Archive: 20 October 2026
Showing 1-500 of 1,506 articles
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:59 WIB
The Decisive Battle Won by Saladin That Opened the Way to the Liberation of Al-Aqsa
Saladin’s efforts to unite Muslim forces were challenged by Crusader control of key coastal cities and fortresses, which disrupted links between his territories and maintained connections with Western Europe. The article sets out how these strategic pressures and Crusader attempts to divert his attention helped set the stage for the Battle of Hattin, a turning point in the struggle for Al-Aqsa.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
Bahlil Says Times Have Changed: Gen Z Won’t Notice Politicians Who Give Too Many Speeches
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said political leaders are now judged more by their actions than by their speeches, particularly by younger voters. At Golkar’s 62nd anniversary event, he said the party would mark the occasion with community assistance, reflecting both the modesty urged by the President and concern over global conditions and public hardship.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
Police Say Malioboro Is Calm Again After Protest Outside Yogyakarta DPRD
Police said Malioboro had returned to a calm and controlled state after clashes broke out during a student protest outside the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DIY). Several students were detained for data collection and protection, while both protesters and police officers sustained minor injuries.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire Moments Before Docking at Merak Port
The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire as it approached Merak Port in Banten after departing Bakauheni, Lampung. All passengers and crew were evacuated safely, with no fatalities reported; authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:52 WIB
Indonesian envoy urges PAL to target Middle Eastern market
Indonesia’s envoy has encouraged state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL to pursue opportunities in the Middle East, citing stronger economic ties with the UAE after the Indonesia–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement took effect. The company’s construction of a landing platform dock for the UAE Navy and its push for international partnerships could help expand defence exports while building domestic industrial capabilities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:51 WIB
PHE holds upstream oil and gas forum to strengthen investment collaboration
Pertamina Hulu Energi will host the 2026 FOREK Hulu Migas forum in Jakarta, bringing together government, regulators, contractors, investors and lenders to discuss ways to strengthen investment and boost national oil and gas output. PHE says Indonesia’s energy security requires substantial long-term investment, cross-sector coordination and appropriately managed financing and risks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:49 WIB
Persib Praises Batang Police for Naming Suspects in Bus Attack
Persib Bandung has praised Batang Police for naming three suspects in an attack on the club’s Under-18 team bus at a motorway rest area in Central Java. Police say the investigation is continuing, with evidence including witness statements and CCTV footage being examined to determine whether others were involved.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:48 WIB
North Kalimantan Governor Calls for Police Services to Be Strengthened Down to Sector Level
North Kalimantan Governor Zainal A. Paliwang has urged police to strengthen the roles of district and sector police offices so residents can access security services across the province. During a meeting with newly appointed provincial police chief Andi Syahriful Taufik, he also stressed that close coordination between local government and police is vital to public order and development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:48 WIB
Walking Fewer Than 5,000 Steps a Day Linked to Higher Stroke Risk
A study of more than 22,000 adults found that those averaging fewer than 5,000 daily steps had substantially higher rates of dementia, Parkinson’s disease and stroke than those walking more than 12,000 steps. Researchers said activity levels may offer clues about overall brain and physical health, while stressing that further research is needed to confirm the associations; they suggest that a sustainable target of around 8,000 steps a day may be beneficial.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:40 WIB
DPR member praises Rp28.6 trillion in corruption asset recovery under Prabowo
A House of Representatives member has praised the recovery of Rp28.6 trillion in state assets from corruption cases in 2025, attributed to the Attorney General’s Office, the Corruption Eradication Commission and the National Police. He said recovery must be matched by fair punishment, stronger prevention and transparent, independent law enforcement.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:35 WIB
Prosecutor Says Testimony from Two Witnesses Strengthens Extortion Case Against Defendant Accused of Receiving Victim’s Money
Prosecutors say testimony from two bank employees, supported by account records, shows that Rp80 million was transferred from the alleged victim’s accounts to defendant Bangun Paulus Tudungta. The evidence was presented at a Central Jakarta District Court hearing and is said to be consistent with the victim’s earlier testimony that they made several transfers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:34 WIB
PGE Kamojang Rebuts Forest Damage Concerns with Zero-Waste Operations
Pertamina Geothermal Energy’s Kamojang operation says its directional drilling and zero-waste practices limit the surface area used for five geothermal power plants to about 110 hectares—around 0.2 per cent of its 45,000-hectare concession. The company says it recycles drilling fluids and cuttings, reforests land, and seeks to restore forest functions around operational wells.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:33 WIB
ESDM aims to resolve East Java fuel queues this week
The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry expects queues for fuel in parts of East Java to be resolved within one to two days, following shortages and distribution problems in areas including Malang, Jember and Blitar. Measures include increasing deliveries to depots, deploying 21 additional tanker trucks and extending depot operations to 24 hours, while provincial officials have called for tighter monitoring of subsidised fuel distribution.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:30 WIB
Closure of Five Komodo National Park Marine Tourism Spots Extended Until 22 October
Labuan Bajo’s harbour authority has extended a ban on tourist boats and visitor activities in five waters of Komodo National Park until 22 October while search operations continue for a missing passenger from the sunken pinisi boat Feronia. The restriction applies daily from 7am to 5pm and is intended to allow search-and-rescue teams to work effectively.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:30 WIB
KPK Names Two New Suspects in Rejang Lebong Corruption Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named two additional suspects in an expanding bribery investigation linked to project contracts in Rejang Lebong and other areas of Bengkulu. The case, involving alleged advance bribes for projects in the 2025–2026 budget years, has also led investigators to seize Rp4 billion from the home of Bengkulu City’s Public Works and Housing Agency chief.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:28 WIB
Judge K Given Two-Year Suspension from Hearing Cases for Misconduct During Working Hours
Indonesia’s Judicial Honour Council has imposed a two-year non-bench sanction on Judge K, finding that he engaged in sexual misconduct while serving as deputy head of the Dompu Religious Court. He will not hear cases and will lose his judicial post allowance during the sanction; the council said the misconduct breached judicial ethics rules.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:27 WIB
KPK Probes Suspected Rigging of Projects in West Lombok Regency Government
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioned two West Lombok officials over projects allegedly steered towards particular suppliers. The inquiry forms part of corruption cases involving suspended regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini, whom the KPK alleges received up to Rp12.4 billion through procurement-related conflicts of interest and bribery.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:20 WIB
KPK Suspects Cooperative Was Used to Manage Deductions from Bogor Regency Government Incentives
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating whether a staff cooperative was used to manage deductions from incentives within the Bogor Regency Government. Investigators questioned five local government employees and are examining whether the funds were subsequently channelled to state officials, amid a wider probe into alleged corruption and recent seizures and searches.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:20 WIB
460 People Safely Evacuated from KMP Batumandi; 11 Taken to Hospital
A joint search-and-rescue team evacuated all 460 people aboard the KMP Batumandi after a fire broke out in its engine room near Merak Port, Banten. Eleven people were referred to hospital for further medical treatment, while 18 vessels and supporting units took part in the response and firefighting operation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:16 WIB
Child Endangerment Cases on the Rise Due to Parental Negligence; Psychologist Urges Mindful Parenting
A University of Indonesia psychologist has urged parents to make children’s safety and wellbeing their priority following incidents in which young children were left unsupervised, including a fatal fall from a hotel balcony and a child left alone at a campsite. She says mindful parenting means weighing priorities carefully, as leaving children in unfamiliar settings can cause fear and potentially lasting trauma.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:16 WIB
PHE says upstream oil and gas investment reached US$15.42 billion in 2025
Investment by production-sharing contract contractors in Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas sector reached about US$15.42 billion in 2025, according to Pertamina Hulu Energi finance director Bayu Kusuma Dewanto. He urged stronger certainty and coordination to turn investment and the country’s largely untapped basin potential into higher output, as domestic oil demand remains far above production; SKK Migas said attractive fiscal incentives are key to improving competitiveness.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:15 WIB
Blora Regency Government and Council Push to Accelerate Sekolah Rakyat
Blora’s regency government and local council are coordinating with the Social Affairs and Public Works ministries to speed up construction of a Sekolah Rakyat in Cepu. Site preparation is nearly complete, with land-filling work at 95.70 per cent, but officials are awaiting formal site designation and are seeking central government support for remaining land preparation and technical studies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:15 WIB
Forest and Land Fires in East Java Burn 7,363 Hectares, 79% in Conservation Areas
Forest and land fires in East Java burned 7,363.30 hectares between August and September 2026, with 79 per cent of the affected area in conservation zones. Deputy Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak said Baluran National Park was the worst affected and outlined differing response strategies for accessible and remote fire sites, while stressing the need to protect personnel.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:14 WIB
Viral Zoom Recording with Raja Juli: Wildfire Volunteer Organisation Founder Explains What the Meeting Was Really About
Conservation Action Network (CAN) Borneo founder Paulinus Kristanto says a meeting between forest-fire volunteers and Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni was intended to raise operational challenges, not spark a debate over budgets. The volunteers sought better coordination, equipment and logistical support as they continue fighting fires and rescuing affected wildlife in Tanjung Puting National Park.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:11 WIB
Sulawesi Tenggara catering corruption case: only Rp300 million of Rp4.2 billion returned
Prosecutors in Southeast Sulawesi say only about Rp300 million has been returned from estimated state losses of Rp4.23 billion in a suspected 2022–2023 corruption case involving official hospitality spending. They have seized evidence and land, urged parties to return illicit proceeds, and named another suspect, while investigations into possible further involvement continue.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:11 WIB
Indonesia’s Ombudsman Opens Online Complaints Desk for Halal Certification Services
Indonesia’s Ombudsman has opened an online complaints desk from October to December 2026 to address problems with halal certification registration and issuance, ahead of the October deadline for mandatory certification. The channel is intended to help consumers and businesses report service delays, alleged unauthorised charges and other maladministration, with the Ombudsman coordinating responses with the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH).
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:09 WIB
Pindad Increases Production to Support Construction of New Battalions
State-owned defence manufacturer PT Pindad is expanding ammunition and weapons production to meet demand from newly established military battalions. It says annual SS3 rifle capacity has risen to more than 70,000, and it has supplied the Defence Ministry with over 2,500 Maung vehicles for troop mobility.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:08 WIB
Indonesia responds to Greenpeace protests over climate and living costs
The government defended its climate and cost-of-living measures after Greenpeace activists protested in Jakarta, citing forest-fire funding, a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package and plans to stabilise rice and fuel prices. Officials also welcomed the group’s recommendations, as the demonstration coincided with the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka taking office.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:02 WIB
Kepri Police and US Embassy Strengthen Coordination on Human Trafficking Cases
The Riau Islands Police and the US Embassy in Jakarta are stepping up coordination on human trafficking, online scams and other transnational crimes. Police said they handled 36 cases and rescued 143 victims in 2026, while warning that some Indonesians recruited for overseas online-scam operations had themselves been trafficked and exploited.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:02 WIB
Yemeni envoy says war is against Houthi rebels, not Saudi Arabia
Yemen’s ambassador to Indonesia, Balfakeeh, said the conflict is a struggle against Houthi rebels who seized power, not a war between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, and criticised what he called inaccurate Indonesian media coverage. He also warned of Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping and the humanitarian consequences of the siege of Taiz, urging international pressure to restore stability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:01 WIB
PNM Wins ESG NOW Awards 2026 for Helping Mekaar Clients Turn Waste into Economic Value
PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has received the ESG NOW Awards 2026 in the Circular Economy Empowerment category for its Kembangs programme, which encourages women clients of PNM Mekaar to sort and deposit household waste for economic benefit. The initiative combines income-generating opportunities with environmental awareness and community participation in waste management.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
Cileungsi River Turns Black, Waste Sediment Suspected as the Cause
The Cileungsi River in Bogor has turned black again as water levels fall, prompting residents to worry about water quality. Bogor’s Environmental Agency says long-accumulated waste sediment becomes more visible when flows diminish, highlighting the need for continued water-quality monitoring and better control of waste sources.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
On National Santri Day 2026, Gus Dur’s Daughter Urges Stronger Child-Friendly Pesantren
Alissa Wahid has called for stronger protections for students at Islamic boarding schools, saying the establishment of the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ Directorate General of Pesantren offers an opportunity to improve safeguarding and governance. She says child-friendly pesantren must go beyond preventing violence to ensure facilities, supervision and care practices protect children’s welfare and rights.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
The Lowest Place on Earth, Rome’s Defeat, and the Quran’s Scientific Miracle That Silenced Atheists
The article discusses Quranic verses describing the Romans’ defeat by the Persians and their prophesied victory several years later, focusing on the phrase rendered as “the lowest part of the land”. It also notes that the Arabic word *adna* can carry different meanings depending on context, including “lower”, “lesser” or “nearer”.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:59 WIB
Prabowo to Launch Digital Social Protection Scheme, Replacing Welfare Aid with Cash Transfers
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to launch the nationwide Digital Social Protection programme on 10 November 2026, with assistance to be delivered as cash transfers rather than subsidies for products. The system has been piloted across all 514 districts and municipalities, with 11.5 million households registered; a Bali pilot reportedly reduced exclusion errors by 24.1 per cent and inclusion errors from 4.1 per cent, aiming to make aid more transparent and accurately targeted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:58 WIB
Bahlil: Golkar Was Founded Not Merely to Make Its Chairman President
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia says the party was established to respond to the nation’s needs, not simply to secure the presidency for its leader. He noted that no Golkar chairman has become president, while Soedharmono was the only serving party chairman to become vice-president; Jusuf Kalla held the vice-presidency before leading Golkar.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:57 WIB
National Economic Council Reports Findings on MBG Students’ School Attendance to Prabowo
The National Economic Council told President Prabowo Subianto that its survey found students receiving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme were less likely to miss school than non-recipients, with the difference greatest among the poorest students. The survey also linked meal quality to students’ enthusiasm for learning, prompting the council to recommend improving the quality of meals delivered through the programme.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:56 WIB
YPMAK Monitors the Studies of 23 Scholarship Recipients in Jakarta
The Amungme and Kamoro Community Empowerment Foundation (YPMAK), which manages PT Freeport Indonesia’s partnership funds, has assessed the academic progress and support available to 23 scholarship recipients studying in Jakarta and surrounding areas. The monitoring is intended to ensure the scholarship programme meets students’ needs and helps them complete their degrees on time, so they can contribute to development in their home region.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:56 WIB
Indonesia urges digital platforms to improve algorithm transparency
Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid called on digital platforms to make their algorithms more transparent and accountable, stressing that expanding internet access must go hand in hand with protecting users, particularly children. At Bali Tech Week 2026, she cited Indonesia’s three digital-transformation pillars—connectivity, growth and protection—while Malaysia’s communications minister praised Indonesia’s child-safety rules and highlighted the role of regulation in creating a safer online environment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:55 WIB
Indonesia strengthens food safety rules in more than 6,000 tourism villages
Indonesia’s tourism ministry and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) are integrating BPOM’s Food-Safe Village framework into national tourism programmes, with more than 6,300 tourism villages potentially benefiting. The initiative will provide communities with technical assistance and training to improve food safety, protect public health and strengthen visitor confidence and local businesses’ commercial appeal.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:51 WIB
KPK: BNPB Corruption Suspect Case Linked to Handling of Forest Fires and Floods
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says suspected misuse of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency’s (BNPB) disaster contingency funds is directly linked to procurement for forest and land fires, floods and landslides, and aid for displaced people. Investigators have seized documents, cash and vehicles, and searched eight locations in connection with the case.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:50 WIB
Environment Minister Says Indonesia Has Rp4,500 Trillion Carbon Economy Potential, Jumhur Warns Officials
Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat estimates Indonesia’s carbon trading potential at US$200 billion, or about Rp4,500 trillion, and says revenues must benefit communities that protect ecosystems. He also calls for carbon-market schemes to be tied to tangible environmental restoration and highlights the need to address open-dump waste disposal sites.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:50 WIB
Indonesia attracts $2.5 billion in palm oil investment so far in 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp 44.4 trillion (about $2.5 billion) in palm oil investment by the end of September 2026, as the government seeks to draw capital into higher-value processing and job creation. The sector remains a major export earner, while expanding domestic biodiesel use reflects Jakarta’s push to reduce fuel imports amid higher energy prices.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:49 WIB
Jambi Police Arrest Umrah Travel Agency Director in Fraud Case
Jambi Regional Police have arrested RH, a director of RNH Umrah Travel, in Central Java after she was placed on a wanted list over alleged fraud and embezzlement of funds for Umrah trips. The case concerns customers who paid for journeys scheduled for February 2026 that did not take place; RH has been taken to Jambi for further questioning.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:47 WIB
Government prepares fiscal strategy to keep fuel prices stable until year-end
The government is considering fiscal measures to keep fuel prices stable through the end of 2026 while maintaining fiscal sustainability. The National Economic Council says maintaining subsidised fuel prices is important for household purchasing power, while recommending longer-term reforms to make energy subsidies better targeted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:47 WIB
Minerals Lead Indonesia’s Downstream Investment in Q3 2026
Indonesia’s downstream investment reached Rp179.9 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, up 19.4% year on year and accounting for 34% of total investment inflows. Minerals attracted the largest share, at Rp128.6 trillion, while total investment inflows reached Rp528.7 trillion, comprising Rp270.2 trillion in foreign investment and Rp258.5 trillion in domestic investment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:45 WIB
KPK Searches Klaten Regent’s Official Residence, Seizes Cash and Jewellery
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Klaten regent’s official residence, government offices and suspects’ homes in an investigation into alleged corruption in the Klaten administration in 2025–2026. Investigators reportedly found cash and jewellery at the residence, and the case involves three suspects and five alleged corruption schemes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:41 WIB
BNPT Chief Urges 1,600 Jabodetabek High School Students to Become Peace Ambassadors
BNPT chief Eddy Hartono has urged 1,600 high school students from across Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi to promote peace and positive change in their schools. He encouraged them to apply a “Pause, Check and Consider” approach before sharing information online, while highlighting the need for schools, parents and government to work together to protect young people from hate speech and violent content.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:40 WIB
Indonesia tightens weather-modification rules after dry ice hits homes
Indonesia has tightened safety procedures for cloud-seeding operations after dry ice reportedly hit homes, requiring special hopper filters and finer particles designed to evaporate before reaching the ground. The missions are part of a wider effort to disperse haze from fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, with authorities reporting improved visibility in Palembang and substantial deployment of aircraft and ground crews.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:40 WIB
Moments Before KMP Batumandi Caught Fire, Two Explosions Were Heard
Passengers aboard the KMP Batumandi reported hearing two explosions before a fire broke out in waters off Merak, with the second blast followed by a power failure and panic. Some passengers jumped into the sea and were rescued by local fishermen; one passenger said no lifeboats were lowered before everyone had left the vessel.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:39 WIB
A total of 5,729 hectares of aquaculture ponds in Sumatra are back in operation
Some 5,729.33 hectares of fish ponds and aquaculture facilities in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra had resumed operations by October 2026 after disasters damaged them late last year. The Fisheries and Marine Affairs Ministry is restoring equipment and facilities across the fisheries supply chain to help affected communities revive their livelihoods and economic activity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:38 WIB
Bahlil: Party Leaders Who Only Give Speeches Will Not Appeal to Gen Z Without Action
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia says political party leaders need to demonstrate tangible action on the ground, rather than rely on speeches, to engage Generation Z. He also said Golkar’s 62nd anniversary would be marked modestly, citing global difficulties and public concerns, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s call for simplicity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:38 WIB
Malaysia’s MyClinic Invests Rp4.38 Billion to Expand into Indonesia
Malaysian aesthetic medicine provider MyClinic has invested Rp4.38 billion to open its first clinic in Jakarta, capitalising on Indonesia’s growing beauty and wellness market. The move aligns with government efforts to attract investment in medical and wellness tourism, while building on the fact that Indonesians already account for about 5% of MyClinic’s patients in Malaysia.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:38 WIB
Pindad strengthens defence self-reliance through local suppliers
State-owned defence manufacturer PT Pindad is seeking to raise domestic content in its products by developing and providing technical support to local suppliers. The effort is intended to reduce reliance on imports, improve the competitiveness of Pindad’s products and expand industrial activity and employment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:37 WIB
Luhut Reveals Prabowo’s Plan to Downstream Kratom and Benzoin by 2027
National Economic Council chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto is expected to inaugurate downstream processing projects for kratom and benzoin in March 2027, following the opening of a genome sequencing research centre in Toba. Luhut estimates the commodities could have downstreaming potential worth tens of billions of US dollars, comparing the plan with Indonesia’s nickel downstreaming drive.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:37 WIB
Reza Rahadian Says Betrayal in Student Activism Is Heartbreaking
Actor Reza Rahadian says betrayal is among the deepest wounds in human relationships, a theme explored in the film “Laut Bercerita” through the story of an activist who turns towards the ruling regime. He says the film’s reflection on late-1990s resistance remains relevant today, and that young people speaking out on public issues continue to offer hope.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:35 WIB
Yemeni envoy urges global pressure on Houthis to end siege
Yemen’s ambassador to Indonesia has called for international pressure on the Houthis to lift blockades, particularly in Taiz, and appealed to Jakarta for humanitarian aid and support at the UN Security Council. He said Yemen is seeking a UN terrorist designation for the group after years of diplomacy failed, while ANTARA’s head voiced concern for the roughly 7,000 Indonesians living in Yemen.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:35 WIB
Quality Education Must Make a Tangible Difference to the Challenges Young People Face
MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono urged Indonesian students in Australia to use their education and international experience to build relevant skills and contribute to Indonesia. He also highlighted the role of student and parliamentary links in strengthening Indonesia–Australia relations, and said young people’s prospects must be assessed not only by job access but by whether work enables a decent standard of living and economic independence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:34 WIB
Bima City Government Steps Up Central Government Coordination to Build Sekolah Rakyat
Bima City is coordinating with the Social Affairs and Forestry ministries to advance plans for a Sekolah Rakyat, a government boarding-school programme for children from poor and extremely poor families. The city has proposed the project to the Social Affairs Ministry and is seeking clarification on whether land previously earmarked for an Islamic state institute can be reassigned, while final land certification and preparation remain outstanding.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:33 WIB
Industry Minister: Industrial Gas and Food and Beverage Raw Materials Need Attention
Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says reliable supplies and affordable prices for industrial gas and raw materials are essential to sustaining growth in Indonesia’s food and beverage sector, which grew 6.51% in the second quarter of 2026. He also highlighted expanding packaging demand and government measures to promote modern, environmentally responsible packaging, including mandatory standards for food-packaging paper and cardboard.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:33 WIB
PT Len prepares to produce radios and night-vision devices for defence
State-owned defence electronics company PT Len Industri says it is ready to produce radios for defence operations, including in Papua, and has secured Ministry of Defence backing to develop and manufacture night-vision goggles domestically. The initiatives form part of wider efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s defence-industrial capability, alongside PT Len’s role in the national electric motor programme.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:32 WIB
Houthis Attack Military Base in South-east Yemen, Killing 73
A Houthi attack on a security training centre at a military base in south-eastern Yemen has killed 73 people, according to Shabwa provincial authorities, with 14 others still unaccounted for. The attack has intensified renewed hostilities between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces supporting Yemen’s government.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:31 WIB
MSCI’s ‘Brutal’ Proposal Puts Property Firms Under Equity and Liquidity Pressure
A sharp market sell-off, fuelled by concerns that MSCI may downgrade Indonesia’s market status, has intensified pressure on listed property developers. The article outlines the potential impact on market valuations, construction costs, debt and liquidity, and recommends tailored cash-preservation and restructuring measures for firms of different sizes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:31 WIB
Greenpeace Banner Installers at Bundaran HI Released from Police Headquarters
Six people who unfurled Greenpeace banners at the Welcome Monument in central Jakarta were taken for medical checks and data collection before being allowed to return home at 8.30pm. The protest called on the government to address the climate crisis; police said public safety and a humane approach were priorities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:30 WIB
Writers and Readers Meet Ahead of the 2026 Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
The 23rd Ubud Writers & Readers Festival will run from 21 to 25 October, bringing more than 150 writers, thinkers, journalists, artists and poets to Bali. A pre-festival gathering gave readers the chance to meet international authors and discover their books, ahead of a programme focused on awareness, empathy and action.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:30 WIB
After Tensions Flare, Protest at Yogyakarta Regional Council Disperses
A student protest outside the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DIY) ended after clashes with police and local residents, following attempts by demonstrators to enter the building. Council representatives said they had recorded the protesters’ 15 demands and would pass them on to the central government, but negotiations failed to satisfy the crowd.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
Nigerian-Indonesian Investment and Trade Forum 2026 to Strengthen Economic Partnership
The fifth Nigerian-Indonesian Investment and Trade Forum will take place in Jakarta on 20–21 October 2026, bringing together government officials and private-sector leaders to expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation. Organisers say the forum will target opportunities across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, energy, mining and technology, with the aim of attracting investment, boosting exports, creating jobs and encouraging technology transfer.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
PNM Partners with PPI to Expand Markets for Mekaar Customers’ Products
State-owned PNM has signed a memorandum of understanding with state-owned trading company PPI to explore wider marketing and market access for products made by businesses it supports through the Mekaar programme. The partnership aims to connect ultra-micro entrepreneurs—many of them women—with broader distribution networks and potential buyers, addressing the limited reach of many Indonesian micro and small businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
Khalid Basalamah admits paying US$554,500 to KPK through staff member
Preacher and Uhud Tour owner Khalid Basalamah told a Jakarta court that he had paid US$554,500 to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), in cash and bank transfers, through a staff member. He was testifying in the case over alleged corruption in the allocation and organisation of the 2023–2024 Hajj, in which former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is a defendant; prosecutors allege the scheme caused state losses exceeding Rp622 billion and enriched several parties.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:28 WIB
Amran: Action against food cartels will go beyond administrative sanctions
National Food Agency head and Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says companies violating food-sector rules could face fines tripled under criminal sanctions, in addition to administrative penalties. The government and law-enforcement agencies are widening enforcement to address irregularities across products including fortified rice, palm oil, animal feed, chicken and eggs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:27 WIB
Bahlil Assures Public of Safe National Fuel Stocks, with Pertalite Supplies Lasting up to 18 Days
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says national fuel stocks are secure, with Pertalite reserves estimated to last 16–18 days and other fuel supplies exceeding 20 days. After shipping delays briefly reduced Bali’s stocks to three or four days, improved logistics have raised them to 11–12 days, while the government aims to build a 15-day reserve.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:22 WIB
TNI-Polri Help Clear Up Rubbish After Demonstration in Central Jakarta
Police, military and Jakarta provincial government personnel collected rubbish left around demonstration sites in Central Jakarta after securing a public rally. The police said the clean-up reflected a commitment to environmental care and urged residents to help protect shared public spaces and facilities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:21 WIB
Singapore Embassy Delegation Studies Legal Aid Posts in West Jakarta’s Tamansari
A Singapore Embassy delegation visited Tamansari sub-district to learn about Indonesia’s community-level legal aid post (Posbankum) and its mediation services. Officials highlighted how neighbourhood leaders help connect residents with government, while the visit may open the way for ongoing exchanges as Jakarta pursues its global-city ambitions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:20 WIB
DEN Says Downstreaming Exports Surged During Prabowo’s First Two Years in Office
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) projects exports of downstream mineral products to reach US$50 billion in 2026, up about 45% from 2024. It highlights growth in nickel, aluminium and lithium-battery components, while saying new smelter investment could push aluminium exports above US$10 billion in the future.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:20 WIB
Wingdik 600/Kal trains air force personnel as supply and logistics specialists
Wingdik 600/Kal is training Indonesian Air Force officers and enlisted personnel in supply and logistics to support operational needs. Its new simulator helps students practise operating aircraft-support vehicles, and graduates will be posted to air bases across Indonesia.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
BMKG uses dry-ice seeding to tackle fire haze in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Indonesia’s BMKG is deploying dry ice above atmospheric inversion layers in Sumatra and Kalimantan to help restore upward air movement and disperse smoke from forest and land fires. Preliminary monitoring has shown improved visibility and air quality in some areas, while the agency continues to assess the technique’s effectiveness using visibility and PM2.5 data.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
A Holistic Strategy to Keep Online Gambling at Bay
The Indonesian government has pursued a broad campaign against online gambling, targeting websites and apps, financial channels, addiction support and gambling operators. PPATK data show that the value of online gambling transactions fell 12.9 per cent year on year in the first half of 2026, although operators continue to seek new ways to reach Indonesians.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
EU allocates Rp4 billion to drought-hit areas of Indonesia
The European Union has allocated €200,000 (about Rp4.02 billion) for emergency humanitarian assistance to communities affected by prolonged drought across Indonesia. Working with the Indonesian Red Cross, the aid will provide clean water and health support to around 200,000 people, amid forecasts that moderate-to-strong El Niño conditions and a delayed rainy season will prolong the drought risk into early 2027.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:19 WIB
Menko Muhaimin: Empowerment Builds Community Self-Reliance
Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar says the government is shifting its poverty-reduction approach from providing assistance towards building long-term self-reliance. He said social assistance remains essential for vulnerable people, but must be paired with sustained capacity-building, stronger business development and wider market access so recipients can become productive economic actors and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) can grow.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:17 WIB
Banten Police Set Up Lost Property Desk after KMP Batu Mandi Fire
Banten Police have opened a service desk at Merak Port to help passengers affected by the KMP Batu Mandi fire report lost valuables or documents and obtain loss certificates. The ferry was carrying 420 passengers and 89 vehicles; injured passengers received medical treatment, while survivors were assisted with onward transport. The cause of the fire and related matters, including vehicle conditions and insurance claims, remain under investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:15 WIB
Iran Urges Azerbaijan to Address Hijab Restrictions as Dozens of Protesters Are Detained
Iran has urged Azerbaijan to take account of public concerns over restrictions on hijab in state schools, after the enforcement of school dress rules reportedly kept some Muslim girls out of class and led to protests and dozens of detentions. Baku says the rules uphold equality and the secular character of education, while critics argue that they infringe religious freedom and the right to education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:13 WIB
Solok Regency strengthens disaster mitigation and accelerates post-disaster recovery
Solok Regency is coordinating with central government agencies to accelerate recovery from flash floods, including infrastructure reconstruction, economic support and the resumption of regional transfers. Officials and disaster experts also stressed stronger early-warning measures and inspections of landslide-prone river catchments to reduce the risk of further flooding.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:13 WIB
Photos of Kim Jong Un’s Visit Released by North Korean Media After Death Rumours
North Korean state media published photographs of Kim Jong Un visiting a clothing and footwear exhibition, countering online rumours that he had died after suffering a brain haemorrhage. The images have not been independently verified, and the timing of their capture remains unclear; the report also recalls longstanding concerns over Kim’s health and the implications of his sudden death for succession and stability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:12 WIB
Industry Ministry Draws Up Shipbuilding Roadmap to Boost the Sector’s Contribution
The Industry Ministry is preparing a national shipbuilding roadmap for 2026–2030, targeting stronger shipyard capacity, technology, skills and domestic component use. The plans come as maritime transport activity grows, while imports of ships and related products continue to exceed exports, highlighting scope to expand domestic production.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:11 WIB
Red and White Fishing Village Programme Trades 719 Tonnes of Fish Worth Rp18.77 Billion
Indonesia’s Red and White Fishing Village (KNMP) programme has traded 719 tonnes of fish worth Rp18.77 billion across 65 pilot sites since operations began in June 2026. The government says the programme is strengthening coastal economies through an integrated fisheries supply chain, while a product from Lampung has reached China’s export market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Child Protection Index Rises as Efforts to Safeguard Children Improve, Says Ministry
Indonesia’s Child Protection Index rose to 72.40 in 2025, up 1.38 points from 2024, with the index’s special child protection cluster recording the strongest results. The Ministry for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection says government services for women and children affected by violence have grown more capable, alongside greater public willingness to report abuse.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Bangli Civil Servant Demoted to Lowest Job Grade for 72 Days of Unauthorised Absence
A Bangli civil servant received a 12-month demotion to the lowest job grade after being recorded as absent without explanation for 72 working days in the first half of 2026, including 14 consecutive days in June. The sanction was adjusted under civil service rules because he already held an implementing position; he had said some of his absence was due to illness and offered to provide hospital documentation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Jumhur: Environment Ministry Fines Six Companies Rp4.8 Trillion for Environmental Damage
Environment Minister and head of the Environmental Control Agency Moh Jumhur Hidayat says the ministry has imposed Rp4.8 trillion in fines on six companies accused of environmental damage, signalling a tougher enforcement approach. He also warned that environmental crime is increasingly organised and cross-regional, amid mounting climate, pollution and biodiversity crises.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
EU Considers Activating Blocking Statute to Shield ICC from US Sanctions
The European Commission says the EU is considering activating its Blocking Statute to protect International Criminal Court officials and operations from potential US sanctions, but no decision or timetable has been set. The move follows Washington’s announcement of sanctions aimed at disrupting the court, escalating the Trump administration’s campaign against the Hague-based institution.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Suahasil Nazara Confirms Civil Servants’ Salaries Will Continue to Be Paid Through Banks, Not Merah Putih Cooperatives
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said civil servants’ salaries will continue to be transferred through the banking system, rejecting an alternative proposal to route payments through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives. The proposal had been submitted to the Finance Ministry, but details on funding, implementation and participating cooperatives remain unclear; existing bank-based payments are governed by a 2016 regulation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:08 WIB
DEN: Digital Social Protection Trial Shows Welfare Aid Is Better Targeted
A nationwide trial of digitalising social protection has reduced errors in beneficiary data, potentially helping ensure welfare assistance reaches eligible households. The system has registered 11.5 million households across 514 districts and cities, while the government is also considering shifting some subsidies from product-based support to direct cash transfers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:07 WIB
West Jakarta’s Baznas completes renovation of 62 homes in 2026
Baznas Bazis West Jakarta has completed and inaugurated 62 homes under its housing renovation programme for low-income families, against a 2026 target of 120 units. At about Rp55 million per home, the initiative is funded through zakat, infaq and sadaqah contributions and aims to provide safer, healthier housing while helping alleviate poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:07 WIB
Parents’ approach can help teenagers set limits on social media use
Child and family psychologist Samanta Clara Elsener recommends two-way, relatable conversations to help teenagers limit their time on social media, rather than repeated lectures. She says strong parent-child connections and direct social interaction can support young people’s social skills, as health ministry figures show depression and anxiety indicators among children and adolescents are more than four times those of adults and older people.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:07 WIB
DEN: 95% of Students Receiving Free Nutritious Meals Are More Motivated to Learn
A study by the National Economic Council (DEN), Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and other institutions found that 95% of students receiving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme reported greater motivation to learn when the meals were of high quality. The study also linked MBG receipt with lower absenteeism, while highlighting that the programme’s beneficiaries remain disproportionately concentrated in urban areas and among better-off households; DEN has urged the government to prioritise poorer communities, rural areas and disadvantaged regions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
KMP Batumandi Passenger Says Fire Began with Black Smoke and Explosion
A passenger aboard the KMP Batumandi said black smoke and an explosion came from the vehicle deck as the ferry was approaching Merak port, prompting passengers to seek life jackets and evacuate via an emergency slide. ASDP said it was coordinating with port authorities and emergency services; the cause of the fire has not yet been established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
Economist: KUR should shift towards building MSME capacity
CORE Indonesia economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet says the People’s Business Credit (KUR) programme should prioritise improving micro, small and medium-sized enterprises’ (MSMEs) revenue, profits and job creation, rather than simply increasing loan disbursements. He also calls for better measurement of outcomes, stronger market access and integrated support data, as MSME credit growth lags behind overall bank lending and fewer than half the targeted borrowers have moved up to commercial financing.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
KAI North Sumatra Regional Division receives seven additional locomotives to strengthen operations
KAI’s North Sumatra Regional Division has received seven locomotives transferred from the company’s Palembang and Tanjung Karang divisions to bolster railway operations in the province. A further four locomotives had arrived in March 2026 and are already in service.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:06 WIB
KMP Batumandi Passenger’s Account: Ship Filled with Smoke as Fishermen Rush to Help
Passengers aboard the KMP Batumandi were rescued by local fishermen after the ferry caught fire while approaching Merak Port in Banten. One passenger described panic, smoke-related breathing difficulties and injuries during the evacuation, with some people jumping into the sea from the third deck.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:05 WIB
Indonesia Extinguishes Fires Across 454 Hectares in Key Regions
Indonesia’s disaster agency says firefighters have extinguished 454 hectares of land fires, with operations continuing across another 570 hectares in six provinces. The imminent rainy season, expected to begin from October in several affected areas, may help suppress the remaining hotspots.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:03 WIB
From Night-time Research to National Duties in Nagoya
Around 30 Indonesian students in Nagoya are balancing their studies with volunteer work supporting Indonesia’s contingent at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya. Led by Nanzan University doctoral student and Indonesian Students’ Association chair Flady Faliyenco Franggaratz Abubakar Pae, they have helped establish the contingent’s headquarters and are assisting with accommodation, logistics and interpretation while ensuring facilities meet athletes’ accessibility needs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:03 WIB
Shin Tae-yong Responds to Reports of Point Deduction for Persija
Persija Jakarta head coach Shin Tae-yong said he was unaware of any regulation allowing points to be deducted solely over supporter disturbances, noting that FIFA typically applies such penalties in cases of match-fixing. He urged authorities to deal firmly with violence and called on fans to behave responsibly, warning that misconduct could lead to matches being played behind closed doors.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:02 WIB
BMKG warns of strong winds in North Sulawesi due to Cyclone Champi
BMKG has urged residents and maritime operators in North Sulawesi and surrounding areas to prepare for strong winds and high waves caused indirectly by Tropical Cyclone Champi. Waves of up to four metres are forecast in several waters, while the agency advises the public to monitor official updates and take precautions against extreme weather.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:02 WIB
Finance Ministry pursues 6% growth through measured fiscal policy
Indonesia’s Finance Ministry is targeting 6% economic growth in 2027, using measured fiscal policy to support investment, consumption and productivity while cushioning global risks. The draft 2027 budget sets a 2.4% deficit-to-GDP ratio and prioritises education, social protection, health and food security; officials also stress the importance of policy certainty and public-private coordination.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Houthi Missile Strike on Yemeni Military Camp Kills 58
A Houthi missile attack on a government security forces training camp in Yemen’s Shabwa province reportedly killed 58 people and injured more than 200, with 14 still missing. The strike comes amid escalating fighting near the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait and a wider regional conflict, deepening Yemen’s already severe humanitarian crisis.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Social Affairs Minister Gus Ipul: People’s Schools Combine Education and Empowerment
The Social Affairs Ministry says its People’s Schools programme has enrolled more than 44,000 pupils across 182 locations, targeting children from disadvantaged families who have had limited access to education. The initiative combines schooling with family economic empowerment, while the government is expanding permanent facilities and digital learning resources as part of efforts to break the cycle of poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:58 WIB
North Jakarta administration joins forces with religious leaders to promote tolerance
North Jakarta’s administration is working with religious and community leaders to strengthen interfaith tolerance and prevent social conflict in the diverse port city. Officials highlighted the risks of digital disinformation and said sustained dialogue and cross-community cooperation can help preserve harmony and support urban development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:57 WIB
PT Len targets completion of 13 GCI radar installations by 2027
PT Len Industri aims to complete the installation of 13 ground control intercept (GCI) radars by 2027 to strengthen Indonesia’s national air defence system, with installations completed at two sites so far. The project, undertaken in cooperation with France, faces challenges including the readiness of supporting infrastructure and integration with other branches of the Indonesian military.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:56 WIB
Idrus Marham Confident Golkar Can Become a Party of the Future Under Bahlil-Sarmuji
Golkar deputy chairman Idrus Marham says the party must move beyond its record in national development and offer ideas and practical work that address Indonesia’s needs. He believes the leadership of Bahlil Lahadalia and Muhammad Sarmuji can drive that transformation, arguing that parties must shape policy debates rather than rely solely on votes and parliamentary seats.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:55 WIB
BNPB Uses Dry Ice to Disperse Haze from Forest and Land Fires: The Results
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) says dry-ice cloud-seeding trials in Palembang improved visibility, as authorities continue fighting fires across six priority provinces. By 19 October, crews had extinguished 454.25 hectares of a targeted 1,024.33 hectares; BNPB has also tightened dispersal procedures after reports of dry ice falling in residential areas.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:55 WIB
Trias Politika: Prabowo-Gibran Government Strengthens Public Welfare in Two Years
Trias Politika Strategis executive director Agung Baskoro says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has improved and expanded welfare programmes during its first two years, including initiatives aimed at supporting low-income households. He cautioned that a larger pool of beneficiaries must be matched by accurate, transparent data updates to ensure assistance reaches vulnerable groups and effectively reduces poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:54 WIB
Suahasil insists civil servants’ salaries will continue to be paid through banks
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said civil servants’ salaries will continue to be transferred through the banking system, despite a proposal to route payments through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives. The Cooperatives Ministry says it has submitted the proposal to the Finance Ministry, but the budget, payment mechanism and launch date have not been detailed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:52 WIB
UN: Funding Crisis Threatens Food and Nutrition Aid in Afghanistan
The UN warns that nearly 19.2 million people in Afghanistan could face acute food insecurity this winter as funding shortages undermine humanitarian services. More than four million young children are expected to need treatment for acute malnutrition next year, while restrictions on women further weaken essential education and healthcare provision.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:52 WIB
Army Pays Last Respects to Former Chief of Staff General Subagyo
The Indonesian Army held a military funeral in Jakarta for former Army Chief of Staff General (Ret.) Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, who died aged 80. President Prabowo Subianto and senior military leaders attended the ceremonies, honouring Subagyo’s service to the Army.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:51 WIB
KMP Batu Mandi Catches Fire off Merak with 420 Passengers and 89 Vehicles on Board
KMP Batu Mandi caught fire while sailing from Bakauheni to Merak, with 420 passengers and 89 vehicles on board. Passengers were evacuated, given health checks and temporary accommodation, while authorities arranged transport and help replacing lost documents; the cause and full extent of the incident were not stated.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:50 WIB
Stakeholders’ roles in the cultural ecosystem need to be defined, says agency
Jakarta’s regional planning agency says the roles of multiple stakeholders must be clearly defined to build a sustainable cultural ecosystem, addressing inconsistent festival curation and fragmented event schedules. The agency argues that stronger coordination could also help improve the capital’s standing in global city rankings; Jakarta rose to 71st in the 2025 Global Cities Index.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:50 WIB
Orders for Barges and Tugboats in Indonesia Plunge as Shipbuilders Shift Focus
Demand for vessels serving the mining sector has fallen by 60%, prompting Indonesian shipyards to redirect production towards tankers and other vessels for fuel transport. Iperindo says its members can build about 1,200 new ships annually, while the government’s 2026–2030 roadmap aims to expand domestic shipbuilding capacity, including for larger tankers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:48 WIB
KAI Explains Why Commuter Train Travelled Slowly with Door Open in Depok
A technical fault caused by a foreign object lodged beneath a door led a Commuter Line train to travel slowly with the door open near Depok. KAI Commuter said staff guarded the door and imposed a speed restriction under safety procedures; the incident delayed the service by 10 minutes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:47 WIB
PNM and PPI open up market-expansion opportunities for Mekaar clients’ products
State-owned PNM and PPI have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore wider marketing opportunities for products made by PNM Mekaar clients, many of whom are women running ultra-micro businesses. The partnership aims to connect promising products with suitable markets, potentially including national sales and exports, addressing a gap highlighted by Bappenas research showing that most surveyed micro and small businesses serve only local customers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:46 WIB
Indonesia accelerates sabo dam projects to strengthen flood defences in Aceh
Indonesia’s Public Works Ministry plans to build 42 sabo dams in disaster-prone areas of Aceh, expanding its initial target of 40, with the full programme scheduled for completion by 2028. The work forms part of a wider river-basin recovery plan and includes dredging estuaries, reinforcing riverbanks and removing silt to reduce the risk of flash floods and overflows.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
Orphaned Student in East Manggarai Goes Viral After Being Bullied
A Year 10 student at SMAK Pancasila Borong in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, was filmed being bullied by fellow students after school. The local women’s empowerment and child-protection agency is providing psychological support to the victim and those involved, while the school has pledged to address the incident with children’s safety and rights in mind.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
Rosan Says Danantara Will Invest in Shares Gradually
Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani says the state investment agency will enter the stock market in stages, using company fundamentals, technical analysis and market sentiment to guide its decisions. He said market declines could present long-term opportunities, particularly in state-owned companies with attractive valuations and strong businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
Minister: ALLPack Indonesia 2026’s Vibrant Turnout Reflects Economic Optimism
Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says the strong attendance and international participation at ALLPack Indonesia 2026 reflect confidence in Indonesia’s economic prospects. The packaging and processing exhibition brings together around 1,600 exhibitors from 42 countries and highlights technology adoption, investment and sustainable packaging, as manufacturing and food and beverage industries continue to grow.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
DHL Deploys Wuling EVs to Advance Green Logistics
DHL Express Indonesia has added 30 Wuling Mitra EV Blind Van Long Range vehicles to its fleet, deploying them across Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung and Semarang to reduce emissions from deliveries. The move reflects rising corporate focus on sustainability and extends the company’s green logistics efforts beyond Jakarta to other major trade and logistics centres.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
US blocks DeepSeek from federal civilian networks over security risks
The United States has barred China’s DeepSeek from accessing federal civilian agency networks, citing espionage and cybersecurity concerns, and ordered agencies to remove its software and related applications. Beijing condemned the move as an abuse of national security arguments and said it would protect the legitimate interests of Chinese companies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:43 WIB
All Passengers on KMP Batumandi Evacuated Safely, Transport Ministry Says
All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated safely after a fire broke out in the entrance channel to Merak on Tuesday afternoon, with no fatalities reported. Authorities coordinated a multi-agency response, while the cause of the fire and the vessel’s condition remain subject to further investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
DEN: Data-driven contingency plans needed to prepare for El Niño and La Niña
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) has urged the government to prepare data-based contingency plans for El Niño, expected to persist until early 2027, and the possible onset of La Niña. Preparations should address drought, flooding and other disaster risks while protecting food supplies and keeping prices stable.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
Central Jakarta City Administration Targets Renovation of 94 Homes for Low-Income Residents in 2026
Central Jakarta plans to renovate 94 homes for underprivileged residents in 2026 through its regular programme and corporate social responsibility support. A collaboration involving PT SupraJaya Duaribu Satu and the Central Jakarta branch of the National Zakat Agency has helped build eight homes between 2024 and 2026, with four beneficiaries receiving keys at a recent handover.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
Merah Putih Village Cooperatives: From Formation to Operations
By mid-October 2026, 83,363 Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives had legal status, but only 10,070 completed premises were deemed ready for full operations. Meanwhile, 2,757 cooperatives had already begun trading, recording 98,130 transactions worth Rp348.95 billion, as new regulations assign Agrinas a role in supporting operations during a two-year transition to independence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
Bahlil says Golkar upholds presumption of innocence over Gibran’s diploma
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said the party would respect the legal process and uphold the presumption of innocence amid controversy over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational credentials. The Constitutional Court said it found no supporting document proving Gibran held an overseas qualification equivalent to senior secondary education, while Gibran said he respected the ruling and would focus on his duties.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:40 WIB
OJK Chief Denies Only Taking Tough Action After MSCI Threat
OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says investigations and sanctions over suspected capital-market violations require time and due process, rejecting claims the regulator acted only after MSCI threatened to downgrade Indonesia’s market. She says broad reforms have been under way since January, including greater shareholder disclosures, publication of high-shareholding-concentration data and work towards a 15% free-float requirement.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:40 WIB
Home Affairs Ministry Approves Asep Surya Atmaja as Bekasi Regent
Indonesia’s Home Affairs Ministry has approved Asep Surya Atmaja’s appointment as Bekasi Regent for the remainder of the 2025–2030 term, following the dismissal of Ade Kuswara Kunang after his conviction for corruption. Asep’s inauguration is expected to take place in Bekasi on Friday, 23 October, subject to final arrangements.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:40 WIB
Director: Youthful spirit in ‘Laut Bercerita’ resonates across borders
Director Yosep Anggi Noen says the film’s themes of resistance, injustice and patriotism resonate beyond Indonesia, citing an international viewer who connected its story to South Korea’s 1980s student movement in Gwangju. Adapted from Leila S. Chudori’s bestselling novel, the film is scheduled to open in Indonesian cinemas on 29 October 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:38 WIB
Environment Ministry Prepares East Sumba Savanna Protection Project with IUCN from 2027
Indonesia’s Environment Ministry and the International Union for Conservation of Nature are preparing a science-based ecosystem protection project in East Sumba, due to begin in 2027. The LENTERA programme will assess ecosystem risks across three Wallacea pilot areas and combine conservation planning with local knowledge and community welfare.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:36 WIB
Luhut Says Indonesia to Begin Downstream Processing of Kratom and Benzoin Soon
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto plans to launch downstream processing of kratom and benzoin, with a research centre in North Sumatra intended to support the initiative. The products could generate tens of billions of dollars, while Indonesia already supplies 96 per cent of the kratom imported by the United States, with exports valued at US$350 million.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:36 WIB
Indonesia targets 500 permanent People’s Schools in four years
The government aims to establish 500 permanent People’s School facilities within three to four years, with capacity for more than one million students, expanding a programme currently serving over 44,000 students at 182 locations. The initiative targets children from the lowest-income households and those who have never attended or have dropped out of school, while also providing family empowerment support and expanding digital learning.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:35 WIB
Luhut Proposes Reviewing Definition of Corruption; President Agrees
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto has approved a review of Indonesia’s definition of corruption to bring its handling in line with international standards. Luhut argues that treating state losses as a key element of corruption can expose businesses to criminal liability for ordinary commercial risks, while Indonesia’s ratification of the UN Convention against Corruption covers offences beyond bribery.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:33 WIB
Sobbing, 11 Little Aresha Daycare Carers Admit Fault and Ask for Leniency
Eleven carers at Little Aresha daycare have asked for lighter sentences, expressing remorse while arguing that they worked under a system controlled by the foundation’s chairwoman and lacked authority over policies. Prosecutors have sought five years’ imprisonment, a Rp250 million fine and Rp14 million in restitution for each defendant; some carers cited contract pressure, withheld diplomas and difficult personal circumstances in their pleas.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:31 WIB
Prabowo Cuts Red Tape to Boost Downstream Investment and Introduces Automatic Permits
President Prabowo Subianto is seeking to attract higher-quality investment by expanding industrial downstreaming and speeding up licensing, with downstreaming’s share of investment rising to 35% in the third quarter of 2026 from about 26% in 2024. The Investment Ministry has also integrated permits across 28 government agencies and issued around 328 approvals through a ‘positive fiction’ mechanism when agencies miss deadlines, while a new target aims to reduce processing of limited-stay permits for foreign workers to five days.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:30 WIB
Shooting Near Mosque Leaves One Dead
One person was killed in a shooting at an apartment complex car park near a mosque in Columbus, Ohio. Police said the incident began with a dispute and was not an attack on the mosque or worshippers inside, despite initial reports describing it as a shooting at a mosque.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Prabowo Agrees to DEN Proposal to Revise Definition of Corruption in Line with UNCAC
President Prabowo Subianto has agreed to a National Economic Council (DEN) proposal to align Indonesia’s statutory definition of corruption with the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). DEN chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says the convention focuses largely on bribery, while Indonesia’s emphasis on state losses is often seen as an obstacle to corporate activity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Mandatory Halal Certification Delayed Until 2028; MUI Deputy Chair Urges Public to Continue Choosing Halal-Labelled Products
Indonesia’s mandatory halal-certification deadline has been pushed back from 2026 to 2028, prompting the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to urge consumers to continue buying products bearing halal labels. MUI Deputy Chair Muhammad Cholil Nafis said the delay weakens certainty for consumers and could make it harder to identify halal products, while stressing that the issue concerns religious rights as well as regulation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Luhut Proposes Removing State Losses from the Definition of Corruption, Explaining His Reasons
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has proposed that state losses no longer be included in the definition of corruption, arguing that the provision constrains state-owned businesses, including Danantara. He said President Prabowo Subianto agreed to a review of the definition based on the UN Convention against Corruption, which Indonesia has ratified.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Bahlil Says Gibran Diploma Dispute Is Part of Democracy
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia says the legal challenge over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma should be handled through due process and regarded as part of democracy. Gibran says he respects the Constitutional Court’s proceedings and will focus on the President’s agenda, adding that he continued to undergraduate study after completing secondary-level education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:29 WIB
Yemen Urges International Community to Press Houthis to Lift Blockade
Yemen is calling on the international community to pressure the Houthis to lift blockades, particularly in Taiz, and allow humanitarian aid and essential supplies to reach civilians. Its ambassador to Indonesia also sought support for the government’s proposals to the United Nations, including designating the Houthis as an international terrorist group, while stressing that Yemen remains open to a peaceful resolution.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:27 WIB
KNPS and the Aditya Ramadhan Institute Share Happiness with Senen Housing Residents
KNPS and the Aditya Ramadhan Institute marked two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration by distributing staple food and healthy meals to residents of Senen Housing in Jakarta. The complex has 300 homes for people previously living beside railway tracks, with 270 already occupied; KNPS says it will also offer training to help residents develop livelihoods and start businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:27 WIB
Ombudsman Offers Four Recommendations to Improve PLN Batam Services after Blackout
The Ombudsman’s Riau Islands office has urged PLN Batam to strengthen infrastructure maintenance, communicate cautiously about outages, review its proposed 10 per cent compensation and fully cooperate with police investigators. The recommendations follow a blackout on 12 October 2026 that PLN Batam attributed to an equipment failure at Sungai Harapan substation, with power restoration taking until 14 October in Bintan.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:25 WIB
KAI Cirebon promotes local culture through station redesign
KAI’s Cirebon operating area is redesigning key parts of Cirebon Station, combining local cultural features with modern facilities to improve the passenger experience and showcase the city’s identity. The railway operator is also using an updated digital system to integrate inspections and maintenance records for railway infrastructure.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:24 WIB
Government Responds to Greenpeace Action: Climate Crisis and Cost of Living Are Presidential Priorities
The government says it respects Greenpeace’s protest in central Jakarta and recognises concerns over the climate crisis and rising living costs as priorities for the President. It cited a Rp 26.34 trillion stimulus package, food assistance, additional rice supplies and a commitment to keep fuel prices unchanged through the end of 2026, while inviting Greenpeace to submit policy recommendations.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:24 WIB
CCTV Was Not Pointed at Transformer During Batam-Bintan Blackout as Police Investigate Suspected Sabotage
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency is investigating whether negligence or deliberate sabotage caused the 12 October blackout across Batam and Bintan. Five people have been named as suspects, while investigators examine an initial short circuit and why a CCTV camera at the Sei Harapan substation was not facing Transformer 1.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:23 WIB
Manpower Ministry urges workplaces to provide AEDs as first-aid equipment
Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry is urging employers to provide automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and trained first-aid personnel, citing the burden of heart disease among workers and the critical first five minutes after sudden cardiac arrest. It also stresses that workplace health measures should address underlying risks such as long shifts, stress, inactivity and exposure to harmful substances.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:22 WIB
Luhut: Downstreaming of Kratom and Benzoin Targeted for March 2027
The government is preparing plans to develop downstream processing for kratom and benzoin, with a launch targeted for March 2027. The initiative is expected to include a genomics research centre near Lake Toba and aims to add value to agricultural commodities by tapping potential markets.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:22 WIB
ALLPack Indonesia 2026 Brings Together 1,600 Exhibitors from 42 Countries, Targeting Industry Investment Opportunities
ALLPack Indonesia 2026 is being held in Jakarta from 20 to 23 October, bringing together more than 1,600 exhibitors from 42 countries across packaging, processing and related industries. With over 65 educational and business events—including sessions on investment incentives and business-matching programmes—the exhibition aims to connect companies with technology, partners and potential investment opportunities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:21 WIB
DIY DPRD Rejects Proposal to Pay Civil Servants’ Salaries Through Merah Putih Cooperatives, Citing Data-Leak Risks
The chair of the DIY DPRD’s Commission A, Eko Suwanto, has rejected a proposal to channel civil servants’ salaries through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives, arguing that it offers no urgent benefit and could expose sensitive employee data. He says the existing salary system is functioning reliably, with 12,077 provincial employees paid on the first of each month through Bank BPD DIY.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:20 WIB
Singapore Dollar Quietly Hits Rp14,000 as Many People Cash In
The Singapore dollar closed at Rp14,084 on 19 October 2026, up 8.7% against the rupiah since the start of the year, prompting holders to sell and realise gains. Its strength reflects Singapore’s exchange-rate policy and Indonesia’s currency pressures, while tourism, trade, investment, education and healthcare sustain Indonesian demand for the currency.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:19 WIB
Teenager Drowns While Riding a Boat on Lake at Banten Provincial Government Centre
A 15-year-old boy drowned after falling from a boat while playing on a retention lake at the Banten Provincial Government Centre in Serang. Search and rescue personnel found him at about 6pm and took him to Bhayangkara Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:18 WIB
Basarnas Continues Searching Kalimantan Waters for Remaining Victims of Virgo Ship
Basarnas is continuing its search for victims of the Virgo Transport 8, which sank in the Java Sea on 13 September 2026, with 53 people still missing. The operation has entered its 38th day, and search teams are sweeping westward waters while monitoring plans to salvage the wreck, which could help recover victims trapped inside.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:18 WIB
PBB: Do not let voters’ voices be wasted because of the parliamentary threshold
The Crescent Star Party (PBB), together with the United Development Party (PPP) and Partai Elang, has asked the Constitutional Court to review provisions on party verification and the parliamentary threshold. PBB is not seeking to abolish the threshold, but wants parties below it to be able to combine with others so their votes can count towards House seats, while also seeking clearer and fairer verification rules ahead of the 2029 election.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:15 WIB
Prabowo Agrees to Luhut’s Proposal to Change Indonesia’s Definition of Corruption
President Prabowo Subianto has agreed to a National Economic Council study proposing that Indonesia’s definition of corruption focus on bribery rather than state losses. Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says the change would bring enforcement into line with international standards and give Danantara greater confidence to make business decisions involving risk.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:15 WIB
Government Trials Dry-Ice Weather Modification in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan to Reduce Haze from Forest and Land Fires
The government is testing dry ice alongside conventional salt-based cloud seeding in South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan, hoping to induce rainfall and reduce smoke from forest and land fires. On 19 October, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) carried out eight seeding sorties across the two provinces, while officials stressed that operations depend on suitable atmospheric conditions and cloud availability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:14 WIB
Amnesty International Calls for Sanctions Against Israeli Officials Over Human Rights Violations
Amnesty International has urged governments to sanction Israeli officials credibly implicated in serious breaches of international law and to act against settler attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. It also called for an end to trade, investment and cooperation that sustain Israel’s occupation, warning that condemnations without concrete action will allow abuses to continue.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:13 WIB
West Jakarta Prosecutor’s Office and LPSK begin distributing compensation to Indosurya victims
The West Jakarta Prosecutor’s Office and Indonesia’s Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) have begun distributing Rp229.43 billion in restitution to 3,317 victims of the Indosurya savings and loan cooperative fraud. The first payment comes from recovered and auctioned assets, while verified losses total Rp8.06 trillion; officials say efforts to trace and sell remaining assets will continue and warn victims about scams demanding extra fees.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:12 WIB
Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel and Discovery Mall Bali Celebrate Anniversaries in Style
Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel marked its 36th anniversary alongside the 22nd anniversary of Discovery Mall Bali with a celebration in Kuta, featuring cultural performances, community initiatives and environmental activities. The event also highlighted the TUKA Rewards loyalty scheme, which offers shoppers a chance to win prizes worth up to Rp750 million.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:12 WIB
UK to Deploy Typhoon Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia to Counter Houthi Missile and Drone Attacks
The UK will send RAF Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia for air-defence missions against Houthi missiles and drones, while ruling out offensive strikes in Yemen. The deployment expands military support for Riyadh amid escalating regional attacks, with London warning that Gulf instability could raise energy and living costs for the UK.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:11 WIB
FDI Outpaces Domestic Investment with Strong Annual Growth
Foreign direct investment accounted for just over half of Indonesia’s realised investment in the first nine months of 2026, reversing the trend seen in 2025 when domestic investors led. Third-quarter realised investment reached Rp528.7 trillion, up 7.6 per cent year on year, while FDI grew 27 per cent and generated part of the total’s 745,634 jobs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:11 WIB
Geothermal Project Opens Up Mountain Access and Employs 2,000 Local Workers
PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy says its projects improve access to isolated mountain areas by supporting road construction and create new economic activity. The company employs at least 210 local residents in routine operations, rising to as many as 2,000 during peak power-plant construction, while officials urge greater direct use of geothermal energy for nearby communities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:10 WIB
Many of Indonesia’s Oil Wells Are Ageing: Contractors’ Proposed Solution
Most of Indonesia’s oil and gas fields have reached mature or late-life production stages, putting pressure on output as demand far exceeds current production. Pertamina Hulu Energi says new-basin exploration and accelerated major projects, backed by long-term investment and stronger stakeholder coordination, are needed to address the shortfall.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:08 WIB
Joint team records KM Batumandi passengers after fire
ASDP Indonesia Ferry, police and other stakeholders are verifying the passenger manifest and assisting those evacuated from the KM Batumandi after a fire broke out as the vessel was docking at Merak Port. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and ASDP says it will support the authorities’ investigation and provide updates as findings are verified.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:08 WIB
Cileungsi River Turns Ominously Black, Like Oil, Amid Pollution
Residents near the Cileungsi River in Bogor say its water has turned black and emitted a strong smell, affecting daily life and local businesses. Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto says the local environmental agency is tracing suspected factory outlets, has closed some unauthorised channels and plans to build wastewater treatment plants, while some permits fall under central government authority.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:07 WIB
Luhut Proposes to Prabowo That State Losses Should Not Constitute Corruption
Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo Subianto has agreed with a National Economic Council study arguing that corruption should be defined in line with the UN convention and should not include state financial losses as a standalone element. Luhut says the current approach burdens businesses, while Indonesian anti-corruption law currently criminalises acts causing state losses under Articles 2 and 3.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:06 WIB
KPK Searches Klaten Regent Hamenang’s Home, Seizes Cash and Jewellery
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it seized cash, jewellery, documents and electronic evidence in searches linked to Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, who is under investigation over alleged bribery to alter a state audit. Investigators allege that Hamenang negotiated a Rp400 million payment in exchange for removing findings of about Rp5 billion in excess honorarium payments from Klaten’s audit report; three people have been named suspects and detained.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:05 WIB
Dry Ice Falls into Residential Areas, BNPB Installs Special Screens on Aircraft
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has tightened procedures for dispersing dry ice from aircraft after residents reported material falling into their neighbourhoods during weather-modification operations. Special screens and finer particles are intended to ensure the dry ice evaporates before reaching the ground, as authorities deploy aircraft and ground teams to combat forest and land fires across six priority provinces.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:05 WIB
Luhut Warns Prabowo About El Niño and La Niña: What Is at Stake?
The National Economic Council has warned President Prabowo Subianto that El Niño and La Niña could disrupt food production, increase flood and drought risks, and push up food prices. It recommends data-led contingency planning, including food-stock management, adjusted planting schedules, water pumps, market operations and health services in areas affected by forest and peatland fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:04 WIB
UK to Deploy Typhoon Jets to Saudi Arabia to Counter Houthi Threat
The UK will deploy RAF Typhoon fighters and other support to Saudi Arabia to help defend its airspace and key infrastructure from Houthi missile and drone attacks, while ruling out offensive strikes by the jets. London said it would also provide military advisers and extend aerial refuelling support, citing regional escalation and potential effects on energy supplies, living costs and British businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:04 WIB
KPK Receives Rp250 Million Returned by Nias PCNU, Allegedly Linked to NU Congress
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has received and seized Rp250 million returned by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama, reportedly in connection with the organisation’s 35th Congress. Investigators are examining whether the money is linked to alleged bribery and other receipts involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN); it will be retained as evidence if a connection is established, or returned otherwise.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:02 WIB
BPK holds ARISE 2026 training programme with five countries
Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) is running its ARISE 2026 programme for supreme audit institutions from Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Timor-Leste. The training focuses on performance auditing of blue-economy issues and aims to strengthen participants’ auditing skills and institutional capacity, as part of Indonesia’s wider international development cooperation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:01 WIB
Lamongan Police Uncover Assault Case Involving Teenager in Pucuk
Lamongan police have detained five people over the alleged group assault of a 17-year-old in Pucuk, which investigators say followed a challenge between martial arts groups on social media. The victim suffered cuts and other injuries; three of those detained are children in conflict with the law, and police are pursuing charges under the Criminal Code and Child Protection Law.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
If the AI Bubble Bursts, the Global Economy Could Crumble
The IMF has warned that a sharp correction in AI-related investments could hit technology shares and spread through the global economy, particularly as data-centre operators and investors take on more debt. It also highlighted the sector’s financial interdependence, rising interest-rate risks and AI-enabled cyberattacks, while signs of weaker-than-expected revenues have begun to challenge hopes of rapid profits.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
Religious Affairs Ministry Seeks to Strengthen Madrasah Committee Members’ Capacity to Improve Quality
Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Ministry says stronger madrasah committees can help channel community support, including financial, moral and advisory contributions, more effectively. It argues that building committee members’ capacity will help improve the quality and development of madrasahs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
Heat and Dust Disrupt Learning at Nagekeo Emergency School After Earthquake
Students at SD Inpres Marapokot in Nagekeo are continuing lessons in emergency tents after an earthquake, despite discomfort caused by heat and wind-blown dust. The local education and culture office has allowed affected schools to shorten the school day, with pupils now permitted to leave by 11 a.m. rather than 1 p.m.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:58 WIB
KI Sumut Award 2026 Names 24 Districts and Cities ‘Informative’
Twenty-four districts and cities in North Sumatra received the ‘Informative’ rating at the 2026 provincial public information awards, alongside public bodies from provincial agencies, election supervisory boards and state-owned enterprises. North Sumatra’s deputy governor said openness should be embedded in public-sector working culture and deliver tangible benefits to residents, rather than serving merely as an administrative requirement or route to an award.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:57 WIB
Passenger: Fire on KMP Batumandi Began with Black Smoke, Followed by Explosion
A passenger said black smoke and an explosion preceded a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak port, prompting passengers to evacuate using an emergency slide. ASDP said it was coordinating with port authorities and rescue agencies, while the cause of the incident remains unknown and an investigation is expected.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:57 WIB
PKB Expresses Condolences Over Bromo Fire Disaster
The National Awakening Party (PKB) has expressed condolences to the family of a man killed in the forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area, which claimed five lives. The party also called for stronger protection for responders, better safety equipment and coordination, and greater emphasis on fire prevention and preparedness.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:55 WIB
Will Civil Servants’ Salaries Be Paid Through Cooperatives? Suahasil Confirms They Will Still Be Transferred Directly
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says civil servants’ salaries will continue to be transferred directly to their individual bank accounts, despite a proposal for cooperatives to handle payments. The proposal, raised by the Cooperatives Ministry, remains under discussion and is linked to a draft law that would expand cooperatives’ role and oversight framework.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:55 WIB
Indonesian Embassy targets US$15 million in export commitments at Paris food fair
The Indonesian Embassy in Paris is facilitating the participation of 13 Indonesian food and beverage companies in SIAL Paris 2026, with a target of US$15 million in export commitments. The embassy says the fair offers an opportunity to build lasting relationships with European importers and distributors and strengthen the presence and competitiveness of Indonesian products in the market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:55 WIB
YINGFA to Showcase TOPCon 3.0 Multi-Cut and XBC 2.0 Solar Cells at REI 2026
YINGFA will present its TOPCon 3.0 multi-cut and XBC 2.0 solar cells at Renewable Energy India Expo 2026, highlighting efficiencies of 27.3% and up to 28.4%, respectively. With manufacturing facilities in China and Indonesia and customer support in India, the company is seeking to deepen partnerships with Indian solar module manufacturers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:54 WIB
Viral Video Shows Online Motorcycle Taxi Driver Assaulted by Illegal Parking Attendants in South Jakarta; Police Investigate
An online motorcycle taxi driver was allegedly assaulted by three people after a dispute over a Rp2,000 parking fee in Kalibata, South Jakarta. Police have confirmed that a report was filed and say the suspects are still under investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:54 WIB
Prabowo Promotes Public Welfare Through Nutrition, Education and Health Programmes
Golkar Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji says the Prabowo-Gibran administration is placing people, particularly lower-income groups, at the centre of development through programmes covering nutrition, education and healthcare. Government figures cited in the article show that free meals had reached more than 62 million beneficiaries by May 2026, while free health checks had served over 73 million people by July.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:53 WIB
BP Tapera: FLPP Delivers 464,201 Subsidised Homes in Two Years of President Prabowo’s Government
BP Tapera says 464,201 subsidised home loans worth Rp57.7 trillion have been disbursed during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. In 2026, 185,333 units have been financed so far, while eligibility has broadened to include more informal workers and small-business operators.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:52 WIB
PGE prepares major funding strategy to reach 1.8GW geothermal target
Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) is arranging a broad funding strategy to manage exploration risks and meet its target of 1.8GW of installed geothermal capacity by 2034. The company plans to combine internal capital, IPO proceeds, concessional overseas funding, green finance and a joint venture with PLN, as Indonesia seeks to become the world’s leading geothermal power producer by 2030.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:51 WIB
Gerindra: 5.45% Economic Growth Is an Achievement of Prabowo-Gibran Government
Gerindra spokesperson Kamrussamad cited Indonesia’s 5.45% growth in the first half of 2026, alongside lower poverty and unemployment and rising investment, as a key achievement of the Prabowo-Gibran administration. He also highlighted government programmes and state-owned enterprise profits, while acknowledging challenges including forest fires, fuel distribution and pressure on the rupiah and stock market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister: SI’s Struggle Enters a New Chapter Through Strengthening the Community’s Economy
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar says Syarikat Islam (SI) can open a new chapter by strengthening the community’s economy through mosques, Islamic boarding schools and cooperatives. The ministers and SI leaders called for professionally managed economic initiatives rooted in cooperative enterprise to promote self-reliance and advance a more equitable people-centred economy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
Annual Financial Street Forum Officially Opens
The 2026 Annual Conference of the Financial Street Forum has opened in Beijing, bringing together more than 400 prominent figures from around the world for four days of discussions. Under the theme of building an open, collaborative and inclusive ecosystem for global finance, sessions will address cross-border cooperation, investment opportunities in China’s capital markets and finance’s role in supporting the real economy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
MP Critically Injured After Attack, Deliberately Hit Twice
Australian independent MP Helen Haines is in a critical condition after being struck twice by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, in what Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described as a deliberate attack. Police have arrested a 43-year-old man and are investigating the motive, with reports that Haines has lost one leg and surgeons are trying to save the other.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:49 WIB
Moto G47 Power revealed with 7,000 mAh battery and IP64 certification
Motorola’s Moto G47 Power has appeared in Europe’s EPREL energy database, listing a 6,790 mAh rated battery, promoted as 7,000 mAh, and an A energy-efficiency rating. A retailer leak suggests a €350 price for the 4GB/128GB model, while the phone’s other core specifications remain unconfirmed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:49 WIB
Batam-Bintan blackout: Police probe possible negligence and sabotage
Police are investigating the cause of the Batam-Bintan blackout, including a short circuit, the repositioning of a CCTV camera and why a local fault triggered a wider outage. Five people have been named as suspects, while investigators assess possible negligence or deliberate sabotage and whether either could lead to criminal liability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:48 WIB
Prabowo to Chair Full Cabinet Meeting at Palace on Wednesday Afternoon
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to chair a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday afternoon, coinciding with the second anniversary of the Merah Putih Cabinet. Ministers Airlangga Hartarto and Brian Yuliarto confirmed the meeting, which will be held in the palace’s central courtyard for the first time.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:48 WIB
BULOG and House Commission IV Launch Phase III Rice Assistance, Ensuring Support Continues Through 2026
BULOG and House of Representatives Commission IV have launched the third phase of the government’s rice assistance programme, covering October to December 2026 and targeting about 33.2 million recipients nationwide. Each recipient is allocated 10kg a month, while officials say the programme is intended to ease household costs and protect access to staple food; Yogyakarta province is allocated 15.69 million kg for nearly 523,000 recipients.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:47 WIB
KPK Urges Nusron Wahid to Co-operate After Missing Two Summonses
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid to co-operate after he failed to attend two summonses as a witness in a bribery investigation involving land-use rights at property developer PT Summarecon Agung. Investigators are reviewing his reasons for absence and are considering further steps, including issuing an order to bring him in, as several suspects have been identified as people close to him.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:47 WIB
On Golkar’s 62nd Anniversary, Bogor Calls for Support for President Prabowo’s Second Term
Golkar’s Bogor branch marked the party’s 62nd anniversary by reaffirming its support for President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes and calling for his re-election for a second term. Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi said the programmes, including food assistance, village cooperatives and support for small businesses, had benefited local communities; he also urged political parties and residents to back Bogor’s local government programmes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
Tax education should be prioritised to prevent a pragmatic approach, says DDTC founder
DDTC founder Darussalam has urged stakeholders to promote substantive, tiered tax education, warning that rules making a competency examination the sole route to qualification could encourage people to study only to pass a test. He also called for alignment between the rules for taxpayer representatives and Tax Court legal representatives, proposing three qualification pathways based on education, certification or recognised professional experience.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
BPK Flags BKPM’s Oversight of Tax Incentives After No Reports Sent to DGT
Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) found that the Investment Ministry/BKPM failed to submit quarterly reports on tax incentives to the Directorate General of Taxes from 2021 to mid-2025, relying instead on online access to its OSS system. It also identified gaps in compliance assessments, facility data and provincial oversight, prompting recommendations to improve the system and reporting; the article additionally reviews related tax policy developments.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
BULOG Marks Two Years of Prabowo–Gibran Administration with Launch of New SPHP Rice Packaging
State logistics company BULOG has launched new packaging for its medium-grade SPHP rice, branded “Beras Kita Medium”, to strengthen recognition of the government rice programme and offer consumers quality rice at affordable prices. The launch, held in Bantul to mark two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration, was presented as part of wider efforts to support food security, stabilise rice supplies and prices, and back domestic farmers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
Environment Ministry prepares science-based protection for East Sumba’s savanna ecosystem
The Environment Ministry is preparing a science-based ecosystem protection project in East Sumba, due to begin in 2027, focusing on savanna landscapes and river basins. The LENTERA programme will use ecosystem risk assessments and local knowledge across three pilot areas to inform environmental planning and support sustainable livelihoods.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:45 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire; ASDP Chief Issues Apology
All passengers and crew were evacuated after the KMP Batumandi caught fire near Merak, and ASDP says the incident response is being conducted in accordance with safety procedures. The ferry operator has apologised, while authorities investigate the cause and services on the Merak–Bakauheni route are temporarily being redirected to Express Pier 2.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:45 WIB
BNPB Says 454.25 Hectares of Forest and Land Fires Extinguished in Six Priority Provinces in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Joint teams had extinguished fires across 454.25 hectares in six priority provinces by 19 October 2026, while 570.08 hectares remained under suppression and cooling operations. BNPB expects the workload to ease as the rainy season arrives in stages, although operations continue to target remaining fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
Badung Fisheries Agency Targets 10 Fish-Product Distributions in 2026
Badung Regency’s Fisheries Agency aims to distribute packages of processed fish on 10 occasions in 2026, combining nutrition and stunting-prevention efforts with support for local fisheries businesses. At the eighth distribution in Ayunan village, 200 packages were handed out alongside free health checks; the agency has also prepared 350 additional packages for residents already classified as stunted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
Five Steps to Restore Confidence in Indonesia’s Capital Market After MSCI Warning
Evident Institute has proposed five reforms to rebuild global investor confidence after MSCI proposed consulting on reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market. The recommendations focus on ownership transparency, free float, enforcement, foreign-exchange access and regular engagement with global fund managers; MSCI’s final decision is due by 30 June 2027 and depends on evidence of material, sustained improvements.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:42 WIB
Japan Proposes Co-hosting Asia Zero Emission Community Summit with the Philippines
Japan has proposed co-hosting an Asia Zero Emission Community summit with the Philippines, seeking to strengthen regional energy cooperation amid the Middle East crisis. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr agreed to work together on preparations ahead of ASEAN summit meetings scheduled for November.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:42 WIB
Co-operatives Minister strengthens collaboration between SI, Baznas and MES to widen access to capital
Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has strengthened cooperation between Syarikat Islam (SI), the National Zakat Agency (Baznas) and the Sharia Economic Community (MES) to widen financing access for Muslim entrepreneurs. The partnership will extend community programmes through SI’s national network and focus on five pillars, while government agencies also aim to build independent businesses and employment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:41 WIB
Jakarta Metro Police Praise Public for Maintaining Peace During Demonstrations
Jakarta Metro Police praised student groups and other organisations for staging orderly demonstrations at several locations in the capital. Police also recognised cooperation with local authorities and apologised for traffic disruption, while emphasising the public’s right to protest and other residents’ right to go about their daily activities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:41 WIB
Hanwha Life Invitational Brings Together Young Women Golfers from Six Asian Countries on the International Stage
The inaugural Hanwha Life Asia Junior Women’s Golf Tournament concluded in South Korea, with local golfer Yoonju Ahn winning at 11 under par. The three-day event brought together junior players from six Asian countries and forms part of Hanwha Life’s efforts to develop young golfing talent, including offering top performers opportunities connected to the 2027 Hanwha PLUS International Crown.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
BPBD East Java: Arjuno-Ringgit Fire Hotspots Moving Towards Singosari
Forest fires in the Mount Arjuno-Ringgit area are continuing, with hotspots near Prigen moving south towards Singosari in Malang Regency. The flames have also reached residents’ plantations, although nearby communities have not yet been directly affected; the cause remains under investigation and the burned area is still being assessed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
New Development in Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo Corruption Case: KPK Team Searches Key Regency Government Offices
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched several offices at the Klaten Regency Government headquarters on Tuesday, following its arrest of Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo in a suspected corruption case. The searches mark a new stage in the investigation, with KPK officers seen leaving the building carrying a suitcase.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
MBS’s Big Gamble Fails as Saudi Arabia Enters a Dark Year
Mohammed bin Salman’s ambition to establish Saudi Arabia as a global investment hub is being undermined by Houthi attacks, a worsening economic outlook and uncertainty over US support. The crisis exposes the kingdom’s continued dependence on oil and American security protection, despite MBS’s firm grip on power and efforts to diversify the economy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
Adela Kanasya Stresses the Importance of Public Service Ahead of Golkar’s 62nd Anniversary
Golkar’s central board marked the party’s 62nd anniversary by organising a blood donation drive at its Jakarta headquarters, with 620 people taking part. Coordinating the event, young Golkar politician and House of Representatives Commission X member Adela Kanasya Adies said the anniversary should be an opportunity for practical service and social solidarity, particularly among young people.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:39 WIB
Protests Proceed Peacefully as Metro Jaya Police Praise Students
Protesters who gathered outside the House of Representatives building and at the Monas roundabout in Central Jakarta have dispersed, with Metro Jaya Police thanking students, community groups and other agencies for helping maintain order. The police said they prioritised humane service, the right to express opinions and public safety, while apologising to residents whose activities or journeys were disrupted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:38 WIB
Kompolnas Calls for Tighter Oversight of Firearms and Police Seniority Culture
Indonesia’s National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has urged the police to tighten controls on officers’ storage and use of firearms following a fatal shooting in South Tangerang. It also warned against violence and entrenched senior-junior practices within the force, while investigators continue examining the alleged motive behind the shooting.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:35 WIB
Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Urges Practice of Religious Teachings to Strengthen Harmony
Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Romo Muhammad Syafi’i says deeper understanding and practice of each faith can reinforce, rather than conflict with, religious harmony in Indonesia’s diverse society. The Ministry of Religious Affairs reported that the Religious Harmony Index rose to 77.89 in 2025, exceeding its annual target, while the Religious Piety Index also increased.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:35 WIB
Protests Held Across Several Regions on 20 October as Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Responds
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said freedom of expression is a constitutional right, while urging demonstrators and social media users to act responsibly and respect others’ rights. Demonstrations marking two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration took place or were planned in Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Makassar, with demands including stronger action on forest and land fires and disaster recovery.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:35 WIB
Prabowo to Launch Social Protection Digitalisation Portal on 10 November 2026
President Prabowo Subianto is due to launch a unified digital portal for managing social assistance on 10 November, after it was piloted across all 514 districts and municipalities. Officials say it will use data-driven eligibility decisions and cash transfers to improve fairness and targeting; 11.5 million households are registered, with more than 600,000 daily portal registrations reported.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:34 WIB
KMP Batumandi Passengers Evacuated to Merak Port and Treated by Medical Team
Passengers were taken to Merak Port’s executive pier after the KMP Batumandi caught fire as it was preparing to dock, where medical staff assessed and treated them. A passenger described people jumping from the vessel in panic as smoke rose, with nearby fishermen helping to rescue those aboard.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:30 WIB
Asia’s Wealthy Families Face Threat of ‘Unravelling’: Here’s Why
A Julius Baer report says few wealthy families in Asia are prepared to transfer or sell their businesses, with succession gaps and disagreements between generations posing risks to family cohesion and business transactions. Experts say early involvement of successors, clear agreement on long-term goals and professional wealth-management structures can help preserve wealth while sustaining entrepreneurial activity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:30 WIB
Government Upholds Freedom of Expression, but Says It Must Be Exercised Responsibly
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said freedom of expression is a constitutional right, while urging people to exercise it responsibly and respect others’ rights. His remarks came amid demonstrations in several locations and included a call to communicate respectfully online and verify information before sharing it.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
Co-ordinating Minister Dudung Upholds Freedom of Expression: ‘Let Us Exercise It Responsibly’
Co-ordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman said freedom of expression is a constitutional right, but must be exercised with responsibility, civility and respect for others’ rights. Responding to recent demonstrations, he urged the public to verify information before sharing it and to prevent differences of opinion from deepening social divisions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
Dozens of Cirebon Pupils Report Symptoms of Suspected Food Poisoning After Free Meals
Dozens of pupils from kindergarten and primary schools in Cirebon reportedly developed nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and breathing difficulties after eating meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. One parent said his child reported that the quail-egg soup smelled bad; the children were being examined at a local hospital, and the total number affected and whether they would require admission remained unclear.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
Philippine Vice-President Says Prosecutors Failed to Prove Grounds for Impeachment
Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte accused the House prosecution team of failing to substantiate allegations that could justify her impeachment, and said the government was reframing the case as a national-security issue. The dispute follows the Supreme Court’s annulment of an earlier impeachment process, with a fresh effort emerging in 2026; Duterte urged officials to focus on governance amid worsening hardship among Filipinos.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
Labuan Bajo Travel Agency Boss Accused of Scamming Tourists Arrested After Using the Toilet
Police have arrested Kristoforus Aman, owner of the Labuan Bajo Top travel agency, after more than two months on the run over alleged scams involving Italian and Chinese tourists. He had previously been detained in a separate case involving Malaysian and Singaporean visitors, but was released after repaying their losses through restorative justice; police are now pursuing further investigations and coordinating with prosecutors.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
OJK says it is going all-out on Indonesia capital market reforms
OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi said the regulator is pressing ahead with capital-market reforms, including expanded ownership disclosures, measures to address concentrated shareholdings and a phased rise in minimum free float to 15 per cent. The remarks follow sharp volatility after MSCI proposed downgrading Indonesia’s market classification, with OJK stressing the need for investigations into alleged violations and citing a recent market rebound and Rp2.1 trillion in fines.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
Probolinggo Resident Dies After Catching Fire While Trying to Extinguish Rubbish Blaze
A resident of Lambangkuning village in Probolinggo, East Java, died after falling into flames while trying to put out a fire that grew as he burned garden waste on his land. The local disaster management agency has urged people to take care when burning rubbish and to seek help rather than tackle fires that become difficult to control.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
Greenpeace Protests Climate Issues at Bundaran HI; Government Communications Agency Responds
Greenpeace Indonesia staged a peaceful protest at Jakarta’s Bundaran HI, calling for action on the climate crisis and the rising cost of living; six activists were reportedly taken to a police station, with their legal status still unclear. The government said it respected the protest and cited forest-fire response measures and a Rp26.34 trillion second-half 2026 stimulus package, including rice assistance and a commitment to keep fuel prices unchanged through the end of the year.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:26 WIB
Co-operatives Minister Says Syarikat Islam’s Economic Outreach Aligns with KDKMP Programme
Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono says Syarikat Islam’s economic outreach is aligned with the Red and White Village/Sub-district Co-operative Programme (KDKMP), and is urging closer collaboration to expand its implementation. Newly appointed as Syarikat Islam’s executive president for 2026–2031, he said the organisation would focus on economic empowerment, including helping people avoid illegal lending and addressing poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:25 WIB
MP Says Policy Direction in Prabowo-Gibran Government’s First Two Years Is on the Right Track
Golkar MP Soedeson Tandra says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has made fundamental progress in legal reform, enforcement and economic policy during its first two years. He highlights new legislation, penalties against capital-market violators, anti-corruption action, forest enforcement, biodiesel and nickel downstreaming as evidence of progress.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:25 WIB
DEN Reports to Prabowo on Impact of Free Nutritious Meals: Students More Eager to Learn
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) told President Prabowo Subianto that students receiving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme are absent less often and show greater enthusiasm for learning than non-recipients. It urged the government to improve meal quality and prioritise poor communities, rural areas and the 3T regions, where access remains uneven.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:24 WIB
Java and Sumatra Drive KAI’s Freight Logistics
KAI transported 9.15 million tonnes of non-coal freight between January and September 2026, up 2.6 per cent year on year. Java accounted for about 73 per cent of the volume, with Sumatra contributing the remaining 27 per cent, as the railway operator says it is assessing regional demand and network capacity to develop freight services.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:23 WIB
DSN-MUI Strengthens Cooperation with OJK to Safeguard Sharia Compliance
The National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN-MUI) is strengthening coordination with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to align regulatory oversight with sharia compliance in the financial industry. At its annual forum, DSN-MUI chair Cholil Nafis stressed closer cooperation among the council, OJK and sharia supervisory boards, as well as balancing financial innovation with sharia principles.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:23 WIB
PSO Keeps Rail Travel Affordable
The government’s Public Service Obligation (PSO) scheme supports affordable fares on economy-class trains, with KAI reporting 14.16 million journeys on its subsidised long-distance and local services from January to September 2026. That was a 7.7 per cent increase year on year, highlighting the role of subsidised rail in connecting people to work, education, healthcare and family while requiring operators to maintain safety and service standards.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:20 WIB
Probolinggo Resident Dies After Catching Fire While Burning Rubbish
A man in Probolinggo, East Java, died after falling into a fire while trying to extinguish flames that spread as he burned garden waste on his land. The local disaster management agency has urged residents not to tackle fires that are growing or difficult to control, particularly in extreme weather and strong winds.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:20 WIB
Noah’s Ark Searcher Speaks Out, Says He Was Threatened with Murder
Andrew Jones, founder of Noah’s Ark Scans, says his team faced lengthy permit procedures in Türkiye and threats after securing permission to excavate. Jones says he was repeatedly threatened at his home and has moved in with a friend for safety, but remains committed to the search.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:19 WIB
Two Years of Asta Cita: Religious Affairs Ministry Expands Access to Education and Educator Welfare
The Religious Affairs Ministry says it has expanded education assistance, educator benefits and facilities under the government’s Asta Cita agenda. In 2025–26, its figures show Rp7.07 trillion in student aid and Rp50.927 trillion in professional allowances for teachers and lecturers, alongside investments in school infrastructure and inclusive education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:19 WIB
Government Respects Greenpeace Protest, Reaffirms Commitment to Address Climate Crisis and Protect Household Purchasing Power
The government says it respects Greenpeace’s protest in central Jakarta and recognises concerns about climate change and the rising cost of living. It highlights forest-fire response funding and tougher enforcement, alongside a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package that includes rice assistance, stable fuel prices and additional rice supplies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:18 WIB
Hundreds of Hectares Burned in Mount Lawu Wildfires, Suspected to Have Been Caused by Charcoal-Making
A fire on the slopes of Mount Lawu has burned or affected 230 hectares, with officials suspecting that charcoal-making activities may have sparked it. Central Java police are investigating, while the number of fire hotspots rose to 36 on Tuesday amid strong winds; Karanganyar Regency has declared an emergency response status.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:16 WIB
BNPB Tackles 572.90 Hectares of Forest and Land Fires Across Non-Priority Regions
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) says fires have affected an estimated 572.90 hectares across regions outside the priority provinces, with 107.77 hectares extinguished and 465.13 hectares still under intensive response. Incidents include fires in East Kalimantan and the Nusantara Capital City area, Central Java, North Sulawesi, West Java and Central Papua, with difficult terrain and erratic strong winds complicating efforts in Karanganyar.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:13 WIB
Pramono Invites Community Organisations to Work Together on Jakarta’s Environmental Problems
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has invited community organisations to work with the provincial government on environmental initiatives, including cleaning the city’s rivers. The 234 Solidarity Community says it is considering a river-cleaning programme with other groups and has also outlined social plans involving healthcare, education and youth activities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:12 WIB
Passengers Evacuated from KMP Batumandi Using Emergency Slide
Passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were safely evacuated after the ferry caught fire while approaching Merak Port in Banten. Rescue teams, fishing boats and speedboats assisted, and the survivors were taken to the port’s executive pier for assessment and care.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:11 WIB
Attorney General’s Office Hands Over Rp229 Billion in Compensation to Indosurya Victims
The Attorney General’s Asset Recovery Agency has handed over Rp229 billion in compensation to victims of the Indosurya case, recovered through seizures and asset auctions. The payment is only the first phase: recorded losses among 3,317 eligible claimants total about Rp8.06 trillion, and authorities say further asset recovery and distributions are expected.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Economy Targeted to Grow by 6 Per Cent: The Government’s Strategy
The government is targeting 6 per cent economic growth in 2027, relying on household consumption, investment and productive sectors while using the state budget to support purchasing power and price stability. The proposed 2027 budget sets a deficit of 2.4 per cent of GDP, with officials and business representatives stressing that fiscal and monetary coordination, policy certainty and private-sector investment will be crucial amid global uncertainty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
North Barito Regency prepares maize seed assistance for 1,773 hectares
North Barito Regency is preparing 26.6 tonnes of hybrid maize seeds through its 2026 revised budget to cover 1,773 hectares, supplementing 22.5 tonnes already supplied by the central government. The programme aims to boost local production and food security, while addressing a decline in planted area and obstacles including seed access, price volatility and inadequate processing and storage facilities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Forest and Land Fires in Berbak National Park Ease Following Joint Operations
Forest and land fires in Berbak National Park, Jambi, have begun to subside after a joint response involving personnel from several agencies and regions. Fire crews are still tackling hotspots in multiple villages, using water pumps and hoses as well as two kilometres of firebreaks, while local authorities have cleared canals to improve water supplies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Government Records 7.3% Growth in Investment Realisation from January to September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment realisation during January–September 2026, up 7.3% year on year and equal to 75.4% of its full-year target. Investment outside Java accounted for just over half of the total, while DKI Jakarta led provincial inflows; the government says it wants investment and downstreaming to support industrialisation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Sudan’s Civil War Sees a ‘Rain’ of Drones as 160 People Are Killed
More than 160 people have reportedly been killed in a wave of drone attacks across Sudan since Friday, with civilians and public infrastructure among the targets. The United Nations has condemned the attacks as the use of drones intensifies the conflict and compounds a humanitarian crisis that has displaced millions and left tens of millions in need of food assistance.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:08 WIB
DPR: Falling Poverty Shows Empowerment Strategy Is on the Right Track
A member of the House of Representatives’ Commission VIII says the poverty rate’s decline to 8.07% demonstrates that the government’s community empowerment strategy is working. He called for better-integrated social and economic data, sustained funding and stronger inter-agency coordination to meet the 2029 targets of reducing poverty to 4.5–5% and extreme poverty to below 0.5%.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
BULOG and House Commission IV Launch Phase III Rice Food Assistance
BULOG and House Commission IV have launched the third phase of rice assistance for October–December 2026, covering around 33.2 million recipients nationwide. Each recipient is allocated 10kg a month, with the programme intended to ease household costs and protect access to staple food; Yogyakarta province is allocated 15.69 million kg for 522,956 recipients.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
Tedy Alamsyah Re-elected to Lead Perbarindo for 2026–2030
Tedy Alamsyah has been re-elected unopposed to lead Perbarindo, the association representing Indonesia’s rural and sharia rural banks, for a second term. The association highlighted the need to strengthen governance, digital transformation and suitable regulation, while data showed continued growth in assets, lending and deposits despite capital constraints at 169 institutions.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
North Jakarta Transport Agency Takes Action Against Trucks Violating Slow-Lane Rules in Koja
North Jakarta’s Transport Agency has taken enforcement action against container trucks and trailers entering the slow lane on Jalan Jampea, where a parked truck previously obstructed an ambulance heading to Koja Regional General Hospital. Officials say the lane is restricted to two-wheelers and will be kept clear through ticketing, towing and coordination with freight operators; a proposed height barrier is also under technical review.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:06 WIB
Government respects Greenpeace protest and says it is addressing climate crisis
The government said it respects Greenpeace’s protest in Jakarta as an exercise of freedom of expression, while highlighting measures to tackle climate-related impacts and rising living costs. These include Rp760 billion in emergency funding for areas affected by forest and land fires, stronger penalties for arson, and a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package featuring rice aid and measures to stabilise fuel and food prices.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:06 WIB
Kodaeral Ambon Calls for All Stakeholders to Help Secure the Masela Block
The Indonesian Navy’s Kodaeral IX in Ambon is urging government, security forces, businesses, academics and local communities to work together to safeguard the Abadi Field project in the Masela Block and ensure its long-term viability. Maluku’s deputy governor says the investment could generate jobs and circulate significant income locally, while speakers stressed that local participation, cultural values and environmental and social considerations must accompany development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:04 WIB
Police Name Five Suspects over Batam Blackout That Cost the State Rp57.3 Billion
Police have named five suspects in connection with a blackout across Indonesia’s Batam Islands, estimating that the incident caused Rp57.3 billion in losses. Four suspects are employees of PLN Batam and one is a private contractor; investigators say the outage followed a short circuit in a transformer at the Sei Harapan substation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:03 WIB
Pelindo Jasa Maritim Holds ‘Pelindo Mengajar’ at SMAN 3 Bogor
PT Pelindo Jasa Maritim (PJM) has introduced students at SMAN 3 Bogor to maritime careers and the state-owned enterprise, as part of its education-focused social responsibility programme. The initiative is intended to inspire Year 12 students as they prepare for university and future employment, and has also been held at schools in Tuban and Yogyakarta.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:03 WIB
BP Tapera: It Is Becoming Easier for Indonesians to Own a Home under President Prabowo
BP Tapera says government measures during President Prabowo Subianto’s first two years are making decent, affordable housing more accessible, including subsidised mortgages and tax incentives for low-income households. The agency says its allocation for subsidised homes has risen to 350,000 units as part of the government’s Three Million Homes programme and efforts to reduce the housing backlog.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:02 WIB
Paris in Flames, but Couple Relax Outside Café, Chatting
Protests over the cost of living and deteriorating public services turned violent across France, with nearly 2,400 people arrested and almost 1,000 police and gendarmes injured. Amid the unrest, a video of a couple calmly drinking at a café near the Arc de Triomphe, with fires burning behind them, went viral.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:02 WIB
Transport Ministry Says Response to KMP Batumandi Fire off Merak Was Co-ordinated
The Transport Ministry said all passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were safely evacuated after a fire broke out in the vessel’s engine room near Merak on Tuesday afternoon. Authorities and supporting vessels co-ordinated the response, while the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:01 WIB
Transport Ministry Confirms All Passengers on KMP Batumandi Safely Evacuated After Fire
All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were safely evacuated to another ferry after a fire was reported in the vessel’s engine room near the entrance to the Merak crossing route. The cause remains unknown, and the authorities say they will investigate while coordinating further response efforts.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
MUI urges Indonesians to continue choosing halal products despite delay to mandatory certification
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged consumers to choose products bearing halal labels after the government postponed the implementation of mandatory halal certification from 2026 to 2028. MUI says the delay may leave consumers with less certainty, while the government cites the need to prepare businesses and strengthen the certification ecosystem; different product categories retain separate deadlines extending as far as 2034.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
AI Identifies the Source of Climate ‘Doom’ Two Years in Advance
Researchers say a new AI model predicted the simulated disappearance of reflective marine clouds more than two years before the tipping point, with its estimate just 11 days from the simulated event. The model could help identify abrupt changes in complex systems, but its performance in real-world conditions remains unproven.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
Pasar Minggu Residents Grow Rice in 1,700 Reused Plastic Water Containers
Residents in Pasar Minggu, Jakarta, are growing rice in about 1,700 discarded plastic water containers as an urban farming initiative to support local food resilience. The project has expanded from 350 containers in around a year, with each producing roughly 200 grams of dried paddy per harvest and crops harvested almost monthly, despite challenges in plant care and water supply.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:59 WIB
Lombok Clothing Shop Owner Accused of Sexually Assaulting Employee and Threatening to Share Her Photos
A clothing shop owner in West Lombok has been reported to West Nusa Tenggara Police over alleged sexual violence against an employee, which reportedly took place between 2025 and 2026. A victim’s advocate says the owner used intimate photos and a video to coerce her, and that more than one employee may have been targeted.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Vice-President Meets WALUBI to Discuss Strengthening Social and Humanitarian Activities
Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met representatives of the Indonesian Buddhist Representatives Council (WALUBI) to discuss humanitarian programmes and national unity. He praised the organisation’s disaster-relief work and pledged support for future community-service initiatives, particularly amid drought and forest and land fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Human Rights Literacy and Real-World Data Pose Challenges for Corporate ESG Due Diligence
Companies face significant obstacles in conducting human rights due diligence and producing accountable ESG reports because of low human rights awareness and a lack of reliable, current data on workers’ conditions. Surveyor Indonesia sustainability expert Wika Harisa Putri says better understanding and record-keeping are needed to identify risks such as excessive driving hours, fatigue and workplace illness, and to ensure reports reflect conditions on the ground.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Khofifah and Emil Ask Energy Ministry to Ensure Fuel Supplies in East Java
East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and Deputy Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak have asked the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry to ensure reliable supplies and distribution of Biosolar and Pertalite to petrol stations, following reports of long queues. The ministry says it is boosting deliveries to depots, adding 21 tanker trucks and extending depot operating hours to 24 hours, while coordinating with Pertamina and local authorities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:57 WIB
IFG Strengthens Governance and Risk Management to Guide Business Transformation
Indonesia Financial Group (IFG), the state-owned holding company for insurance, guarantees and investment, is strengthening governance and risk management to support a prudent and accountable business-streamlining programme. A coordination meeting brought together IFG executives, holding-company members and BPKP to align risk, compliance and policy functions and embed risk management throughout the transformation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:57 WIB
Tanker Truck Driver Arrested with Five Tonnes of Subsidised Diesel as Police Investigate Suspected Scheme
Police in Nagan Raya, Aceh, arrested a tanker driver transporting 5,000 litres of subsidised diesel, which investigators suspect had been collected from several petrol stations, stored in a warehouse and resold above the regulated price. The driver could not produce official transport and trading documents; police are investigating the alleged ownership, source and intended distribution of the fuel, as well as other people who may be involved.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:56 WIB
Realme C01 specifications appear on retailer’s website
Specifications and pricing for the previously unannounced Realme C01 have appeared on certification platforms and a Vietnamese retailer’s website, although the phone is not yet available to buy. The listed model features a 6.8-inch 120Hz display, a 6,500mAh battery and 4G connectivity, with a quoted price of about Rp4.1 million in Vietnam.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:55 WIB
Karawang Land Office Provides Temporary Services in BPBD Marquee
Karawang’s land office has resumed services after a fire destroyed about 90 per cent of its building, using a BPBD emergency marquee and other temporary locations. The Islamic Centre is the main service hub, although operations remain limited while facilities and records are restored; mediation and land-dispute services are being handled at the local military district command.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:55 WIB
LPS focuses on accelerating preparations for insurance policy guarantee scheme
Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) is accelerating preparations for its insurance policy guarantee programme, which is scheduled to begin on 1 January 2028. It is developing the necessary infrastructure and technical rules while stressing that participating insurers must first have sound finances and governance, as the scheme is intended to protect policyholders and help restore public confidence in the industry.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:53 WIB
West Java Governor Urges PII to Develop Electric Angkot
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged the Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) to develop electric angkot to help ease congestion while improving drivers’ welfare. He said electrification should be accompanied by changes to vehicle ownership so drivers are not dependent on owners or burdened by operating levies, while PII has pledged support for environmentally friendly public transport that preserves jobs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:52 WIB
Disaster Funds Embezzled as Victims Suffer
The KPK has named Bima Setiawan, an expert adviser and younger brother of former BNPB chief Suharyanto, a suspect in alleged corruption involving disaster-response funds and procurement worth about Rp148 billion. Indonesia Corruption Watch warns that abuse of emergency funds can deprive vulnerable disaster victims of urgent aid, and is calling for investigators to examine senior decision-makers and BNPB’s failure to manage conflicts of interest.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:51 WIB
Grobogan and Melawi Prepare Sites for Permanent Sekolah Rakyat Schools
Grobogan and Melawi regencies have set aside land for permanent buildings for the government’s Sekolah Rakyat schools, with local authorities also undertaking site preparation. Social Affairs Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono said the programme is intended to help break the cycle of poverty by providing education to children from the country’s poorest households.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
Manpower Ministry trains workers affected by layoffs for re-employment or entrepreneurship
The Manpower Ministry is training workers affected by layoffs to help them return to work or start businesses, with 50,000 places allocated nationally. In Central Java, the Semarang vocational training centre is targeting 2,464 participants, including 32 people in Brebes who are expected to be hired directly by a local company.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
Badung Budget Absorption Reaches 89%, Adi Arnawa Warns Against Chasing Figures Alone
Badung Regency’s expenditure authorisations reached 89.23% in the third quarter of 2026, but Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa said performance must be judged by whether spending addresses real problems, not merely by administrative absorption rates. The regency is prioritising congestion, clean-water access, waste management, land-use conversion, crime and public security, with monitoring intended to inform the ongoing 2026 budget and the 2027 budget plan.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
US Vice-President JD Vance Declines to Back Netanyahu, Splitting with Trump?
JD Vance said he would not intervene in Israel’s election or publicly endorse Benjamin Netanyahu, in contrast with President Donald Trump’s recent support for the Israeli prime minister. The difference comes days before the vote and amid a visit to Israel by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who reportedly met Netanyahu and Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:48 WIB
Fitch Flags Indonesia’s Debt Risks and Rupiah Pressures After MSCI Announcement
Fitch Ratings says investor concern following MSCI’s consultation on potentially reclassifying Indonesia from an emerging to a standalone market reinforces risks around policy credibility, fiscal discipline and capital-market governance. It does not expect an immediate material credit impact, but warns sustained reserve losses, weaker investor confidence and reduced foreign investment could raise borrowing costs and weigh on Indonesia’s sovereign credit profile.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:48 WIB
BNPB Tightens Dry Ice Seeding Procedures
Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has strengthened safety procedures for dry-ice cloud-seeding operations after residents reported material falling in a residential area. The adjustments include fitting filters to dispersal equipment and using finer particles, as the agency continues the weather-modification effort to disperse haze from forest and land fires across six priority provinces.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:47 WIB
Manpower Minister: National Apprenticeship Programme Develops Skills Needed by Industry
Manpower Minister Yassierli says the National Apprenticeship Programme gives recent university graduates six months of workplace experience to help them develop skills sought by employers. The government plans to increase the programme’s quota from 100,000 participants in 2025 to 150,000 in 2026, while providing a monthly allowance, insurance cover, mentoring and access to professional certification.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:44 WIB
Police arrest five debt collectors accused of intimidating resident in Kalideres
Police in West Jakarta have arrested five men accused of threatening motorcyclist Eko Febriansyah and attempting to seize his motorcycle in Kalideres. The suspects have been named as suspects and face charges relating to attempted violent theft and coercion; investigators are examining each man’s role.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:43 WIB
Investment Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion by September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, equal to 75.4 per cent of its annual target and generating more than 2.19 million jobs. Foreign investment accounted for 50.5 per cent of the total, led by Singapore, while basic metals was the leading sector for foreign investment and transport, warehousing and telecommunications led domestic investment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:43 WIB
West Bandung Regency Secures 50 Local Government Assets; Regent Jeje Comments
West Bandung Regency has completed certificates for 50 local government land assets this year, as part of a target to secure 400 plots by the end of 2026. Regent Jeje says the certificates will clarify legal ownership, prevent disputes and enable the government to consider productive uses that could boost locally generated revenue.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:40 WIB
Student Demands on the Economy and Education Draw Sidkon Djampi’s Attention
West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi says he will relay student demonstrators’ calls for economic improvements, more equal access to education and youth employment, and an end to repressive policing to the government. The Bandung protest also called for more equitable development in infrastructure, education and health, while disrupting traffic on several city roads.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:40 WIB
BRIN Explains the Use of Dry Ice to Tackle Haze from Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is testing dry-ice seeding as a way to weaken atmospheric temperature inversions that trap smoke and inhibit rain-cloud formation. The agency stresses that the proposed mechanism remains a scientific hypothesis and must be assessed using systematic atmospheric observations before its effectiveness can be established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:39 WIB
Indonesia’s Free Meal Programme Cuts Hungry Students to 16 Per Cent
Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has reduced the share of students attending school hungry from more than 56 per cent to around 16 per cent, while reported fruit and protein consumption has also increased. The government is expanding the programme, targeting 72.4 million beneficiaries in 2027, while tightening oversight through real-time kitchen CCTV monitoring and suspending 1,276 kitchens lacking hygiene certificates.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:38 WIB
2026 Investment Realisation Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion, BKPM Report Shows
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment realisation through the third quarter of 2026, equivalent to 75.4% of the government’s annual target, with downstreaming accounting for Rp480 trillion. Investment outside Java narrowly exceeded Java’s share, while the figures also come amid public concern over economic pressures and environmental damage.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:38 WIB
Tourists Complain of Extortionate Charges at Fulan Fehan; Belu Tourism Office Apologises
A content creator’s viral complaint has drawn attention to high charges and inadequate facilities at the Fulan Fehan tourist destination in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara. The local tourism office apologised, cited regulated entry fees of Rp8,000 for motorbikes and Rp20,000 for cars, and said it had imposed a customary fine on the site’s customary-community managers before carrying out a full review.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:38 WIB
Social Affairs Ministry aims to build 500 permanent Sekolah Rakyat buildings in 3–4 years
The Social Affairs Ministry plans to build 500 permanent Sekolah Rakyat campuses nationwide over the next three to four years, with capacity for more than one million pupils. The programme currently serves over 44,000 students at 182 sites and combines education for children from the poorest households with social rehabilitation and family empowerment support.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:37 WIB
Ministry: Digital Interactive Boards Help Papua Pupils Understand Abstract Concepts
Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education says Digital Interactive Boards are helping pupils at a Jayapura high school grasp abstract chemistry concepts through visualisations, animations and educational games. The ministry has distributed 2,688 units to 1,409 schools across Papua in 2026, with funding exceeding Rp83 billion.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
KMP Batumandi Fire Suspected to Have Started at the Stern
A fire aboard the KMP Batumandi is believed to have started on the upper deck at the stern, where small vehicles are carried. All passengers and crew were evacuated without any fatalities, while rescue teams continued to extinguish the remaining flames and authorities worked to verify passenger numbers and investigate the cause.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
BI reveals new evidence that public purchasing power remains strong
Bank Indonesia’s September 2026 Consumer Confidence Index stood at 118.1, remaining above the 100-point threshold that signals optimism. The reading indicates that consumers’ confidence in economic conditions—and, by extension, household purchasing power—remains resilient.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
Passengers Heard Explosions Before KMP Batumandi Caught Fire off Merak
A passenger who survived the KMP Batumandi fire said he heard two explosions from the engine room before smoke filled the vessel and its lights went out. He also said passengers panicked after the second blast and that no lifeboats were lowered, while some people jumped into the sea and were rescued by Merak fishermen.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:35 WIB
BNPB to Step Up Weather Modification Efforts as It Battles Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is continuing efforts to contain forest and land fires, deploying weather-modification operations, 60,177 personnel and 49 aircraft across affected provinces. The agency is also anticipating the return of seasonal rain in several regions from October to December, which could help suppress the fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:34 WIB
Andre Rosiade Urges PBPI to Act More Professionally: ‘Don’t Disadvantage Certain Clubs’
Andre Rosiade has accused the Indonesian Padel Association (PBPI) of handling national team call-ups inconsistently, saying a player from his club was notified only two days before a league match. He is asking the association to plan call-ups better and ensure they do not disrupt the competition or disadvantage particular clubs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:34 WIB
Kodaeral IX Ambon Introduces Students to Maritime Defence
Kodaeral IX hosted 84 students from SMP Negeri 26 Maluku for an educational visit covering Indonesian Navy vessels, maritime operations and the history of wartime defences in Ambon. The initiative aims to build young people’s maritime awareness and understanding of the Navy’s role in protecting Indonesia’s waters, while the command also works with Maluku Customs to prevent maritime violations.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:33 WIB
Downstreaming Investment Reaches Rp480.1 Trillion by September 2026
Investment in downstreaming reached Rp480.1 trillion in January–September 2026, up 11.3% year on year and accounting for 31.2% of Indonesia’s total realised investment. Mineral processing attracted the largest share, while three-quarters of downstreaming investment came from foreign investors and 78% was located outside Java.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:33 WIB
Reviewing KDMP Operations, Ahmad Luthfi Ensures Benefits for Residents
Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has called for the promotion of operational Merah Putih village cooperatives so residents know about their affordable essential goods and local products. Of 8,523 cooperatives established in the province, 5,427 are operating; infrastructure and supply issues remain obstacles for others.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:32 WIB
Golkar: Prabowo-Gibran’s Two Years Put the People at the Centre of Development
Golkar secretary-general Muhammad Sarmuji says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has shifted development policy towards making the public, particularly lower-income groups, its focus and participants. He cited social programmes, lower subsidised fertiliser prices, rice self-sufficiency and village electrification, while noting that Indonesia’s economy grew 5.45% in the first half of 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:32 WIB
Ford Launches Year-End Vehicle Purchase Campaign Early
Ford RMA Indonesia has launched its year-end sales campaign ahead of schedule, offering incentives including free fuel, trade-ins, zero-interest financing and a one-year payment holiday, subject to terms and availability. The company is also promoting the comfort and capability of its Everest and Ranger models, backed by a network of 34 authorised dealers and round-the-clock roadside assistance.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:31 WIB
BNPB: Fires Extinguished on 454 Hectares of Land in Six Priority Provinces
The BNPB says joint teams have extinguished fires across 454.25 hectares of a 1,024.33-hectare target in six priority provinces, while work continues on the remaining 570.08 hectares. The agency expects firefighting operations to ease as the rainy season arrives progressively from October to December.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
TAUD Questions Legal Basis for Arresting Activists Who Hung Banner at HI
The Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD) has questioned the legal basis for police detaining six Greenpeace Indonesia activists after they climbed the Welcome Monument at Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia Roundabout to unfurl a protest banner. TAUD says the peaceful action caused no damage and urges police to clarify the activists’ legal status and release them.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Singapore Accuses 10 Indonesian Companies over Haze; Home Affairs Minister Responds, Police Chief Cites Foreign Firms
Singapore has named 10 Indonesian companies suspected of involvement in fires that caused transboundary haze, invoking its Transboundary Haze Pollution Act. Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said Indonesia respects Singapore’s legal process but called for regional cooperation, while warning that Indonesian authorities will act firmly against any companies—including foreign firms—found responsible.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Expert Warns MSCI Could Weaken Rupiah, with Capital Flight Potentially Reaching US$25bn
PEPS managing director Anthony Budiawan warns that MSCI’s consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia’s equity market could prompt substantial foreign outflows and put further pressure on the rupiah. He says withdrawals across equities and government and Bank Indonesia debt could reach US$20–25 billion, while urging regulators and the stock exchange to improve market governance and transparency.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:29 WIB
PGRI Launches National Movement to Train One Million Teachers in Coding and AI
The Makassar branch of the Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI) has launched a national initiative to train one million teachers in coding and artificial intelligence through its 2026 PGRI Power programme. Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin said teachers must adapt to digital developments and use technology to improve learning, while preserving the empathy and human connection central to education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:29 WIB
PKS president calls for reform of Indonesia’s capital market governance
PKS president Almuzzammil Yusuf has urged authorities to overhaul capital market governance, saying an MSCI warning has heightened investor anxiety and could undermine confidence in Indonesia’s economy. MSCI is considering reclassifying Indonesia’s market from emerging to standalone status, citing insufficient progress on ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading; a decision is due by 30 June 2027.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:28 WIB
Prabowo to Hold Plenary Cabinet Meeting Tomorrow Afternoon
President Prabowo Subianto is due to convene a plenary cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 21 October, as his administration marks two years in office. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto and Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto confirmed it would begin at about 3pm local time.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:26 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Expects a New Chapter in Syarikat Islam’s Revival
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar says Syarikat Islam can begin a new phase of its struggle by strengthening Muslim economic self-reliance, including through productive initiatives at mosques and Islamic boarding schools. The organisation’s leaders said cooperatives and community-based enterprise would advance economic justice and fulfil the movement’s historic ideals.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:25 WIB
Police arrest five in raid in Kampung Ambon
Jakarta police arrested five men during a narcotics operation in Kampung Ambon, West Jakarta, after urine tests returned positive for drug use. Officers seized methamphetamine, synthetic cannabis, drug paraphernalia, nine bladed weapons and a CCTV camera during the raid, which involved 125 personnel and formed part of an intensified campaign against drug trafficking and abuse.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:25 WIB
BMKG Uses Dry Ice to Disperse Haze from Forest and Land Fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is using dry-ice seeding in weather-modification operations to break up dense fire haze trapped beneath atmospheric inversion layers. Early monitoring has indicated improving visibility in Palembang, while BMKG continues to assess the operation’s effects using visibility and PM2.5 measurements.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:25 WIB
Proposal to Pay Civil Servants’ Salaries Through Cooperatives: Finance Minister Suahasil Responds
Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said civil servants’ salaries will continue to be paid through the existing transfer system, despite a proposal to channel payments through the Merah Putih Village and Urban Village Cooperatives. The Cooperatives Ministry says no formal decision has been made; it is exploring whether cooperatives could serve as payment partners, including for pensioners, alongside banks and other providers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:24 WIB
TNI Hercules Aircraft Support Weather Modification Operation to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in South Kalimantan
The Indonesian military has deployed a Hercules transport aircraft carrying dry ice and salt to support weather modification efforts aimed at tackling forest and land fires in South Kalimantan. The operation follows President Prabowo Subianto’s directive for an immediate, large-scale response, including the deployment of additional military, police and forestry personnel and community involvement.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:23 WIB
Danantara to Increase Its Stakes in State-Owned Companies – BCA Sekuritas
Danantara Indonesia plans to increase its shareholdings in listed state-owned enterprises, prioritising companies with strong fundamentals. Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria did not identify potential targets or disclose the amount to be invested, describing the move as a way to seize opportunities in the capital market.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:22 WIB
Bareskrim Names Five Suspects in Batam Power Outage Case
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named four PLN Batam employees and a private contractor as suspects over the widespread blackout in Batam and Bintan on 12 October 2026. Investigators cite alleged failures to meet electricity safety obligations; the outage’s estimated customer compensation liability is Rp57.3 billion, while the suspects face charges carrying a maximum 12-year prison term.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:22 WIB
Trump Continues to Accuse El-Sayed of Muslim Brotherhood Ties Without Evidence as Debate Video Gets 14 Million Views
Donald Trump has again accused Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed of links to the Muslim Brotherhood, without presenting evidence, while fact-checkers have found a key claim by his Republican opponent Mike Rogers to be false. A video of El-Sayed defending his constitutional allegiance and rejecting the organisation at a public meeting has been viewed more than 14 million times, making the dispute a prominent issue in the closely watched Senate race.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:20 WIB
Probolinggo City Leadership Forum Holds Prayers to Mark Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Government
Probolinggo’s regional leadership forum and religious leaders held an interfaith prayer gathering to mark two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. Speakers framed the event as a spiritual reflection and called for national unity, security and continued development, while stressing the importance of local harmony and stability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:20 WIB
Raw Material Prices Rise 20% as Shipbuilders Seek Incentives
Indonesia’s shipbuilding industry says raw material costs have risen by as much as 20% in 2026, driven in part by the rupiah’s weakness against the US dollar, squeezing yards locked into contracts without price-escalation clauses. The industry is urging the government to provide stimulus, tax relief and incentives for shipping companies ordering locally built vessels, while the Industry Minister has floated support for both production and demand as the government drafts a shipbuilding roadmap.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:19 WIB
ASEPHI Focuses on Consolidating MSMEs and Expanding Markets
The Indonesian Handicraft Exporters and Producers Association (ASEPHI) says it will consolidate its thousands of member MSMEs and expand market access, while continuing its existing 2024–2029 programmes after a leadership change. The new board also plans to strengthen organisational advocacy, helping businesses address legal, administrative, tax and export-compliance barriers.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:18 WIB
Demonstration at Central Jakarta’s Tugu Tani Ends as Crowd Disperses
Protesters at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta dispersed on Tuesday evening after displaying banners calling for a review of several government programmes and action on forest and land fires. The gathering also raised demands for improvements to economic governance and education, while demonstrators collected rubbish before leaving.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:16 WIB
Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Offer Free Halal Certification to SMEs
Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Indonesia are providing selected Bandung-based micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with free halal certification support to strengthen local products’ competitiveness and consumer confidence. The programme also offers digital sales training and follow-up assistance, as part of a wider effort that has trained more than 2,500 businesses in five cities on regulatory compliance and business development.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:15 WIB
Pick-up Truck Crashes into Tree in Sempidi, Badung; Driver Killed
A 50-year-old pick-up driver was killed and his 22-year-old passenger injured when the vehicle veered off the Denpasar–Gilimanuk road and struck a tree in Sempidi, Badung. Police said the driver may have been travelling at high speed, while reports that he suffered a heart attack before the crash have not been medically confirmed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:15 WIB
Virgo ship management seeks to recover victims before salvage operation
PT Virgo Karya Shipping says it is prioritising the recovery of any remaining victims from the sunken Virgo Transport 8 before a full salvage operation begins. Fifty-three people remain missing after the vessel sank in the Java Sea; the company estimates that salvage could take up to 30 days, depending on currents and weather.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:15 WIB
Mandatory Halal Certification Delayed Until 2028: Industry Minister Responds
Industry Minister M Sarmuji welcomed the extension of the halal-certification transition period, saying it will give businesses—particularly small and medium-sized industries—more time to prepare. Under an amendment to Government Regulation No. 42/2024, the requirement for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) covering food, beverages, slaughtered products and slaughtering services will take effect on 18 October 2028.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:12 WIB
Indonesian Economy Remains Strong Amid Global Volatility
Indonesia’s economic officials say the country’s macroeconomic conditions and consumer spending remain resilient despite uncertainty in the global economy. The government plans to spend about Rp1,300 trillion in the fourth quarter of 2026 to support economic activity, while the OJK is pursuing capital-market reforms to improve transparency, liquidity and investor confidence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:12 WIB
Kiai Cholil Criticises Preacher and Urges Congregation to Stop Attending His Gatherings
MUI Deputy Chairman KH Muhammad Cholil Nafis has urged Muslims not to attend or invite Habib Alwi bin Abdurrahman Assegaf to preach, following the circulation of a video clip containing remarks deemed demeaning to women. Cholil said the comments were inconsistent with the values of respectful Islamic preaching and could harm religious understanding and society.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:12 WIB
BNPT and House Commission XIII Engage Teachers in Effort to Prevent Students from Being Exposed to Radicalism
Indonesia’s National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) and House of Representatives Commission XIII are involving teachers in efforts to prevent students from encountering radical ideology online. BNPT cited preliminary 2026 data indicating that about 746 students across 26 provinces had been exposed, while officials stressed the role of educators in promoting digital literacy, non-violence and national values.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:11 WIB
MP Urges Local Governments and Pertamina to Identify Fuel Distribution Bottlenecks
Dewi Juliani, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission VI, has called on local governments, Pertamina and related agencies to coordinate more closely to identify fuel distribution obstacles and investigate suspected violations based on evidence. Her call comes amid queues at petrol stations in Riau despite reported fulfilment of fuel quotas; Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has said national fuel reserves remain sufficient.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:10 WIB
Kenyan Cult Leader Who ‘Sold Heaven’ Found Guilty over Deaths of 190 Children
Paul Mackenzie and 28 others have been convicted in Kenya over the deaths of 190 children and one adult, after prosecutors said they organised a doomsday cult that urged followers to starve themselves and their children to reach heaven. The Shakahola Forest case, in which more than 400 bodies have been found, has intensified calls for tighter oversight of religious organisations and scrutiny of past government action.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
BNI Announces Share Buyback to Respond to Capital Market Dynamics
Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is continuing its share buyback programme, previously disclosed in July, with implementation scheduled through 26 October 2026. The bank says the measured move reflects confidence in its fundamentals while taking account of market conditions, shareholder interests and adequate capital; it reported strong growth in lending, deposits and net profit.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
More Than Just Speed: The Advantages of the 254km Chongqing–Wanzhou Railway, Designed for 350km/h
Trial runs are under way on the approximately 254-kilometre Chongqing–Wanzhou high-speed railway in China, which is designed to operate at up to 350 kilometres per hour. The article’s supplied content consists of photo captions documenting test operations and preparations at Chongqing East railway station and along the route.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
Indonesia’s Capital Market Risks Downgrade to Standalone Market Status; OJK Vows All-Out Reform
Financial Services Authority (OJK) chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator has pursued sweeping capital-market reforms since January 2026, not merely in response to the risk of Indonesia being downgraded from emerging-market to standalone-market status by MSCI. Measures include disclosing shareholders with stakes above 1 per cent, introducing a high-shareholding-concentration policy, setting a 15 per cent free-float requirement and expanding investor classifications from nine groups to 39 sub-categories.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:09 WIB
OJK to Publish Findings on 31 HSC Stocks in Stages: How the Process Works
The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it has identified 31 of the 61 issuers on its high shareholding concentration (HSC) list as suspected of potential capital-market offences. Investigations are ongoing, and the regulator will publish findings as individual cases conclude, followed where warranted by sanctions and law-enforcement action while observing the presumption of innocence.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:08 WIB
Police Hand Out Bread and Drinks to Student Protesters at Monas
Police in Central Jakarta distributed bread and drinks to students taking part in a demonstration near Monas, while other officers managed security and traffic. Officials said the gesture was part of police service to the public and stressed respect for the right to protest, peaceful communication and the safety of everyone at the gathering.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:08 WIB
Joint team evacuates passengers from KMP Batumandi after fire in Merak
A joint team from Banten Police’s water and air police directorate and the regional disaster management agency is evacuating passengers from the ferry KMP Batumandi after it caught fire off Merak. The evacuation was still under way, with casualty figures and the cause of the fire yet to be established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:08 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire; Passengers Evacuated to Merak Executive Pier
Passengers from the KMP Batumandi were evacuated to Merak Port’s Executive Pier after the ferry caught fire while approaching its berth near Merak Besar Island. Basarnas said passenger and casualty figures were still being verified, while ASDP later confirmed that all passengers and crew had been evacuated; the cause of the fire remains unknown.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:07 WIB
The Twilight of the Military Courts Law: TNI Members Can Be Tried in Civilian Courts Following Constitutional Court Ruling
Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that military personnel accused of ordinary crimes must be tried in civilian courts and ordered lawmakers to revise the 1997 Military Courts Law within two years. The National Commission on Human Rights welcomed the decision, saying the current system has contributed to impunity, and cited the military trial and comparatively light sentences imposed on four soldiers convicted in the acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:07 WIB
Global Economy Forecast to Grow by 3.4% in 2027 Amid Uncertainty
The global economy is projected to grow by 3.4% in 2027, while Emerging and Developing Asia is forecast to expand by 4.9%. Indonesian officials say confidence, credible fiscal and monetary policies, investment and financial-sector stability will be crucial to meeting the country’s 6% growth target; the LPS also plans to activate an insurance policy guarantee programme in 2027 ahead of its 2028 launch.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
Indonesia’s Investment Reaches Rp3,923.2 Trillion by the Third Quarter of 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment from the fourth quarter of 2024 through the third quarter of 2026, creating 5,485,944 jobs. The government says investment policy will focus on downstream industrialisation and simpler licensing, while more than half of reported investment was located outside Java.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
Toll operator confirms response to smoke from land fire on Bakauheni–Terbanggi Besar Toll Road
PT Bakauheni Terbanggi Besar Toll says it deployed emergency crews, firefighting water tankers and traffic controls after smoke from a fire outside the toll road’s right of way entered the carriageway near KM 132. Two passengers were injured in a crash, and the operator says it is continuing to monitor conditions and coordinate with local authorities to protect road users.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
Hajj and Umrah Ministry improves governance and services
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says it is overhauling governance, widening access and strengthening protection and service standards for pilgrims. Measures include changes to provincial quota distribution, lower Hajj costs, expanded staff training and tougher oversight, alongside efforts to develop the sector’s economic potential.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
All Passengers on KMP Batumandi Successfully Evacuated
All passengers aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated after the ferry caught fire near the entrance to Merak Port while travelling from Bakauheni to Merak. Rescue teams are still working to extinguish remaining flames, while authorities verify the passenger count against the vessel’s manifest; no deaths have been confirmed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:05 WIB
West Lombok Teacher Reported to Police over Alleged Violence Against Pupil
A teacher in West Lombok has been reported to police over alleged physical abuse of a pupil, and the case has progressed to the investigation stage. Police say they have obtained two pieces of evidence, while mediation failed amid conflicting accounts; the Child Protection Agency says the alleged abuse was both physical and psychological.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:05 WIB
Profile of ASDP’s KMP Batumandi, Which Caught Fire
ASDP confirmed that a fire broke out aboard the KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak Port, and said all passengers and crew were evacuated safely. The cause is under investigation; the Ro-Ro ferry is a large vessel operating the Merak–Bakauheni route, with capacity for 626 passengers and around 130 vehicles.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:04 WIB
PKP: 1.79 million homes built or renovated
Indonesia’s Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas says 1,790,081 homes were built or renovated between January 2025 and 15 October 2026, including more than 1.1 million new homes. The ministry says the total reflects contributions from government programmes, local authorities, banks, developers and private-sector corporate social responsibility initiatives, as it seeks broader backing for the government’s three-million-home target.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:04 WIB
Task Force Checks Completeness of SPPG Documents in East Lombok
East Lombok’s MBG task force is collecting and checking documentation from 82 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) that have permits to establish kitchens, before submitting their files to the National Nutrition Agency for operational processing. Fifteen units have received temporary suspension letters, and their partner operators have been asked to address deficiencies so they can resume service.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:03 WIB
Central Jakarta Mayor Inspects New SDN Petojo Utara 01 Building
Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin inspected the fully revitalised SDN Petojo Utara 01, now a five-storey school with a rooftop, lift and solar panels. He said the upgraded facilities are intended to improve the learning environment and urged the school community to maintain them for long-term use.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:03 WIB
Iran Says Excessive US Demands Are Hindering Peace Deal
Iran’s Foreign Ministry says what it calls excessive US demands are obstructing efforts to reach a peace agreement, and that messages from Washington have been insufficient and incomplete. Tehran says it will maintain seven conditions, including lifting the naval blockade and ending hostilities on all fronts, as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and the wider conflict remain unresolved.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:02 WIB
LABA Establishes GOIN Joint Venture with Oscarmas to Develop Electric Truck Batteries
PT Green Power Group (LABA) and investment firm PT Oscar Investama Indonesia have formally established PT Gobattery Solusi Indonesia (GOIN), a joint venture focused on battery services for commercial electric vehicles. GOIN plans to offer a Battery-as-a-Service model for electric trucks, with Oscarmas’s distribution and after-sales network supporting deployment as the partners finalise battery specifications and prepare initial logistics routes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
SBT Police Extinguish Fire on 10 Hectares of Peatland
Police in Seram Bagian Timur, Maluku, deployed an Armoured Water Cannon to tackle a fire affecting 10 hectares of peatland in Sumber Agung village. The blaze was reported to be subsiding and away from homes, while officers remain on alert to prevent it from reigniting; police urged residents not to clear land by burning.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Former Trade Minister Alleges Foreign Interference; IDX Chief Says Index Providers Are Independent
Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) chief executive Jeffrey Hendrik rejected speculation that foreign institutions were pressuring MSCI over a possible downgrade of Indonesia’s equity market classification, saying the exchange would focus on technical market reforms. Former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi alleged that Singapore-based investors sought to influence the review, but his claims have not been independently verified; MSCI’s decision will depend on its methodology and assessment of market accessibility and investability.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
BP Taskin Chief Budiman Sudjatmiko Reveals Three Strategies to Alleviate Poverty
BP Taskin chief Budiman Sudjatmiko has outlined a three-stage approach to poverty alleviation: protection for poor families, support to help them graduate from poverty, and assets to enable economic independence. The framework pairs social assistance with universal basic services, including free meals, health checks and education programmes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Wildfire Spreads on Mount Sumbing; Hiking Temporarily Closed
A forest fire on Mount Sumbing has continued to spread towards Temanggung, with steep terrain, strong winds and difficult access hampering firefighting efforts. Authorities have temporarily closed the mountain to hikers from 20 October until further notice, both to protect visitors and to enable crews to tackle the blaze.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:59 WIB
BKSDA: Javan Leopard Caught on Camera in West Nusakambangan
A camera trap recorded a Javan leopard in the West Nusakambangan Nature Reserve during a brief monitoring exercise by Central Java’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA). Officials cautioned that the footage of one animal cannot establish the island-wide population, estimated at around 20 in earlier research, and said development activity could affect wildlife and habitats, although its impact has not yet been assessed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:58 WIB
Students Display Banner at Tugu Tani
Students marking the second anniversary of the Prabowo Subianto–Gibran Rakabuming administration staged a demonstration at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta and displayed a banner outlining their demands. These included declaring forest and land fires a national disaster, addressing social inequality, protecting civic space, tackling corruption and improving access to education.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:58 WIB
Sultan HB X Questions ASN Salaries via Village Cooperatives: ‘Don’t Speculate, People’s Livelihoods Are at Stake’
Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X says the proposed plan to channel civil servants’ salaries through Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives remains unclear and has not been formalised by the central government. He has urged officials not to speculate, stressing that the payment mechanism and management system must be explained because the policy affects people’s livelihoods.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:57 WIB
Electrical Short Circuit Suspected of Causing Fire at Seven Rental Units in Kelapa Gading
A suspected electrical short circuit sparked a fire that damaged seven rental units in Kampung Rawa Sengon, North Jakarta, causing estimated losses of Rp200 million. Firefighters deployed 15 fire engines and 75 personnel, bringing the blaze under control despite narrow road access affected by roadworks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:55 WIB
Bahlil Calls for Bali’s Fuel Reserves to Be Increased to 15 Days’ Supply
Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has asked Pertamina to raise Bali’s fuel reserves from 11–12 days to 15 days within a week, bringing the province in line with the national reserve standard. The move follows shipping delays from Java that disrupted distribution; authorities say supplies have stabilised, while national fuel stocks remain broadly secure.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:55 WIB
Army Warrant Officer Questioned After Allegedly Assaulting Wife in Central Kalimantan
An Indonesian Army warrant officer is being questioned after allegedly assaulting his wife, who reportedly caught him with another woman in Central Kalimantan. Military officials say any proven misconduct will be dealt with under the law, while asking the public to allow the investigation to establish the facts.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:54 WIB
Investment reaches nearly US$218 billion during first two years of Prabowo government
Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion (about US$217.9 billion) in investment from October 2024 to September 2025, generating more than 5.48 million jobs; domestic sources accounted for 50.9 per cent, while 51.8 per cent went outside Java. The realised amount represents 30 per cent of the Rp13,032.8 trillion investment target for 2025–2029, which the government links to its goal of achieving 8 per cent economic growth by 2029.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:53 WIB
US targets doubling LNG exports, with Southeast Asia in its sights
The US plans to double its liquefied natural gas exports by 2029 and increase shipments to Southeast Asia, where demand is rising alongside the digital economy and manufacturing. US Ambassador to ASEAN Kevin Kim also highlighted more than US$1.5 billion in Development Finance Corporation commitments for regional energy infrastructure, and welcomed efforts to strengthen ASEAN’s petroleum security framework.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:53 WIB
Observer: Free Health Checks Among the Strongest Achievements of Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years
Political observer Ali Rif’an says the Free Health Check (CKG) programme has delivered one of the most tangible results of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, reaching 106.3 million people by 13 October 2026. He says the next priority is to strengthen follow-up care and ensure that programme outputs translate into lasting health benefits for the public.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:52 WIB
Basarnas: All KM Batumandi Passengers Successfully Evacuated
All passengers aboard the fire-stricken KM Batumandi were safely evacuated by joint rescue teams and taken to Merak Port. Crews are now focused on extinguishing remaining fires, while authorities are still verifying the passenger manifest and investigating the cause of the incident.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:52 WIB
Education Ministry equips teachers to respond to disasters, from mitigation to recovery
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is training teachers and education staff in four provinces to strengthen disaster preparedness in schools, covering mitigation, emergency response and post-disaster psychosocial support. The programme aims to help educators protect pupils and maintain learning, with training modules developed alongside Save the Children and the Indonesian Psychological Association (HIMPSI).
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:52 WIB
Public Works Minister: National Road to Aceh’s SIM Airport Needs Widening
Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo says the national road leading to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Aceh should be widened to accommodate expected traffic growth over the next two to five years. The ministry is currently carrying out preservation works on a 950-metre stretch, due for completion by the end of this year.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:52 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo: Investment and Downstreaming Minister/Head of BKPM
Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment and 5.49 million jobs created from the fourth quarter of 2024 through the third quarter of 2026, Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani said. The government says it will prioritise investment that supports downstream processing and industrialisation, while streamlining permits through an integrated system linking 28 ministries and agencies to provide greater certainty for investors.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:51 WIB
Timeline of KMP Batumandi Fire on Approach to Merak Port
KMP Batumandi caught fire on the approach to Merak Port on Tuesday afternoon while operating the Bakauheni–Merak route. Banten’s Search and Rescue Office deployed personnel and the KN SAR Tetuka, but the number of people aboard and casualty figures had not yet been confirmed at the time of the initial report.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:50 WIB
Dasco Urges Investors to ‘Buy Indonesia’, Says Stock Market Will Recover
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has urged confidence in Indonesia’s stock market amid pressure, saying strong fundamentals and national unity will help it recover. He acknowledged capital outflows and repeated assessments by rating agencies, but said Indonesia could overcome these challenges with the right measures.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:49 WIB
Police Name Five Suspects in Batam-Bintan Power Blackout Case
Police have named four PLN Batam personnel and a contractor as suspects over the widespread power blackout in Batam and Bintan, which investigators say involved negligence and a failure of the transformer protection system. The outage is estimated to have caused state losses of Rp57.3 billion in customer compensation; the suspects face charges carrying a potential sentence of up to 12 years.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:49 WIB
Public Works Ministry targets completion of six sabo dams in Aceh this year
The Public Works Ministry is targeting completion this year of six sabo dams in Aceh as part of post-disaster recovery and flood prevention, with 42 planned across vulnerable river areas. Work will proceed from river mouths inland, beginning with dredging and strengthening before river normalisation and sediment removal further upstream.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:48 WIB
Wildfire in the Mount Arjuno-Welirang Area Spreads to Malang and Batu
A wildfire that began in Pasuruan has spread into parts of Malang Regency, Batu City and Mojokerto Regency, with 57 hotspots recorded in Malang. Joint teams, local residents and volunteers are working to contain the blaze, while using firebreaks in areas that cannot be safely reached and monitoring embers along hiking routes.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:47 WIB
11 Community Health Centres in Mataram Have Sign-Language-Speaking Health Workers
Mataram has trained two to three health workers in sign language at each of its 11 community health centres, helping patients with disabilities communicate during registration and treatment. The city is also improving accessibility with wheelchair routes, wheelchairs, handrails and accessible toilets.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:47 WIB
Apple imposes limits on iPhone Duo purchases in the United States
Apple is reportedly limiting US customers to two iPhone Duo handsets per transaction, although reports from buyers suggest the restriction may not have been applied consistently since pre-orders opened on 16 October 2026. The device sold out within minutes of launch, and Apple says it is working to bring delivery dates forward for customers facing November or December estimates.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:47 WIB
No Foreign Assistance Needed Yet, Coordinating Minister Dudung Says Indonesia Can Still Tackle Forest and Land Fires
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurrachman says Indonesia has the capacity to manage ongoing forest and land fires, so the government has not declared them a national disaster. Malaysia has offered three helicopters and 52 personnel, but the proposal remains under discussion amid operational and fuel-distribution challenges.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:45 WIB
Demonstration at Tugu Tani Ends at 6.30pm
A demonstration involving students and other groups at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta ended at 6.30pm on Tuesday, with participants dispersing peacefully. Police managed traffic as the crowd left, and conditions and traffic in the surrounding area gradually returned to normal.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:45 WIB
Cause of Fire on ASDP-Owned KMP Batumandi Still Under Investigation
ASDP Indonesia Ferry says authorities are investigating the cause of the fire aboard KMP Batumandi, while all passengers and crew have been evacuated safely. The incident occurred as the vessel was manoeuvring towards Merak Port’s Pier VI, and a joint response involving port officials, Basarnas and police is continuing.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:45 WIB
Social Affairs Ministry and CIMA Discuss Plans to Help People’s School Graduates Enter the Maritime Industry
Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry and the Consortium of Indonesia Manning Agencies (CIMA) are exploring a partnership to provide vocational pathways into the maritime sector for graduates of People’s Schools. The initiative is intended to help students secure further education or employment and support the government’s effort to break intergenerational poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:44 WIB
Government Urged to Explain Halal Certification Mandate Delay in Detail
An Indef economist has called on the government to explain why implementation of the mandatory halal certification policy has been postponed for two years, including what remains unready and how progress will be measured. He says the delay should be used to address gaps affecting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), certification capacity and regulatory coordination, while preserving legal certainty and building Indonesia’s halal industry.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:44 WIB
Bareskrim investigates possible negligence or sabotage behind Batam-Bintan blackout
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) is investigating whether negligence or deliberate sabotage caused the widespread power outage in Batam and Bintan on 12 October 2026. Five people have been named as suspects, while investigators examine a CCTV camera that was not pointing at a substation transformer and why a fault at one location affected the wider electricity system.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:44 WIB
Monas Protesters Disperse; Traffic on Medan Merdeka Selatan Reopens
A student protest outside the IRTI area of Jakarta’s Monas monument dispersed peacefully at around 6.20pm on Tuesday, after a brief confrontation with police over a fire set during the demonstration. Medan Merdeka Selatan, which had been closed, has reopened, although traffic remains heavy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:43 WIB
Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro and Ultra to Have a Different Design from Their Predecessors
A leaked image of Galaxy S27-series phone cases suggests that the standard and Plus models will retain designs similar to the Galaxy S26 and S26+, while the Pro and Ultra will look different from their predecessors. The latest leak adds to previously reported details about the upcoming phones’ cameras, chipsets, memory and storage options, battery capacity and software.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:43 WIB
A look at the high point of joint TNI and Australian military exercise in Situbondo
Indonesian and Australian forces held an integrated live-fire exercise in Situbondo, East Java, as the culmination of the Keris Woomera 2026 joint exercise. The drills featured several weapons systems and underscored military cooperation between the TNI and the Australian Defence Force.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:42 WIB
ASDP: All KMP Batumandi Passengers Evacuated; No Fatalities
All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated after the ferry caught fire while approaching Merak Port in Banten. ASDP said no one was killed; the suspected source was a spark near the stern, and the cause and any disruption to port services remained under assessment.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
Rene Turos Group distributes 1,600 books to encourage reading
Rene Turos Group is distributing 1,600 books to widen public access to reading materials and encourage reading interest as it marks its 16th anniversary. The programme includes donations to a pesantren and surprise book packages for readers, with the publisher saying its success will be measured by the knowledge readers gain, not just the number of books handed out.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
Ministry supports local policies to protect children in digital spaces
The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA), together with UNICEF Indonesia, is supporting the integration of child protection in digital spaces into local policies. A workshop involving 105 participants from 21 provinces aims to strengthen the implementation of child-protection regulations through prevention, response and cross-sector collaboration.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
Legislator Hands Over Agricultural Machinery in Jember to Boost Food Production
DPR Commission VI member Kawendra Lukistian has provided Jember farmers with one combine harvester and seven water pumps to support agricultural work and raise productivity. The initiative reflects the government’s food-security and self-sufficiency goals, while farmers were also invited to share their concerns and challenges.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
KMP Batumandi Ferry Catches Fire at Merak; Cause Under Investigation
All passengers and crew aboard the KMP Batumandi were evacuated after a fire broke out as the ferry approached its berth at Merak Port in Banten. Authorities are investigating the cause, while ASDP says coordinated emergency response and the safety of those on board remain its priorities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:39 WIB
Asset Recovery Agency to Track Borrowers in KSP Indosurya Case
Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency will trace borrowers linked to the KSP Indosurya banking crime case and investigate their assets if they do not repay their loans in good faith. The move aims to maximise compensation for more than 3,000 victims, who suffered losses exceeding Rp8 trillion; the agency has begun distributing Rp229.4 billion from assets seized from the cooperative’s convicted owner.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:38 WIB
KAI Daop 8 Records 2.26 Million Tonnes of Freight Through September 2026
KAI Daop 8 Surabaya transported 2.26 million tonnes of freight from January to September 2026, an 8.37% increase on the same period last year. Containerised cargo and fuel were the largest commodities, highlighting rail’s role in supporting industrial and commercial distribution and energy supplies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:38 WIB
East Kalimantan accelerates industrial downstreaming to boost sustainable regional revenue
East Kalimantan is seeking to reduce its reliance on central government transfers and extractive industries by accelerating economic transformation and industrial downstreaming. The provincial government aims for at least half of its regional budget to come from locally generated revenue within three years, with palm oil and energy processing among the priority sectors.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:37 WIB
Creative Economy Ministry Provides Financial Management Support to Creative Businesses
The Ministry of Creative Economy is helping creative entrepreneurs strengthen financial management and business models so they can qualify for financing. Through its CreaFIN programme, the ministry has trained 50 participants in Samosir and connected them with information on credit schemes, including subsidised-interest loans and KUR.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:37 WIB
Indonesia urges universities to accelerate net-zero transition
Indonesia’s higher education ministry has launched Net Zero Campus guidelines and a report to encourage universities to advance towards net-zero emissions by 2060 or sooner. With about 200 campuses already involved and roughly 4,000 institutions and 11 million people across the sector, the initiative aims to embed sustainability in campus management while aligning with national development and climate goals.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:35 WIB
Prabowo Set to Inaugurate Indonesia’s Second-Largest EV Battery Plant
President Prabowo Subianto is expected to inaugurate the Karawang electric-vehicle battery plant, operated by a joint venture involving Indonesia Battery Corporation and CATL, although it has already been running since July 2026. The facility’s first phase has a capacity of 6.9 GWh, with plans to expand to 15 GWh through an estimated US$1.2 billion investment, supporting Indonesia’s battery supply chain and energy-storage production.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:34 WIB
Indosurya Cooperative Victims Recount Six-Year Fight for Compensation
Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency has distributed Rp229.4 billion in the first compensation payment to victims of the Indosurya Savings and Loans Cooperative fraud, equivalent to just 2.3 per cent of their verified losses. Victims welcomed the payment after a six-year campaign but urged authorities to recover more assets and bring a fugitive suspect back to Indonesia.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:34 WIB
Kim Jong Un Appears in New Photos After Death Rumours
North Korean state media published photographs showing Kim Jong Un visiting a clothing and footwear exhibition with his wife and daughter, following online rumours that he had suffered a brain haemorrhage and died. The images have not been independently verified, and their precise date is unclear; Kim was quoted praising the products as evidence of progress in the light industry sector.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:33 WIB
Man in West Jakarta Intimidated by Debt Collectors
Eko Febriansyah says a group of debt collectors surrounded and threatened him in Kalideres after he refused to let them inspect his motorbike, with one allegedly striking his vehicle. Police responded to his emergency call and detained five people in connection with the incident.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:33 WIB
VinFast VF MPV 7 Wins Marketeers Editor’s Choice Award
VinFast’s VF MPV 7 has received the “Inspiring Product Service MPV EV of the Year” award at the 2026 Marketeers Editor’s Choice Awards. The company says the recognition supports its effort to make electric vehicles more accessible in Indonesia, alongside its ownership incentives and expansion of charging and after-sales networks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:32 WIB
OJK says capital-market sanctions are imposed in a measured manner
The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it imposes capital-market sanctions cautiously and in accordance with legal procedures, following fines totalling Rp2.1 trillion against three listed companies. It is also investigating potential violations involving other parties and 31 shares flagged for suspected criminal breaches, but has not set a completion date for those investigations.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:32 WIB
MP Urges Fuel Distribution in Bali to Be Maintained to Avoid Disrupting Tourism
A member of the House of Representatives has called on Pertamina to address fuel distribution problems after long queues formed at petrol stations in Bali. He said the disruption could affect transport, trade and tourism, and urged a comprehensive review of logistics and contingency planning rather than relying on assurances about national fuel stocks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:31 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire off Merak, Hundreds of Passengers Evacuated
The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire while waiting to dock near Merak Harbour in Banten, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of passengers and crew. The cause of the blaze and any casualties had not been confirmed as rescue teams continued their response.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:31 WIB
SOE Agency Deputy: ESG Is Not Just a Business Strategy but Part of National Resilience
Tedi Bharata, deputy head of Indonesia’s SOE Regulatory Agency, says environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles should be treated as part of the country’s business continuity planning and national resilience. He highlights domestic biofuel feedstocks as a way to reduce reliance on imported energy, while calling for collaboration among government, state-owned enterprises and private companies to build sustainable supply chains and attract young talent.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
Coal Stocks More Resilient to MSCI Shock; Indo Premier Picks AADI and PTBA
Thermal coal shares have fallen less than the wider Indonesian market since MSCI’s announcement, supported by strong coal prices, attractive dividend yields and limited foreign ownership. Indo Premier maintains an overweight view on commodities, naming AADI and PTBA as its top coal picks while flagging foreign-ownership and debt risks across the sector.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
Japan Sends Rocket to Retrieve Rock Samples from a Moon Orbiting Mars
Japan has launched the MMX mission to collect samples from Phobos, one of Mars’s moons, and return them to Earth in 2031. The mission will also study Deimos, helping scientists investigate whether the two moons are captured asteroids or debris from an ancient impact on Mars.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:29 WIB
UNM Team Brings Digital Innovation to Cimulang Village
A team from Universitas Nusa Mandiri has introduced a digital platform to help Cimulang Village manage public and social services more effectively. The system consolidates data on vulnerable residents, people with disabilities, Posyandu services and social-work cases, with further modules planned in partnership with the village government.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:26 WIB
Nine Warehouses in Pasir Jaya, Tangerang, Destroyed by Fire
A fire swept through nine warehouses in Tangerang, including facilities storing Shopee parcels and producing shoes, with losses estimated at billions of rupiah. No casualties were reported, and police are investigating the cause after an initial suspicion of an electrical short circuit.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:26 WIB
Trump Again Urges New Mexico to Change Its Name to New America
US President Donald Trump has renewed his call for New Mexico to be renamed “New America”, claiming the change would boost property values, incomes and state pride. The article places the proposal alongside Trump’s other renaming efforts, some of which have faced resistance or legal obstacles.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:26 WIB
Irrigation strengthened amid El Niño to support food security: Indonesian government
Indonesia’s Public Works and Agriculture ministries are jointly mapping irrigation needs and upgrading networks to improve water access for farmland as El Niño threatens food production. The government says faster rehabilitation and construction, guided by Presidential Instruction No. 2 of 2025, will support sustainable productivity and food self-sufficiency.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:25 WIB
Scenes of Devastation After Sudden Heavy Rain: 10 Dead
At least 10 people have died in floods and landslides in Veracruz, Mexico, after heavy rain caused rivers to overflow. Authorities have suspended classes in 29 municipalities, warned residents of continuing weather risks and urged people to follow evacuation orders.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:24 WIB
Cassava Sells for Just Rp 2,000 per Kg, Keladen Residents Seek Ways to Boost Their Income
Residents of Keladen in East Kalimantan are learning to turn low-priced cassava into mocaf flour, hoping to create a new source of income after a fungal disease damaged their banana crop. The initiative, supported by an ITB team, has been proposed as a village small-business product, but its ability to raise incomes will depend on production costs, selling prices and demand.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:24 WIB
Fathimah Azzahra and AADC’s Mamet Voice Their Demands at Tugu Tani
BEM UI deputy chair Fathimah Azzahra and actor Dennis Adhiswara joined a demonstration at Jakarta’s Tugu Tani, where protesters presented five demands, including declaring forest and land fires a national disaster and lowering education costs. Organisers said they changed the protest format and location to make it easier for people to gather and to foreground issues directly affecting ordinary citizens; the demonstration remained peaceful through 5.17pm.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:23 WIB
Indonesia’s Top 10 Foreign Investors in 2026: Singapore Leads
Singapore was Indonesia’s largest source of realised foreign investment in 2026, at US$8.82 billion, followed by Hong Kong and China. By September, total investment had reached Rp1,539.2 trillion, or 75.4% of the government’s annual target, with downstreaming sectors attracting Rp480 trillion.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:23 WIB
Nigeria Reaps Oil Windfall, with Indonesia Among Its Buyers
Nigeria’s gross crude-oil production was valued at an estimated ₦52.12 trillion (US$39.15 billion) in January–September 2026, already exceeding the value recorded for the whole of 2025 despite lower output volumes. Higher global prices, fuelled by the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, drove the increase; Nigeria was also Indonesia’s largest crude-oil supplier in the first half of 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:23 WIB
KPK Urges Pekalongan Civil Servants to Strengthen Integrity in Carrying Out Their Duties
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged civil servants in Pekalongan Regency to uphold integrity, honesty and commitment, warning that everyday acts of dishonesty can develop into larger-scale corruption. KPK official Johnson Ridwan Ginting said corruption harms the public through poorer services and stalled development, even when people do not immediately recognise themselves as its victims.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:22 WIB
Strong Business Fundamentals: BNI (BBNI) Announces Continuation of Share Buyback
Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is continuing its share buyback programme, previously announced in July 2026 and scheduled to run until 26 October, while considering whether to extend it. The bank says the move reflects confidence in its business outlook and will be carried out cautiously, with due regard for market conditions, capital adequacy and shareholder interests; its assets, lending, deposits and profits all grew through August 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:22 WIB
Cirebon Trade and Industry Office Records US$56.30m in Rattan Exports
Cirebon Regency’s rattan exports reached US$56.30 million in January–September 2026, with rattan furniture accounting for more than US$52 million and baskets contributing US$3.86 million. The products were shipped to markets across the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa, while local authorities are working to sustain the industry through market promotion and attention to raw-material supplies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:21 WIB
Army Investigates Warrant Officer Accused of Assaulting Wife and Child After Being Caught in Alleged Affair
The Indonesian Army is investigating Warrant Officer Syahrir after a social-media video allegedly showed him assaulting his wife and child following a confrontation over an alleged affair. The Army says it will take firm action if the inquiry establishes a violation, while urging the public to allow the investigation to proceed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:20 WIB
Airlangga Responds to Reports of Free Mobile Phones for the Public
Economic Affairs Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto says the government has never discussed a plan to distribute free mobile phones to support social assistance payments. A separate mass bank-account programme remains on track, pending regulations, with about Rp3.8 trillion earmarked for its implementation through BRI and Bank Syariah Indonesia.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:16 WIB
Tourism Ministry promotes Labuan Bajo’s tourist attractions
Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry has organised a familiarisation trip to promote inland Flores destinations alongside Labuan Bajo’s marine tourism, bringing travel agents, media representatives and content creators to local villages and attractions. The initiative also aims to build partnerships with local tourism businesses and encourage longer, more responsible visits that spread economic benefits among communities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:15 WIB
2,179 Disasters Hit Indonesia: 21 People Missing and 5.8 Million Displaced
Indonesia recorded 2,179 disasters from January to 20 October 2026, including 1,000 forest and land fires and 580 floods, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The fires have killed 422 people, left 21 missing and forced 5.8 million to flee, while more than 570 hectares of burned land remained unextinguished as of Monday.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:15 WIB
Pertamina Increases Fuel Supply to Ease Queues at Jember Petrol Stations
Pertamina Patra Niaga has raised subsidised fuel deliveries to Jember by around 20 per cent, increasing Pertalite supply from about 570 kilolitres a day to between 670 and 700 kilolitres. The move is intended to ease queues as motorists switch from non-subsidised Pertamax, while local authorities’ work-from-home and distance-learning measures have also helped reduce demand; officials say stocks remain secure and urge residents not to panic-buy.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:14 WIB
Protecting Children in the Digital Space: Ministry Stresses Policy Integration
Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi has urged local governments to incorporate national child-protection policies for the digital space into regional regulations and programmes. The call comes as internet use among children rose from 49.59 per cent in 2020 to 73.90 per cent in 2024, increasing their exposure to online harm.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:13 WIB
Five Suspects Named as Police Trace Batam-Bintan Blackout to Monkey, with State Losses of Rp57.3bn
Police have named five people as suspects over a blackout that affected Batam and Bintan, alleging negligence allowed a monkey to enter a substation and trigger a short circuit. Investigators say the outage caused estimated state losses of Rp57.3 billion, while forensic tests linked hair found at the site to a monkey that died there.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:12 WIB
Hotspots from Forest and Land Fires Increase
BMKG recorded a sharp rise in high-confidence fire hotspots on 19 October, particularly in Central and West Kalimantan, alongside smoke detected across several Indonesian regions. Persistently hot and dry weather is heightening the need for vigilance against forest and land fires.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:12 WIB
Central Java’s Assisted Village Programme Provides Business Capital as Well as Home Repairs
Central Java’s assisted village programme combines home repairs and basic services with business capital and other support to tackle extreme poverty in Kendalrejo, Pemalang Regency. The initiative brings together provincial and local authorities, Baznas, state-owned enterprises and private companies, with the aim of improving residents’ welfare and helping them build sustainable livelihoods.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:10 WIB
Kenyan Cult Leader Found Guilty over Deaths of 191 People
A Kenyan court has convicted Paul Nthenge Mackenzie and 28 associates over the deaths of 191 people, including 190 children, finding that the church operated as a cult and that followers were coerced into life-threatening fasting. The deaths occurred in Shakahola between January 2021 and September 2023; medical findings attributed 76 child deaths to starvation, while causes could not be determined in 112 cases.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:10 WIB
ASDP Confirms Response to Fire on KMP Batumandi off Merak
ASDP said all passengers and crew were evacuated after a fire broke out aboard the ferry KMP Batumandi as it approached Merak Port in Banten. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and a joint response involving port personnel, Basarnas and police is under way.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:09 WIB
Ferry Catches Fire Near Merak Port
The passenger ferry Batumandi caught fire in the Sunda Strait near Merak Port, prompting a joint rescue effort to evacuate those on board. Authorities said the evacuation was still under way, with casualty figures and the cause of the fire yet to be confirmed as officials gather information and investigate.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:09 WIB
James Riady: Diplomacy Must Deliver Investment and Jobs
Kadin Indonesia deputy chairman James Riady says the success of Indonesia’s international relations should be judged by tangible economic outcomes, including investment, exports, industrial development and jobs. He urges sustained diplomacy, stronger investor confidence and follow-through that extends opportunities beyond Jakarta and major companies.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:07 WIB
Tips for Keeping Blood Sugar Balanced at Every Meal
Nutrition experts say meal composition can affect how quickly blood sugar rises after eating, recommending protein and high-fibre, minimally processed carbohydrates. They also advise using the Diabetes Plate method and choosing water or unsweetened tea over sugary drinks to support steadier glucose levels.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:07 WIB
BPN: Certification of Outer Small Islands to Ensure Legal Certainty
The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency says it is continuing to certify land parcels in coastal areas and small islands, including those on Indonesia’s outermost borders, to clarify ownership and protect state assets and coastal communities. Of 111 outer small islands, 87 have been certified; across Indonesia’s 17,343 small islands, only 1,349 have so far been certified, leaving a substantial registration effort ahead.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:07 WIB
KMP Batumandi Catches Fire While Preparing to Dock at Merak Port
The KMP Batumandi caught fire near Merak Island while manoeuvring to berth at Merak Port, prompting a joint emergency response. ASDP said all passengers and crew had been evacuated, while the cause of the fire remained unknown.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:06 WIB
KMP Batumandi Ferry Catches Fire; Passengers Climb to Bridge and Deck to Escape
The KMP Batumandi caught fire near Merak Port in Cilegon on Tuesday afternoon, prompting passengers to climb to the vessel’s bridge and deck while awaiting rescue. Banten police said evacuation was under way, with the number of casualties and the cause of the fire still unknown.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:05 WIB
Indonesia Still Has Vast Oil Potential, with 108 Basins Untapped
Pertamina Hulu Energi says only 20 of Indonesia’s 128 hydrocarbon basins are currently being worked, leaving 108 largely unexplored. Developing them could help narrow the gap between domestic crude consumption of 1.6 million barrels per day and production of about 600,000 barrels per day, but would require substantial investment and could take five to seven years to yield first oil.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:04 WIB
Indramayu Regency expands SeHAT programme to protect fishers’ assets
Indramayu Regency is distributing 1,500 land certificates to fishers and fish farmers through its SeHAT programmes, giving them greater legal certainty over their assets. The local government is also providing employment social security, business equipment and fish-farming support, while releasing more than 306,000 fish fingerlings to help sustain fisheries resources.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:03 WIB
Psychologist explains signs of ‘micro-cheating’ that can erode trust
Psychologists describe ‘micro-cheating’ as secretive or flirtatious behaviour that may lead a partner to question emotional or physical commitment, even when it does not involve physical infidelity. They advise against jumping to conclusions and stress that open communication and mutually agreed boundaries are essential to preserving trust.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:03 WIB
ASDP-Owned KMP Batumandi Catches Fire: Passengers and Crew Evacuated
All passengers and crew aboard ASDP’s KMP Batumandi were evacuated after a fire broke out as the ferry approached Merak port in Banten. Authorities are investigating the cause, while a joint team from the port, Basarnas and police continues to handle the incident.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:02 WIB
Mother Dies on Motorbike While on Her Way to Seek Treatment; Youngest Child Can Only Watch
A 38-year-old woman in Ponorogo died suddenly after stopping her motorbike outside Slahung Community Health Centre while travelling to see a midwife. She leaves four children, including a four-year-old whose distressing presence at the scene was captured in images; the children are now living with their aunt.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:02 WIB
Turkish Embassy: COP31 to Deliver Concrete Climate Projects with Adequate Funding
Turkey says it intends to make COP31, scheduled for Antalya in November 2026, an implementation-focused conference that converts climate pledges into funded projects. Its proposed agenda includes 2035 targets for electrification, waste reduction and building energy efficiency, alongside financing mechanisms designed to connect climate commitments and local urban projects with investors.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:02 WIB
BRAN Chief Calls for Productive Land to Improve Public Welfare
National Agrarian Reform Agency head Dedi Prasetyo says land reform must go beyond distributing land and provide people with support to use it productively and sustainably. Talks with the Transmigration Minister focused on the legal status and use of approximately 3.1 million hectares of transmigration land, including overlapping claims in Natuna and land occupied by communities.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:01 WIB
US Defence Secretary Makes Undisclosed Visit to Israel to Meet Netanyahu: What Did They Discuss?
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during an unannounced visit, with Israeli officials saying they discussed Iran. The visit comes amid stalled efforts to end the US-Israeli conflict with Tehran and discussions about potentially resuming large-scale military operations, just days before Israel’s legislative election.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:01 WIB
OJK Chief Says Regulator Is Going ‘All Out’ on Indonesian Capital Market Reforms
OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator has been pursuing sweeping capital market reforms since January 2026, including greater shareholding disclosure, a phased increase in the minimum free float and tighter scrutiny of concentrated ownership. Her remarks follow MSCI’s consultation on potentially downgrading Indonesia’s market classification, while the regulator says investigations must establish evidence before sanctions are imposed.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:00 WIB
Two New IDX Reforms After MSCI: Shareholders’ Affiliation Status to Be Disclosed
The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans two reforms following concerns raised by MSCI, which rattled the domestic stock market. Shares with highly concentrated ownership would be excluded from the Composite Stock Price Index, while disclosures for shareholders owning more than 1% would identify whether they are affiliated; key implementation details remain unspecified.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:00 WIB
Deputy Finance Minister Says 70% of Indonesia’s Imports Are Raw Materials, Urges Customs to Stay Alert
Deputy Finance Minister Nurkholisoh Ibnu Aman says more than 70% of Indonesia’s imports are raw materials and semi-finished goods that feed domestic production, making efficient customs procedures crucial to the economy. She called for risk-based vigilance that prevents illicit and unsafe goods from entering without creating unnecessary delays or non-tariff barriers for legitimate businesses.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 18:00 WIB
Halal Certification Requirement Delayed Until 2028, Giving Small Industries More Time
The government has extended the transition period for halal certification requirements for several products and services until October 2028, giving micro, small and medium-sized businesses more time to prepare. The change will be made through an amendment to Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024, with separate deadlines retained for different product and service categories.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:57 WIB
Indonesia Delegation Urges Concrete Action to Empower Women Economically at W20
Indonesia’s W20 delegation called for global policy commitments on women’s economic empowerment to be translated into practical support for women-owned small businesses and rural communities. At the W20 Summit in the United States, delegates endorsed recommendations across eight strategic pillars, while Indonesia showcased its SisterNet programme and proposed a W20 Expo to expand women entrepreneurs’ access to markets and networks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:57 WIB
Downstreaming Investment Reaches Rp 1,199 Trillion in Prabowo’s First Two Years in Office
Investment in downstream processing reached Rp 1,199 trillion from the fourth quarter of 2024 to September 2026, accounting for 31.2% of national investment in the first nine months of 2026. Mineral processing dominated, while most investment was located outside Java, led by Central Sulawesi and North Maluku.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
Kenyan Cult Leader Found Guilty of Murdering 191 Followers
A court in Mombasa has convicted Paul Mackenzie and 28 co-defendants over the deaths of 190 children and one adult linked to the Shakahola Forest starvation cult. The case has intensified calls for tighter regulation of religious organisations, amid allegations that authorities were slow to respond and revelations that Mackenzie had previously been arrested and released.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
UNICEF Says 60,000 Children in Gaza Have Lost a Parent in the War
UNICEF says more than 60,000 children in Gaza have lost one or both parents since the war began, while around 800,000 children remain displaced and humanitarian needs far exceed available funding. The agency also reports that more than 340 children have been killed and hundreds injured since the ceasefire was announced, and urges the parties to comply with the truce and international humanitarian law.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
Ustaz in Pandeglang Allegedly Attacked with Machete as Students Clash
A religious teacher in Pandeglang, Banten, says he was struck on the head with bamboo and slashed in the back while passing a clash between two groups of students. He has reported the incident to police but asked that the alleged attacker be counselled rather than punished; police say they are investigating.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
New ChatGPT Feature Can See Which Websites Users Have Open
OpenAI has introduced a feature that lets ChatGPT read open Google Chrome tabs, compare information and carry out tasks through a browser. The update offers Chat and Work modes, but the ability to view and interact with browser content also raises security concerns, including prompt-injection risks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:54 WIB
Rainfall in Parts of Indonesia Remains in the Low Category
BMKG forecasts that most of Indonesia will receive low to moderate rainfall, ranging from 0 to 150 mm per ten-day period, from the third ten-day period of October to the second ten-day period of November 2026. Atmospheric waves and nearby cyclonic systems could boost rain-cloud growth in some areas, but the overall forecast remains in the low-to-moderate category.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:53 WIB
Myanmar Authorities Release Photos Showing Aung San Suu Kyi’s Current Condition
Myanmar’s authorities have released rare photographs of Aung San Suu Kyi receiving books and letters from King Charles III while under house arrest. Analysts say the move may be intended to portray improved treatment of the former leader and bolster the military-backed government’s legitimacy ahead of an ASEAN summit, as regional discussions continue over Myanmar’s participation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:52 WIB
A Research Culture Must Be Built from the School Years
Indonesia’s KREASI 2026 junior secondary research competition brought together more than 1,000 students, with 350 reaching the final after submitting research proposals. Organisers and education officials say mentoring by researchers and academics can nurture critical thinking and help prepare the next generation of scientists, as Indonesia seeks to strengthen its research capacity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
Malaysia Confident Digital Communications Ties with Indonesia Will Remain Close
Malaysia’s Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said digital communications ties with Indonesia would remain strong and benefit people in both countries after meeting Indonesian Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid. Fahmi also invited Hafid to attend M360 ASEAN 2027 in Malaysia, as the two countries deepen cooperation in the digital sector.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
Passenger Ferry Catches Fire in Merak Waters
The passenger ferry KMP Batu Mandi caught fire as it was preparing to berth at Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten, on 20 October 2026. Evacuation efforts were under way, with local police confirming the incident; the article provides no further details on casualties or the cause of the fire.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
UNM and PT KAI Hold AI-Based Business Analysis Training
Universitas Nusa Mandiri and PT Kreasi Alam Inspirasi held an interactive workshop on using artificial intelligence to analyse business data and consumer behaviour. Participants practised turning simulated coffee-shop transaction data into marketing insights, with the organisers saying the training aims to strengthen digital literacy and help businesses improve efficiency and competitiveness.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:50 WIB
NTB’s Free Nutritious Meals Programme to Cost Rp4.6 Trillion in 2026, Claimed to Reduce Unemployment
The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in West Nusa Tenggara is expected to receive Rp4.6 trillion in funding in 2026, with officials saying it is creating local jobs and supporting the regional economy. The programme’s spending could also help reduce poverty, while authorities are urged to monitor food supplies and distribution to limit inflationary pressure.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:50 WIB
Upstream Oil and Gas Sector Hopes for Higher Oil Prices – Here’s Why
SKK Migas says global oil prices above the 2026 state budget’s assumptions could offset weaker-than-planned production volumes and help lift state revenue from the upstream sector. It forecasts receipts reaching 109% of the budget target by year-end, provided the agency and production-sharing contractors accelerate and optimise commercialisation.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:49 WIB
Trump Backs Netanyahu, but JD Vance Is Reluctant to Intervene in Israel’s Election
Donald Trump has openly backed Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s 27 October legislative election, while Vice-President JD Vance says he will not take sides in Israeli domestic politics. Poll projections cited in the article indicate Netanyahu’s bloc may fall short of the 61 seats needed for a Knesset majority, making coalition negotiations crucial after the vote.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:49 WIB
Cross-Border Haze Response Must Involve Corporations
A senior Indonesian lawmaker says investigations into forest and land fires and transboundary haze should examine corporate ownership, funding and supply-chain links across borders, alongside local concession holders. He called for transparent evidence-sharing and equal law enforcement, while stressing that corporate links alone do not prove involvement in land burning.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:49 WIB
Tuanku Tambusai Military Police Detain TNI Member Suspected in 46.93kg Riau Meths Case
Military police have detained a TNI soldier suspected of involvement in the circulation of 46.93kg of methamphetamine uncovered by Riau Police in Pekanbaru. The soldier faces possible dismissal, while authorities say the investigation is continuing to identify others in the alleged international drug network.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:49 WIB
Social Affairs Ministry and CIMA to Help People’s School Graduates Enter Maritime Industry
The Social Affairs Ministry and the Consortium of Indonesia Manning Agencies (CIMA) are discussing a partnership to provide vocational training and career pathways in the maritime sector for graduates of People’s Schools. The initiative is part of efforts to prevent poverty passing between generations by ensuring students can continue their education or find work after graduating.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:49 WIB
Prosecutors Seek to Recover Indosurya Victims’ Funds and Pursue Borrowers’ Debts
Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency says it will pursue both convicted Indosurya owner Henry Surya’s assets and outstanding debts owed by borrowers to the savings and loan co-operative. The first restitution payment of Rp 229.4 billion has been distributed from recovered cash and auction proceeds, but this is a small share of the Rp 8.06 trillion in verified losses recorded for 3,317 victims.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:48 WIB
KPK warns that family ‘flexing’ can fuel corruption
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says lavish displays of wealth within families can encourage corrupt behaviour, while families can also help strengthen integrity. It is expanding its integrity-focused family programme with community groups and government agencies, including the National Population and Family Planning Board, and will run the programme in Bengkulu in October 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:47 WIB
Investment Realisation Reaches Rp1,539.2 Trillion, Equal to 75.4% of Target
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, reaching 75.4% of its annual target, with foreign investment slightly exceeding domestic investment. The government says the investment supported 2.19 million jobs and is streamlining permits—including through a deemed-approval mechanism—to attract higher-quality investment and speed up work permits for foreign staff.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:46 WIB
Social Affairs Ministry Sends Aid to Hundreds of Fire Victims in South Bangka
The Social Affairs Ministry has distributed logistics aid worth Rp1.43 billion to families affected by a fire in Serdang Hamlet, South Bangka, where 333 families were directly affected. The supplies include temporary tents, bedding, food, clothing and school items, as 80 families remain in a central evacuation site and others stay with relatives.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:45 WIB
Sahroni Urges Police to Crack Down on Fuel Hoarders in Bali, Calling for Heavy Penalties
Deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission III, Ahmad Sahroni, has backed police action against 21 people accused of hoarding fuel in Bali, amid queues at filling stations. He urged investigators to pursue any larger networks and financiers, saying those responsible should not escape while the public bears the consequences.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:45 WIB
With BRI’s KUR, Comring Sawargi Expands and Creates Jobs for Garut Residents
PD Comring Sawargi, a cassava-snack producer in Garut, has used financing from BRI’s People’s Business Credit (KUR) scheme to boost production and widen its market. The business now involves 12 local residents, while a 2025 BRI Research Institute survey found that 66.2% of surveyed BRI borrowers reported increased turnover.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:45 WIB
Glodok Traders Fan Themselves with Tens of Millions of Rupiah as Sales Rise 30%
Glodok sellers of fans and air conditioners say sales have climbed by 20–30% amid unusually hot, dry weather across Greater Jakarta, with one trader reporting monthly revenue returning to tens of millions of rupiah. Affordable fans and shop discounts are attracting buyers, while an electronics seller says air-conditioner stocks are also running low.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:44 WIB
Deputy Public Works Minister: Irrigation to Be Strengthened During El Niño to Safeguard Food Self-Sufficiency
Deputy Public Works Minister Diana Kusumastuti says irrigation infrastructure is being reinforced during El Niño to secure water supplies for farmland and support sustainable national food self-sufficiency. The Public Works and Agriculture Ministries are mapping irrigation needs and implementing a 2025 presidential instruction to accelerate the rehabilitation and development of irrigation networks.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:43 WIB
Ferry Catches Fire Near Merak Port, Passengers Evacuated
The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire in the waters near Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten, prompting a joint emergency response to evacuate those on board. Authorities said the evacuation was ongoing and that information about casualties and the cause of the fire had not yet been established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:43 WIB
OJK Responds to Allegations of Foreign Manoeuvring Behind MSCI Plan to Downgrade Indonesia’s Capital Market Status
OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator will press ahead with capital-market reforms after MSCI signalled a possible downgrade of Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone-market status. Former trade minister Muhammad Lutfi has alleged that foreign institutions are pushing for the move to trigger a sell-off, claims that OJK did not address directly.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:42 WIB
Nearly 1,400 Hectares of East Kalimantan Forest Burned Since August 2026
Fires burned 1,393.16 hectares of forest in East Kalimantan between 1 August and 18 October 2026, accounting for 40.85 per cent of the province’s total area affected by fires. Most forest losses occurred in production forests, while authorities say integrated mitigation and increased patrols are needed to contain the threat.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:42 WIB
Mother Who Died on Motorbike in Ponorogo Leaves Four Children, One Still a Toddler
Lu'lu Atunni'mah, 38, collapsed and died while riding a motorbike with one of her children in Ponorogo, East Java, leaving four children behind. The Ponorogo Social Affairs Office says support for the children will be arranged in line with their family’s wishes; three are at boarding schools and the youngest is four.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:41 WIB
Bareskrim Names Five Suspects in Batam Blackout Case
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named five suspects over a blackout that caused widespread power cuts on Batam and Bintan, including four PLN Batam personnel and one contractor. Investigators say a monkey entered a substation, triggering a short circuit, while safety systems and perimeter security failed; estimated state losses stand at Rp57.3 billion.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:40 WIB
Pakpak Bharat Rice Fields to Be Restored as Government Tailors Farm Equipment Support
Pakpak Bharat is accelerating the recovery of 50 hectares of disaster-affected rice fields, while officials assess whether existing agricultural machinery suits local field conditions. The recovery plan also includes repairs to the Salak–Kuta Liang road, with safety and construction quality concerns highlighted because the route runs beside a steep slope.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:39 WIB
Shares Used as Loan Collateral: What Banks Should Consider to Manage Lending Risks
The Indonesian Banking Development Institute (LPPI) says listed shares can be used as supplementary collateral for corporate loans, but banks must assess market value, liquidity and the borrower’s ability to repay. LPPI’s Trioksa Siahaan says share-price declines alone do not necessarily indicate deteriorating credit quality, while collateral coverage and the ability to liquidate large holdings should be monitored.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:39 WIB
People’s Schools expand access to education for children from vulnerable families
Katingan Deputy Regent Firdaus says the Integrated People’s School 1 is helping children from vulnerable families access education and improve their prospects. The school provides new facilities, laptops and three meals a day, while local officials hope it will contribute to reducing poverty and improving family welfare.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:38 WIB
Analyst Says Bali’s New Energy Project Will Benefit the Community
BP and Inpex have each acquired a 50 per cent participating interest in the Agung I and Agung II offshore exploration blocks near Bali, with a combined investment commitment of US$42.7 million. An energy economist says the partnership signals continued investor interest in Indonesia’s upstream sector, while any gas discovery could boost local revenues and help meet Bali’s electricity needs.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:37 WIB
ASDP-Owned Batumandi Ferry Catches Fire as It Approaches Merak Port
A fire broke out aboard ASDP Indonesia Ferry’s KMP Batumandi as it was manoeuvring to berth at Merak Port on Tuesday afternoon. All passengers and crew were evacuated, while a joint response involving port officials, Basarnas and police continued; the cause of the fire has not yet been established.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:35 WIB
Industry Minister Unveils Push to Revive Indonesia’s Shipbuilding Sector
Industry Minister M Sarmuji says Indonesia lags Vietnam in building large tankers and still imports some vessels, despite substantial domestic shipbuilding potential. The government is preparing a 2026–2030 roadmap to expand shipyard capacity, boost domestic content and technology, and reduce imports amid a sizeable market opportunity.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:34 WIB
Grand Dafam Braga Bandung Partners with SLB Negeri A Pajajaran
Grand Dafam Braga Bandung has partnered with Bandung’s SLB Negeri A Pajajaran to offer workplace placements for students with special needs, while also training hotel staff to serve guests with disabilities appropriately. The initiative aims to support inclusive education, build students’ workplace skills and independence, and improve accessibility and respectful service in the hospitality sector.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:33 WIB
ASDP Confirms Fire on KMP Batumandi Near Merak
ASDP Indonesia Ferry confirmed a fire broke out aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak as the vessel was approaching its berth at Merak Port. All passengers and crew were evacuated safely, while a joint response involving port officials, Basarnas and police continued; the cause of the fire remains unknown.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:33 WIB
Minister: Children Do Not Yet Understand the Risks of Online Violence
Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi says children’s growing internet use is not matched by their ability to recognise and respond to online violence. A 2024 national survey found children continue to face cyberbullying and non-contact sexual violence, as internet use among children rose from 49.59 per cent in 2020 to 73.90 per cent in 2024; the government has introduced regulations and a roadmap focused on prevention, response and collaboration.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:33 WIB
Karawang Receives ‘Very Good’ Award from Investment Minister
Karawang Regency has received a ‘very good’ rating from Indonesia’s Minister of Investment and Downstreaming for its one-stop integrated services and efforts to accelerate business licensing in 2026. The regency recorded Rp20.43 trillion in investment in the first half of the year, which officials hope will support jobs and local economic growth.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:33 WIB
Prabowo Summons Airlangga, Suahasil Nazara and BI Governor to the Palace
President Prabowo Subianto held a closed-door meeting with economic ministers, the National Economic Council and Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti at the presidential palace in Jakarta. The meeting’s agenda was not disclosed, while Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir separately briefed Prabowo on UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s recent visit to Indonesia.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:31 WIB
Pertamina Struggles to Crack Down on Subsidised Fuel Resellers in East Nusa Tenggara: Here’s Why
Pertamina says it has struggled to stop resellers repeatedly queuing for subsidised fuel in East Nusa Tenggara, citing the sellers’ financial dependence on the small profits to cover living costs and loan repayments. Fuel shortages have also been linked to delayed deliveries and a shift by non-subsidised fuel users to Pertalite, while Pertamina says the province’s 2026 quota increase was approved at just over 1% rather than the requested 5%.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:31 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Government See BKPM Record Rp 3,923.2 Trillion in Investment
Indonesia recorded Rp 3,923.2 trillion in investment during the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, accounting for 30.1% of the country’s investment requirement for 2025–2029 and supporting nearly 5.5 million jobs. Downstream-processing investment reached Rp 480 trillion in January–September 2026, while the government says new risk-based licensing rules are intended to reduce uncertainty and shorten permit processing times.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:30 WIB
Thanks to the Free Nutritious Meals Programme, the Share of Pupils Hungry at School Falls to 16 per cent
Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency says the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has reduced the share of pupils arriving at school hungry from more than 56 per cent to about 16 per cent, while reported fruit and protein consumption has also risen. The agency is piloting buffet-style meals and tightening oversight through kitchen CCTV and hygiene certification, as programme spending reached Rp153.2 trillion by 30 September 2026.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:30 WIB
Man Suspected of Stealing Wedding Ang Pao Box Faces Up to Seven Years in Prison
A 38-year-old man has been charged in Singapore over the alleged theft of a wedding gift box containing about S$1,500 (approximately Rp21 million) at Raffles Hotel. If convicted, he could face up to seven years in prison and a fine; police say CCTV footage helped identify him.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:30 WIB
PKS Calls for Reform of Indonesia’s Capital Market Governance
PKS president Almuzzammil Yusuf has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Indonesia’s capital market governance after market volatility unsettled investors and wiped more than Rp1,000 trillion from market capitalisation in less than a week. He said restoring public and investor confidence is essential, and urged the relevant authorities to improve transparency and strengthen the market’s foundations.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:30 WIB
Rocky Gerung Says He Will Remain Critical Despite Joining Presidential Advisory Council
Rocky Gerung says his appointment to President Prabowo Subianto’s Presidential Advisory Council will not blunt his criticism of government policy. He describes himself as representing the academic community and argues that independent, radical criticism is needed to challenge flaws within the system.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:29 WIB
National Investment Reaches Rp1,539.2 Trillion by September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, equivalent to 75.4% of its target, with the latest quarter contributing Rp528.7 trillion and the period generating more than 2.19 million jobs. Foreign investment slightly exceeded domestic investment, while activity outside Java accounted for just over half of total inflows; downstreaming investment reached Rp480 trillion, concentrated largely outside Java and in the mineral sector.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:29 WIB
Banjarbakula Water Management Agency Increases Raw Water Supply Capacity to 450 Litres per Second
The Banjarbakula Drinking Water Management Agency has added two pumps to raise emergency raw water capacity from 150 to about 450 litres per second, helping safeguard supply if its transmission pipeline leaks again. It has also proposed a 500-litre-per-second water abstraction permit and will coordinate with the relevant river basin agency and other authorities before implementing the plans.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:29 WIB
Apple to Launch New Devices on 28 October 2026
Apple is planning a media event in Los Angeles on 28 October, reportedly focused on new Mac and iPad products. Expected announcements include touchscreen MacBooks, M6-powered Macs and an OLED iPad mini, alongside updates to the MacBook Pro and iMac ranges.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:28 WIB
Social Affairs Ministry Integrates Welfare Assistance with Empowerment for School for the People Parents
Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf says social assistance should be linked to economic empowerment, using the School for the People programme to support families towards greater self-reliance. A pilot in Greater Bandung is training 100 parents and guardians to develop microbusinesses, with officials aiming to extend the approach to tens of thousands of families and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:27 WIB
HIPMI Praises Economic and Investment Performance Under Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years
Indonesia’s young entrepreneurs’ association, HIPMI, has praised economic growth, investment, downstream processing and poverty reduction during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. It cited Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment and 5.48 million jobs created, while calling for regulatory certainty, easier financing and stronger local-business participation to sustain growth.
Tue, 20 Oct 2026, 17:26 WIB
Water Hyacinth Initiative Earns PLN IP UBP Saguling an ESG Award 2026
PT PLN Indonesia Power’s UBP Saguling has received the Community Empowerment & Economic Impact award at Republika’s ESG Now Awards 2026 for its programme turning water hyacinth from the Saguling Reservoir into craft products. The initiative is intended to boost local incomes while helping protect the reservoir, illustrating how the company combines environmental management with community economic empowerment.