooses Saloon Cars, Gen X Prefers Pick-ups

A US analysis of more than 58 million car insurance quotes finds clear generational differences in vehicle preferences: Gen Z favours saloon cars, while pick-ups lead among Gen X and baby boomers. Chevrolet is the most popular make among Gen Z, millennials and Gen X, while Ford tops the baby-boomer list; several models remain popular across all age groups.

Pati Man Caught Stealing Dozens of Women’s Knickers and Bras for a Love Charm

A man in Pati regency, Central Java, was caught after repeatedly stealing women’s underwear, with CCTV helping the victim and her husband identify him. Police say he admitted taking 20 pairs of knickers and 20 bras, which he claimed were intended for a charm believed to attract affection.

Video: APEI Hopes Indonesia Will Not Be Downgraded to Standalone Market—What Would the Impact Be?

The Indonesian Securities Companies Association (APEI) says MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesia as a Standalone Market is unwelcome news for capital-market participants. A downgrade could constrain foreign investor interest and increase reliance on domestic investors, making regulatory reforms important to retaining Indonesia’s Emerging Market status.

Communications Ministry seeks to expand internet access coverage and improve service quality

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says internet penetration has reached 81.72 per cent, while 4G coverage extends to nearly 99 per cent of the population, though around 2,000 villages and settlements remain unconnected. The government is pursuing faster, more affordable broadband and plans to use additional radio spectrum and electricity infrastructure to improve connectivity, which it says will help drive digital-economy growth.

Government to introduce regulations to prevent radioactive contamination

The government plans to introduce Industry Ministry rules to prevent and manage radioactive contamination in industrial facilities and zones, following a Cesium-137 incident in Serang. Authorities say inspections and food testing found radiation levels below thresholds, while monitoring and controls will continue after the emergency response phase ended.

Dudung to Review After Police Officer Is Shot Dead by Fellow Officer

Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurrachman says he will review the incident in which a police officer was fatally shot by a colleague in South Tangerang. He said the review would focus on recruitment, including psychological and ideological screening, while the suspect has been detained and is being investigated.

From Schroders to Morgan Stanley: Why Are Global Financial Giants Looking to Exit Indonesia?

Schroders is reportedly seeking a buyer for its Indonesian asset-management business, while Morgan Stanley ended its domestic share-broking operation in 2021 but continues to serve clients through local partners and other services. The cases reflect both global restructuring and challenges in building sustainable businesses in Indonesia, prompting questions about the competitiveness of the country’s capital market without proving a broad loss of investor appeal.

West Java Provincial Government to Offer Free Training in Four Foreign Languages to Villagers

West Java plans to provide free six-month courses in English, Mandarin, Japanese and Arabic from November 2026 to prepare rural residents for overseas work. The programme is intended to help prospective migrant workers understand procedures and avoid problems abroad, with each sub-district selecting four villages to take part.

SCG Indonesia Wins 2026 ESG NOW Award for Decarbonisation and Energy Transition

SCG Indonesia has received a 2026 ESG NOW Award for its alternative fuel and material programme, including an RDF facility in Sukabumi that turns urban waste into fuel for cement production. The initiative reduces reliance on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions while involving local communities, supporting Indonesia’s wider sustainability and net-zero ambitions.

Jakarta urged to review idle funds allocated to regional-owned enterprises

A faction on the Jakarta Provincial Council has urged the provincial government to tighten oversight of, and review, capital injections into regional-owned enterprises (BUMDs), including funds that remain unused. The projected total allocation will exceed Rp82 trillion by 2027, while expected returns are only about Rp876 billion, prompting calls for transparent financial reporting, recovery plans and closer performance monitoring.

Rupiah Closes Lower as US Dollar Advances to Rp18,030

The rupiah fell 0.17% to Rp18,030 per US dollar as domestic financial markets remained under pressure following MSCI’s announcement of a possible reclassification of Indonesia’s equity market. The Jakarta Composite Index slumped, while Bank Indonesia said it would continue intervening to stabilise the currency; investors are also watching this week’s policy meeting and interest-rate decision.

Bahlil Says Bali Has 12 Days’ Worth of Fuel Reserves After Petrol Station Inspection

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said Bali’s fuel reserves have recovered to an average of 11–12 days after delays to fuel shipments from Java caused supplies to fall by three to four days. He has asked Pertamina to increase reserves to 15 days and expanded the number of ships serving the route from three to seven.

Bali Extends Odd-Even Fuel Purchasing Rule Until 23 October

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has extended the odd-even rule for buying fuel at petrol stations across the province until 23 October, as part of measures to address fuel shortages. Supplies have improved and current stocks are expected to meet demand for the next 11 to 12 days, with the rule subject to an earlier review if distribution returns to normal.

ESG Now Forum: B50 Programme Expected to Cut Carbon Emissions by 42 Million Tonnes

Indonesia’s B50 biodiesel programme, which blends 50 per cent biodiesel, is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 42 million tonnes in 2026 and use around 18 million kilolitres of palm-based FAME. The government also estimates it could save up to Rp48 trillion in state spending amid high oil prices, while exploring further palm-oil processing into sustainable aviation fuel and palm-based petrol.

Taking Advantage: Indonesian Cashes In by Exchanging Brunei Dollars for Rupiah

As the rupiah weakened against foreign currencies, money changers in Jakarta saw increased activity from customers selling foreign cash. One customer received Rp70.15 million for B$5,000 at a rate above its usual level, while another exchange reported substantial sales of Singapore dollars.

Human Rights Ministry Warns Businesses: Economic Growth Must Not Come at the Expense of Human Rights

A Human Rights Ministry adviser says businesses must respect workers’ and communities’ rights even as Indonesia pursues economic growth, highlighting complaints linked to plantations and mining. The government is preparing a presidential regulation to assess human-rights compliance in business, building on the voluntary PRISMA system and aligning with UN principles as Indonesia moves towards OECD membership.

The Heartbroken Shopkeeper Looted in France: ‘This Is My Life’

Shopkeepers in Paris describe the devastating impact of looting during protests over fuel prices, the cost of living and public services. Police arrested about 1,800 people as demonstrations involving an estimated 550,000 people gave way to violence and mass looting in several cities.

OJK to Build Sustainable Ecosystem to Help SMEs Access Rural Bank Credit

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) plans to establish a dedicated department and coordinate with government agencies and rural banks to build end-to-end support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative is intended to widen credit distribution and reduce non-performing loans, while OJK advances new financing guidance, credit-scoring discussions and integrated MSME financing data systems.

Indonesia’s Digital Economy Grows 14 Per Cent as Communications Ministry Strengthens Innovation Ecosystem

Indonesia’s digital economy is forecast to reach US$99 billion in 2025, up 14 per cent year on year, prompting the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs to strengthen support for startups, investment and technology talent. The ministry also highlighted digital social-protection trials across 153 local authorities and regional cooperation under the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement as ways to improve productivity and public services.

Government Won’t Declare Forest and Land Fires a National Disaster: ‘We Can Still Cope’

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman says the government does not plan to declare fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan a national disaster, arguing the country can still manage the crisis. Malaysia has offered three helicopters and 52 personnel, but Dudung said operational challenges—including fuel distribution—mean assistance is not simply a matter of equipment and staff.

Bahlil deploys seven fuel tankers to raise Bali’s reserves to 15 days

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has increased the number of fuel-carrying vessels serving Bali from three to seven, aiming to lift Pertalite reserves to 15 days and ease queues at petrol stations. Pertamina has also boosted stocks to 48 million litres, expanded tanker-truck capacity and extended round-the-clock operations, while Bali’s odd-even vehicle restriction has been extended for further evaluation.

Singapore Targets Seven Companies Suspected of Causing Forest and Land Fires; Home Affairs Minister Responds

Singapore plans to issue notices to seven companies operating in Indonesia over suspected links to fires that caused transboundary haze, and says further enforcement action may follow. Indonesia’s Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said Jakarta would not object to legal action under Singaporean law, while stressing that Indonesia is also pursuing fire mitigation and would act firmly against companies involved in burning land.

Forest and Land Fires on Mount Lawu to Be Tackled with Water Bombing

Central Java authorities plan to deploy two military helicopters for water-bombing operations to extinguish fires on the slopes of Mount Lawu, where around 100 hectares have burned. Karanganyar has declared a disaster emergency, while responders face difficult, steep terrain and newly emerging hotspots amid hot weather.

Video Shows Ice Chunks Damaging Residents’ Roof During Weather Modification Operation; BMKG Responds

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is reviewing its dry-ice cloud-seeding procedures in South Sumatra after a viral video appeared to show ice damaging a house roof in Palembang. Officials said storage can cause small dry-ice granules to clump together, and that they have since added a screen and crushing device to ensure smaller pieces are released from aircraft.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Stresses Importance of Strengthening Local Economies

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto says achieving Indonesia’s 8% national growth target will require stronger community economies in the regions, supported by inclusive and affordable financial services rather than relying solely on government spending and large-scale investment. He urged local governments to coordinate financial-access, inflation-control and digitalisation teams, and welcomed a new dashboard to guide financial inclusion policy as Indonesia pursues targets of 93% inclusion by 2029 and 98% by 2045.

Central Jakarta Mayor Urges Residents to Harness Diversity to Protect Religious Harmony

Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin has urged residents to treat diversity as a source of strength in maintaining unity and interfaith harmony. At the inaugural Central Jakarta FKUB Harmony Tour, he called for dialogue and practical cooperation among religious leaders, government and communities, rather than harmony being reduced to the absence of conflict.

Indonesia Highlights Local-Currency Transactions and Digital Systems at 2026 IMF-World Bank Meetings

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti called for wider use of local currencies in trade and investment and stronger cross-border payment systems to reduce exposure to exchange-rate volatility and make transactions faster, cheaper and more accessible. The meetings also addressed global economic resilience, digitalisation, financial stability and international cooperation, with the G20 Finance Track presidency passing from the United States to the United Kingdom.

LPS reminds BPRs of deposit interest rate cap to protect customers’ savings

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) says interest rates above its guarantee ceiling are a leading reason deposits become ineligible for reimbursement when a bank is liquidated. It has set a 6.25% ceiling for rupiah deposits at rural banks (BPRs) through 31 January 2027, and urges customers and banks to ensure deposits and customer records are properly documented.

Mirae Asset Says MSCI Proposal Risks Pressuring Bond Market

Mirae Asset warns that MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market could weaken sentiment and trigger foreign outflows, affecting government bonds and the rupiah. The resulting currency pressure could constrain Bank Indonesia’s monetary easing and keep bond yields elevated, while a final decision is expected by the end of June 2027.

Land Disputes and Wages: The Human Rights Risks Facing Businesses

Land disputes, environmental damage and labour conditions—including pay—are among the human rights risks associated with business activity in Indonesia, particularly in the plantation and mining sectors. The government is preparing a presidential regulation to strengthen human rights compliance assessments for businesses, replacing the voluntary approach currently conducted through the PRISMA application.

Breaking: Jakarta Composite Index Gains Strength in Afternoon Session, Losses Narrow to 3.5%

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) recovered above the 5,000 psychological mark during Monday afternoon trading, trimming its losses to 3.53% after falling as much as 5% in the morning. Shares in several state-owned banks and mining companies rebounded amid market rumours that Danantara would buy deeply discounted state-owned shares.

Malaysia Extends School Closures in Johor Amid Haze

Johor has extended the closure of schools and educational institutions across the state for a further five days from Monday, 19 October, as air pollution remains at concerning levels. Remote learning will continue, while any limited exemptions for students sitting examinations or assessments must follow strict health protocols.

Biggest Ally Turns Critic: Europe Angered by Trump-Putin Fuel Deal

Donald Trump’s suspension of new Russia sanctions and tariffs, alongside a temporary waiver for Russian diesel exports, has drawn criticism from European leaders and Ukraine amid the ongoing war. The measures could benefit Moscow, while the announced fuel volumes appear small relative to US demand and face practical obstacles to delivery.

When Will PAM Jaya and Bank Jakarta Go Public? Pramono Says Market Conditions Are Currently Poor

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the planned initial public offerings of regional-owned enterprises PAM Jaya and Bank Jakarta will depend on more favourable market conditions. The Jakarta provincial government is waiting for a suitable window, with the IPOs expected to proceed sometime next year.

IDX to Meet MSCI Over Indonesia’s Market Classification

The Indonesia Stock Exchange will seek clarification from MSCI after the index provider opened a consultation on a possible downgrade of Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market status, citing concerns about investability, ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading. The announcement unsettled markets, prompting IDX to reduce the lower auto-rejection limit from 15 per cent to 7 per cent; MSCI’s consultation runs until 30 April 2027, with a decision expected by 30 June.

Guterres says Indonesian troops are key to stability in Central African Republic

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said Indonesian troops preparing to join the UN mission in the Central African Republic would play a decisive role in restoring stability and supporting state institutions. The deployment could eventually help the UN reduce its mission if security and peace efforts progress, although armed groups remain active.

UN Secretary-General Visits Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, Welcomed by Foreign Minister Arrmanatha

UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry on the final day of his three-day visit, where he was welcomed by Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir. His programme focused on strengthening Indonesia-UN multilateral cooperation, recognising Indonesia’s peacekeeping contribution and discussing the future of multilateralism.

Six Victims of Ciputat Explosion Remain in Hospital, Some Undergo Surgery

Six people injured in an explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang remain in hospital, with some requiring surgery and intensive care. The city government says it will cover all treatment costs, while investigators found a 52-kilogram ethylene gas cylinder and piping connected to a banana-ripening room at the site.

Government Says It Can Still Handle Forest and Land Fires, So Has Not Declared National Disaster

The government says it has not declared forest and land fires in several regions a national disaster because it believes it still has the capacity to manage the crisis. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said Malaysia has offered three helicopters and 52 personnel, while President Prabowo Subianto is closely monitoring the response and plans to discuss it with ministers.

After Meeting Prabowo, UN Secretary-General Tasks TNI with Mission to End African Conflict

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said Indonesian peacekeepers could play a decisive role in stabilising the Central African Republic, where armed groups remain active and state presence is limited. The mission is intended to support state institutions and encourage armed groups to join the peace process; its success could allow the UN to gradually scale back its operation.

100 GW of Solar Power Capacity Expected to Boost Regional Economies

Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs is promoting a 100-gigawatt solar power programme, which is expected to require around Rp1,100 trillion in investment and create 5.5 million jobs. The programme is also projected to save Rp74 trillion annually, cut greenhouse gas emissions and extend electricity access to communities beyond the transmission grid.

MPR: State Policy Guidelines Intended to Guide Development Across Presidential Terms

The MPR’s Commission on Constitutional Affairs says the proposed State Policy Guidelines (PPHN) would establish long-term principles to guide development across successive presidencies, rather than impose technical instructions. The guidelines’ legal form and necessity remain under discussion, with the MPR leadership hoping to complete them by 2027 and calling for broad public participation.

Bahlil Visits Bali Petrol Stations and Explains Cause of Long Fuel Queues

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia attributed long queues at several Pertamina petrol stations in Bali to a technical delay in fuel shipments from Java, linked to the company’s internal logistics management. He said supplies had recovered, with Bali’s average reserves at 11–12 days, and ordered more tanker vessels and a higher reserve target to strengthen distribution.

Profile of Haji Isam, the Mining Entrepreneur Linked to BCA Share Acquisition Speculation

South Kalimantan entrepreneur Andi Syamsuddin Arsyad, known as Haji Isam, has attracted attention amid speculation linking him to a possible acquisition of shares in Bank Central Asia, which the bank has denied. The scrutiny comes as his company, Jhonlin Baratama, has signed a conditional share purchase agreement to acquire a stake in Bayan Resources from Low Tuck Kwong and his daughter, while the Financial Services Authority says any changes in bank ownership will be assessed under applicable rules.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Stresses Importance of Expanding Regional Access to Finance

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto says achieving Indonesia’s 8% national growth target will require more than government spending and large-scale investment, including wider access to affordable financial services in the regions. He called for local authorities to coordinate financial-inclusion, inflation-control and digitalisation teams, and welcomed a new dashboard intended to support better-targeted policies and expand services into rural areas.

LPS Chief: Policy Guarantee Scheme Will Provide Maximum Protection

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) says its planned policy guarantee scheme will prioritise transferring policies from failed insurers to other companies to minimise disruption to cover. LPS has proposed a cumulative guarantee cap of Rp500 million per insured, which it estimates would cover around 97–99 per cent of policies or policyholders, while also helping strengthen confidence in the insurance industry.

Bali Police Expect Rogue Fuel Sellers to Decline as Queues at Petrol Stations Ease

Bali Police say the number of unlicensed Pertalite sellers is expected to fall after fuel-station queues eased, following the introduction of an odd-even system and adequate supplies. Police have arrested 29 sellers accused of stockpiling fuel bought at petrol stations and reselling it at steep mark-ups, with 21 receiving a compulsory reporting requirement and eight still under investigation.

PLN Batam Confirms Automatic Blackout Compensation on November Bills

PLN Batam says regular customers affected by the 12 October blackout will receive an automatic credit of 10 per cent against their electricity charges on November 2026 bills. Special B2B customers will receive compensation of around 15–25 per cent of their total consumption, under a separate mechanism.

Surprise Poll: KDM Overtakes Anies in Presidential Race as Gibran Closes in on AHY

A Parameter Politik Indonesia survey places West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi ahead of Anies Baswedan in an open-ended presidential preference simulation, while Prabowo Subianto remains the clear leader. In narrower scenarios, Anies moves back into second place and Gibran Rakabuming Raka nearly matches AHY, underscoring how candidate rankings vary by the names included.

Home Renovation Assistance: Targeted Support and Transparent Procurement

The government’s self-help housing assistance scheme, known as Bedah Rumah, is part of efforts to improve living conditions under the Three Million Homes Programme. The article highlights accurate beneficiary selection using the national social and economic database and transparent procurement of building materials as key to ensuring the programme reaches low-income households effectively.

North Jakarta Municipal Government Educates Pupils on the Dangers of Drug Misuse

North Jakarta’s Health Sub-agency has taught primary school pupils about the health risks of smoking and narcotics, encouraging them to resist negative peer pressure. The session was integrated into a literacy programme, bringing together local health, education and library officials to combine health awareness with reading promotion.

IABI: Aftershocks in Flores are part of the Earth’s crust readjusting

The Indonesian Disaster Experts Association (IABI) says aftershocks continuing in Flores are a natural readjustment of crustal stress following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake on 15 August 2026. Although their frequency is declining, significant tremors remain possible; the latest magnitude 5.1 quake in West Manggarai was not capable of generating a tsunami.

Dar Et Tauhid Islamic Boarding School Temporarily Suspended After Sexual Abuse Case

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has recommended temporarily suspending activities at Dar Et Tauhid Islamic boarding school in Bekasi following alleged sexual abuse, while ensuring students’ education continues through distance learning or transfers. The ministry is also seeking a qualified replacement caretaker and says staff implicated in the case must be removed from their duties and kept away from students during the legal process.

Police Chief Meets TNI Commander to Discuss Liquid Drugs in Vapes and Illegal Mining

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto discussed strengthening cooperation on security, including illegal mining, narcotics trafficking and transnational crime. They also highlighted emerging threats such as liquid narcotics distributed through vapes, cyberattacks and identity abuse, and stressed the need for sustained coordination and law enforcement.

Indonesian Government Responds to Singapore’s Warning to Seven Companies over Forest and Land Fires

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said Indonesia has no objection to Singapore taking legal action against companies linked to fires in Indonesia, provided it follows Singaporean and international law. Singapore has issued legal notices to seven companies, alleging their land fires contributed to haze affecting the city-state, and is considering action under its Transboundary Haze Pollution Act.

Breaking: Someone Suddenly Buys Up BBRI, BBNI and BMRI Shares

Indonesia’s benchmark stock index sharply pared its losses after falling 5% by the close of the first trading session, with several state-owned bank and mining shares rebounding. Market rumours suggested that Danantara would enter the market to buy deeply fallen state-owned company stocks considered to have low valuations; the article did not confirm the rumour.

Residents Complain as RSUD Psychologist Fees Rise from Rp110,000 to Rp550,000

Residents have raised concerns over higher psychologist consultation charges at Jakarta regional public hospitals, including a reported increase at RSUD Pasar Minggu from Rp110,000 per session to as much as Rp550,000 for an hour. Jakarta Governor Regulation No. 17 of 2026 sets different rates according to facility and service category, while lower-cost counselling is available at community health centres and some services may be covered by BPJS Health.

Minister backs increase in Bank Kalbar’s KUR allocation to Rp1 trillion

Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman has backed Bank Kalbar’s proposal to raise its People’s Business Credit (KUR) allocation to Rp1 trillion in 2027, subject to the bank’s liquidity position. The increase would expand financing access for West Kalimantan’s MSMEs, as the government also seeks to lift the national MSME credit ceiling to Rp2,000 trillion by 2027.

Djarot Urges DPR to Use Right to Express an Opinion over Gibran Diploma Controversy

PDIP politician Djarot Syaiful Hidayat has urged the House of Representatives (DPR) to use its constitutional right to express an opinion, rather than an inquiry right, in response to the controversy over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma. He cited the Constitutional Court’s ruling and said the matter had been referred to other institutions, including the DPR and law enforcement agencies.

Religious Affairs Ministry Temporarily Suspends Dar Et Tauhid Islamic Boarding School over Sexual Abuse Allegations

The Religious Affairs Ministry has temporarily halted activities at Dar Et Tauhid Islamic boarding school following alleged sexual abuse, while arranging remote learning for students who have returned home. The school must appoint a qualified replacement head and establish comprehensive child-protection safeguards before it can reopen; staff implicated in the case are to be removed from their duties and kept away from students while legal proceedings continue.

Nickel Downstreaming Key to Indonesia’s Economic Transformation

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani says investment now accounts for around 38–39% of Indonesia’s economic growth, with nickel downstreaming helping build integrated domestic industrial supply chains. State mining holding MIND ID is expanding mineral processing projects, which it says can raise domestic value-added, strengthen industry and generate longer-term economic benefits.

Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Addresses Claims of Discord with Regent

Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Joko Parwoto says relations with Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih should be based on mutual respect, open communication and shared responsibility, while insisting he does not want to prolong public controversy. Parties that backed their 2024 election ticket have urged the pair to work in tandem, following criticism over Joko’s absence from the district’s anniversary events, which he attributed to a toothache.

Kamaruddin Simanjuntak, Lawyer for Brigadier Yosua’s Family, Dies

Lawyer Kamaruddin Simanjuntak died at Pelni Hospital in Central Jakarta at about 3am on Monday, 19 October 2026, after several years of undergoing regular dialysis. He became widely known as a member of the legal team representing Yosua Hutabarat’s family in the shooting case involving former Propam Division chief Ferdy Sambo.

Kotim Transport Agency: Shipping Traffic Safe Despite Haze

Kotawaringin Timur’s Transport Agency says maritime services remain safe and schedules are unaffected despite haze from forest and land fires. Authorities have tightened monitoring along the Mentaya River channel, while also taking account of rising seas and coordinating to protect shipping safety and the flow of essential supplies.

Government Launches New System to Monitor Regional Access to Finance

The government has launched an interactive dashboard tracking access to financial services at regency and municipal level, using the Regional Financial Access Index (IKAD) to identify gaps and guide locally tailored policies. The index supports Indonesia’s target of 98% financial inclusion by 2045 and is already included in regional planning documents across hundreds of districts and all 38 provinces.

MAKI Questions Minister Nusron Wahid’s Overseas Trip Without Presidential Permission While KPK Seeks to Question Him

MAKI coordinator Boyamin Saiman alleges that ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid travelled to Malaysia before receiving presidential approval, while missing a second KPK summons in a bribery investigation. The anti-corruption commission says investigators are considering whether to arrange a compulsory pick-up; eight people have been named suspects in the case.

Tanjung Priok Police Uncover Rp2.8bn International Etomidate Vape Drug Case

Police in North Jakarta have seized 400 etomidate-filled vape cartridges worth an estimated Rp2.8 billion and arrested a suspect in Pantai Indah Kapuk. The suspect allegedly acted on instructions from a foreign national who remains at large, as police pursue the investigation and possible international distribution network.

Meow Arisan Organiser Denies Embezzling Rp4.8bn, Says Payments Were Missed

Mourin Chienci Lintong denies embezzling funds from the Meow rotating savings scheme, saying losses arose after 33 members failed to meet their payment obligations. She says she has reported three members over large unpaid amounts, while police are separately investigating allegations that the scheme’s participants suffered losses of more than Rp4 billion.

Indonesia and Timor-Leste Officially Sign Bilateral Investment Treaty

Indonesia and Timor-Leste have signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) intended to strengthen the legal framework for investment and economic cooperation. The agreement sets out provisions for investment promotion, facilitation and protection, with both countries seeking to expand ties across manufacturing, infrastructure, renewable energy, logistics and digital technology.

Prabowo Calls Dudung and Tito to the Palace for Meeting on Latest Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto convened senior officials to discuss the latest developments in tackling forest and land fires, including hotspot reports, field conditions and measures such as canal blocking and water infrastructure. The meeting also covered inflation, global economic conditions, fuel stocks, social stability, agrarian issues and the planned visit of UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

MSCI Pressures Indonesia: Is the IDX Composite Still an Economic Indicator?

The author argues that MSCI’s threat to classify Indonesia as a standalone market should not trigger excessive alarm, contending that the IDX Composite is not necessarily a reliable indicator of economic performance in an inefficient market. The article calls for stronger financial reporting, periodic review of accounting standards, closer scrutiny of IPO allocations and safeguards against using shares as collateral for commercial bank loans, alongside broader reforms to attract investment and improve market governance.

Father Remembers Bharatu Valdo, Shot Dead by Fellow Police Officer in Pondok Cabe

Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez’s father has remembered him as a sociable family breadwinner after the police officer was fatally shot at the Polairud headquarters in Pondok Cabe. He has called for the legal process to continue and alleged that the killing was premeditated; Valdo was buried in his home village in East Flores.

Residents Hear a Bang Before Large Metal Object Is Found in Central Kalimantan Palm Oil Plantation

A large metal object with cables attached has been discovered at a palm oil plantation in Kotawaringin Timur, Central Kalimantan, after residents reported hearing a loud bang and feeling a tremor the previous day. Authorities have not established any connection between the sound and the object, whose identity and origin remain unknown; technical examination is needed to assess its composition and whether it poses any hazard.

LPS strengthens BPR-BPRS governance through five training sessions in 2026

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) held five governance training sessions in 2026, targeting 350–400 rural and sharia rural banks, alongside 20 public education sessions on deposit guarantees. While assets, deposits and lending grew year on year, elevated problem-loan ratios underscore the need for stronger risk management and internal oversight to protect customers and support MSME financing.

Doomsday Glacier Keeps Melting Despite Cooler Seas, and It Cannot Be Stopped

A British Antarctic Survey study found that Thwaites Glacier would continue to melt for at least 150 years even in a simulation that eliminated ocean warming, although its rate of retreat would slow. The findings underline the glacier’s long-term vulnerability and the importance of cutting emissions to limit sea-level rise and give coastal communities more time to adapt.

Home Affairs Minister Formally Hands Over BNPP Chief’s Post to Maruli

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has formally handed over leadership of the National Border Management Agency (BNPP) to General Maruli Simanjuntak, who was appointed Deputy Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces and head of the expanded agency. The agency’s remit is being widened to include remote areas, with priorities including improving residents’ welfare, resolving border disputes and developing border crossings as economic centres.

Turning market access into sustained exports for Indonesia

Indonesia’s exports rose 4.43 per cent year on year to US$167.03 billion in January–July 2026, while trade ministry initiatives connected 1,021 MSMEs with overseas buyers and generated US$58.06 million in purchase orders. The article argues that lasting export growth depends on helping businesses convert initial interest into shipments and repeat orders through practical trade-agreement guidance, financing, production support and improved logistics, alongside better tracking of outcomes.

Roy Suryo Trial in Jokowi Diploma Case to Continue, Prosecutors Prepare Three Witnesses

The trial of Roy Suryo, who is accused of defaming former Indonesian president Joko Widodo over claims about his university diploma, is moving to the evidence stage. Prosecutors plan to call three witnesses when hearings resume on 28 October, after the court rejected the defence’s preliminary objection.

Jakarta Police Step Up Drug Prevention Efforts in Kampung Boncos

Jakarta Metro Police conducted an intensified operation in Kampung Boncos, West Jakarta, as part of efforts to prevent and eradicate drug abuse and illicit trafficking. No suspects were arrested, but officers seized drug-use paraphernalia and stressed that enforcement must be accompanied by community involvement and efforts to prevent the area from becoming a drug hotspot again.

Indonesia urges trade representatives to boost export growth

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has urged Indonesia’s overseas trade representatives to expand market access, connect exporters with buyers and strengthen business matching to deliver measurable export growth. The push was highlighted at the 41st Trade Expo Indonesia, where 168 memorandums of understanding worth a combined US$13.2 billion were signed on the opening day.

Prabowo summons Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs and BPGMN chief to discuss forest and land fires

President Prabowo Subianto summoned senior officials to the Presidential Palace for a limited meeting on forest and land fires in several parts of Indonesia. Coordinating Minister Dudung Abdurachman said he would report the latest developments and receive further instructions, but did not disclose updated hotspot figures or whether a national disaster status had been considered.

Government assures safety of shrimp and spices exported to the US

Indonesia says its shrimp and spice exports to the United States are being tested and certified as free from Cs-137, with US regulators continuing to recognise the designated Indonesian certification bodies. The government reports that shipments worth billions of dollars entered the US between late 2025 and September 2026 without any rejections, following diplomatic engagement and an FDA assessment.

Government Ends Cs-137 Emergency Phase and Strengthens Export Food Safety

Indonesia has declared the emergency response to Cs-137 contamination over after a year of inter-agency action, with affected sites reported under control and no new cases detected. The government says export shipments of shrimp and spices to the United States have passed radiation checks, while legal proceedings and preventive measures will continue.

Trenggono Says Indonesia Only Imports Salmon, Explains Why

Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono says Indonesia’s domestic fish production is sufficient to meet demand, leaving salmon as the only fish still imported because it cannot be farmed in the country’s warm climate. He says fisheries exports are worth about US$6.5 billion a year, led by shrimp and tuna, and that imports of shrimp and tuna have been halted while domestic producers are prioritised.

Four PSS Sleman Supporters Killed in Madiun Toll Road Crash Returned to Their Families

The bodies of four PSS Sleman supporters killed when their minibus collided with a timber truck on the Ngawi–Kertosono toll road were returned to their families in Sleman. Police have not named a suspect and are continuing their investigation, while six other passengers were injured, including two who are in serious condition.

Students Report Assault During Demonstration at Jensud Junction in Yogyakarta to Police

UGM’s Student Advocacy Forum has filed a police report over seven students allegedly injured during a demonstration at Gramedia Junction in Yogyakarta on 1 September. Police say they had already begun a preliminary investigation and obtained CCTV footage, but a formal complaint from victims is needed before the case can proceed to a full investigation.

Mataram Tourism Office prepares Gendang Beleq Festival to preserve local wisdom

Mataram plans to hold its Gendang Beleq Festival on 14 November 2026 alongside the Kota Tua Festival, scheduled for 16 November. The events aim to preserve traditional arts, encourage alternatives to amplified sound entertainment at community celebrations, promote Ampenan’s cultural heritage and support local tourism and small businesses.

Jakarta Governor Urges Truck Drivers to Obey Traffic Rules

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has urged truck drivers to comply with traffic regulations after a salt-laden truck crashed into a Transjakarta bus-lane divider in East Jakarta. The single-vehicle crash caused damage to the truck but no injuries; police are investigating its cause.

US May Use ‘Mother of All Bombs’ as Iran Prepares ‘Father of Its Missiles’

A senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander has warned the United States that Iran is preparing missiles capable of targeting its adversaries’ energy infrastructure and investments across the Middle East. The remarks come amid reports that Washington is weighing the use of its largest non-nuclear bomb, intensifying rhetoric over the conflict and the potential for further military escalation.

Smoke Crosses Borders, Capital Flows Without Limits

Singapore’s cross-border haze law and sustainable-finance rules provide tools to address environmental harm, but their effectiveness depends on evidence, enforcement and scrutiny of financing linked to high-risk businesses. The article argues that investors and financial institutions should conduct robust environmental due diligence while distinguishing allegations and historical links from proven legal responsibility.

Through the Poe Ibu Programme, West Java Provincial Government Helps Residents Secure Decent Homes

West Java’s Poe Ibu programme is funding repairs to 39 homes in Ciamis, including homes belonging to low-income residents and those damaged by ground movement. The first phase will cover 11 homes, supported by provincial agencies and the West Java Scout Council, as part of a collaborative effort to improve living conditions and promote community solidarity.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Poverty Rate Falls to 8.07%, Latest Data Show

Indonesia’s poverty rate stood at 8.07% in March 2026, representing 22.93 million people and a fall of 920,000 from a year earlier, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS). The government also reports declines in extreme poverty and income inequality, while continuing social protection, targeted assistance and wage subsidy programmes.

Foreign Investors Net Sell Rp1.05tn in First-Half Session, with BBCA the Most Sold

Foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp1.05 trillion on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in Monday’s first-half session, as the Jakarta Composite Index fell 5.05% to 4,923.26. Sales were concentrated in Bank Central Asia and Bank Rakyat Indonesia shares, while market sentiment remained strained by MSCI’s proposed review of Indonesia’s market classification, alongside domestic and global concerns.

Wamendagri Bima Stresses Need to Expand Regional Financial Access to Support 8% Growth Target

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto says achieving Indonesia’s 8% economic growth target will require broader, affordable financial services in the regions, alongside government spending and large-scale investment. He highlighted progress in integrating the Regional Financial Access Index into local planning and urged regional teams overseeing financial access, inflation and digitalisation to work together.

Grounding a Culture of Sincere Work

Husnul Khotimah Foundation in Kuningan has developed an IKHLAS work culture that frames employees’ duties as acts of worship and service to the community. The article outlines its first three pillars—integration, commitment and harmony—as principles intended to foster integrity, perseverance and teamwork among staff who educate and mentor students.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Task Force Reclaims 6.22 Million Hectares of Forest

By 6 October 2026, the Forest Area Regulation Task Force (Satgas PKH) had reclaimed 6.22 million hectares of forest land, mainly in plantation areas, with a smaller area in mining. The government also reported handing over Rp13.24 trillion in state revenue in October, generated through forestry administrative fines, non-tax revenue from special-crime enforcement and related tax receipts, as part of efforts to strengthen natural-resource governance and restore state assets.

BMKG Reviews Dry Ice Seeding in South Sumatra After Resident’s Roof Is Damaged

BMKG is reviewing its use of dry ice in weather-modification operations in South Sumatra after a viral video appeared to show falling ice damaging a resident’s roof. The agency says it has added filters and a breaker to reduce the size of dry ice released from aircraft, while continuing to assess safety procedures for people beneath flight paths.

After Hesitating, Trump Gives Netanyahu His Full Backing Ahead of Election

Donald Trump has endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu nine days before a closely contested parliamentary election, saying he had always intended to support him. The endorsement comes amid tensions over the war with Iran, which has raised fuel prices and weakened Trump’s domestic support, while Netanyahu’s coalition faces a strong opposition challenge.

Bhimasena Power Indonesia Wins ESG Now Award 2026 for Nature and Biodiversity Impact

PT Bhimasena Power Indonesia has received Republika’s ESG Now Award 2026 in the Nature & Biodiversity Impact category for its collaborative work to assess and restore coral reefs in Ujungnegoro. The initiative aims to curb reef degradation caused in part by destructive fishing gear, while protecting marine biodiversity and supporting local fishers’ livelihoods.

BOPPJ: Giant Sea Wall to Protect 55 Million Residents of Java’s North Coast

The Java North Coast Management Authority says a giant sea wall planned from Tangerang to Gresik is intended to protect 50–55 million people from land subsidence and tidal flooding. The programme is also expected to use nature-based measures such as mangroves, with implementation requiring coordination among national and local authorities.

Bank Mandiri Addresses JARR and PGUN Share Collateral

Bank Mandiri says its credit facility to Jhonlin Baratama was intended to fund business development, not share trading, and was assessed against the borrower’s repayment capacity and the wider group’s prospects. The loan is secured by several assets, including shares in JARR and PGUN; the bank says these are secondary repayment collateral valued conservatively under applicable rules.

TNI Commander and National Police Chief Discuss Drugs and Illegal Mining

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto discussed cooperation on tackling drug trafficking, illegal mining, extortion and cybercrime. They also called for closer coordination between the two institutions amid domestic and global security challenges, and highlighted support for national food and energy resilience.

Police Officer Fatally Shoots Colleague in Pondok Cabe; Dudung Speaks Out

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman has called for better control of officers’ emotions and a review of recruitment and evaluation procedures after a police officer was fatally shot by a junior colleague. The suspect is in custody and faces questioning as investigators establish the circumstances of the shooting.

NasDem on Gunungkidul Regent and Deputy: If They Are Not on Good Terms, It Could Become a ‘Broken Home’

Gunungkidul NasDem chairman Suharno says the regent and deputy regent appear to lack harmony, pointing to the deputy’s absence from meetings and the district’s anniversary events. He urged them to improve coordination, while stressing that the deputy’s reported toothache was not the issue; NasDem’s own legislators stayed away from the ceremony in protest at changing the district’s anniversary date from May to October.

MBG: Strategic Investment to Improve the Quality of Indonesia’s Human Resources

Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is presented as a strategic investment in human capital, at a time when the country’s demographic dividend could support its ambition to become a developed nation by 2045. The article argues that tackling malnutrition and stunting—and ensuring children are adequately nourished before learning—is essential to developing the younger generation’s physical and cognitive potential.

BNPB: Sidrap on 60-day emergency alert for drought and forest and land fires

Sidrap Regency in South Sulawesi has declared a 60-day emergency alert for drought and forest and land fires, effective from 3 September to 1 November 2026. The status provides a legal basis for intensifying the response; the latest fire was extinguished by a joint team, with no casualties reported.

BNPPDT to Extend Border Management to Underdeveloped Regions

BNPPDT chief Maruli Simanjuntak says the agency will broaden its focus beyond border security to include improving livelihoods in border buffer zones and underdeveloped areas. The expansion is intended to strengthen the agency’s delivery of planned programmes and support national resilience by improving welfare in border communities.

Jakarta opens two retention ponds to help prevent floods

Jakarta has opened the Batu Bangkong and Bambu Hitam retention ponds, which together can store 36,550 cubic metres of rainwater. The facilities are designed to ease pressure on drainage systems, support water conservation and provide public amenities, as the city prioritises long-term flood prevention.

Palangka Raya Officer Loses His Voice While Fighting Forest Fires, Hopes to Recover in Time for His Child’s Graduation

Police officer Iptu M Agus Setiawan has continued helping to tackle forest and land fires in Palangka Raya despite an acute respiratory infection that has left him without a voice. Doctors advised him to rest for a week, and he hopes to recover in time to attend his child’s graduation on 1 November.

Turkish Embassy Outlines Four Strategic Pillars for Türkiye–Indonesia Climate Cooperation

A Turkish Embassy official has identified four areas for deeper climate cooperation between Türkiye and Indonesia: clean energy and industrial electrification, circular economy and refuse-derived fuel, resilient urban infrastructure, and joint climate diplomacy. The two G20 economies could also work together to press for fairer and more accessible climate finance at COP31.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Government Prepares 26 Downstreaming Projects Worth Rp225 Trillion

The article says the Prabowo-Gibran administration is marking its second anniversary by outlining government achievements and improving public access to information. However, despite the headline’s reference to 26 downstreaming projects worth Rp225 trillion, the supplied article text focuses on communication coordination, transparency and the public’s right to information, without providing details of those projects.

Dudung Reveals 97 Companies Linked to Forest and Land Fires; Legal Proceedings Under Way

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman says 97 companies across Sumatra and Kalimantan have been identified in connection with forest and land fires and are facing legal proceedings. The government is also exploring methods to extinguish fires in peatland, including surfactant chemicals, amid limited rainfall and difficulty accessing water sources.

PUI Scholars Rule Interest-Bearing Online Loans Haram and Urge Government to Offer Interest-Free Lending

A forum of scholars from the Persatuan Ummat Islam (PUI) has ruled that online loans requiring borrowers to pay more than the principal, or otherwise involving riba, are haram. It urged the government and regulators to curb illegal lending and abusive debt collection, while expanding sharia-compliant financing and support for people trapped in debt.

Key Features of the REDMI Pad 3 Emerge

Regulatory filings have revealed key details about the REDMI Pad 3 4G, the expected successor to the REDMI Pad 2 4G launched in June 2025. The tablet is listed with three memory configurations, microSD expansion, and 4G connectivity; a separate UAE approval for a different model number may point to a 5G variant.

Smoke Emerges from Ground in Mamuju; Disaster Agency Urges Residents to Keep Away

West Sulawesi’s disaster management agency says it has yet to receive an official report about smoke emerging from the ground in Botteng village, Mamuju, and will seek information from the district agency. Residents have been urged not to approach or dig at the site while the cause remains unknown, amid concerns about a possible underground fire.

Haze Returns to Labuan Bajo, Reducing Visibility to 4km

Haze has returned to Labuan Bajo, restricting visibility to around 4km, prompting Indonesia’s meteorological agency to advise vulnerable residents to limit strenuous outdoor activity. The cause has not been confirmed: BMKG says particles could have travelled from fires east of NTT, but dust, other emissions and sea-salt aerosols may also contribute, and further analysis is needed.

National Police Criminal Investigation Agency Pursues Food-Sector Offenders, Prioritising 11 Areas

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) will investigate 11 food-sector issues raised by Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman, including livestock feed, palm oil and alleged irregularities involving fortified rice. The agency says it is processing four police reports over fortified rice, after laboratory tests found 25 of 27 tested brands failed to meet standards; estimated consumer losses are Rp89 trillion in 2026.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Village Electricity Reaches 77,000 Homes, but Equal Access Remains Unfinished

Indonesia’s Village Electricity Programme reached 77,616 customers across 1,516 locations in 2025, but access remains uneven, particularly in remote areas. The government plans to continue rural electrification in 2026 alongside oil, biodiesel and solar initiatives aimed at strengthening domestic energy supply and reducing fuel imports.

BNPP Leadership Handover: Home Affairs Minister Calls for More Effective Border Management

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian handed over leadership of the National Border Management Agency (BNPP) to Maruli Simanjuntak, who was recently appointed Deputy Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces and head of the expanded BNPPDT. The agency’s remit now includes remote areas, with priorities including border-community welfare, resolving disputes with neighbouring countries and developing border crossings as economic centres.

Customs and BNN Foil Smuggling of 4.6kg of Chilean Cocaine at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport

Indonesian Customs and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) seized about 4.6kg of cocaine from two Chilean passengers arriving at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. A joint investigation has arrested three alleged local accomplices and is searching for a suspected controller, while authorities estimate the seizure prevented drugs reaching nearly 23,000 people and saved the state Rp36.7 billion.

Indonesia Prepares Quantum-Resistant Cryptography to Protect the Digital Economy

The government is preparing post-quantum cryptography and a national task force to counter the risk of encrypted data being stolen now and decrypted later by quantum computers. The move comes as digital transactions and the wider digital economy expand, alongside plans for data centre investment, e-commerce growth and stronger economic growth by 2027.

Pramono: PAM Jaya and Bank Jakarta IPOs Await the Right Time

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says planned IPOs for city-owned PAM Jaya and Bank Jakarta will be delayed until market conditions improve, with a possible launch next year. The Jakarta administration intends to retain majority ownership and strategic control, while seeking greater transparency and professionalism through public investment.

Poltracking Survey: 55.3% of Respondents Satisfied with Government Performance

A Poltracking Indonesia survey found that 55.3% of respondents were satisfied with the performance of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, while 40.9% were dissatisfied. Satisfaction has remained broadly stable over the past year; respondents cited well-targeted government assistance and the Free Nutritious Meals programme among reasons for approval, while economic instability and high prices were leading sources of dissatisfaction.

Indonesians in France and Italy urged to remain alert

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry has urged citizens in France and Italy to monitor official security updates, avoid demonstrations and crowds, and prepare for possible transport disruptions amid unrest over rising living costs. Indonesian embassies in Paris and Rome are monitoring events and have provided emergency contact numbers; the article also reports mass detentions and police injuries in France, and renewed unrest in Milan.

Cultivating Investment Opportunities in the Era of the Global Minimum Tax

Indonesia recorded Rp1,931.2 trillion in investment in 2025, up 12.7 per cent year on year, with downstreaming accounting for 30.2 per cent of the total. As the global minimum tax curtails competition based on low tax rates, Indonesia is urged to attract higher-quality, sustainable investment by strengthening its location advantages, industrial capacity and business certainty.

Indonesia’s BRIN Calls for Scientific Review of Dry-Ice Haze Strategy

BRIN researcher Florentinus Heru Widodo says the proposed use of dry ice to weaken atmospheric inversion layers and support cloud development remains a hypothesis requiring systematic observation and data analysis. Researchers can assess the operation using atmospheric measurements, including radiosonde readings and flight temperature profiles, to determine whether dry-ice seeding changes conditions or whether other weather dynamics are responsible.

National Police Chief meets TNI commander to discuss strengthening cooperation in safeguarding the unitary state

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto discussed closer coordination between the two institutions on security, drug trafficking and cybercrime. They also stressed continued vigilance over global and domestic security developments and support for government programmes on food and energy resilience.

Home Affairs Ministry Sets Up Team to Monitor Rising Chilli Prices

The Ministry of Home Affairs will send five teams to areas where chilli prices have risen and government agricultural assistance has been provided. Working with the Agriculture Ministry and local governments, they will assess support outcomes, identify obstacles and review measures to keep prices affordable.

DSSA Management Responds to Rp1.5 Trillion OJK Fine

Dian Swastatika Sentosa says the OJK sanction has no material impact on its finances or operations and says it will co-operate with regulators. The company also plans a share buy-back of up to Rp1 trillion over three months, funded from internal cash, saying it expects the move to support shareholder value without harming performance.

OJK Says IKAD Dashboard Will Strengthen Regional Financial Inclusion

OJK Chairwoman Friderica Widyasari Dewi says Bappenas’ IKAD dashboard can help map financial inclusion more accurately and support joint monitoring and evaluation across regions. Unlike a conventional inclusion index based on users’ uptake of financial products, IKAD also measures availability, access and the depth of financial services.

National Police Chief Meets TNI Commander, Pledges Joint Effort to Safeguard Indonesia’s Security

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto reaffirmed cooperation to maintain national security and confront threats including illegal mining, narcotics trafficking, transnational crime and cyberattacks. They stressed coordinated enforcement and stronger communication between the two institutions, including through a joint task force targeting illegal mining.

Samsung Galaxy F70 5G Debuts with 50MP Camera and Exynos 1330 Chip

Samsung has launched the Galaxy F70 5G in India, featuring a 50MP camera with optical image stabilisation and an Exynos 1330 processor. Priced from 19,999 rupees, the phone goes on sale on 20 October 2026, though Samsung has not said whether it will reach other markets.

Guterres praises Indonesia’s contribution to UN peacekeeping missions

UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised Indonesia’s long-standing support for UN peacekeeping, noting that nearly 2,000 Indonesian personnel are serving across seven missions and that Indonesia is the sixth-largest contributor. During his visit to the peacekeeping centre in Sentul, he honoured four Indonesian peacekeepers killed in Lebanon and urged accountability for attacks on UN personnel.

After Friday’s MSCI Announcement, IDX Seeks Clarification This Afternoon

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) will meet MSCI online to seek clarification after the global index provider unexpectedly placed Indonesia’s capital market under consultation. To curb panic, the exchange temporarily cut the lower auto-rejection limit on share prices from 15% to 7%, a measure its chief executive says has so far helped stabilise trading.

Regency Completes Sakura Bridge Repairs to Improve Tourist Access

The Thousand Islands Water Resources Sub-agency has completed repairs to Sakura Bridge on Untung Jawa Island, adding steps to make the route to Sakura Park safer and more comfortable. Local businesses hope the improved access will attract more visitors and boost trade in the area.

Tito Hands BNPP Leadership to General Maruli, Hopes for More Effective Border Management

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has handed over leadership of the National Border Management Agency (BNPP) to General Maruli Simanjutak, who was recently appointed Deputy Commander of the Indonesian Military and head of the expanded BNPPDT. Tito said the agency’s broader remit should improve development and welfare in border and remote areas, resolve cross-border disputes and turn state border posts into economic centres.

AHY and Ahmad Luthfi Plant Mangroves in Demak to Tackle Coastal Erosion

Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi have planted mangroves in Demak as part of efforts to protect the northern Java coast from erosion, tidal flooding and land subsidence. The pilot project combines nature-based restoration with BRIN’s HexBricks technology, while officials say the approach will be assessed for its environmental effectiveness and benefits to coastal livelihoods.

OJK strengthens rural banks through consolidation and regulatory relief

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is pressing ahead with capital strengthening and consolidation for conventional and Islamic rural banks, with 169 institutions still below the Rp6 billion minimum core-capital threshold. It has introduced regulatory accommodations to facilitate mergers and capital compliance, while stressing that consolidation must uphold prudential standards and good governance as the sector expands lending to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Government Declares Cesium-137 Contamination Emergency Over

Indonesia has declared the emergency response to radioactive Cesium-137 contamination at the Modern Cikande industrial estate in Banten complete, following remediation and inspections that found radiation levels below the threshold at 12 previously affected sites. Nearly 10,000 people were screened, with 11 cases of internal contamination treated; the task force says follow-up monitoring and response will continue.

Prabowo to Convene Ministers Today to Discuss Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to meet ministers at the State Palace to discuss accelerating the response to forest and land fires, as the government says it is strengthening coordination. Satellite monitoring reported haze across several Indonesian provinces, with smoke from Sumatra and Kalimantan also reaching neighbouring countries.

Jakarta Government Urges Calm and Caution as Wildfire Smoke Recedes

Smoke from forest and land fires over Jakarta has declined since 16 October, but the provincial government says it will continue mitigation efforts. Residents are urged to follow official air-quality updates, wear protective masks outdoors and seek medical help for respiratory symptoms, with vulnerable groups advised to limit strenuous outdoor activity.

Why Have Mass Protests in France Spread to Spain and Italy?

Protests over the cost of living, housing affordability and public services have spread from France to several European countries, although the demonstrations elsewhere have not yet reached the same scale. Analysts say France remains the movement’s epicentre, but growing discontent could trigger further mobilisations across Europe.

AAJI and Benih Baik provide protection assistance for NTT earthquake victims

The Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI) and Benih Baik Foundation have provided 50 microinsurance policies and Rp315 million in donations for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The support also includes clean-water infrastructure and school supplies, while the partners say the initiative is intended to aid recovery and increase awareness of insurance protection.

Widiasih says she fulfilled promise to late mother by winning bronze

Indonesian para powerlifter Ni Nengah Widiasih won bronze in the women’s 41kg event at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, fulfilling a promise she had made to her late mother. The 33-year-old said she was grateful to remain competitive despite increasingly strong Asian rivals and an incompletely healed shoulder injury.

Freedom of Religion Is a Fundamental Right: Commission VIII Urges Azerbaijan to Lift Hijab Ban

DPR Commission VIII member KH Maman Imanulhaq has urged Azerbaijan to repeal its ban on Muslim women wearing the hijab, describing it as a violation of religious freedom, equality and human rights. He also called on Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry and Azerbaijan’s embassy in Jakarta to raise the matter diplomatically.

Police-on-Police Shooting: Dudung Says Polri Needs to Review Recruitment System

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman has called on the National Police (Polri) to review its recruitment system after an officer fatally shot a colleague in South Tangerang. Police say the suspect has been detained and the case is under investigation, while the ministry highlights the need for psychological stability and emotional control among armed officers.

West Lombok Village Councils Inaugurated and Urged to Monitor Budgets and Out-of-School Children

Hundreds of members of West Lombok’s Village Consultative Bodies (BPD) have been inaugurated for the 2026–2034 term and urged to oversee village spending, poverty reduction and efforts to bring children back into education. Deputy Regent Nurul Adha cited poverty of about 11.6%, around 18,000 households still recorded in socioeconomic data as Decile 0, and approximately 7,000 out-of-school children.

UN Secretary-General: Indonesian Troop Mission Will Determine Central African Republic’s Stability

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said Indonesian peacekeepers will play a decisive role in stabilising the Central African Republic, supporting state institutions and encouraging armed groups to join the peace process. He said a successful deployment could also enable the UN to gradually scale back its mission in the country.

South Jakarta Students with Disabilities Taught About Emotions and Body Boundaries

South Jakarta’s Child Protection, Empowerment and Population Control Sub-agency held an educational session on emotions and body boundaries for 50 students with disabilities at SLB-C Wimar Asih. The programme aimed to help students express discomfort, seek help and build confidence, with teachers and parents encouraged to reinforce the lessons in everyday life.

Indonesian Government Urged to Review Land-Burning Rules to Curb Fires

A forestry-sector representative has urged the government to review land-burning regulations, supervision and community support, arguing that fire prevention must address local livelihoods and promote non-burning land-clearing methods. Forest concession companies say they support the ban and fire-control efforts, while calling for clearer institutional coordination and objective investigations to determine fire origins and legal responsibility.

Metro Jaya Police Raid Boncos Village Again in Anti-Drug Operation

Metro Jaya Police and other agencies raided the Boncos area of West Jakarta as part of a routine operation to prevent and combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking. No suspects were arrested, but officers seized drug-use paraphernalia; police said enforcement would be accompanied by efforts to prevent the area from returning to similar activity.

Komdigi Drafts Mandatory Labels for AI Products to Stop Indonesians Being Duped

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs is considering a ministerial regulation requiring AI developers to label AI-generated videos and other digital media so they can be distinguished from authentic content. The government is also preparing a 2026–2029 national AI roadmap, while officials warn that AI must support rather than replace human judgement and accountability.

Dudung Meets Tito and Bakom to Discuss Forest and Land Fire Response

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman chaired a meeting with ministers and government officials on forest and land fires, alongside measures to address global economic developments and domestic inflation. The meeting also covered national stability, Papua, village co-operatives, agrarian conflicts in transmigration areas and the upcoming visit of the UN Secretary-General to Jakarta.

Mandatory Halal Certification Delayed Again: Obligations May Be Postponed, but Certainty Must Not

The government has moved the halal-certification deadline for a wide range of products and services to October 2028, citing ecosystem readiness. The authors argue that repeated last-minute delays undermine legal certainty, fairness for businesses that have complied, consumer rights and confidence in the law, and call for clearer rules and stronger enforcement rather than another postponement.

Klaten Regency Government Encourages Young People to Learn About the History of the Struggle

Klaten’s branch of the 1945 Struggle Values Education Board held a public session on the independence struggle and local resistance to colonial rule. Local officials said teaching the history and values of sacrifice, honesty and public service can help younger generations contribute to society and regional development today.

Blora Regent Arief Rohman Re-elected to Lead Pagar Nusa in Central Java

Blora Regent Arief Rohman has been re-elected unopposed for a second term as head of Pagar Nusa’s Central Java regional leadership, pledging to strengthen the organisation, develop its members and athletes, and expand community service. National chairman Muchamad Nabil Haroen said the organisation should provide practical benefits to the public, including through legal-profession training and a planned digital administration system.

Audit Finds Two Companies Receiving Tax Holidays Did Not Meet Eligibility Criteria

Indonesia’s Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) found that two companies received tax holiday and tax allowance incentives despite having begun commercial production before applying. It attributed the problem to inadequate verification by the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM and limitations in the OSS system, and recommended stronger checks, data-sharing with the tax authority and a review of the two awards.

Philippines summons China’s envoy over remarks conveying ‘threat’

The Philippines summoned China’s ambassador to formally object to remarks Manila said conveyed a threat of force, after he said China could easily win a conflict but preferred peace. The dispute adds to escalating diplomatic tensions between the neighbours amid repeated confrontations in the South China Sea.

MPR Targets Outline of State Policy Guidelines by 2027, Discusses TAP MPR Option

The MPR aims to establish by 2027 a clearer picture of whether Indonesia should adopt State Policy Guidelines (PPHN) and what legal form they might take. A People’s Consultative Assembly decree (TAP MPR) is being considered, although constitutional constraints and public consultation remain central to the discussion.

National Police Chief Meets TNI Commander to Discuss Illegal Mining and Drug Trafficking

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto met TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto and senior service chiefs for his first official visit since being appointed, discussing illegal mining, narcotics trafficking and other security threats. He called for closer TNI-Police cooperation, highlighting a joint task force on illegal mining, emerging drug-smuggling methods and the need to strengthen cybersecurity and digital identity safeguards.

Jakarta Allows Non-Residents to Seek Treatment for Respiratory Problems Caused by Haze

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says anyone experiencing respiratory problems linked to forest and land-fire haze can receive treatment at the capital’s health facilities, regardless of whether they hold a Jakarta identity card. The provincial government has placed hospitals and clinics on standby, activated water-mist systems and is monitoring air quality, with further measures—including remote learning and outdoor-activity restrictions—available if conditions worsen.

Broom-Making SME Breaks into Export Markets in Australia

A broom-making centre in Purbalingga produces about 10,000 brooms a month using natural materials, with products sold across Central Java and exported to Australia and China. The small businesses sell each broom for between Rp20,000 and Rp30,000.

BNPB urges probe into fires in 44 areas of South Sumatra

BNPB Chief Kristomei Sianturi has called for law enforcement to investigate fires across 44 areas of South Sumatra, citing hotspots near land-conversion permit boundaries and the possibility of deliberate clearing. He emphasised coordinated action by central and local authorities, tougher penalties and long-term peatland measures to prevent fires from recurring.

Three Indonesian Waste-to-Energy Projects Under Construction: Latest Progress

Construction is under way at three waste-to-energy facilities in Bali, Bekasi and Bogor, with piling at the first two sites reaching 500–600 of a planned 1,100 points. The projects are designed to process more than 1,500 tonnes of waste a day and generate 31–36 megawatts for PLN, with commercial operations targeted for the first half of 2028; they form part of a government-backed effort to expand integrated waste management.

Malang Customs Issues NPPBKC to CV Sukses Asa Mandiri

Malang Customs has approved CV Sukses Asa Mandiri’s application for a Customs and Excise Entrepreneur Identification Number (NPPBKC), clearing an initial regulatory step for the company to operate in the tobacco products sector. The approval followed an assessment of its business plans, production activities and facilities, with officials stressing the importance of ongoing compliance with excise rules.

Bekasi Home Burgled in Broad Daylight as Police Investigate

Police are investigating a burglary at a home in the Griya Hasanah area of Cibitung, Bekasi, after residents returned to find the gates and house doors open and valuables missing. CCTV footage circulating on social media appears to show two men carrying items out of the property; police have urged anyone with information to come forward.

Roy Suryo Asks Jokowi to Produce Original Diploma at Trial

Roy Suryo’s lawyers have asked the East Jakarta District Court to order prosecutors to present Joko Widodo and his original university diploma as evidence in the defamation case against Suryo. The court rejected Suryo’s objection, allowing the case to proceed to the evidentiary stage, while prosecutors said witnesses and evidence would be presented in their planned order.

Central Bengkulu Regency to Continue WFA Until the End of 2026

Central Bengkulu Regency will maintain a work-from-anywhere (WFA) arrangement for civil servants and contract-based government employees through the end of 2026, citing substantial savings in routine expenditure. A first-quarter evaluation found that electricity costs fell to Rp80 million from Rp226 million a year earlier, although the regency has not decided whether the arrangement will continue in the next budget year.

Indonesian police tasked with candidate security in Central Africa

An Indonesian police unit serving with the UN mission in the Central African Republic was entrusted with protecting presidential and vice-presidential candidates during elections, and also carried out humanitarian work. The FPU-7 contingent has completed its one-year deployment and returned home, while FPU-8 has been sent to continue the mission; Polri is seeking opportunities for further UN peacekeeping deployments.

Jokowi Calls Degree Controversy a Political Operation; PDI-P Says ‘The Thief Cries Thief’

Former president Joko Widodo has described the controversy over his and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s academic certificates as a political operation, alleging that others are exploiting it. PDI-P spokesperson Guntur Romli rejected the claim and accused Jokowi of having used political manoeuvres while in office to facilitate Gibran’s rise to power.

IDX to Meet MSCI Today to Seek Clarification over Downgrade Warning – BCA Sekuritas

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is due to meet MSCI to seek an explanation for its warning that Indonesia could lose its emerging-market status amid concerns over market dysfunction and enforcement. The warning has triggered a sharp sell-off, with the benchmark index falling to a six-year low and the exchange lowering the daily share-price floor to curb volatility.

IDX Says 7% Lower Auto-Rejection Limit Effectively Eases Investor Panic

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says reducing the lower auto-rejection limit (ARB) from 15% to 7% has helped calm investor panic amid continued selling pressure. The measure took effect on 19 October and is scheduled to remain in place until the end of 2026, with a review depending on market conditions.

Telkom Focuses on Building Infrastructure, AI and National Cybersecurity

Telkom Indonesia is prioritising digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to support Indonesia’s national digital transformation and strengthen its digital sovereignty. Its plans include expanding connectivity to underserved areas, developing a self-reliant AI ecosystem and bolstering cyber resilience, alongside stronger international links.

Manggarai Trader Loses More Than Rp2 Million in Looting During Clash

A trader in Manggarai, South Jakarta, says his phone-accessories kiosk suffered more than Rp2 million in damage and losses during clashes between groups on Sunday. The incident, which also involved the burning of a kiosk, highlights the impact of the violence on local residents and businesses uninvolved in the dispute.

Smart Technology-Based Security for Macau: CTM and Huawei Collaborate to Strengthen Network Security in the AI Era

CTM is advancing plans to turn its network into intelligent, reliable and secure infrastructure, using AI to optimise traffic and deliver security services. Its collaboration with Huawei on quantum key distribution aims to prepare Macau’s networks for future cryptographic risks while improving protection for government and business customers.

Home Affairs Ministry Sets Up Teams to Monitor Regional Chilli Prices

The Home Affairs Ministry will deploy five teams to areas where chilli prices have risen and farmers have received support from the Agriculture Ministry. The teams will review the impact of assistance, identify local obstacles and assess regional governments’ responses, with the aim of keeping prices affordable for consumers.

Indonesian President Apologised to Neighbouring Countries Over Forest-Fire Haze

Suharto apologised to neighbouring countries in 1997 after fires across Sumatra and Kalimantan sent severe haze across Southeast Asia, disrupting transport and economic activity. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono made a similar apology in 2013 when fires in Riau again affected Singapore and Malaysia, highlighting the recurring regional consequences of Indonesia’s forest and land fires.

Dudung Says Forest and Land Fires Are Not Yet a National Disaster Because the State Can Still Cope

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said the government has not declared forest and land fires in several regions a national disaster because the state remains capable of handling them. He cited ongoing response efforts, while noting operational difficulties including fuel distribution; Malaysia has provided three helicopters and 52 personnel to help fight the fires.

Deputy Coordinating Minister outlines three strategic steps to combat narcotics

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Lodewijk Freidrich Paulus has called for tougher, impartial enforcement, stronger regulation and upstream controls, and sustained cross-agency collaboration to combat narcotics. The government plans to coordinate with trade, industry, food and drug, and customs authorities to tighten rules governing vape products, while expanding public campaigns to protect young people and expose criminal networks.

AEI Backs Structural Reform of Indonesia’s Capital Market

The Indonesian Issuers Association (AEI) has backed efforts by the Financial Services Authority, the Indonesia Stock Exchange and other stakeholders to strengthen the capital market’s integrity, transparency and global competitiveness. It says the latest MSCI review should spur broader reforms, including better disclosure, healthier free float and liquidity, reliable market infrastructure, consistent enforcement and stronger investor protection.

Key specifications of Honor Win 2 Series emerge ahead of launch

Honor is set to unveil three Win 2 Series smartphones on 21 October, with leaked specifications pointing to large batteries and high-refresh-rate displays across the range. The top model is said to feature a 200-megapixel camera and 100W wired charging, while the entry-level Turbo 2 is tipped to carry a 12,070mAh battery.

PLN Batam Denies Blackout Was Caused by Data Centre Testing That Drew Large Amounts of Power

PLN Batam chief executive Kwin Fo rejected claims that commissioning or testing at a data centre caused a widespread power outage across Batam, Bintan and Tanjungpinang. The company is prioritising restoration and has not yet calculated its losses or the economic impact on residents and businesses.

Home Affairs Minister: Improving Border Residents’ Welfare Strengthens Nationalism

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said improving living standards in border areas would promote fairness, strengthen nationalism and help guard against foreign infiltration by land and sea. He expressed hope that newly appointed BNPPDT head Maruli Simanjuntak would make border management and development in underdeveloped regions more effective, while continuing and expanding existing government programmes.

Indonesia holds 4.5 million tonnes of rice reserves for El Niño, official says

Indonesia’s government rice reserves have reached 4.5 million tonnes, up from 1.51 million tonnes in October 2023, as the country prepares for possible El Niño-related drought. Officials say the stocks were built through domestic production and that government procurement accounts for only 14.4 per cent of projected national rice output, leaving room for private buyers and supporting the goal of sustainable food self-sufficiency in 2026.

OJK Says IKAD Dashboard Could Be a Powerful Tool

OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the Regional Financial Access Index (IKAD) dashboard can help authorities monitor and evaluate financial inclusion across Indonesia’s regions. Unlike a survey-based inclusion index focused on users, IKAD also measures the availability, access and depth of financial services, helping policymakers identify gaps and shape interventions.

AHY and Luthfi Plant Mangroves in Demak Using HexBricks Innovation to Combat Coastal Erosion

Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi have backed mangrove planting in Demak using HexBricks, a modular structure developed by Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). The pilot aims to help restore mangroves and protect the north coast of Java from erosion and tidal flooding, while also creating work for local residents; its effectiveness will be assessed through monitoring.

Paediatricians warn children face risks from wildfire smoke

Paediatricians say fine particles and toxic compounds in forest and land-fire smoke can penetrate children’s lungs, with prolonged exposure potentially causing chronic disease and lasting effects on quality of life. Indonesia’s paediatric association stresses that families and the government share responsibility for protecting vulnerable children during haze emergencies.

Wildfire smoke recedes from Jakarta, but vigilance urged

Wildfire smoke carried from Sumatra and Kalimantan has moved away from Greater Jakarta as winds shifted, and officials say it was high above the ground and did not necessarily affect the air people breathe. The Jakarta administration remains on alert because local emissions and dry-season conditions continue to affect air quality, while 367 health facilities are prepared to treat respiratory illnesses.

Caught in the Act: Oil Palm Planted on Former Forest-Fire Land in West Sumatra

Authorities in Dharmasraya, West Sumatra, found newly planted oil-palm seedlings on land recently burned by forest and land fires, within a limited production forest area. The local government and police have marked the site, ordered restoration with forest species and said they will investigate and pursue legal action against those responsible.

SCG Promotes RDF as a Substitute for Coal, Targeting More Than 70% Alternative Fuel

PT Semen Jawa, part of Siam Cement Group (SCG), is expanding its use of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) made from waste to reduce coal consumption in cement production. Alternative fuels already account for more than 35% of the plant’s fuel mix, and the company is targeting a share above 70%, while stressing the importance of reliable supply, quality and economic viability.

After Arresting 29 Pertalite Retailers, Bali Police Hunt for Major Stockpilers

Bali police have arrested 29 people accused of selling subsidised Pertalite at inflated prices during last week’s fuel shortage, and are investigating whether a larger stockpiling operation was behind the crisis. Officers say they have not yet found evidence of major stockpilers; 21 of those detained received social sanctions and reporting requirements, while eight remain under examination.

After Nearly Two Years of Delays, 11 Papua Pegunungan DPR Seats Filled

Eleven members appointed through Papua’s special autonomy mechanism have been sworn in to serve the remainder of the 2024–2029 term, concluding a selection process that took nearly two years. Their appointment brings the Papua Pegunungan Regional House of Representatives to 56 members, who are expected to take up committee roles and help oversee regional development policies.

Deputy Mayor Dies After Being Crushed by Festival Float

Akihiro Nabae, deputy mayor of Saijo in western Japan, has died after being trapped beneath a large festival float during a traditional parade. The fatal accident is under investigation and follows other recent deaths at local festivals, raising renewed concern about safety during float manoeuvres.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: 106.3 Million People Take Part in Free Health Checks, BPJS Receives an Additional Rp20 Trillion

The government says its free health-check programme had reached 106.3 million people by 13 October 2026, while it is expanding hospital services in remote areas and national health-insurance coverage. It has also earmarked an additional Rp20 trillion for BPJS Kesehatan in the 2026 state budget, amid a presidential push to reduce queues and ensure JKN members receive care on a par with other patients.

Ministries join forces on agricultural empowerment to end poverty

The Community Empowerment and Agriculture ministries are coordinating efforts to use high-value crops and agricultural value chains to help reduce poverty in 88 priority districts and cities. The initiative will connect production with processing, marketing and guaranteed buyers, aiming to raise community incomes and self-reliance while reducing dependence on subsidies.

West Java Government Moves to Protect Rights and Expand Job Access for Workers Affected by Lay-offs

West Java recorded 13,044 workers affected by lay-offs between January and September 2026, prompting the provincial government to strengthen protections and help people find new work. Measures include support to access social security benefits, online job-matching platforms and vocational and entrepreneurship training.

Pram Says East Jakarta Has the Most Retention Ponds

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said East Jakarta has the capital’s largest number of retention ponds, as the city continues developing them as part of its flood-prevention strategy. Two newly inaugurated ponds in Cipayung also provide public amenities, while the administration plans further projects, including expanding Sunter Hulu pond to five hectares in 2026.

West Java Prepares 18 Mobile Batching Plants to Build Roads in Remote Villages

West Java Province has provided 18 mobile batching plants to produce concrete directly at construction sites, making road-building and repairs more feasible in remote areas. Governor Dedi Mulyadi said the equipment was procured with public funds and is part of the provincial government’s effort to improve access to basic infrastructure.

Boy Suspected of Killing Child with Down’s Syndrome Assessed at Psychiatric Hospital

A child suspected of involvement in the death of a 10-year-old with Down’s syndrome is undergoing a psychiatric assessment at Menur Mental Hospital in Surabaya. The assessment will inform decisions on the legal response, while the city government says it is providing support to both families and strengthening efforts to prevent violence against children.

Paying Civil Servants’ Salaries Through Village Cooperatives Is Still Only a Proposal, Says PANRB Ministry

The Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform says a proposal to pay civil servants through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives remains under discussion, with no policy mechanism or official decision yet. The Cooperatives Ministry has said it is preparing the scheme and has submitted a proposal to the Finance Ministry, but the current effort is focused on expanding cooperatives’ services.

West Java Regional Secretary Orders Formation of Teams to Find Children Out of School

West Java will establish village- and sub-district-level teams to identify children who are not attending school and help them return to education. Regional Secretary Herman Suryatman says responses must address families’ circumstances—including poverty, work obligations and disability—with flexible options such as community learning centres and equivalency programmes.

Riau Provincial Government Builds Connections Between Historical Tourism Sites at Muara Takus Temple

Riau is improving road access to connect Muara Takus Temple in Kampar with historical sites in Rokan Hulu, including the Raja Rokan IV Koto Palace and Tuanku Tambusai’s Seven-Layer Fort. Officials say the route, supported by toll-road access from Pekanbaru, could form a one-day historical tourism package.

NTT Optimistic About Hosting 2028 National Games After Successful PESONAS 2026

East Nusa Tenggara Governor Melki Laka Lena says the province is better prepared to host the 2028 National Sports Week after successfully staging the 2026 National Special Olympics Week in Kupang. The province plans to upgrade venues and coordination, while aiming for the event to boost sporting achievement, local businesses, tourism and accountable administration.

KPK Summons Valbury Asia Futures Vice-President as Witness in Case Involving Former MPR Secretary-General

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned a vice-president at Valbury Asia Futures and a private-sector individual as witnesses in an alleged gratification case involving former MPR Secretary-General Ma’ruf Cahyono. The KPK suspects Cahyono received around Rp37.8 billion from vendors while in office, including through brokerage trading accounts and accounts held in other people’s names.

Political Affairs Minister Says President Is Closely Monitoring Forest and Land Fires

Political Affairs Minister Dudung Abdurrachman said President Prabowo Subianto is closely monitoring efforts to tackle forest and land fires, through both in-person meetings and online briefings. The President was due to meet ministers later that day to review the response, as the government pledged stronger coordination to safeguard public security and support national development.

IDX to Meet MSCI This Afternoon and Seek Clarification

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) will meet MSCI after the index provider unexpectedly placed Indonesia’s capital market under consultation, a move that triggered market anxiety. The IDX has temporarily tightened the automatic lower price limit from 15% to 7% to curb panic, while the Jakarta Composite Index fell 5.05% by the close of the first trading session.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Chief to Meet MSCI This Afternoon: What Will Be Discussed

The Indonesia Stock Exchange will seek clarification from MSCI over its proposal to move Indonesia from the Emerging Market category to Standalone Market status, a prospect that has unsettled investors. The proposal is still under consultation, but it was followed by an 11.57% plunge in the Jakarta Composite Index on 16 October, one of its steepest daily falls since the 1998 financial crisis.

Two Boys Suspected of Bullying Disabled Child Who Died Receive Treatment at Surabaya Psychiatric Hospital

Surabaya City Government is providing support to the family of 10-year-old Zulkarnain Abdil Aziz, who died after allegedly being bullied by neighbours. Two boys suspected of involvement are also receiving support and undergoing psychological assessment at Menur Psychiatric Hospital, while the city says it is strengthening anti-bullying education and child-protection efforts.

Viral Abandoned Electric Motorcycles Allegedly for Free Nutritious Meals Programme: BGN Says They Are Not Its Property

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has denied that electric motorcycles shown abandoned in a viral video were procured for its Free Nutritious Meals programme. The Attorney General’s Office also said the vehicles were not evidence seized in its investigation into alleged corruption involving the programme’s 2025–26 motorcycle procurement, in which five suspects have been named.

How a Pharmaceutical Producer Is Delivering ‘Green Healthcare’ Amid Turmoil

Haleon Indonesia says it remains optimistic about the country’s consumer healthcare market despite global volatility, while aiming to sustain its business and keep products affordable. Its president director highlights pressures from climate-related health risks and infectious diseases, and the industry’s need to provide trusted products, widen access and operate sustainably.

Culture Minister Inspects Muara Takus Temple in Riau, Urges Faster Revitalisation

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has called for the revitalisation and restoration of Muara Takus Temple, citing decades of material deterioration and evidence that the archaeological complex may extend beyond its currently managed boundaries. The Ministry of Culture plans conservation work and further excavations to protect the Buddhist heritage site and establish its full extent.

Baby Boy Found Wrapped in Red Plastic at Pandeglang Beach

Residents found a baby boy alive, wrapped in a red plastic bag among bushes near Bunda Beach in Pandeglang, and took him to a local health centre. The baby is reported to be healthy but underweight and is to be referred to hospital for further care, while police investigate to identify his parents.

Jetski Tour Guide Rescues Tourist Swept Away by Waves at Kelingking Beach

A jetski guide rescued a foreign tourist who was swept about 15 metres offshore by a large wave at Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida. The guide says he has helped rescue two people at the site in the past two days and is urging Klungkung authorities to improve rescue facilities; the local tourism chief says beach watchers are needed and that coordination is under way.

IPB Educates Bubulak Residents on Tilapia Farming Through Returning-Home Lecturers Programme

IPB University’s Dospulkam 2026 programme held a community session in Bogor on improving freshwater tilapia farming, drawing farmers, residents and students. The discussion highlighted suitable local pond conditions, feed efficiency and water and ecosystem management as ways to reduce costs and support commercial production.

Agriculture Minister Assigns Roles to Two Deputy Ministers to Boost National Food Self-Sufficiency

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has divided responsibilities between his two deputies according to their expertise to accelerate sustainable food self-sufficiency programmes. Alim Setiawan Slamet will focus on crop productivity, research and university partnerships, while Muhammad Saleh Mustafa will oversee land optimisation, pumping and the creation of new rice fields.

Jakarta’s Air Quality Continues to Worsen Despite Haze from Forest Fires Moving Away; Provincial Government Outlines Response

Jakarta’s air quality remains unhealthy even after smoke from forest and land fires in Kalimantan moved away, with the city recording an air quality index of 151. The provincial government plans to deploy water-mist spraying and has put hospitals and clinics on alert as respiratory infection cases rise.

Tears as PSS Supporter Killed in Madiun Toll Road Crash Is Laid to Rest

Family and fellow PSS Sleman supporters mourned 20-year-old Fakhri Maulana Al-Zaki, one of four fans killed in a crash on the Madiun toll road while travelling to Surabaya. Sleman Deputy Regent Danang Maharsa offered condolences on behalf of himself and the local government, as police said three of the four victims had been identified.

Prabowo to Meet Dudung and Several Ministers This Afternoon to Discuss Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to meet senior officials on Monday afternoon to discuss the handling of forest and land fires, including hotspot developments and conditions on the ground. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said the meeting will build on an inter-agency coordination session and strengthen the government’s response.

Singapore Ambassador: Quality Investment Is Key to Bridging Climate Ambitions and Funding

Singapore’s ambassador to Indonesia, Kwok Fook Seng, says quality investment and technology are essential to close the gap between climate targets and the financing available to developed and developing countries. He argues that climate projects must deliver tangible benefits to local communities while safeguarding economic resilience, within the shared but nationally differentiated framework of the Paris Agreement.

Endang Dzunuraini Empowers Rural Women Through the Mbah Guru Batik Studio

Endang Dzunuraini has been shortlisted among the top three in the Regional Cultural Preservation category of the 2026 DPD RI Awards for her work establishing the Mbah Guru Studio in Lamongan. The studio preserves batik traditions while creating livelihoods for rural women, offering education and scholarships, and producing batik with regenerable natural dyes that reduce environmental harm.

Khofifah: Rising Bicycle Exports Could Create Jobs

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa says expanding Polygon bicycle production could create jobs and support regional economic growth by strengthening export-oriented industry. The company is also developing electric bicycles, including models using domestically produced batteries, and works with local government and vocational schools on training and employment opportunities.

Jewellery Business and Gold Supply: Galeri 24 Ranks Second in Retail

Pegadaian subsidiary Galeri 24 has been ranked second in the retail category and 28th among state-owned enterprises in the Danantara Indonesia CX100 Award 2026, which recognises customer experience and service. The gold retailer operates more than 100 outlets and supplies physical gold for Pegadaian products, while also serving corporate, cooperative and Islamic banking clients.

AI Data Centre Spending Tops Rp15,700 Trillion: Who Benefits Most?

Annual global spending on AI infrastructure—including chips, data centres and power networks—is approaching US$1 trillion, raising concerns that the investment boom could divert capital from other sectors and fuel a bubble. Indonesia could attract a share of the investment thanks to its energy supply and strategic location, but would need to address regulatory, environmental and electricity-supply challenges.

Government to Build Canal Blocks and Bore Wells to Prevent Forest and Land Fires

The government plans to install canal blocks, water intakes, bore wells and reservoirs as part of efforts to improve forest and land fire prevention and response. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said ministers also reviewed hotspot developments, field conditions and obstacles, stressing that the government would maintain close coordination.

Commuters Complain of Longer Waits After Seven Red Line KRL Services Cancelled

Seven KRL services on the Bogor–Jakarta Kota Red Line were cancelled on the morning of 19 October because trains required maintenance, leaving commuters facing longer waits and overcrowded carriages. Passengers said some people on the platforms were unable to board and urged KAI Commuter to manage the timetable more carefully, particularly during peak hours.

Macron Rejects French Interior Minister’s Resignation After Violent Protests

Emmanuel Macron has rejected Interior Minister Laurent Nunez’s resignation following violent demonstrations over the cost of living, which led to widespread looting, arson and clashes with police. The president acknowledged failures in planning and intelligence and instructed Nunez to maintain security leadership while improving operational methods and ensuring transparency.

Lampung Deputy Governor: Map Firefighting Capacity According to Fire Scale

Lampung Deputy Governor Jihan Nurlela has called for mapping firefighting resources by fire size and for an inventory of personnel and equipment across the province, rather than concentrating support solely on Way Kambas National Park. While high-confidence hotspots have fallen to zero, medium-confidence hotspots remain, and weather-modification efforts have not brought rain to the main target area.

TNI Task Force Vehicle Plunges into Yalimo Ravine in Papua, Four Soldiers Killed

Four Indonesian soldiers were killed when a vehicle belonging to the Yonif 645 Yalimo task force plunged into a ravine and overturned in Yalimo, Papua Pegunungan. Police said the crash occurred on the Jayapura–Wamena Trans Road and that victims were evacuated to Elelim Community Health Centre.

Regional Representative Council Member Backs One Fire Brigade Unit per Village as Long-Term Solution to Forest and Land Fires

DPD RI member Siti Aseanti has backed a proposal to equip every village with a fire brigade unit, arguing that stronger local preparedness is needed to prevent fires from spreading. She also urged the central government to declare the fires in Kalimantan a national disaster, citing deaths, prolonged smoke impacts and damage to Tanjung Puting National Park.

Dudung: President Summons Ministers to Palace to Discuss Forest and Land Fires

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said President Prabowo Subianto had summoned him and other ministers to a meeting on tackling forest and land fires. The meeting was scheduled for 2.30 pm, following an earlier ministerial discussion on the response and current political issues.

Future Travel Starts Now: 2026 JETOUR Global Technology Experience Day Set to Begin

JETOUR’s 2026 Global Technology Experience Day will demonstrate how its artificial intelligence, driving, hybrid-power and cabin technologies are designed for real-world travel. The promotional announcement also highlights the Chinese brand’s global reach, reporting sales above 2.56 million vehicles since its 2018 launch and operations in more than 100 countries and regions.

Kendari Police Distribute Helmets to Raise Road Safety Awareness

Kendari police are giving free SNI-standard helmets to motorcyclists caught riding without one, while also managing traffic at congestion hotspots and near schools. The initiative combines enforcement with education, aiming to improve compliance and reduce the risk of serious injuries in crashes.

PBNU: Do Not Let the Middle East Conflict Divide Muslims

Nahdlatul Ulama’s central board (PBNU) has warned that the Middle East conflict must not fuel sectarian divisions among Muslims, including in Indonesia, stressing that the crisis is rooted in politics and power struggles rather than religious doctrine. It has condemned attacks on civilians, called for humanitarian access and protection for pilgrims, and urged restraint, diplomacy and an active role for Indonesia and international organisations.

Lawyer Kamaruddin Simanjuntak Dies

Lawyer Kamaruddin Simanjuntak has died at the age and circumstances not specified in the report, with his death confirmed by fellow advocate Martin Lukas Simanjuntak. Simanjuntak became widely known for representing the family of Yosua Hutabarat in the high-profile shooting case involving former police internal affairs chief Ferdy Sambo.

Indonesian Navy Destroys 4,364 Drug-Containing Vape Cartridges Worth Rp34.9bn

The Indonesian Navy and other law-enforcement agencies destroyed 4,364 vape cartridges containing narcotics, valued at Rp34.9 billion, at the Lampung naval base. The seizure followed a search of a Medan–Tangerang bus at Bakauheni Port and forms part of wider efforts to curb drug smuggling through Indonesian ports and waters.

PLN: Welding Training under CSR Programme Supports Community Economic Self-Reliance

PLN says its welding training and certification programme in Purbasari, Central Kalimantan, is helping participants secure jobs and establish independent businesses. An evaluation involving 10 participants recorded a Social Return on Investment of 1.96 and a public satisfaction index of 89.50, rated Very Good.

Two Years of Prabowo: Military Most Trusted at 81%, Presidency Ranks Second

A September 2026 Adidaya Institute survey found that 81 per cent of respondents trusted the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), ahead of the presidential institution and the election supervisory body, Bawaslu. The poll also rated Corruption Eradication Commission chief Setyo Budiyanto as the best-performing law-enforcement agency head among four officials assessed.