Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 October 2026

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Prabowo marks two years in office amid economic gains and mounting challenges

President Prabowo Subianto’s administration points to economic growth and advances in food and energy security, but costly welfare commitments—including a proposed tuition-fee abolition and the free meals programme—are raising questions about fiscal sustainability. As Indonesia faces market confidence concerns, cabinet changes, political manoeuvring ahead of the 2029 election and worsening haze from fires, Prabowo must turn his promises into lasting results while maintaining economic and political stability.

Bali Tourism Agency Says Fuel Shortages Have Not Affected Visitor Numbers

Bali’s tourism agency says a recent week of fuel shortages has not caused a significant fall in domestic or international visitor numbers, with daily foreign arrivals in mid-October remaining in line with September’s average. Some tour operators adjusted itineraries because of distribution problems, but no official complaints or cancellations have been reported; the agency has urged Pertamina to prevent a recurrence.

Indonesia reports gains in poverty reduction and social welfare

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf reported increases in disability and elderly rehabilitation services, families moving out of poverty, and support provided through housing and social assistance programmes in 2026. The ministry also expanded verification of beneficiary data and delivered emergency and post-disaster aid, underscoring the scale of the government’s welfare efforts.

Data Centres to Be Regulated, Foreign Investors Asked to Partner with Local Businesses

The government plans to regulate data-centre investment and wants foreign investors to collaborate with national and regional businesses so that local communities share in the benefits. Ministers also called for data-centre and AI Factory development to be coordinated with supporting infrastructure, particularly energy supply, given the facilities’ substantial resource requirements.

Rosan: Downstreaming Is No Longer Just About Building Smelters

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani says Indonesia’s mineral downstreaming strategy is shifting beyond smelter construction towards integrated industrial ecosystems spanning mining, processing, manufacturing, clean energy and technology. Downstreaming accounts for around 30 per cent of national investment, valued at US$61 billion, while projects including battery production and MIND ID’s mineral value chains aim to capture more value domestically.

SKK Migas: Fiscal Incentives Can Turn Potential into Production

SKK Migas says attractive fiscal incentives, alongside legal and investment certainty, are needed to convert Indonesia’s oil and gas resources into production and strengthen the sector’s competitiveness. The government has identified hydrocarbon prospects across 128 sedimentary basins, but only 20 have so far been developed to support national output.

Asset Recovery Agency Hands Over Proceeds from Henry Surya Asset Sale to Indosurya Victims

Indonesia’s Asset Recovery Agency has handed over Rp229.43 billion from the execution and sale of assets belonging to Henry Surya, founder of the Indosurya savings and loans cooperative, to victims of its fund embezzlement case. More than 3,000 victims reportedly suffered losses exceeding Rp8 trillion; the agency says it will continue tracing assets for further repayments, with this first distribution amounting to about 2.3 per cent of victims’ losses.

Bandung Regency allocates Rp334 billion to repair agricultural irrigation

Bandung Regency has approved Rp334 billion for irrigation construction and repairs, from a total proposal of Rp947 billion, to support farming and its 2026 rice production target. The local government projects output of 480,000–520,000 tonnes and is also protecting 22,000 hectares of sustainable agricultural land and existing paddy fields.

OJK Urges Investors Not to Panic-Sell Shares Amid MSCI-Driven Market Turmoil

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged investors not to sell shares out of panic following a sudden MSCI announcement that unsettled the market. The regulator says trading and market oversight remain normal, and has held briefings to ensure investors receive verified information and help restore orderly trading.

With BRI’s KUR Financing, Comring Sawargi Creates Jobs for Garut Residents

Garut-based snack producer PD Comring Sawargi has used a BRI People’s Business Credit (KUR) loan to increase production, expand sales and involve 12 local residents in its operations. The story reflects wider findings from a BRI Research Institute survey, in which 66.2% of surveyed borrowers reported higher business turnover.

Video: Kopi Kenangan Targets 4,000 Stores and Aims to Become ASEAN’s Largest Coffee Chain

Kopi Kenangan says it aims to expand to 4,000 outlets by 2030, including a push into eastern Indonesia, with the goal of becoming ASEAN’s largest coffee chain. Its founder says the business supports the domestic economy through employment, local sourcing and annual tax payments of up to Rp372 billion.

UNM Team Promotes Smart Village Platform in Cimulang, Bogor

A team from Universitas Nusa Mandiri has introduced a Smart Village website in Cimulang, Bogor, designed to make village information more accessible and improve transparent public services. The platform is also intended to help community social workers record and respond to residents’ welfare concerns, with plans to add data on vulnerable groups and integrate Posyandu records.

Rupiah strengthens to Rp17,992 after US lifts sanctions on Russia

The rupiah gained 0.30 per cent to close at Rp17,992 per US dollar, with analyst Ibrahim Assuabi attributing the move partly to Washington’s withdrawal of sanctions and tariffs related to Russia. He also cited continuing regional conflict, elevated oil prices and Federal Reserve policy uncertainty as factors influencing the currency, while Bank Indonesia’s JISDOR rate strengthened to Rp18,006 per dollar.

Fadli Zon Urges Nusantara Scripts to Find a Place in the Global Digital Space

Culture Minister Fadli Zon says Indonesia’s traditional scripts and oral traditions must be preserved by integrating them into the global digital infrastructure. The launch of internationalised domain names using Balinese, Javanese and Pegon scripts at ICANN87 in Bali marks a step towards wider digital representation, alongside efforts to document, teach and sustain endangered languages and writing systems.

Trenggono: Recognition of Crew Certification Will Expand Job Opportunities

Indonesia and Portugal have completed a mutual recognition agreement covering fishing vessel crew certificates, a move intended to expand Indonesian workers’ access to jobs in Portugal and strengthen maritime cooperation. The agreement recognises qualifications aligned with international standards, while technical arrangements for verification and endorsement remain to be agreed.

Indonesia haze disrupts more than 2,600 flights and forces 14 cancellations on Singapore routes

Haze from Indonesian forest fires affected 2,604 domestic flights between 11 August and 19 October, with 1,420 cancelled or postponed and 1,129 delayed. Fourteen international services between Singapore and Pontianak or Palembang were also cancelled, as authorities stressed that operational decisions would prioritise safety amid poor visibility.

Supreme Court Rejects Prosecutors’ Appeal Against Acquittal of West Lombok Land Office Official

The Supreme Court has rejected prosecutors’ cassation appeal against the acquittal of Baiq Mahyuniati, a West Lombok Land Office official charged in a corruption case involving the sale of local government land. Her lawyer said the ruling vindicates the defence, while two other defendants in the case were convicted and sentenced to prison terms.

Tourism Ministry and BPOM step up food safety in tourism villages

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) are expanding cooperation to strengthen food safety in tourism villages through the agency’s Safe Food Village programme and the ministry’s Tourism Village programme. The initiative aims to protect visitors, improve service quality and destination competitiveness, and help local communities produce higher-value food products.

Food Affairs Minister Outlines Four Steps to Improve Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Prabowo-Gibran’s Second Year

Food Affairs Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan has set out four measures to improve the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, focusing on expanding access in remote areas, tightening kitchen standards and oversight, improving food safety, and correcting beneficiary data. The government is activating new service units in underserved regions and reviewing operational eligibility, while piloting buffet-style meals at 66 sites across 10 provinces.

Protecting Children from the Trap of the ‘24-Hour Online Friend’ in the Digital Space

As Indonesia marks two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, digital expert Enda Nasution warns that children face risks from misleading AI-generated information, deepfakes and emotional dependence on chatbots. He says families, schools, government and technology companies must work together to strengthen digital literacy, protect children’s privacy and build safety into services, alongside risk-based rules such as PP TUNAS.

Under the Welcome Monument, Concerns Over the Climate Crisis and Cost-of-Living Pressures Are Voiced

Greenpeace Indonesia activists staged a banner protest at Jakarta’s Welcome Monument, linking the climate crisis to rising living costs and worsening disasters. They urged the government to take concrete action, arguing that environmental impacts also threaten livelihoods, food availability and household welfare.

Canadian Business Sentiment Weakens as Prices Rise – RBC

Canadian business sentiment weakened sharply after trade talks with the United States failed on 21 August, with export and investment expectations deteriorating and inflation expectations climbing. RBC said half of surveyed firms plan to pass higher costs on to customers, while consumers’ long-term inflation expectations also rose significantly, partly amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Student Protest Outside Yogyakarta Regional Council Turns Heated

A protest by students outside the Yogyakarta Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD DIY) became tense after demonstrators tried twice to enter the building and clashed with police. The Yogyakarta Melawan group continued its protest while other student groups held separate speeches; police later pushed the crowd back after bottles were thrown and several demonstrators fell.

Six Transjakarta Routes Shortened or Diverted Amid Demonstrations

Transjakarta has adjusted six routes because of demonstrations near Monas and Jakarta City Hall, shortening three routes and diverting three others. Several stops are temporarily not being served, with operations to be adjusted as traffic conditions develop.

Industry Minister: SMEs Have More Time to Prepare for Mandatory Halal Certification

The government has extended the phased introduction of halal certification requirements for several products and services, in some cases until October 2028, giving small and medium-sized industries more time to prepare. The changes will be made through an amendment to Government Regulation No. 42/2024 and take account of business readiness and the maturity of Indonesia’s halal ecosystem.

If Your Prayers Have Not Been Answered, a Sufi Scholar Offers This Advice

Sufi scholar Sheikh Ibn Ata’illah’s Al-Hikam urges Muslims not to assume that God is delaying a blessing when their prayers or wishes remain unfulfilled. Instead, it counsels self-reflection, greater obedience and patience, trusting that God will provide what is best at the appointed time.

Thousand Islands Regency steps up waste sorting from source to disposal

The Thousand Islands Regency administration is expanding public education and training on waste sorting, with Pramuka Island intended to serve as a zero-waste prototype. Officials say sustained sorting at household level, alongside awareness of the resale value of recyclable materials, is essential to effective downstream processing and community participation.

Telkom Sets Business Strategy Through to 2030, Prioritising Data Centre and AI Investment

Telkom is aligning the strategies of its operating companies under a 2026–2030 group framework, with the aim of strengthening its digital business and clarifying each entity’s role. Selective investment will prioritise fibre networks, data-centre capacity to meet AI computing demand, and network modernisation, while applying strict capital-allocation discipline.

Lack of Signage Raises Safety Concerns as Rp 14.7bn Negara City Upgrade Project Sees Accidents

Residents say inadequate warning signs and construction materials left on the road have contributed to repeated crashes at the Rp 14.7 billion upgrade project in Negara, Jembrana. The publicly funded project has been granted a 21-day extension after delays in approving detailed designs, and is now due to finish on 9 November.

Airlangga Reveals Progress on Free Bank Account Scheme, Regulations in Preparation

The government is preparing regulations for automatically opening bank accounts for Indonesian citizens when they turn 17, linked to their national identity numbers and initially provided by state-owned BRI and BSI. Each account is expected to receive an administration-fee-free initial balance of Rp50,000 and could support direct distribution of government assistance and QRIS payments for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Puan Calls for Child Protection Policies to Be Reviewed Amid Rising Bullying Cases

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has called for a comprehensive review of child protection measures following the deaths of two children allegedly linked to bullying, including a 10-year-old child with Down syndrome in Surabaya. She urged improvements to prevention, accessible reporting, psychological support and rapid response services, particularly at local government level.

Metro Jakarta Policewomen Welcome Protesters with Banners and Human Dialogue

Metro Jaya Police adopted a human-centred approach to securing public demonstrations near the National Monument and Indonesia’s parliament in Jakarta, with policewomen greeting participants and engaging them in dialogue. Police officials said the approach was intended to respect the public’s right to express its views while ensuring the demonstrations and surrounding activities remained safe and orderly.

BGN Continues to Improve MBG Governance and Strengthen Discipline Among SPPG Civil Servants

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it is tightening oversight of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, including stricter discipline for civil servants and SPPG staff, real-time kitchen CCTV monitoring and food-safety requirements. It has temporarily closed 1,276 service units lacking hygiene and sanitation certificates; MBG spending had reached Rp153.2 trillion by 30 September 2026, as the government targets 72.4 million beneficiaries in 2027.

Saudi Arabia Intercepts Houthi Missile Headed for Riyadh

Saudi Arabia says it intercepted and destroyed a Houthi ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh, after residents and journalists reported explosions and civil defence issued a brief warning. The incident comes amid renewed Houthi attacks that have disrupted Saudi infrastructure and investment plans, as Yemen’s conflict escalates again.

iPhone Duo Battery Has a Total Capacity of 4,883 mAh

Apple’s EU energy label for the foldable iPhone Duo lists a total battery capacity of 4,883 mAh, apparently confirming earlier reports of two battery cells. The label also indicates up to 51 hours and 30 minutes of operation per charge cycle, with the battery designed to retain performance for at least 1,000 cycles under standard settings.

Prabowo Summons Economic Ministers, National Economic Council and Bank Indonesia to the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto convened senior economic officials, including Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti and members of the National Economic Council, for a limited meeting at the presidential palace in Jakarta. He also received a routine briefing from Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir on UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s recent visit to Indonesia.

Bareskrim names five suspects in Batam–Bintan blackout case

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named five suspects—four from PLN Batam and one contractor—in connection with a blackout that affected Batam and Bintan on 12 October 2026. Investigators say a monkey entering a substation caused a short circuit, while a de-energised fence and malfunctioning protection equipment allowed the fault to spread; estimated state losses total Rp57.3 billion.

Examining the Risks of Agentic AI

Agentic AI can autonomously plan and act, bringing productivity gains but also enabling cybercrime, fraud and supply-chain attacks at scale. The article argues that Indonesia should strengthen its forthcoming AI rules with immutable audit trails, verifiable agent identities and technically enforced human approval for high-impact actions, supported by blockchain and other safeguards.

ITB Patriot Expedition Team Helps Paser Transmigration Residents Turn Cassava into Mocaf

An Institut Teknologi Bandung team is training residents in Keladen, Paser, to process cassava into fermented mocaf flour, adding value to a crop previously sold raw for about Rp2,000 per kilogram. The initiative offers an alternative source of income after disease hit the community’s banana crop, and could also reduce reliance on wheat flour that is difficult to access locally.

Israeli Company Behind Spyware Attacks on Journalists, Tracking Millions of Internet Users

A Citizen Lab investigation says Israeli ad-tech firm Discover-Tech enabled targeted spyware attacks on journalists, including Al Jazeera staff, and facilitated the tracking of millions of internet users. The researchers describe its Controlium platform as a bridge between commercial advertising networks and private surveillance firms, and say the campaign marks the first publicly documented technical confirmation of spyware delivered through online ads without any user click.

Jakarta stocks gain 5.65% amid MSCI-related reform efforts

Jakarta stocks rose 5.65% to close at 5,278 as Indonesian authorities stepped up capital-market reforms to restore investor confidence after MSCI warned the country could be downgraded to standalone-market status. The IDX is considering excluding companies with highly concentrated share ownership from a new JCI calculation mechanism, while global markets remained cautious amid concerns over AI investment returns, borrowing costs and elevated oil prices.

Viral Video Shows TNI Soldier Assaulting Wife After She Catches Him Cheating in Central Kalimantan

The Indonesian Army says it is investigating a viral video that appears to show a soldier assaulting his wife after she confronted him over an alleged affair in Central Kalimantan. The soldier, identified as Pelda Syahrir, is being questioned, and the Army says any proven violation will be dealt with under the law and applicable regulations.

SKK Migas Admits Most of Indonesia’s Oil Fields Are Ageing

SKK Migas says most of Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas blocks are mature, making it harder to sustain output and meet the 2026 oil-lifting target of 610,000 barrels per day. It is relying on intensive drilling, new discoveries and more attractive fiscal incentives, alongside legal and investment certainty, to curb natural declines and draw investment into the sector.

Fourth Liangzhu Forum opens in Hangzhou to promote global heritage dialogue

The fourth Liangzhu Forum has opened in Hangzhou, bringing together hundreds of Chinese and international guests to discuss heritage protection, archaeological cooperation and the role of cultural sites in sustainable development. Since its launch in 2023, the forum has hosted more than 1,300 participants from 115 countries and regions, while Liangzhu’s cultural corridor links conservation with local industries and community wellbeing.

Housing Minister: Government Remains Committed to Delivering Decent Homes

Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait says the government is committed to providing affordable, decent housing and cites measures introduced under President Prabowo, including tax and building-permit exemptions for first-time low-income buyers and an expanded subsidised mortgage quota. Official data show the homeownership backlog fell from 9.64 million households in March 2025 to 9.29 million in March 2026.

Bulog Says Government Rice Stocks Reach 4.55 Million Tonnes

Bulog chief Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani said government rice stocks stood at 4.55 million tonnes in mid-October, down from 5.4 million tonnes in September after large distributions through food assistance and the SPHP price-stabilisation programme. He said supplies remain sufficient for around six months, while the government plans to add one million tonnes of newly packaged Beras Kita Medium to meet demand through March 2027 and prepare for El Niño and possible crop shortfalls.

After Being Blocked at Previous Protests, UI Student Executive Board Demonstrates Without University Jackets or a Command Structure

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) tested a more decentralised protest format at Tugu Tani in Jakarta, asking participants to arrive independently and not wear university jackets. Organisers said the approach was intended to reduce disruptions and stress after previous demonstrations were obstructed, while enabling a more open gathering around specific social and civic issues.

Judicial Ethics Panel Dismisses Judge INS with Pension Rights for 129 Days’ Unauthorised Absence

Indonesia’s Judicial Honour Council has permanently dismissed Judge INS, while granting pension rights, after finding that he was absent from work for 129 working days without valid reason. The panel cited repeated disciplinary sanctions and failure to comply with orders, but noted that his record did not involve case handling, bribery or abuse of office.

International body praises South Kalimantan Police for protecting pangolins

The Union of Czech and Slovak Zoological Gardens has recognised South Kalimantan Police for enforcing the law against the illegal trade in pangolin scales. The award follows seizures totalling about 121.9kg of Sunda pangolin scales and two protected hornbill beaks, highlighting international recognition of efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.

Pela Mampang Wins South Jakarta’s 2026 TB Alert Village Award

RW 05 in Pela Mampang has been named South Jakarta’s top TB Alert Village, part of a city-wide effort to accelerate tuberculosis elimination by 2030. South Jakarta now has 260 such villages, with officials calling for stronger cross-sector cooperation, early detection and support for patients’ treatment.

Central Java Government, BNPB and Military Join Efforts to Tackle Fires on Mount Lawu and Mount Sumbing

Central Java is stepping up efforts to control forest and land fires on Mount Lawu and Mount Sumbing, with two military helicopters set to support BNPB’s aerial water-bombing operations. The Lawu fire has affected about 230 hectares, while 152 hikers have been evacuated from Sumbing; authorities are also investigating possible deliberate ignition and urging the public to take precautions.

JCI Surges More Than 3% as China Retaliates Against US, Targeting Elon Musk’s Revenue Source

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose more than 3% in the first trading session, buoyed by share buyback announcements and commitments from market regulators and the government to address problems in the capital market. Separately, China proposed export restrictions on 12 technologies used to make solar-panel equipment, a move that could hinder US companies, including Tesla, from expanding domestic production.

Volunteers Discuss Forest and Land Firefighting Challenges with Forestry Minister

Volunteers told Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni about operational difficulties they face tackling forest and land fires, including limited support for their running costs and the need for closer coordination. The minister asked officials to follow up on a reported lack of assistance from nearby companies, while participants stressed that the immediate priority is containing the fires and continuing wildlife rescue efforts.

Two Years of Government: Youth and Sports Ministry Records Sporting Achievements

Indonesia’s Youth and Sports Ministry says it has cut ministerial regulations from 191 to four while reporting international sporting results during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. It also highlighted plans for a national youth blueprint and character-development programme ahead of the centenary of the Youth Pledge in 2028.

Bandung Allocates Rp40 Billion in Geothermal Production Bonuses to 56 Villages

Bandung Regency has allocated Rp40 billion in geothermal production bonuses for 56 villages, with 60 per cent earmarked for infrastructure and improvements to basic services. The funding will be channelled directly to village governments under a special financial assistance scheme, with a new regent’s regulation to govern its use and implementation expected to be completed by the end of December 2026.

MUI Calls for Boycott of Habib Alwi Assegaf After Sermon Goes Viral

Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) has urged Muslims not to invite or attend sermons by Habib Alwi bin Abdurrahman Assegaf after a viral video showed remarks widely criticised as demeaning to women. MUI deputy chairman KH M Cholil Nafis said the comments were inconsistent with the conduct expected of a preacher and risked damaging the image of Islamic preaching and public morality.

BRI Ready to Buy Back Shares Again: Here’s Why

Bank Rakyat Indonesia says it is prepared to buy back shares, arguing that its market price does not fully reflect the bank’s fundamentals and long-term prospects. The plan comes amid significant market volatility and regulatory permission for listed companies to conduct buybacks without prior shareholder approval; investors have also pointed to low valuations and potentially attractive dividends across the banking sector.

IHSG Volatile as OJK Chief Says She Has Not Rested Since Friday

OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says capital-market reforms are continuing after the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) plunged following an MSCI announcement threatening to downgrade Indonesia to standalone-market status. The index rebounded 5.27% on Tuesday to 5,259.76, although it remained down 40.47% year to date.

Telkom Strengthens Its Role as Strategic Holding, Sets Business Direction Through to 2030

Telkom has aligned the business portfolio strategies of its operating companies through 2030, positioning itself as a strategic holding company under its TLKM 30 transformation. Its 2026–2030 framework prioritises coordinated decision-making, collaboration across subsidiaries and disciplined investment in connectivity, data centres and network modernisation to support long-term digital growth.

Palembang Airport Reports Four Flights Affected by Haze

Four flights at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport were affected after smoke haze reduced visibility to 450 metres on Tuesday morning, including two departures that were delayed. Visibility improved to 1,500 metres by 11.31am, while airport officials continued monitoring conditions and prioritising flight safety.

Indonesia’s Investment Reaches Rp1,539.2 Trillion by September 2026

Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, equal to 75.4% of the government’s annual target and supporting 2,194,496 jobs. Downstreaming accounted for Rp480 trillion, while investment was slightly higher outside Java, reflecting the continuing emphasis on industrial development and regional distribution.

Jakarta Composite Index Soars 5.65% to 5,278.89 as Trading Value Tops Rp25 Trillion

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) surged 5.65% to close at 5,278.89, its intraday high, with share transactions worth Rp25.1 trillion. Investors are watching market reforms by the Indonesia Stock Exchange, the government and Danantara following MSCI’s warning that Indonesia could be downgraded from Emerging Market to Standalone Market over concerns including ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading.

Qatar: Iran-US Negotiations Continue Amid Regional Tensions

Qatar says Iran and the United States remain in communication as negotiations continue, despite worsening regional tensions and the failure of a previous ceasefire effort. Doha warns that unchecked escalation could lead to a wider regional war and urges conflicts to be de-escalated in parallel.

West Kalimantan MSMEs Generate Rp113.51 Million at ISEF 2026

Seven Bank Indonesia-supported MSMEs from West Kalimantan recorded Rp113.51 million in sales at the 13th Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival in Jakarta, with several businesses securing follow-on orders. The event also generated substantial national sales and sharia financing and trade commitments, highlighting efforts to link Islamic finance with productive economic activity.

UI Student Executive Board Takes to the Streets, Calls for Forest and Land Fires to Be Declared a National Disaster

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI), joined by other student groups and civil society, staged a demonstration in Jakarta and presented five demands. These include declaring forest and land fires a national disaster, reforming economic governance, protecting civic space, combating corruption, and reducing education costs.

SMPN 294 Jakarta Pupils Turn Inorganic Waste into Handicrafts with Economic Value

Pupils and teachers at SMPN 294 Jakarta are turning sorted inorganic waste from the school into handicrafts, including colourful, patterned key rings. The initiative supports Jakarta’s waste-sorting and processing directive while promoting environmental awareness, creativity and entrepreneurial skills among pupils.

Dealer Arrested in Komodo National Park After Using Meth Since 2016

Police have arrested a 33-year-old fisherman accused of dealing methamphetamine in Komodo National Park, seizing 16 packets weighing 2.96 grams and drug-use equipment. Investigators say he smuggled supplies from Sape, West Nusa Tenggara, aboard ferry boats and are pursuing the alleged supplier in Bima.

Agriculture Ministry strengthens food self-sufficiency through modernisation

Indonesia’s Agriculture Ministry plans to distribute 86,023 units of modern agricultural machinery in 2026 to raise productivity and reinforce sustainable food self-sufficiency. The ministry says mechanisation can reduce labour and production costs, while improving the speed and efficiency of cultivation, though the equipment must be matched to farmers’ needs and local conditions.

Fan-Style Air Conditioners Sell Fast as Glodok Traders Welcome Rush of Buyers

Extreme heat across Greater Jakarta has driven a surge in demand for fans, air coolers and air conditioners at Glodok’s electronics shops. Traders say limited AC supplies and higher prices have not deterred customers seeking more effective ways to cool homes and workplaces.

UNM Graduate Turns Thesis Project into Successful IT Business

Universitas Nusa Mandiri graduate Samson Wahyudi developed the system he created for his thesis into an IT development business serving clients across much of Indonesia. The university presents his experience as evidence that practical coursework can lead to entrepreneurship and urges students to use academic projects as a springboard for their careers.

Food Security Coordinating Minister outlines four steps to improve free nutritious meals programme during Prabowo-Gibran government’s second year

Food Security Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan has set out four measures to expand the Free Nutritious Meals programme, strengthen food safety and improve oversight as the Prabowo-Gibran administration enters its second year. The plans include opening more service units in remote areas, tightening kitchen standards, piloting buffet-style meals and verifying beneficiary data, alongside action against alleged irregularities.

Two Years into the Prabowo-Gibran Government, BGN Continues to Refine MBG Beneficiaries

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it is redirecting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme towards people most in need, including communities in remote and high-stunting areas. It has stepped up food-safety oversight, piloted buffet-style meals and reported MBG spending of Rp153.2 trillion by 30 September 2026, while the government aims to reach 72.4 million beneficiaries in 2027.

IHGMA Forecasts Hotel Occupancy to Rise on the Three Gilis in Late 2026

Hotel and villa bookings on Lombok’s three Gili islands are expected to recover towards the end of the year, after a seasonal dip in November and early December. IHGMA’s West Nusa Tenggara chair says operators are targeting 75 per cent occupancy and that major events such as MotoGP generate additional visitor stays after the races, supporting substantial local spending.

Trump delays approval of Patriot missile transfer to Ukraine

The Trump administration has delayed approving a transfer of Patriot interceptor missiles needed by Ukraine to counter Russian missile and drone attacks. The reported hold-up raises concerns over Ukraine’s air-defence ammunition stocks, although it does not necessarily signal a wider end to US support.

Amid Capital Market Volatility, BTN Examines Share Buyback Option

Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is assessing a possible share buyback, weighing market conditions against its financial position, capital adequacy and business funding needs. The state-owned lender says it remains focused on strengthening its fundamentals and expanding housing finance, while any decision will comply with disclosure and regulatory requirements.

BYD Denza B8 Seen Driving on Three Wheels on Public Road

A video circulating on Chinese social media appears to show a BYD Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8, marketed abroad as the Denza B8, travelling on a public road with one wheel raised and fitted with a metal locking device. The footage evokes BYD’s earlier demonstration of its DiSus-P Ultra hydraulic suspension, but the vehicle’s speed and the circumstances of the road use have not been independently verified, raising potential safety concerns.

To Ease the Burden on Bantargebang Waste Facility, Pondok Pinang Residents Sort Waste at Home

Bank Sampah Cempaka in Pondok Pinang collects more than one tonne of non-organic waste each month as residents sort rubbish at home, helping reduce the volume sent to Bantargebang. The initiative supports Jakarta’s policy that, from 1 August 2026, the facility will gradually accept only residual waste, although the bank faces a shortage of storage space.

Chery prepares to launch Yamaha-style electric moped priced at Rp5 million

Chery has received approval to manufacture an electric moped resembling Yamaha models, with comparable low-cost versions in China typically selling for about 2,000 yuan (Rp5 million). The move may give the carmaker a foothold in the two-wheeler market and help prepare production capacity for more advanced electric motorcycles, including models under its Cinnox brand.

Industry Minister Says Vietnam Exports Tankers: What About Indonesia?

Industry Minister M Sarmuji says the difficulty of sourcing large vessels points to an opportunity for Indonesia’s shipyards, even as the country still imports tankers from Vietnam. Industry data show ship and floating-structure imports exceeded exports from 2022 to June 2026, while shipbuilders are urging stronger domestic orders and incentives to expand local production.

IHSG Plunges as OJK Highlights Investment Risks for Life Insurers

The OJK and the Indonesian Insurance Council have urged insurers to tighten risk controls after market volatility linked to MSCI’s consultation on Indonesia’s market classification sent the IHSG down sharply. OJK stress tests indicate that life insurers face greater exposure because of their larger shareholdings, prompting calls for firms to test their portfolios independently and maintain sufficient liquidity to pay policyholder claims.

Indonesian stocks rebound 1.7% after three-day sell-off below 4,900

The Jakarta Composite Index rebounded 1.7% to above 5,000 after a three-day sell-off, as investors weighed new IDX transparency measures, tighter trading limits and possible share buybacks. Analysts said the reforms could help address MSCI concerns but may fuel short-term volatility, while the index’s composition will become more sensitive to major banking stocks if high-shareholding-concentration stocks are excluded.

Six Transjakarta Routes Diverted Amid Protests in Central Jakarta: Here Are the Details

Transjakarta modified six routes in Central Jakarta from 4pm on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, because of demonstrations near Monas and Jakarta City Hall. The operator advised passengers to check its app and official social media for updated travel information; the article lists three of the affected routes and their shortened services.

152 Hikers Evacuated During Mount Sumbing Fire

All 152 registered hikers on Mount Sumbing were safely evacuated as a forest and land fire continued to burn in the area. Wonosobo police said the evacuation involved a multi-agency team, while hiking routes were closed and emergency coordination measures remained in place.

UI Encourages Young People to Make Batik Part of Their Lifestyle

The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Indonesia and the Depok City Government are working to make Depok batik more than a cultural heritage, positioning it as part of young people’s identity and everyday style. Their campus event brought together academics, officials, batik artisans, small businesses and students to foster new ways of connecting local traditions with younger generations amid global and digital influences.

Home Affairs Ministry ready to facilitate local regulations on AEDs in public spaces

The Home Affairs Ministry says it is ready to help local governments draft regulations requiring Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces, as part of efforts to improve emergency preparedness. Health Ministry data indicate that prompt defibrillation could raise survival chances after sudden cardiac arrest, while survival odds fall with every minute without assistance.

Central Java Government Intensifies Efforts to Extinguish Forest Fires on Mount Lawu and Mount Sumbing

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi says the response to fires on Mount Lawu has been stepped up after Karanganyar regency declared an emergency, with two military helicopters to be operated by the National Disaster Management Agency. Fires have affected about 230 hectares on Mount Lawu, while 152 hikers have been evacuated from Mount Sumbing; authorities are investigating the causes and urging the public to avoid activities that could ignite fires.

Social Affairs Ministry to Provide Training for Natuna People’s School Graduates

The Social Affairs Ministry is offering vocational training to graduates of Natuna’s Integrated People’s School, alongside the option of pursuing higher education, with costs covered by the state. The school also provides free education and boarding, while graduates progressing to Garuda schools must meet an academic achievement requirement.

Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Dismisses Rumours of Rift with Regent

Gunungkidul Deputy Regent Joko Parwoto has denied claims by the local NasDem Party that his relationship with Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih is strained, saying they communicate well and have no problems. NasDem’s district chair, Suharno, had cited their limited public appearances together and the deputy regent’s absence from events marking Gunungkidul’s 196th anniversary as signs of discord.

Hajj Pilgrims to Begin Arriving at Accommodation on 10 April 2027

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has set the schedule for the 1448 Hijri/2027 Hajj, with pilgrims due to enter accommodation on 10 April and the first departures to Saudi Arabia beginning the following day. The 30-day departure and return operations are divided into two 15-day waves, while pilgrims are expected to spend an average of 38–40 days in Saudi Arabia.

Komdigi Again Promises to Cut the Burden on Telkomsel, Indosat and XLSmart

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry is reviewing telecommunications deregulation, with regulatory costs currently estimated at 13–14% of mobile operators’ revenue. The proposals include shared infrastructure, more affordable spectrum fees and public-private partnerships, alongside targets for 100 Mbps broadband and expanded 5G coverage by 2029.

BNPB and Army Chief Step Up Firefighting Efforts in Central Kalimantan

Indonesia’s disaster agency and Army chief have intensified a coordinated response to forest and land fires in Pulang Pisau, Central Kalimantan, involving government agencies, security forces and technical teams. As of 13 October, operations had covered more than 521 hectares across peatland and mineral-soil areas, with water bombing and weather modification among the measures deployed.

From Production to Irrigation: Food-Sector Achievements in Prabowo-Gibran’s Two Years

Indonesia recorded higher rice and maize production in 2025, while domestic rice procurement exceeded its 2026 target and government rice reserves stood at about 4.6 million tonnes. The administration has supported the sector through guaranteed farm-gate prices, irrigation works, land development and digital tools, while continuing to face challenges including weather risks, distribution and consumer affordability.

Iranian President Firmly Rejects Imposing Demands Through Force

President Masoud Pezeshkian told Russia’s foreign minister that Tehran would not accept other countries imposing their demands through force or pressure. The meeting also highlighted Iran’s readiness for regional dialogue and the deepening political and economic ties between Iran and Russia amid US sanctions.

Video: Kopi Kenangan Drives Indonesia’s Economy, Creates 10,000 Jobs

Kopi Kenangan says it operates more than 1,200 outlets across Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore and recorded gross revenue of Rp3.7 trillion between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026. The company says its expansion supports more than 10,000 jobs and local suppliers, including through Rp1.83 trillion in spending on coffee and palm sugar and annual tax payments of Rp372.1 billion.

Jakarta Information Commission: 375 Public Bodies Fail to Take Part in Information Transparency Evaluation

Jakarta’s Information Commission says 375 of 1,010 public bodies did not register or complete the self-assessment questionnaire for its 2026 public information transparency evaluation. Those bodies cannot proceed to verification, public testing and presentations, while the results will be reported to the Jakarta Governor and Regional House of Representatives to help assess implementation of transparency requirements.

Investment Realisation Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion by Q3, Meeting 75% of 2026 Target

Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, up 7.3% year on year and equivalent to 75.4% of its annual target. Foreign investment slightly exceeded domestic investment, while downstream processing accounted for Rp480 trillion and investment activity supported nearly 2.2 million jobs.

NTU Singapore Partners to Develop AI- and 6G-Based Positioning Technology

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore is partnering with Ericsson and Sweden’s KTH Royal Institute of Technology to develop AI- and 6G-based positioning technology. The initiative, due to begin in November 2026, aims to improve the accuracy and reliability of tracking robots, drones and other autonomous systems in challenging indoor and outdoor environments, with potential uses across sectors including healthcare, logistics and emergency response.

Protest Near Monas Leads to Shortened and Diverted Routes for Six TransJakarta Services

TransJakarta has shortened or diverted six routes following a public demonstration near the National Monument (Monas) and Jakarta City Hall. Some stops are temporarily not being served, and the operator says services will be adjusted according to traffic conditions.

Attorney General’s Asset Recovery Agency Distributes Rp229.4bn in First Compensation Payment to Indosurya Victims

The Attorney General’s Asset Recovery Agency has distributed Rp229.4 billion from auctioned assets belonging to convicted Indosurya Savings and Loans Cooperative fraudster Henry Surya, as the first compensation payment to victims. The 3,317 verified claimants are to receive payments proportionate to their losses, which total Rp8.06 trillion; prosecutors say they are continuing to trace and auction assets for further distributions.

Four Seaplanes Set to Land at Batujai Dam for NTB Anniversary

West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is aiming for four seaplanes operated by Aman Air to make their first landing at Batujai Dam on 17 December 2026, as an anniversary milestone. Operational preparations continue, but approvals from the transport and public works ministries—including permits to use the water area—are still being processed; the proposed route also includes Sire Beach.

Mount Sumbing Wildfire Prompts Full Closure of Hiking Routes

A forest and land fire has broken out on Mount Sumbing in Wonosobo, prompting authorities to close all hiking routes while they monitor the risk of the blaze spreading into Temanggung. Dry vegetation and strong winds are heightening the threat, and joint teams and volunteers are working to contain the fire and protect surrounding areas.

Former Trade Minister Alleges Foreign Pressure on MSCI; OJK Chief Responds

OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator will focus on continuing capital-market reforms after former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi alleged that foreign institutions were pressuring MSCI to downgrade Indonesia’s market classification. Lutfi’s claims, including alleged involvement by Singapore-based investors, remain unverified; MSCI’s decision will depend on its methodology and assessment of market accessibility and investability.

Foreign Minister Monitors Indonesians’ Safety in France and Other European Countries After Riots

Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir says the government is monitoring Indonesians in France and other European countries following protests over rising living costs that escalated into unrest. Indonesia’s embassy in Paris says no Indonesians have been involved and has urged citizens to avoid crowds, follow local authorities’ updates and adjust travel plans as needed.

Prosecutors Receive Investigation Notice in Grand Polonia Medan House Explosion Case

Medan prosecutors have received a formal notice that police have opened an investigation into the deadly explosion at a luxury home in the Grand Polonia housing complex, with one suspect, Iqbal, named. The case file remains incomplete; the blast, suspected to have been caused by a gas leak, killed three people and injured four others.

Foundations Give Way, Two Homes on Klungkung Riverbank Collapse

Two homes in Klungkung, Bali, collapsed after their riverbank foundations gave way, causing an estimated Rp95 million in damage; both properties were unoccupied at the time. The owners have sought explanations from the housing developer and the Bali-Penida River Basin Authority, while officials say the precise cause remains under technical investigation and any rebuilding support will depend on compliance with river setback rules.

Hermanto Tanoko’s Son Buys Rp2.2 Billion Worth of Avia Shares

Robert Christian Tanoko, a director of paint maker PT Avia Avian, bought 6.9 million ordinary shares in the company in four transactions on 16 October 2026, for a total of about Rp2.22 billion. The purchase raised his stake from 2.3093% to 2.3205%.

Not Just Eggs and Fish: Snails Now Considered for Stunting Prevention

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions is exploring locally available animal-protein sources to address malnutrition and stunting in underserved areas. In West Sumba, children have responded positively to snail dishes, despite snails not being part of the local traditional diet.

Danantara attracts strong interest in waste-to-energy financing, naming 34 prospective lenders

Danantara Investment Management and its subsidiary Denera have identified 34 domestic and international financial institutions as prospective lenders for Indonesia’s waste-to-energy programme, with indicative financing interest exceeding three times estimated debt needs. The panel is an early-stage step to assess funding options; any financing remains subject to project due diligence and each lender’s credit approval.

Trump Uses French Riots as Midterm Election Campaign Material in the US

Donald Trump cited violent protests in France during a Kansas rally for Republican Senator Roger Marshall, warning that similar unrest could occur in the United States if Republicans lose the midterm elections. His comments come as Republicans face voter dissatisfaction over the Iran war and rising prices while fighting to retain control of Congress.

Washington delays delivery of Patriot missiles to Ukraine

The US has yet to approve the transfer of Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine, despite reports that some could be diverted from countries friendly to Kyiv. The delay comes amid growing tensions between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, as Ukraine warns its stock of interceptors has dwindled to just a few.

Five Transjakarta Routes Skip City Hall Stop Amid Protest

Five Transjakarta routes will not stop at the City Hall bus stop, while two routes will also bypass Monas stops, due to a public demonstration near Monas and Jakarta City Hall. The operator said other routes remain in normal service, with operations subject to further adjustment depending on traffic conditions.

ORI: Strengthening Agrarian Oversight Requires Preventing Maladministration

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia says oversight of agrarian services should focus on preventing maladministration, not merely investigating complaints. Although land offices in Banten received a ‘Good’ rating in the 2025 assessment, the Ombudsman logged 62 agrarian complaints in the province from January to September 2026, underscoring persistent concerns over service speed, transparency, land disputes and illegal charges.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Golkar Says Government Is on the Right Track

Golkar Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji says the Prabowo-Gibran administration has shifted development towards a people-centred approach, citing programmes such as free nutritious meals, free health checks and Sekolah Rakyat. He acknowledges that the change may unsettle some, but says Indonesia’s growth data and the time needed for policies to take effect support Golkar’s view that the government is moving in the right direction.

Bank BSN offers home loans with a 1% deposit and terms of up to 40 years

Bank Syariah Nasional is offering subsidised home financing with a deposit from 1% and repayment terms of up to 40 years, aiming to help young workers buy their first home. Its mortgage portfolio stood at Rp58.9 trillion at the end of September 2026, including a 24.8% share of national FLPP subsidised mortgage disbursements.

Fadli aims to enjoy himself after preserving Asian Para Games gold tradition

Indonesian para-cyclist Muhammad Fadli Imammuddin won gold in the men’s C4 individual pursuit at the 2026 Asian Para Games, extending his record of winning gold at three consecutive editions. He said he hopes to train and compete without pressure, crediting confidence and composure for his victory over Iran’s Behrooz Farzad.

Video: Insurance Literacy Drive Spurs Insurers to Create Products Relevant to Customers

Indonesia’s insurance industry is marking Insurance Day on 18 October 2026 with a campaign to improve public understanding and expand insurance inclusion. Sinar Mas Insurance director Dumasi Samosir says stronger literacy and products tailored to evolving needs could help deepen penetration, particularly among retail customers.

Gold Treasure Found on Hajj Route, Believed to Have Belonged to a Pilgrim

Archaeologists in Saudi Arabia have uncovered a cache of more than 100 pieces of jewellery, including gold, silver and gemstones, at Dhariyah, a historic stop on the Hajj route from Basra to Mecca. The treasure is thought to have been buried during the early Abbasid period, but researchers have yet to establish who owned it or why it was hidden.

KPK Announces Two New Suspects in Rejang Lebong Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named PT Cahaya Mas Cemerlang president director Eko Yusanto and former PAN Rejang Lebong deputy chair B. Daditama as new suspects in its expanding bribery investigation. Investigators are questioning Yusanto over procurement and alleged payments to the Rejang Lebong regent or his affiliates; Daditama’s questioning was postponed because he had no legal counsel present.

Prabowo Receives Foreign Minister’s Report on UN Secretary-General’s Activities in Jakarta

President Prabowo Subianto received a briefing from Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir on UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s recent visit to Indonesia. Guterres thanked Indonesia for its support, discussed multilateral reform and other global issues with Prabowo, and visited Indonesian peacekeepers ahead of the end of his term in December 2026.

Partner or Ally? What Vance’s Statement Means for Ukraine’s Future

US Vice-President JD Vance has said Ukraine is a partner, not a formal ally, and criticised Kyiv’s attacks on Russian diesel-production facilities, arguing they raise energy costs for Americans. His remarks come amid pressure from Donald Trump’s administration over Ukrainian strikes and uncertainty about continued US support, as Washington pursues a diesel supply deal with Moscow and the two sides dispute whether an energy truce was agreed.

UN World Food Programme Cuts Aid for 500,000 Gaza Residents

The UN World Food Programme will reduce its monthly assistance in Gaza, cutting its beneficiary list by 500,000 amid a severe funding shortfall. The cuts include smaller food rations, reduced cash support and fewer prepared meals, as the agency warns that millions face acute food insecurity and calls for US$450 million to sustain operations.

Some Mataram Primary Pupils in Years 4 and 5 Still Unable to Read, Promotion System Under Scrutiny

Mataram’s education department has found that some pupils in Years 4 and 5 have not mastered basic reading, while ten schools have low literacy and numeracy ratings. The city is calling for targeted support and backing stricter promotion criteria, as the national education ministry develops a policy to strengthen decisions on whether pupils advance a year, with preparations targeted for completion in 2027.

RI Ambassador Urges PT PAL to Expand Maritime Industry Market in the Middle East

Indonesia’s ambassador to the UAE has urged state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL to pursue broader opportunities in the Middle East, citing stronger bilateral economic ties. Trade between Indonesia and the UAE rose 26 per cent in the two years after the IUAE-CEPA took effect, while UAE investment in Indonesia increased nearly 641 per cent.

Residents Initially Mistook Fatal Mampang Crash for a Brawl

Residents in Mampang Prapatan said they initially thought a fatal late-night crash involving three teenagers was a brawl after hearing a loud impact and breaking glass. A 14-year-old student died after being taken to hospital, while two others were injured; witnesses said the incident was the first of its kind in the neighbourhood.

MSCI Drama Is Not Over: A Major Announcement for Indonesians Is Due Tomorrow

Bank Indonesia is widely expected to raise its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 6% at its 21 October policy meeting, as the rupiah weakens beyond Rp18,000 per US dollar and inflation edges towards the top of its target range. The decision comes amid market volatility triggered by MSCI’s proposal to reclassify Indonesia’s equity market, with analysts warning that higher rates may support the rupiah but cannot resolve concerns about market governance and could weigh on domestic borrowing, consumption and investment.

Video: National Insurance Day: A Moment to Transform the Insurance Industry

Indonesia’s National Insurance Day on 18 October highlights the sector’s role in providing protection and managing assets worth thousands of trillions of rupiah. The industry is also approaching a new phase with a planned policy guarantee scheme, while the Financial Services Authority (OJK) is considering allowing foreign ownership of insurance companies of up to 99%.

Former Army Chief of Staff Subagyo HS Was Hospitalised and Underwent Dialysis Before His Death

Former Indonesian Army Chief of Staff Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, known as Subagyo HS, was treated at Panti Rapih Hospital in Yogyakarta and underwent dialysis before his death on Monday. Senior military officials remembered him as a leader who fostered unity in the Army; his career included leading Kopassus and serving as Army chief during the presidencies of Soeharto, B.J. Habibie and Abdurrahman Wahid.

Appeal Rejected: Riza Chalid’s Son Remains Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has rejected appeals by both prosecutors and Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza in a corruption case involving Pertamina’s crude oil and refinery product management from 2018 to 2023. Kerry’s 15-year prison sentence is upheld, although the court amended the order to pay compensation; the amount is not yet available, and the ruling is final.

Students Learn to Make Yogyakarta’s Traditional Wayang Suket from Straw

Students visiting Grogol Tourism Village in Sleman were taught to make and perform wayang suket, traditional puppets crafted from straw. The cultural education programme, introduced in 2012, promotes local crafts while helping participants develop practical skills, creativity and patience.

Tanjungpinang Customs Offers Temporary Import Facilities for Bintan Triathlon 2026

Tanjungpinang Customs is providing temporary-import facilities for goods brought in by participants in the Bintan Triathlon, scheduled for 2–4 October 2026 in Bintan, Riau Islands. The arrangement streamlines inspections and may exempt qualifying goods from import duty and import taxes, while officials expect the event and its UMKM bazaar to promote local products and support the regional economy.

Absent from Work for 129 Days, Cibinong District Court Judge Dismissed by Supreme Court

The Judicial Honour Council has dismissed a Cibinong District Court judge, identified as INS, after finding that he was absent without valid reason for 129 days. The sanction, imposed in his absence, follows several earlier disciplinary penalties and is unrelated to case handling, bribery or abuse of office.

Government Has Yet to Decide on Changes to the Tax-Free Income Threshold

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says discussions on adjusting the tax-free income threshold (PTKP) are ongoing and no decision has been finalised. The issue is being considered alongside a planned expansion of Article 21 income tax incentives for workers earning under Rp10 million a month in 2027, but the proposed increase and implementation date remain unknown.

Property investment opportunities in Indonesia expand beyond Jakarta

JLL says property investment opportunities are increasingly emerging outside Jakarta, supported by infrastructure development, industrial diversification, government policy and rising demand for digital infrastructure. Its report highlights manufacturing, data centres and the refurbishment or repurposing of older buildings as key opportunities, while stressing that investors must choose locations and assets selectively.

Prabowo Summons Economic Ministers, BI Governor and National Economic Council to Palace This Afternoon

President Prabowo Subianto summoned senior economic officials to the State Palace for a meeting on Tuesday afternoon, including Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara and Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti. Officials gave few details, but Airlangga noted that the Jakarta Composite Index had risen that day and confirmed the National Economic Council was involved.

Airlangga Says Government Never Discussed Free Mobile Phone Distribution

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the government had never discussed distributing free mobile phones to support social assistance delivery, despite the idea being raised publicly by presidential special envoy Hashim Djojohadikusumo. A separate mass bank-account opening programme will proceed in the fourth quarter once regulations are issued, backed by a planned budget of around Rp3.8 trillion and intended to strengthen financial inclusion.

LPS warns students against being tempted by online loans and buy now, pay later services

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has warned university students that online loans and buy now, pay later services can lead to financial difficulties when repayments exceed their means. An LPS executive said rapid growth in access to digital financial services has not been matched by sufficient understanding of their risks, and called for stronger financial literacy among young people.

Indonesia steps up trade deals to unlock billions in export opportunities

Indonesia is accelerating three trade agreements with the EU, Canada and the Eurasian Economic Union, with projected export gains of up to $10.9 billion from the EU pact, $1.6 billion from the Canadian deal and $2.89 billion from the EAEU agreement. The government is also urging exporters to use preferential market access and is targeting the EU agreement’s entry into force in early 2027, alongside wider cooperation in strategic sectors such as semiconductors and technology.

Protest at Tugu Tani Today: Why Are Students Taking Off Their University Jackets?

Hundreds of University of Indonesia students and other groups demonstrated at Tugu Tani in Central Jakarta, choosing not to wear university jackets so they could stand alongside other members of civil society. The protest coincided with the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration, and proceeded peacefully under police supervision.

Australian Ambassador Impressed by Banyuwangi’s Culture and Tourist Attractions

Australia’s ambassador to Indonesia, Rod Brazier, praised Banyuwangi’s lively cultural traditions and tourism destinations, and said he hopes to see the blue fire at Ijen Crater. His visit came during the Keris Woomera 2026 joint exercise, which he said would strengthen military cooperation and bilateral ties between Indonesia and Australia.

Major Buying Spree in State-Owned Company Shares

Shares in 20 Indonesian state-owned companies and their subsidiaries all rose on Tuesday, led by Pertamina Geothermal Energy and Telkom, as the Jakarta Composite Index rebounded sharply. Danantara’s stated readiness to increase its holdings in fundamentally strong state firms helped bolster sentiment, although uncertainty remains over a possible MSCI reclassification of Indonesia’s equity market.

Choosing a Computing Degree? Explore Your Options to Seize Opportunities in Cikampek and Karawang’s Industrial Sector

Industrial growth in Cikampek and Karawang is creating demand for a range of information technology skills, from software development and data analysis to business systems and cybersecurity. Prospective students are advised to match their interests and career plans with the focus of each degree, while building adaptable, cross-disciplinary skills for a changing workplace.

Death toll from collapsed gold mine in Colombia rises to 14

Fourteen people have been confirmed dead and seven injured after an open-pit gold mine collapsed in south-western Colombia; four of the injured are in serious condition. Rescue operations have ended, while officials and the UN human rights office have called for assistance to affected families and action against illegal mining activities.

OJK Urges Insurers to Stress-Test Investments Amid IHSG Turmoil

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged insurance companies to conduct stress tests as the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fluctuates and MSCI plans to reclassify Indonesia’s stock market. The tests should assess asset quality, capital adequacy and insurers’ ability to meet policyholder obligations, particularly at life insurers with substantial exposure to shares and bonds.

Property investment opportunities in Indonesia expand beyond Jakarta

Investment opportunities in Indonesia’s property sector are increasingly extending beyond Jakarta, supported by infrastructure development, manufacturing diversification and demand for digital infrastructure. JLL identifies Central Java, data centres and the repurposing of ageing buildings as key areas of opportunity, while stressing that investors must be selective about locations and asset strategies.

BTN weighs share buyback option amid domestic capital market volatility

Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is assessing a possible share buyback, weighing market conditions, its strategic needs, financial position and regulatory requirements. The state-owned lender says its priority remains strengthening its business fundamentals and pursuing growth in housing finance, including through the government’s Three Million Homes Programme and its shift towards a broader “beyond mortgage” business model.

IAKMI: Tackling Forest and Land Fires Can Advance Indonesia’s Health Programmes

The Indonesian Public Health Association (IAKMI) says effective responses to forest and land fires would help protect resources needed to deliver President Prabowo Subianto’s health programmes. Its elected chair, Hermawan Saputra, warned that smoke-related illness can disrupt nutrition, tuberculosis control and free health checks, while highlighting gaps in budgets, service distribution and emergency capacity. The government reports progress in preventive care, hospital construction and national health insurance coverage, alongside an additional Rp20 trillion for BPJS Kesehatan in the 2026 state budget.

Amartha Financing Helps Rural Women Grow Food Businesses

Amartha says access to financing, business mentoring and markets is helping rural women expand agricultural and food-related businesses, with nearly 30 per cent of its partners working in agriculture and livestock in 2025. The company also highlights support for job creation and a post-flood food security recovery programme in Agam, West Sumatra.

Indonesia and Malaysia discuss strengthening child protection in the digital space

Indonesia and Malaysia have discussed regulatory approaches and mechanisms to make the digital environment safer for children, including Malaysia’s Online Safety Act and potential age-verification measures. Indonesia’s communications minister highlighted that digital connectivity must be matched by responsible safeguards, while Malaysia’s Fahmi praised Indonesia’s PP TUNAS regulation and cooperation with major technology firms.

Government explores partnership to develop digital infrastructure

The central government and Jakarta provincial administration are exploring ways to coordinate digital infrastructure development, including telecommunications routes, fibre-optic expansion and better internet access. The Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says it is ready to help accelerate fixed-broadband coverage, particularly in areas on the outskirts of the capital, as Jakarta seeks to strengthen its global-city competitiveness.

Referendum Bid Fails as Province Abandons Independence Push

Alberta voters have decisively backed remaining part of Canada, dealing an early blow to separatists seeking a legally binding referendum on independence. The vote took place amid tensions over oil policy and allegations of support for the movement from allies of US President Donald Trump, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has sought to ease provincial-federal tensions.

PLN EPI: Republika ESG Award Strengthens Company’s Motivation

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) says its ESG NOW Award 2026 recognition will encourage it to expand sustainability initiatives, including biomass, biogas and bio-CNG supplies for PLN power plants. Its award-winning community-based biomass programme in Gunungkidul links green energy production with farming and livestock activities, providing environmental and economic benefits to local residents.

Gianyar Police Chief Holds Community Forum to Hear Residents’ Concerns

Gianyar Police held a community forum under the National Police Chief’s Quick Wins programme to hear residents’ views and complaints about public safety and order. Police Chief AKBP James Rajagukguk said the initiative would strengthen police-public communication and support more responsive, community-oriented services.

Nusa Mandiri University and Bakrie University Forge Education Partnership

Nusa Mandiri University (UNM) and Bakrie University have signed a five-year memorandum of understanding to collaborate on higher education, with a particular focus on informatics and computer science. The partnership will support joint teaching, research, training and community service, with programmes to be developed through more specific agreements and reviewed regularly.

Indonesia tightens oversight to prevent recruitment for Russia’s conflict

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration is stepping up efforts to prevent human trafficking and the recruitment of Indonesians as foreign combatants in Russia, focusing on intervention before people leave the country. Its measures include village outreach and economic support, cyber patrols to block illegal job advertisements, and cooperation with Interpol to pursue overseas masterminds; those recruited are regarded as victims, while recruiters face legal action.

Creative Economy Ministry Helps Batam Entrepreneurs Explore Sales Strategies

The Creative Economy Ministry has supported 55 creative economy businesses in Batam with guidance on visual identity, packaging and digital marketing. The initiative aims to improve the competitiveness of local products and help businesses expand from local markets to national and global audiences.

Former Army Chief of Staff Subagyo HS Dies in Yogyakarta, to Be Buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery Today

Retired General Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, a former Indonesian Army chief of staff and Kopassus commander, died at a hospital in Yogyakarta on Monday, aged not specified. He is due to be buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta, and his career spanned the presidencies of Soeharto, B.J. Habibie and Abdurrahman Wahid during Indonesia’s transition around the 1998 Reformasi.

Pertamina promotes circular economy through agricultural waste in Tuban

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s Kang Ebit: SIMPEL programme in Tuban turns agricultural waste into briquettes and other useful products, generating annual briquette revenue of Rp720 million while reducing greenhouse-gas emissions. The initiative has also improved irrigation and raised harvest frequency and monthly income for 25 farmers, linking rural livelihoods with environmental gains.

Bulog and House Commission Launch Three-Month Food Aid Distribution

Bulog and House of Representatives Commission IV have launched the third phase of rice food aid, covering October to December 2026, across four districts in Yogyakarta Special Region. The programme will reach 522,956 recipients across the province, with 15.69 million kilograms of rice allocated, as officials pledge to ensure timely distribution and adequate quality.

Rp245.13bn Repo Transaction in Bakrie-Linked ENRG Shares

Trimegah Sekuritas bought 265 million shares in Energi Mega Persada for Rp245.13 billion in a transaction described as a reverse repo, raising its voting stake from 10.72% to 11.55%. ENRG shares rose 2.96% to Rp870 in afternoon trading, giving the company a market capitalisation of Rp34.47 trillion.

JCI Surges 5.6% at Market Close

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose 5.65% to 5,278.89, closing at its highest level of the day amid heavy trading. Investors are weighing Indonesia Stock Exchange reforms and Danantara’s potential purchases of state-owned shares as MSCI reviews the market’s classification, following sharp recent declines.

On Santri Day, Central Java Deputy Governor Promotes Cleanliness Campaign at Islamic Boarding Schools

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen is promoting a cleanliness drive at Islamic boarding schools ahead of the 2026 National Santri Day commemoration, which will be centred on a school in Pemalang. The campaign encourages students to sort and manage waste, with events also including assistance for schools and residents and health services.

Wildfire Sweeps Through Mount Sumbing, 152 Hikers Evacuated

A wildfire on Mount Sumbing in Central Java had spread across about 140 hectares by 20 October, with 53 hotspots detected. All 152 hikers were evacuated, while 300 joint personnel were deployed to tackle the blaze; its cause remains unknown, amid dry vegetation linked to El Niño.

SGM Supports the ‘Bunda Lebih Maju’ Campaign in Indonesia

SGM Eksplor has launched its ‘Bunda Lebih Maju’ campaign, celebrating mothers’ growing roles in supporting their children’s development and choices. The initiative includes a KRL activation with musician Yura Yunita and a press event featuring health, brand and youth-sport representatives, while the company highlights its nutrition research and long-standing presence in Indonesia.

Hajj Spending Nationwide to Reach Rp4 Trillion in 2026, with South Sulawesi Contributing a Quarter

Hajj Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf says national spending by Indonesian pilgrims is expected to reach Rp4 trillion in 2026, with South Sulawesi accounting for about 25 per cent. He urged local small and medium-sized enterprises to join the hajj and umrah supply chain, while noting that government subsidies are helping make the pilgrimage more affordable.

Corruption Again: What Has Bureaucratic Reform Achieved?

Repeated corruption cases involving public funds, including alleged misuse of disaster-management procurement at the National Disaster Management Agency, raise questions about the effectiveness of Indonesia’s bureaucratic reform agenda. The author argues that reform has focused too heavily on procedures and performance indicators, and calls for stronger safeguards, independent oversight and consistent law enforcement to protect public trust.

Responding to Greenpeace Action, Eddy Soeparno Says President Prabowo Is Accelerating Clean Energy

MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno says the Prabowo administration is fast-tracking clean-energy programmes and climate action, including a proposed 100 GW solar power project and expanded development of geothermal, wind, nuclear and hydrogen energy. He also highlighted plans for a climate-change control bill, saying the government and legislature must work together to cut emissions and address the effects of the climate crisis.

Crowds Stage Protests at Tugu Tani and Near IRTI Monas This Afternoon

Student groups and a community alliance staged demonstrations at two locations in Central Jakarta, calling for serious action on forest and land fires and an evaluation of President Prabowo’s administration. Police guarded the areas; Medan Merdeka Selatan was closed near IRTI Monas, while traffic around Tugu Tani remained normal.

Many Indonesians Joining the Russian Military? Immigration Director-General Responds

Indonesia’s Immigration Director-General Hendarsam Marantoko says the government is working to prevent Indonesians from being recruited into the Russian military, including through community outreach, cyber patrols and action against recruiter networks. He says some Indonesians may have been deceived with job offers and then found it difficult to return home, and notes that the issue is part of broader suspected human trafficking practices.

Bali’s Kura-Kura SEZ develops plant nursery for sustainable tourism

The Kura-Kura Special Economic Zone in Bali is cultivating 83 plant species, with nearly 26,000 plants at different growth stages, and has established a facility that turns fallen leaves into compost. The initiative supports landscaping and sustainable tourism, while the SEZ’s planted area has expanded to 737,441 trees and shrubs from 177,000 in 2023.

Carbon value can fund restoration and benefit communities: Indonesian Government

Indonesia’s Environment Ministry says carbon value generated through restoration could provide financing for environmental recovery while delivering fair benefits to local communities. At a workshop for leaders in Bali and Nusa Tenggara, officials highlighted the need to integrate carbon governance into regional planning and align it with national emissions targets.

detikJateng-Jogja Awards 2026 to Be Held This Week: Dates to Note

The detikJateng-Jogja Awards 2026 will take place on 23 October at the Nusantara Ballroom in the Batang Industrial Estate Special Economic Zone, alongside a forum on Central Java’s investment potential. The event will bring together government, investors and industrial estate stakeholders as the province seeks to build on Rp88.50 trillion in realised investment in 2025, up 28% year on year and generating around 326,000 jobs.

BPJPH urges halal inspection bodies to strengthen service capacity

Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) is urging halal inspection bodies (LPHs) to raise productivity and expand their inspection capacity while maintaining quality and integrity. The agency says stronger services can improve consumer protection, help businesses meet halal standards and boost the competitiveness and market access of Indonesian products.

Gondang drumming fosters harmony between ethnic groups in South-east Aceh

The taganing drums of Batak Toba Gondang music have become more than an accompaniment to customary ceremonies in South-east Aceh: they are a shared cultural symbol that helps bring together the region’s diverse communities. The article traces the community’s settlement in the area and describes the drums’ musical and sacred roles.

Instagram Accounts for Anti-President Protests Blocked; Meta Apologises

Meta apologised after Instagram accounts associated with the No Kings protests across the United States were temporarily blocked, saying automated safeguards mistakenly identified a surge in activity as bot traffic. Protest organisers said the disruption extended to other content and called for answers, accountability and concrete safeguards.

Social Ministry: Rehabilitation and Economic Self-Reliance Among Poor Communities Improve

The Social Affairs Ministry says it has expanded social rehabilitation and economic empowerment, reporting increased numbers of disabled people receiving services and beneficiaries developing independent businesses. It also cites a new national social and economic data system to improve assistance targeting, alongside disaster relief and free boarding-school programmes for children from poor families.

Malaysian National Seeks Ethics Hearing for Commissioner in Alleged Rp58.5bn Gold Investment Fraud

A Malaysian investor is urging the police to hold an ethics hearing for Commissioner Fahrurozi, who has been placed in a special detention unit over an alleged Rp58.5 billion gold-mining investment fraud. The complainant’s lawyer says the case is still being compiled, while police have also examined Fahrurozi and inspected the promised mine site in North Sulawesi; the criminal investigation’s status remains unclear.

BYAN Share Acquisition Unrelated to Plans to Change Indonesia’s Market Status

Infra Bestari executive director Gede Sandra said Haji Isam’s acquisition of a 30.25% stake in Bayan Resources was a business decision unrelated to MSCI’s plans to reclassify Indonesia’s equity market. Former trade minister Muhammad Lutfi separately suggested that foreign interests could be behind pressure on Indonesian shares, but the article makes clear these allegations are his views, not evidence of influence over MSCI.

KPK Names Two New Suspects in Rejang Lebong Bribery Probe

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named two additional suspects in an expanding bribery investigation involving public works projects in Rejang Lebong and Bengkulu. Investigators are examining alleged payments to the regent, with the underlying case involving suspected bribes totalling Rp1.7 billion and projects worth Rp91.13 billion.

Riau Police Public Relations Division Holds Blood Donation Drive to Mark 75th Anniversary of Polri Public Relations

The Riau Regional Police Public Relations Division held a blood donation drive to mark the 75th anniversary of Polri Public Relations, describing it as an act of service and solidarity with the community. The event also underscored the division’s role in strengthening public trust through transparent, accurate and informative communication.

Student Protests on 20 October Spread Beyond Jakarta to Other Regions

Student demonstrations marking the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration also took place in Yogyakarta and Makassar. Protesters raised concerns including disaster response, government policies, budget transparency and human rights, while thousands gathered outside the Yogyakarta regional parliament and rallies were held at 33 locations in Makassar.

Asphalt and Cement Shortages Threaten to Delay Repairs to 20 Roads in West Nusa Tenggara

Repairs to nearly 20 provincial road sections in West Nusa Tenggara, funded by Rp6 billion in the 2026 revised regional budget, may be delayed because asphalt and cement supplies are scarce. The provincial public works chief expects asphalt supplies to recover in November but says the work should still finish within the budget period, with the repairs needed to address flood- and landslide-damaged routes.

OCBC Highlights Investment Diversification Opportunities for Affluent Clients

OCBC says affluent clients in Indonesia remain heavily inclined towards government bonds but are increasingly considering a wider range of investments, including private equity. The bank argues wealth strategies should balance potential returns with risk mitigation and liquidity, with access to alternative assets varying according to clients’ wealth and needs.

Hundreds of Students Protest in the Tugu Tani Area

Hundreds of University of Indonesia students and other demonstrators staged a protest in Central Jakarta, with police maintaining a strong security presence. BEM UI said participants deliberately left their university jackets off to make the action more inclusive and to underline that it was a platform for wider public concerns, coinciding with the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration.

Ambassador: Conflict Is Not Between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, but With the Houthis

Yemen’s ambassador to Indonesia, Salem Ahmed Abdulrahman Balfakeeh, said the conflict is between Yemen’s recognised government and the Houthi rebel group, not between Yemen and Saudi Arabia. He called for international support to lift the blockade of Taiz and restore security, while warning that Houthi attacks threaten civilians and strategic shipping routes in the Red Sea region.

Indonesia Targets Upstream Oil and Gas Revenue at 109% of State Budget Goal

SKK Migas expects state revenue from upstream oil and gas to reach 109% of the 2026 state budget target of Rp113.06 trillion, with receipts already at about 80%. Higher global crude prices and faster commercialisation of production are expected to offset limited growth in national oil lifting and help convert favourable market conditions into government revenue.

NTT Governor: KARSA NUSA Strengthens Regional Economic Ecosystem

East Nusa Tenggara Governor Melki Laka Lena says KARSA NUSA 2026 will connect research with development priorities to boost commodity processing, productivity and regional economic growth. He called for government, Bank Indonesia, universities, businesses and communities to turn research recommendations into measurable programmes, noting that NTT’s trade deficit of around Rp50 trillion underscores its reliance on goods from outside the province.

Hiking on Mount Sumbing Fully Closed as Forest Fires Threaten to Spread

Temanggung’s disaster management agency and local volunteers are monitoring a forest and land fire on Mount Sumbing to prevent it spreading from Wonosobo into Temanggung. All hiking routes have been closed, while crews are creating firebreaks amid dry vegetation, strong winds and concerns over drought and water shortages.

Prosecutors Lose at Supreme Court; Former West Lombok Land Agency Official Remains Acquitted

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has rejected prosecutors’ appeal against the acquittal of Baiq Mahyuniati Fitria, a former West Lombok National Land Agency official charged in a corruption case involving the sale of village treasury land. Her co-defendants, including the village head and a private-sector figure, were convicted and sentenced to prison, fines and restitution.

Houthi Warning: Saudi Arabian Airspace Is Unsafe Except Over Mecca and Medina

The Houthi group has warned that Saudi Arabian airspace is unsafe, except over Mecca and Medina, and urged civilians and workers to stay away from Saudi oil facilities. The threat comes amid escalating conflict involving Yemen’s government forces and the Saudi-led coalition, with the Houthis reporting missile and drone attacks on Saudi territory in response to coalition air strikes.

Indonesia Aims to Bring EU Trade Deal into Force in Early 2027

Indonesia is seeking to have the Indonesia–European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) enter into force in early 2027, with signing targeted before the end of 2026. The deal could raise Indonesian exports by as much as US$10.9 billion and expand trade and investment, while the government is also pursuing cooperation with the EU in strategic sectors such as semiconductors and technology.

Indonesia Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Palestinian Education

Indonesia has called for sustained international cooperation and funding to keep UNRWA’s education services available to Palestinian children and students affected by conflict and displacement. The country also highlighted its scholarship programme, education-sector cooperation and humanitarian aid, while stressing that Palestinian authorities must retain ownership of education recovery.

Lebong Department Head Held by Police over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Vocational Student on Work Placement

A Lebong regency department head identified by the initials FR has been detained as a suspect in an alleged sexual-abuse case involving a vocational school student undertaking a work placement at his office. Police say they have questioned the victim, the suspect and witnesses, and are continuing their investigation.

Redmi K100 to Arrive with a 10,000mAh Battery

Xiaomi has revealed key specifications of the Redmi K100 ahead of its launch in China on 28 October 2026, including a battery capacity of up to 10,000mAh. The phone will also feature a 165Hz display capability, a 6.83-inch AMOLED screen and HyperOS 4, joining the K100 Pro and K100 Pro Max in the range.

Bareskrim Arrests Umrah Fraud Suspect Who Had Been on the Run over ‘Full Ramadan’ Scheme

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Department has arrested RH, the director of PT Nur Rizqon Hasana, who was wanted over an alleged Umrah travel scam. Police say victims paid Rp143 million for a ‘Full Ramadan’ package, but departures were repeatedly postponed before RH allegedly disappeared with the money; she has been handed to Jambi Police for further investigation.

SKK Migas Forecasts ICP at US$95–100 per Barrel by End of 2026

SKK Migas expects Indonesia’s crude price (ICP) to remain elevated, potentially reaching US$95–100 per barrel by the end of 2026 if the Middle East conflict persists. The agency says higher prices could lift upstream oil and gas state revenue above budget targets, while also increasing the burden of fuel subsidies and compensation.

BPBD: 526 Forest and Land Fires in West Java Burn 1,082 Hectares

West Java’s disaster management agency recorded 526 forest and land fires across the province in 2026, burning a total of 1,082.76 hectares. Subang was the worst-affected regency by area and incident count, as authorities urged residents to avoid indiscriminate land-clearing fires during the dry season.

Insurers Urged to Buy Shares to Support the JCI: Insurance Chief Responds

The Indonesian Insurance Council says insurers may increase their share investments, but must prioritise prudence and ensure they can meet policyholders’ claims. The response follows the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s call for domestic institutional investors to help support the Jakarta Composite Index after MSCI proposed downgrading Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market status.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Industry Minister Says Industry Will Remain the ‘Backbone’

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says the government will strengthen industry’s role as a driver of economic development, aiming to raise its contribution to GDP and achieve growth above the national rate. The article also highlights government initiatives over the administration’s first two years, including state participation in downstream investment, a national car project, semiconductor skills training and longer validity for domestic-content certificates.

Ice Cream Warehouse Catches Fire in Tangerang, Sending Smoke Billowing High

A fire broke out at the Momoyo ice cream warehouse on Jalan Industri Raya in Jatiuwung, Tangerang City, on Tuesday afternoon. Witnesses said an electrical short circuit ignited stored cardboard, while firefighters were still working to extinguish the blaze.

Police distribute padlocks to Kelapa Gading residents to deter vehicle theft

Kelapa Gading Police have distributed 100 padlocks and additional disc locks to residents as a preventive measure against rising motor vehicle theft. The initiative targets motorbikes parked in densely populated residential alleys and encourages residents to use extra locks rather than relying solely on factory-fitted steering locks.

Mirae Asset: IDX’s Decision to Remove HSC Shares Was Necessary

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia economist Rully Arya Wisnubroto says the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s short-term decision to exclude 80 high-shareholding-concentration (HSC) shares from the IDX Composite was necessary to reduce the risk of price manipulation. The shares, representing 18 per cent of the index, will remain listed and tradeable, but their price movements will no longer affect the benchmark; the measure does not indicate anything about the companies’ underlying fundamentals.

Banyuwangi Religious Court Judge Given Heavy Sanction over Alleged Affair During Working Hours

The Judicial Commission and Supreme Court have imposed a two-year non-panel sanction on a Banyuwangi Religious Court judge, finding him guilty of immoral conduct involving a woman while he was serving as deputy head of the Dompu Religious Court. The sanction bars him from sitting as a judge and suspends his judicial position allowance; the judicial ethics tribunal found his account that the woman initiated the encounter inconsistent with investigation findings.

FLOQ says crypto tax policy must preserve industry competitiveness

Crypto investment platform FLOQ says Indonesia’s taxation rules for digital assets should balance state revenue with regulatory certainty and a level playing field for domestic and overseas providers. The government has highlighted fair taxation, clearer institutional accountability and cross-border information-sharing as priorities, including the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework, but has not announced an implementation date or new tax rates.

Oil Prices Hold Above US$110 as Middle East Attacks Rattle Markets

Brent crude remained near a five-month high above US$110 a barrel as reports of attacks on Saudi energy facilities and ships in the Gulf heightened fears of supply disruption. Houthi claims of strikes have not been independently verified, but the continuing regional tensions are sustaining a significant risk premium in oil prices.

Fourth-Quarter 2026 State Budget Spending to Reach Rp1,300 Trillion, Finance Minister Says

The government expects state budget spending to reach around Rp1,300 trillion in the fourth quarter of 2026, up from Rp1,200 trillion in the same period last year. Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the higher outlay, including food assistance, is intended to support household consumption and economic growth, while the government continues to review whether planned allocations match actual needs.

Indonesia’s Forest and Land Fires Burn 1.9 Million Hectares, Nearing 2015 Record

Forest and land fires burned nearly 1.92 million hectares in Indonesia between January and September 2026, an area almost 12 times the size of London. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has proposed ASEAN-level cooperation to address the fires’ cross-border impacts, calling for shared responsibility and better coordination.

Telkom prepares modular network to meet surging AI infrastructure demand

Telkom Indonesia is developing a more modular, scalable network architecture as artificial intelligence drives more dynamic traffic and direct connections between data centres. The company is also advancing international submarine cable projects and autonomous network systems to strengthen connectivity and accommodate growing AI computing needs.

What Is Behind the Chaos in Europe as France and Italy See Mass Unrest?

Rising living costs, housing pressures and deteriorating public services have fuelled demonstrations across several European countries, with violence reported in France and Italy. In France, inflation, weak economic growth and looming fiscal measures are converging with student grievances and political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 presidential election, while investor concerns over the country’s debt and budget position are mounting.

BNPB Chief and Army Chief Inspect Forest and Land Fire Response in Central Kalimantan

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and the Indonesian Army are coordinating efforts to contain forest and land fires in Pulang Pisau, Central Kalimantan, prioritising rapid control of hotspots and protection from smoke. As of 13 October, firefighting operations covered 7.8 hectares of peatland and 513.89 hectares of mineral soil, with aerial water-bombing and weather modification also deployed.

Indonesia continues intensive weather modification to tackle fires

Indonesia is continuing cloud-seeding operations in South Sumatra, Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan and West Kalimantan to generate rainfall and help tackle fires and haze. Authorities report rainfall across multiple districts, alongside lower PM2.5 levels and improved visibility in South Sumatra.

‘Poor Village’ Said to Be Source of Beggars and Clowns on Mataram’s Streets

Mataram’s Social Affairs Agency has identified a settlement housing more than 10 families of street workers, including buskers, street children, clowns and beggars. Officials suspect a coordinator is exploiting newcomers, including children, and plan enforcement action with the municipal civil service police unit; exploiting children is a serious criminal offence.

Breaking: Jakarta Composite Index Surges 5%

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rose 5.07% to 5,249.75 on Tuesday, rebounding after sharp losses amid concerns over a possible downgrade of Indonesia’s market status by MSCI. Investors are watching regulatory reforms by the Indonesia Stock Exchange, potential share purchases by Danantara and state-owned companies, and efforts to strengthen enforcement in the capital market.

Indonesia’s Oil Lifting Still Below Target at Just 570,000 Barrels per Day

Indonesia’s oil lifting reached 570,000 barrels per day by October 2026, below the 610,000 bpd target set in the 2026 state budget. SKK Migas says it is pursuing new commercialisation strategies and drilling to counter natural declines at mature fields, and expects lifting to rise by year-end.

Police Arrest Two Suspected Dealers from Malang Carrying 1,008 Ecstasy Pills and 216 Grammes of Methamphetamine

Police in Central Lombok have arrested two men from Malang Regency and seized 1,008 ecstasy pills and 216.96 grammes of methamphetamine. The men have been detained for questioning but have not yet been formally named as suspects.

Krista Exhibitions Holds ALLPack Indonesia 2026 to Strengthen Industry

ALLPack Indonesia 2026 opened in Jakarta with more than 1,600 exhibitors from 42 countries, showcasing technologies across packaging, processing, plastics, pharmaceuticals and related sectors. The four-day event expects over 90,000 business visitors and includes more than 65 educational and business programmes, positioning the exhibition as a platform for investment, supply-chain collaboration and industrial development.

Scrap Yard in Bogor Catches Fire; Blaze Extinguished After Nearly Eight Hours

A fire at a scrap yard in Tajurhalang, Bogor, was extinguished after seven hours and 55 minutes of firefighting. No one was injured, but the damage is estimated at around Rp300 million; officials said burning rubbish and cables may have led to the blaze spreading to nearby plastic piles.

BEI and OJK Can Learn from How the US, UK and India Protect Their Stock Markets

Indonesia has introduced broad capital-market changes, including greater disclosure, a 15% minimum free float and plans to exclude highly concentrated shares from the IDX Composite. Comparisons with the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, India and Singapore show that market rules vary considerably across disclosure thresholds, public-share requirements and trading safeguards, making direct comparisons of headline figures misleading.

OJK Stress-Tests the Impact of the JCI on Insurers: Here Are the Results

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says its stress test found life insurers are more exposed than general insurers to recent turbulence in the stock market, in part because of their investments in shares and bonds. It has urged insurers to review investment strategies, monitor asset quality and capital, and ensure they can meet policyholder obligations after the Jakarta Composite Index suffered its sharpest one-day fall in 28 years.

Immigration Uncovers Recruitment Tactics Used to Lure Indonesians into Russia’s Mercenary Forces

Indonesia’s Immigration Directorate General has warned that Indonesians travelling to Russia for jobs may instead be recruited as mercenaries, potentially becoming victims of human trafficking. Authorities say prevention must address the economic pressures behind overseas job-seeking while monitoring recruitment and exploitation risks; the government is also verifying reports of Indonesians enlisted by Russia.

Tensions Rise as China Deploys Forces to Monitor US Warship in South China Sea

China says it deployed naval forces to track a US warship near the disputed Sabina Shoal, accusing it of entering the area without permission. The incident adds to tensions in the South China Sea, where Beijing and Manila both claim the shoal and where a recent confrontation involved Chinese and Philippine coastguard vessels.

Which Is Better for Managing Cholesterol: Chicken or Prawns?

Chicken and prawns can both fit into a heart-healthy diet, but their effects on cholesterol depend on what they replace and how they are prepared. Skinless chicken breast may be preferable for limiting dietary cholesterol, while prawns are low in saturated fat; experts stress that overall diet and cooking methods matter most.

This 5,000-hectare area produces hundreds of thousands of tonnes of apples worth millions of dollars

Apple orchards covering about 5,346.67 hectares in Shapotou District, Zhongwei, Ningxia Hui, China, are expected to yield 144,000 tonnes this harvest season. The crop is valued at more than 1 billion yuan (about US$150 million).

10 Special Features of Makkah Demonstrate Allah’s Greatness, Reinforced by Western Scientific Studies

The article presents Makkah as Islam’s holiest city and describes its religious significance through scriptural references, traditions and claims about its place in the origins of the Earth. It introduces a list of ten features said to demonstrate Allah’s greatness, attributed to Sheikh Muhammad al-Sallabi; however, the supplied text ends before the list begins.

Jakarta Composite Index rebounds 4 per cent on buybacks and policy measures, analyst says

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rose 4.16 per cent in the first trading session on Tuesday, supported by planned share buybacks, proposed IDX disclosure and index-calculation changes, and optimism around Danantara’s increased stakes in state-owned enterprises. An analyst said the recovery still needs to demonstrate strength, while investors await consistent implementation of market reforms amid MSCI’s consultation on Indonesia’s classification.

Ahead of National Santri Day, Taj Yasin Promotes Clean Pesantren Campaign at 117 Islamic Boarding Schools

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin has urged Islamic boarding schools to build everyday habits of cleanliness and improve waste management as part of a campaign at 117 pesantren. The provincial programme also includes financial and food assistance, along with health services, ahead of National Santri Day 2026.

Very Strong El Niño: Red Fire-Risk Warnings Cover Much of Indonesia

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) warns that a very strong El Niño and positive Indian Ocean Dipole are driving hot, dry conditions and increasing the risk of forest and land fires. Hotspots have risen sharply in Central and West Kalimantan, while the agency forecasts mostly dry weather through late October, with localised heavy rain, strong winds and thunderstorms also possible.

KPK Deputy Calls Pramono a ‘Little President’, Saying He Works Prudently

KPK Deputy Chairman Fitroh Rohcahyanto jokingly dubbed Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung a “little president”, praising his practical and careful approach to work and noting Jakarta’s role as a national barometer. Fitroh also urged the provincial government to make good use of two assets seized in corruption cases and donated by the KPK, at sites in Tebet and Kemayoran.

Bogor Regent Orders Inventory of Factory Outlets Suspected of Polluting the Cileungsi River

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto says officials are identifying factory drainage outlets suspected of polluting the Cileungsi River, with some unlicensed channels already closed. The regency is also planning to build wastewater treatment facilities, while seeking cooperation from companies amid complaints about blackened, foul-smelling water in the river.

SKK Migas: State Revenue Could Reach 109% of Target in December 2026

SKK Migas projects that state revenue from upstream oil and gas could reach US$11.63 billion in 2026, or 109% of the state budget target, assuming current oil prices. The forecast is underpinned by Indonesian crude prices above the budget’s US$70-per-barrel assumption, though officials say commercialisation efforts will be essential to achieving it.

China to optimise and adjust export controls on drone-related items

China will introduce revised export controls on specified drone-related goods from 18 November 2026, requiring licences for items with defined characteristics. Beijing says the dual-use measures are intended to protect national security and meet non-proliferation obligations, while maintaining global supply-chain stability and reviewing applications under applicable laws.

China says APEC has a key role in tackling global economic challenges

China’s Finance Minister Lan Foan urged APEC’s 21 members to work more closely to support growth amid rapid economic change and geopolitical conflicts. He also called for cooperation on artificial intelligence, the digital economy and green development, while saying China would continue comprehensive economic reforms.

Nagan Raya Police Arrest Driver Transporting 5,000 Litres of Subsidised Diesel

Police in Nagan Raya, Aceh, have arrested a 36-year-old truck driver carrying 5,000 litres of subsidised diesel without official transport or trading documents. Investigators suspect the fuel was collected from petrol stations in Aceh Besar and intended for resale above the government-set retail ceiling; the case remains under investigation.

WFP Cuts Aid for 500,000 People in Gaza

The World Food Programme says funding shortages have forced it to reduce food assistance for about 500,000 people in Gaza, cutting its monthly caseload from 1.6 million to 1.1 million. It warns that fragile improvements in food security could be reversed as winter approaches, and says it needs US$450 million to sustain operations in Gaza and the West Bank through March 2027.

Downstreaming Becomes Government Strategy to Promote Quality Investment

Indonesia’s investment in downstream industries accounted for 35% of total investment in the third quarter of 2026, up from about 26% in 2024, according to Investment and Downstreaming Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani. The government aims to ensure that this growth generates jobs, technology transfer and stronger domestic industrial capacity, with nickel processing and battery production among its priorities.

BRIN Identifies Chinese Rocket Debris That Fell on a Kalimantan Palm Oil Plantation

BRIN says orbital tracking strongly suggests that a large metal object found near Sampit, Central Kalimantan, is debris from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket, which re-entered Earth’s atmosphere on 18 October 2026. The timing of the rocket’s final pass over Kalimantan matches residents’ reports of a loud rumble, although physical examination is still needed to confirm the fragment’s identity.

Four Motorists in Lampung’s Metro City Face Police over Changing Number Plates to Obtain Subsidised Fuel

Police in Metro City, Lampung, have detained four motorists suspected of illegally obtaining subsidised fuel by switching vehicle number plates and using multiple refuelling barcodes. The case was uncovered during spot checks prompted by public complaints about fuel shortages; investigators are examining whether others were involved.

Overseas Buyers at First Canton Fair Phase Reach Record High

The first phase of China’s 140th Canton Fair welcomed 189,000 overseas buyers from 214 countries and regions, a 13.3 per cent increase on the comparable period of the previous edition. The record attendance came as China reported strong trade growth, with Guangdong’s quarterly foreign trade exceeding 3 trillion yuan for the first time and national imports and exports rising 18.8 per cent in the first nine months of 2026.

South Korean Military Orders Firm Response to North Korean Provocations

South Korea’s top military commander has instructed troops to respond firmly to any North Korean provocation or violation of the armistice, amid renewed tensions along the border. The directive followed North Korea’s threat to resume loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts and deploy additional tactical weapons near the Demilitarised Zone.

LABA Partners with Oscarmas to Establish GOIN, Targeting Electric Truck Battery Leasing

PT Green Power Group (LABA) and PT Oscar Investama Indonesia have established a joint venture, PT Gobattery Solusi Indonesia (GOIN), to develop battery services for commercial electric vehicles. Its central Battery-as-a-Service model will lease batteries to fleet operators, aiming to lower the upfront cost of electrification, while the partners and battery technology provider Gotion work towards standardised specifications and supply for electric trucks.

Craft Shop Employee Falls into Ravine in Ubud

A 19-year-old craft shop employee from Lumajang fell into a ravine behind his workplace in Ubud after reportedly becoming drowsy and struggling to see in the darkness. He was rescued alive about eight hours later and taken to Sanjiwani Regional Hospital; police estimate the ravine is around 25 metres deep and urged people to take care near poorly lit cliff edges.

Timeline: Pajero Kills Junior High School Student, Then Hits Two Other Cars in Mampang

A Mitsubishi Pajero Sport struck and killed a 14-year-old pedestrian in South Jakarta before colliding with two other cars, leaving two people injured. Police are investigating the cause and a packet of dried leaves found in the vehicle; the driver’s urine test was negative for narcotics, and officers have not confirmed who owned the suspected substance.

11 Residents’ Motorcycles Damaged in Ciputat Explosion; Police Repair Two

An explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang damaged 11 residents’ motorcycles, in addition to destroying shop buildings and injuring people. Police have repaired and returned two lightly damaged bikes; the blast, which killed two people and injured 11, originated in a banana-ripening room and was not caused by a bomb.

Agrarian Ministry Completes 80% of PTSL Target in Papua

Indonesia’s Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ministry says its Complete Systematic Land Registration (PTSL) programme in Papua has reached 80% of its 2026 target of 2,557 land parcels. The Papua land office expects to complete the remaining work by late October or November, while also pursuing land redistribution in Nabire and certification of religious and social institution properties.

Oil Prices Surge, Indonesia’s Upstream Oil and Gas Revenue Forecast to Reach 109% of Target

SKK Migas forecasts that state revenue from Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas sector could reach 109% of the 2026 state budget target, with receipts already at about 80%. The projection reflects Indonesian Crude Price (ICP) rising well above the budget assumption, while the agency says commercialisation strategies to accelerate oil lifting will be important to sustaining the gains.

TNI Commander Leads Funeral of Former Army Chief Subagyo HS, with Police Chief and Deputy Commander in Attendance

The TNI held a state funeral in Jakarta for retired General Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, a former Army chief who died in Yogyakarta aged unreported. The ceremony was led by TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto and attended by senior military leaders and the national police chief; Subagyo had served as Kopassus commander and Army chief under three presidents.

Several French Cities Announce Curfews After Protests

Several French cities have imposed partial or overnight curfews following looting and violence during weekend demonstrations. The protests drew about 550,000 people nationwide; 2,397 were arrested and nearly 1,000 police and gendarmerie officers were injured, according to the Interior Ministry.

Protests Turn Violent as France Extends Curfews

France has expanded curfews and other security restrictions across several cities and regions following weekend protests marked by violence and looting. The demonstrations were held over rising living costs and fuel prices, with authorities reporting around 550,000 participants and 400 arrests nationwide.

Landslide in Kediri, Tabanan, Damages Two Homes and Injures One Person

A landslide at a housing complex in Kediri, Tabanan, damaged two homes and left one person injured. Tabanan’s disaster management agency assessed the damage and delivered emergency supplies to affected residents.

Bali Police Raid Gold-Fraud Boss’s Home in Denpasar, Seize Two Luxury Cars

Bali Police have searched the Denpasar home of JKR, an Indian national who heads two companies under investigation over an alleged gold fraud, and seized two luxury cars and other financial records. Investigators say they will examine the companies’ account flows; reported losses from five police complaints had reached Rp8.8 billion by 21 September 2026.

Traffic to Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan Closed Ahead of Rally Near Monas

Traffic heading towards Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan was closed ahead of a public rally near Jakarta’s National Monument, while other routes around the area remained open. More than 9,500 joint police, military and Jakarta provincial government personnel were deployed, with Metro Jaya Police Chief Dadang Hartanto saying their role was to facilitate the public’s right to express opinions safely and to handle the situation professionally and humanely.

Airlines Continue to Cancel Flights to Saudi Arabia, Affecting Umrah Pilgrims

Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways have extended flight cancellations and suspensions on routes to Riyadh and Dammam until 24 October, while services to Jeddah have also been cut. The disruption is affecting Umrah travel, and passengers are being advised to check schedules and contact their airlines before departure.

Fuel Queues in East Java Prompt Khofifah and Emil Dardak to Visit Energy Ministry

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and Deputy Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak met officials at the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry to discuss strengthening fuel supplies. Officials say supplies remain adequate, but queues have been reported in Blitar, Malang and Jember; they aim to resolve the disruption within one to two days.

BMKG: Mataram Expected to See Rain Begin in November

Mataram’s disaster management agency says rain is expected to begin in November at normal intensity, with the rainy season likely to peak in January 2027. Authorities are preparing by clearing sediment and rubbish from waterways, while the city has so far avoided extreme drought and reports adequate household water supplies and functioning irrigation.

Jakarta Composite Index rebounds 4.16%, bank shares drive gains amid foreign selling

The Jakarta Composite Index rose 4.16% to 5,204.63 in Tuesday’s first session, led by banking stocks, despite continued net selling by foreign investors. Analysts cited planned share buy-backs, proposed disclosure reforms, Danantara’s plan to increase holdings in state-owned firms and regulatory reform commitments as supports for the rebound, while investors await consistent implementation amid MSCI’s market-classification consultation.

Rupiah Strengthens as US Dollar Falls to Rp17,980

The rupiah closed 0.28% higher at Rp17,980 per US dollar, moving back below the psychologically significant Rp18,000 level as the US dollar index weakened. Markets are watching Bank Indonesia’s upcoming rate decision, with an economist saying a 25-basis-point hike to 6.00% is increasingly likely, though rate policy alone may not address concerns about Indonesian market risks.

Cibinong District Court Judge Dismissed for Missing 129 Working Days

A Cibinong District Court judge, identified by the initials INS, has been permanently dismissed with pension rights after being found absent without valid reason for 129 working days. A joint Judicial Honour Council hearing by the Judicial Commission and Supreme Court classified the prolonged absence and repeated disciplinary breaches as a serious violation, although the judge’s prior record did not involve case handling, bribery or abuse of office.

Malaysia deregisters main opposition bloc Perikatan Nasional as elections loom

Malaysia’s Registrar of Societies has cancelled the registration of the opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional (PN) following an internal dispute between its component parties, PAS and Bersatu. The move could prevent the parties from contesting the upcoming Melaka election under a shared banner; PN says it will challenge the decision in court.

BGN Suspends SPPG Head and KPPG Regional Coordinator After Viral Flogging Incident in Bogor

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended the head of the Purwakarta Plered nutrition service unit and a regional coordinator following a fight at the Bogor KPPG office. Both acknowledged wrongdoing, and the agency is processing disciplinary sanctions under civil service regulations after an amateur video showing a man being whipped circulated online.

Prabowo’s Strategy to Boost Investment: Downstreaming and Permit Reform Take Centre Stage

Indonesia is seeking to attract higher-quality investment by expanding downstream industries and cutting bureaucratic delays, with downstreaming’s share of investment reaching 35% in the third quarter of 2026, up from 26% in 2024. The government also says it has issued 328 investment permits through a deemed-approval mechanism and reduced processing time for limited-stay permits for foreign workers to five working days.

Indonesia’s Value-Added Processing Investment Reaches $26.69 Billion

Indonesia attracted Rp 480.1 trillion ($26.69 billion) in value-added processing investment in January–September 2026, up 11.3% year on year and representing 31.2% of total investment realisation. Mineral processing drew the largest share, while foreign investors and projects outside Java accounted for 75% and 78% of the total, respectively.

We Pause We Rise tackles perimenopause with RISE & BLOOM

We Pause We Rise and Magnolia Collective Wellness held RISE & BLOOM in South Jakarta to raise awareness of perimenopause and menopause, covering hormonal changes, treatment options, nutrition and mental and sexual health. The event also aimed to provide women with a safe space for information and peer support, encouraging more open discussion of midlife health.

Mutual Fund Investors Can Rest Easy: IDX Says HSC Stocks Will Not Be Included

The Indonesia Stock Exchange says index-tracking mutual funds will automatically exclude shares classified as having high shareholding concentration (HSC), because those shares are removed from the IDX Composite while they meet the criteria. However, no rules currently cap HSC shares in other mutual funds, including actively managed products, and the designation itself does not indicate a breach; enforcement of suspected offences falls to the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Prabowo-Gibran’s Two Years in Office See Investment Realisation Reach Rp3,923 Trillion

Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment from the fourth quarter of 2024 to the third quarter of 2026, during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. The investment generated employment for nearly 5.49 million people, with 51.8 per cent of investment located outside Java.

How the Miniature Rice Paddies in Used Water Jugs First Came About

Residents of Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta, are growing rice in hundreds of discarded water jugs at RPTRA Belimbing, combining an urban food-security initiative with efforts to reuse plastic waste. The idea was developed by the local Posyantek group amid discussions about food security and Jakarta’s waste-sorting policy, with the harvest intended for a community-run cooperative.

People’s Schools Reach 44,000 Students as Government Targets Families’ Economic Independence

Indonesia’s People’s Schools programme has reached around 44,000 students, and the government sees their families as a potential focus for economic empowerment. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf highlighted training for 100 microbusiness owners in Greater Bandung, while calling for closer integration between social assistance and empowerment initiatives to help families achieve lasting independence.

Saudi Arabia Warns Houthis Not to Smuggle Weapons Using Fishing Boats

The Saudi-led coalition has warned Houthi forces against using traditional fishing boats to transport weapons and military equipment to Yemen, and urged vessel owners not to cooperate. The warning comes amid intensifying fighting and follows claims that the coalition has destroyed Houthi weapons depots and missile launchers.

West Java Province: Foreign investment reaches Rp132 trillion by September

West Java recorded Rp132 trillion in foreign direct investment from January to September 2026, equivalent to 17.9 per cent of Indonesia’s national foreign investment total for the period. Governor Dedi Mulyadi said the province must improve permitting and infrastructure connectivity to sustain investor interest and ensure investment generates jobs and wider economic benefits.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran in Office

Public approval of the Prabowo-Gibran administration has fallen from the previous year, although polling firms differ significantly in their assessments. Economic Affairs Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto says political and economic conditions remain stable, while President Prabowo says his government has worked hard amid major challenges.

Bali Tech Week 2026 Promotes Investment and the Digital Economy

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has opened Bali Tech Week 2026, a five-day event bringing together 13 technology programmes to encourage collaboration, investment and wider benefits from the digital economy. Minister Meutya Hafid outlined a three-part digital transformation agenda—Connect, Grow and Protect—and cited progress in internet access and startup support while stressing the need for stronger infrastructure, skills and digital safeguards.

East Java Governor Khofifah and Deputy Governor Emil Visit Bahlil’s Office: What’s Going On?

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and Deputy Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak met officials at the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry to discuss strengthening fuel supplies in the province. Officials said supplies remain secure, but queues have been reported in Blitar, Malang and Jember, with the ministry aiming to resolve the situation within one to two days.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: KPK Returns Rp191.79bn to State Through Asset Recovery

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it returned Rp191.79 billion to the state as non-tax revenue in the first half of 2026, from Rp229.81 billion in recovered assets. The commission also reported substantial enforcement activity and at least 36 sting operations since October 2024, underscoring that corruption remains widespread across strategic sectors.

Students Stage Simultaneous Protests in Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Makassar on 20 October

Students in three Indonesian cities staged demonstrations marking the second anniversary of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, calling for action on disasters, living costs, public services and governance. Protesters in Yogyakarta also raised concerns over alleged corruption in disaster funds and demanded policy reviews, while thousands of security personnel were deployed across the cities.

Farhan Invites Thai Tourists to Visit Bandung

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan invited people from southern Thailand to visit the city, highlighting its history, higher-education heritage, cultural life and creative industries. A courtesy visit by a delegation from the Royal Thai Navy vessel KRI Songkhla is also expected to strengthen cooperation in tourism, culture, education, sport and the creative sector.

BTN President Director Speaks Out on BBTN Share Buyback Plan

Bank Tabungan Negara is assessing a possible share buyback as one option to create value for shareholders amid domestic market volatility. The bank says any decision will depend on its financial position, capital adequacy, expansion funding needs and regulatory requirements, while its focus remains on strengthening fundamentals and expanding housing finance.

Economic Diplomacy: Building Relations, Safeguarding Indonesia’s Position

President Prabowo Subianto’s announcement of a political agreement on the Indonesia–EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) highlights Indonesia’s effort to broaden economic partnerships amid global uncertainty. The article argues that economic diplomacy must do more than open markets and attract investment: it should strengthen Indonesia’s strategic room for manoeuvre while upholding its free and active foreign policy.

Indonesia repatriates Sumatran orangutan rescued in India

Indonesia has repatriated a young Sumatran orangutan rescued from an apartment in India in November 2024, after intensive treatment and medical checks confirmed it was fit to travel. The animal will be examined by Indonesian veterinarians and quarantine officers before transfer to a rehabilitation facility in North Sumatra, as the government highlights cross-border cooperation and ongoing efforts against illegal wildlife trade.

US Sends Witkoff to Meet Zelenskyy for Talks on Resuming Peace Negotiations

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is due to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Oslo, alongside European and NATO representatives, to coordinate proposals that could form the basis for renewed negotiations with Russia. Witkoff is then expected to travel to Russia to present ideas developed in consultation with Ukraine and European partners, as Donald Trump questions whether Zelenskyy should continue negotiating on Ukraine’s behalf.

Poltracking Survey: Trust in Prabowo-Gibran Government at 64.8%, Continuing Downward Trend

Poltracking Indonesia found that public trust in President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s government fell from 81.5% in October 2025 to 64.8% in October 2026, despite a slight recovery from August. Distrust more than doubled over the same period, while majorities of respondents still said the government’s policies aim to improve the lives of ordinary people and that it is seriously addressing public problems.

Indonesian government moves to speed up fuel deliveries outside Java and Bali

The government is directing state-owned Pertamina to expand its transport fleet and address logistics bottlenecks after shipping delays left Bali with only three to four days of fuel stocks. Supplies have since recovered to 11–12 days, while weather-related river disruptions in Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Sumatra have also forced slower overland deliveries.

Greenpeace Activists Taken to Metro Jaya Police Headquarters After Unfurling Banner at HI Roundabout; Police Explain Why

Police evacuated six Greenpeace activists who unfurled a large banner atop the Welcome Monument at Jakarta’s HI Roundabout, citing safety concerns and the site’s protected cultural-heritage status. The activists were taken to Metro Jaya Police’s medical unit for treatment, while police said decisions on any further action would come later.

Forest Fires Are a Serious Crime, PKS Says: Do Not Let Capital Power Overrule the Law

PKS president Almuzzammil Yusuf has called on the government to take stronger action against persistent forest and land fires, including prosecuting those responsible and revoking permits for companies found to have committed serious violations. He also reiterated the party’s support for environmental sustainability and said PKS was helping advance a bill on equitable climate-change control.

Taking a Cue from Indonesia, Malaysia Prepares Social Media Age Verification

Malaysia is preparing an age-verification mechanism to strengthen child safety online, with Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil saying the government is consulting technology companies on how it could work within the country’s existing identity systems. The move builds on Malaysia’s Online Safety Act and its Child Protection Code, and follows Indonesia’s PP Tunas; Fahmi urged closer regional cooperation on digital safety.

Tianneng Launches Battery Portfolio Featuring Multiple Chemistries to Strengthen New Energy Ecosystem for Local Markets

Tianneng Holding Group has unveiled batteries using four chemistries—lead-acid, lithium-ion, sodium-ion and solid-state—aimed at applications ranging from electric vehicles to large-scale energy storage. At its global alliance partner conference, participants and industry representatives stressed local production, stronger cross-border supply-chain collaboration and market-specific development as priorities for expanding the new energy sector.

Residents Hope Discolouration of Cileungsi River in Bogor Is Resolved Quickly

Residents in Limusnunggal, Bogor, want the pollution causing the Cileungsi River to turn black to be dealt with promptly, after the local government identified companies allegedly exceeding wastewater discharge limits. The river’s foul smell has disrupted households and reduced visitor numbers at small businesses along its banks, particularly during the dry season.

BGN Suspends SPPG Head and Regional Coordinator over Violence at Bogor KPPG

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended the head of the Purwakarta Plered Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit and the Purwakarta regional coordinator after an investigation found both had committed errors in a violence incident at the Bogor KPPG. The agency is processing disciplinary sanctions under Government Regulation No. 94 on Civil Servants, with penalties to be determined through the applicable personnel procedures.

Intikeramik Alamasri Controller Buys 47.6 Million Shares

Intikeramik Alamasri Industri controller Raja Sapta Oktohari purchased 47.62 million shares in the tilemaker on 15 October at Rp22 apiece, spending about Rp1.05 billion. His stake rose from 0.02% to 0.38%, with the transaction disclosed as an investment.

Bandung Regency Government Backs Home Renovation Scheme to Provide Decent Housing

Bandung Regency is supporting President Prabowo Subianto’s home renovation programme, with 3,047 homes allocated assistance through the Ministry of Housing and Settlements using state budget funds. Regent Dadang Supriatna stressed the need for accurate beneficiary data, on-the-ground oversight and coordination between village and district officials to ensure the programme reaches residents in need.

Indonesia removes 5.15 million negative posts, including 4 million gambling items

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs says it handled 5.15 million pieces of negative online content between October 2024 and 11 September 2026, more than four million of them related to online gambling. Minister Meutya Hafid also reported that 31.1 million users had completed biometric verification for new SIM cards, as the government seeks to strengthen digital protections alongside infrastructure and industry development.

EZVIZ Launches Indonesian Roadshow to Redefine the Smart Home, Starting with Its Smart Lock Range

EZVIZ has launched a national technology roadshow in Indonesia, with its first stop at Surabaya’s Pakuwon Mall from 20 to 25 October. The campaign showcases its smart-entry portfolio and introduces the DL10 smart lock, alongside promotions and demonstrations aimed at Indonesian households.

Portugal Needs Indonesian Workers for Its Fishing Fleet

Portugal is seeking Indonesian crew members to meet labour needs in its fishing industry, with Ambassador Susi Marleny Bachsin saying Indonesian workers have the skills required. A mutual recognition agreement on certifications is expected to enable their recruitment and clarify access to jobs, while strengthening maritime ties and creating overseas employment opportunities.

Villages Ministry develops local protein sources to tackle stunting

The Villages and Disadvantaged Regions Development Ministry is promoting locally available animal proteins to address malnutrition and stunting in disadvantaged areas. In West Sumba, it has trialled processing snails as a food source that children enjoy, while preparing a food-system development programme with the International Fund for Agricultural Development.

Cirebon Customs Seize 1.6 Million Illegal Cigarettes at Ciperna Toll Exit

Cirebon Customs and West Java Customs officials intercepted a logistics truck carrying 1,698,400 cigarettes without excise stamps near the Ciperna toll exit. The seizure is valued at about Rp2.52 billion and prevented an estimated Rp1.27 billion in potential losses to state excise revenue; the driver has been detained for questioning.

Santri Day on 22 October 2026: Theme and Activities Announced

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued guidance for Santri Day 2026, including the theme “Santri Strengthening the Nation Towards a Golden Indonesia” and an online link to the official logo. The celebrations will centre on a nationwide ceremony on 22 October, alongside supporting activities promoting pesantren independence, environmental theology and student scouting.

Kumham Imipas Strengthens Cross-Sector Cooperation Ahead of New Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code

The Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections is strengthening coordination and institutional readiness ahead of the implementation of Indonesia’s new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. Deputy Coordinating Minister Otto Hasibuan said the reforms require changes in law-enforcement practices and greater capacity to apply alternatives to imprisonment, while improving rehabilitation and social reintegration.

Gold Mine Collapse Kills at Least 14

At least 14 people were killed and seven injured when an illegal gold mine collapsed in Colombia’s Nariño province. The governor has called on national authorities to accelerate the formalisation of illegal and small-scale miners, citing the need to improve working conditions and safety after another fatal mining accident in the region last August.

Indonesia and Central African nations secure potential US$60m deals at TEI

Indonesian companies secured 19 agreements with Central African partners, with potential value of about US$60 million, spanning tapioca and biogas, river-sand mining, organic fertiliser, and fish processing. The deals and related business-matching initiatives are intended to deepen Indonesia’s commercial presence in Africa and foster longer-term investment and trade partnerships.

MPSI boosts agricultural skills among Wanam villagers

The Merah Pusaka Stratejik Indonesia Foundation is helping Indigenous residents of Wanam, South Papua, build agricultural skills and has supported the formation of six women’s farming groups. Local leaders say the initiative must be followed by sustained mentoring and must respect customary values, community ties to land and cultural identity as development and investment expand in the area.

Alamtri Resources Officially Begins Share Buyback Today

Alamtri Resources Indonesia has begun a share buyback programme approved by shareholders in April, which is scheduled to run for 12 months. The company says the move reflects confidence in Indonesia’s economic fundamentals and long-term business prospects, and will not affect its finances, investment needs or operations.

AI Use Surges as Deepfakes, Bots and Disinformation Mark Israel’s Election

Israel’s 27 October election is seeing unprecedented use of AI, from deepfake campaign videos and automated calls to suspected bot networks, prompting concern that disinformation could influence the result. Researchers say more than 14 per cent of campaign material they reviewed used AI, while gaps in regulation leave few constraints beyond mandatory labelling rules.

Mount Anak Krakatau on Alert After Three Eruptions Today

Indonesia’s Geological Agency has urged people to stay at least five kilometres from Mount Anak Krakatau after the volcano erupted three times on Tuesday and remained at Level III (Alert). Authorities also imposed tighter restrictions near a newly emerged island and warned of hazards including incandescent rocks, heavy ashfall, lava flows and secondary eruptions, while asking coastal residents in Banten and Lampung to remain calm and disregard tsunami rumours.

Cak Surabaya finalist stripped of title after drug case

Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi says the city has revoked the Cak title held by a 2019 finalist arrested on suspicion of narcotics misuse. The municipal government considers the title a responsibility to represent the city, while the criminal case will proceed separately; since 2022, applicants have also been required to undergo drug tests and provide supporting records.

2026 Yangtze River Delta International Youth Film Festival Opens in Ningbo

The week-long festival, running from 17 to 23 October, brings together film screenings, industry forums and project development initiatives for young filmmakers. Organisers say it will strengthen the Yangtze River Delta’s film industry and foster links between Chinese and African film sectors, while showcasing Ningbo’s long-standing role in Chinese cinema.

Creative Industries and Islamic Finance Synergy Opens Up New Economic Opportunities

Collaboration between creative businesses, retailers and Islamic financial institutions can strengthen business value chains, expand markets and make transactions easier for consumers. Bank Mega Syariah’s partnership with Metro Modest Fashion Week 2026 in Makassar aims to support Indonesia’s modest-fashion and halal lifestyle ecosystem while bringing sharia-compliant financial services closer to everyday activity.

Downstreaming Investment Reaches Rp1,199 Trillion in Prabowo’s First Two Years

Indonesia recorded Rp1,199 trillion in downstreaming investment from the fourth quarter of 2024 to September 2026, with mineral processing accounting for the largest share. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said downstreaming’s contribution to total investment is rising, while 78% of the January–September 2026 total was realised outside Java.

Elon Musk Plans to Give SpaceX Shares to Every Child in the United States

Elon Musk says he will distribute SpaceX shares worth an estimated US$10.5 billion among roughly 72 million US children under 18 from next year, amounting to about US$145 per child. The plan’s eligibility, distribution method and regulatory status remain unclear, while Musk says it is the first of several such initiatives.

Cileungsi River in Bogor Turns Oil-Black and Emits a Pungent Smell

The Cileungsi River in Bogor has turned black and is producing a pungent odour, prompting complaints from residents living nearby. One resident says the smell disrupts daily life and causes throat discomfort, which she suspects is linked to pollution in the river.

Bakom stresses tangible benefits to maintain public trust

The Government Communications Agency says public confidence depends not only on flagship programme results but also on whether people experience concrete benefits in daily life. It points to affordable food, jobs created by investment and better education and healthcare services, while calling for transparency, open communication and continued policy improvement.

Mutual fund investors surpass 29.8 million SID as access to investment broadens

Indonesia had 29.84 million mutual fund investor identities by the end of August 2026, according to KSEI. Sucor AM has partnered with BCA to distribute a mixed mutual fund through the bank’s digital platform and selected branches, with a minimum investment of Rp10,000, expanding access to investment products.

Greenpeace Banner Displayers Evacuated; Jakarta Police Say Public Safety Is the Top Priority

Six Greenpeace activists who unfurled a banner at the Welcome Statue in Jakarta’s HI Roundabout were evacuated for medical checks after reporting weakness and dizziness. Jakarta Metropolitan Police said public safety was paramount, while the protest banners called on the government to address the climate crisis.

BI East Nusa Tenggara: KARSA NUSA 2026 Produces Recommendations for Economic Transformation

Bank Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara office hopes research from the inaugural KARSA NUSA programme will inform measurable policies to accelerate the province’s economic transformation and improve residents’ welfare. The studies call for linking local strengths with processing, logistics, finance and markets, while also developing cross-border trade, strengthening resilience and ensuring local communities benefit.

Steering the Free Nutritious Meals Programme in the Right Direction

Indonesia’s flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has faced major implementation problems, including alleged corruption among senior officials, food-poisoning incidents and widespread failures to meet hygiene standards. The article cites estimates of substantial state losses and tens of thousands of suspected food-poisoning victims, underscoring the need for stronger oversight and safer delivery.

Banyuwangi Judge Given Two-Year Suspension from Judicial Duties for Sexual Misconduct

A judge from Banyuwangi Religious Court, seconded to the Surabaya Religious High Court, has been sanctioned with two years off the bench after an ethics panel found he had used an official car during working hours to meet a woman, with the encounter resulting in sex outside marriage. The panel found that his account blaming the woman conflicted with investigation findings and ruled that he breached judicial conduct rules; his judicial position allowance will be withheld during the suspension.

Trump Accuses Zelensky of Obstructing Peace as Ukrainian Drones Set Russian Oil Terminal Ablaze

Donald Trump accused Volodymyr Zelensky of being unwilling to end the war and suggested Ukraine should appoint someone else to negotiate, while Kyiv rejected the charge and said it remained open to a settlement that protects its sovereignty. The dispute intensified after Ukrainian drone strikes reportedly set fire to a strategic oil terminal near St Petersburg, amid continued Russian attacks and Washington’s suspension of additional sanctions on Moscow.

Coal Prices Surge to Three-Year High as Bahlil Prepares to Raise Production

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry is preparing a limited relaxation of coal production rules after prices climbed to US$156.05 per tonne, their highest level in three years. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said production could be increased to capitalise on stronger global demand and boost foreign-exchange earnings, while avoiding an uncontrolled oversupply.

OCBC expands wealth management services tailored to customer needs

OCBC is expanding personalised investment advice through its wealth management business, as customers seek guidance aligned with their financial goals and risk profiles. Its new Premier One service combines expert support and investment access with regional and lifestyle benefits, against a backdrop of growing investor knowledge but continued reliance on deposits.

Patrice Evra and Park Ji-sung to visit Jakarta this weekend

Manchester United legends Patrice Evra and Park Ji-sung will visit Jakarta from 23 to 25 October as part of the build-up to OGFC Unite 2027. The programme will combine fan events, a music festival and community football activities, with ticket buyers also receiving a free ticket to the 2027 match at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium.

Bareskrim Splits PT DSI Fund Embezzlement Case into Four Clusters; Three Files Declared Complete

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Department has divided the alleged fraud and embezzlement involving Dana Syariah Indonesia into four clusters, with prosecutors declaring the files for the first three complete. Investigators say they have traced assets worth more than Rp500 billion and are pursuing the company’s criminal liability, as the case involves losses of around Rp2.4 trillion and thousands of lenders.

Red Line KRL Services Return to Normal After INKA Train Repairs Completed

KAI Commuter has restored normal service on the Bogor–Jakarta Kota Red Line after completing repairs to an INKA-built trainset that had been out of service since Friday. The reinstatement brings the Bogor route back to 392 daily trips and the Jabodetabek network to 1,065, following safety and operational tests.

138 KDKMP Treasurers in Riau Take Part in Training and Competency Certification

A total of 138 treasurers from Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives across Riau are taking part in a four-day training and competency certification programme. Supported by the Ministry of Cooperatives’ 2026 deconcentration funds, the programme aims to strengthen financial reporting, tax compliance and accountability in cooperative operations.

Telkom steps up efforts to spread AI infrastructure beyond Jakarta and Batam

Telkom Indonesia says AI infrastructure must be developed across more Indonesian cities, rather than concentrating digital growth in Jakarta and Batam. The company is looking at expanding connectivity in places including Surabaya, Solo and Manado, while stressing that infrastructure must be matched by reliable energy and practical applications for local industries and communities.

Banda Aceh’s ESG Commitment Offers Inspiration for the Country

Banda Aceh Mayor Illiza Sa’aduddin Djamal says local regulations, public funding and community participation are central to the city’s waste-management strategy, aligned with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles. The city is promoting waste reduction at source, recycling and composting through community collection points and waste banks, aiming to turn waste into economic value while building environmental awareness.

Plan Reaches 12,239 People to Strengthen Post-Earthquake Recovery in Flores

Plan Indonesia says it has reached 12,239 people in the two months since a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, providing essential supplies, education recovery support and child protection services. Its work includes clean water and hygiene distributions, child-friendly safe spaces and psychosocial support, while local officials say the organisation’s assistance and teacher training are helping communities recover.

UAE Princess Found Overdosed in the Street: What Happened Next

Mahrah Al Nahyan, a member of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family by marriage, admitted child neglect after she and another adult were found unconscious in west London, with a three-year-old child left unsupervised near traffic. She is undergoing addiction treatment and was ordered to complete a two-year community rehabilitation programme and pay a fine of £6,114.

KPK Grants Two Seized Assets to Jakarta Provincial Government

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has granted two assets seized in corruption cases to the Jakarta Provincial Government, with a combined estimated value of about Rp9.66 billion. One property in Kemayoran will be used as a fire station, while the future use of the Tebet property has not yet been decided.

Students Present Their Demands at the Yogyakarta Regional Council Building

Students from several universities in Yogyakarta gathered outside the provincial legislature to voice concerns over government policies and issues including forest and land fires. Yogyakarta Regional Council Speaker Nuryadi met the demonstrators, said their demands would be followed up and urged them to express their views peacefully.

Khalid Basalamah Says He Paid Hajj Acceleration Fee After VIP Maktab Offer

Khalid Basalamah told a Jakarta corruption trial that his travel agency paid US$4,500 per pilgrim for what he understood to be a special Hajj visa, after an offer of VIP maktab facilities led 121 pilgrims to switch from the furoda route to special Hajj places funded by additional quota. He also described further payments, including US$1,000 for each of 37 pilgrims whose names had not been confirmed, and said refunds were incomplete. Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and three others are on trial over alleged corruption in the 2023–2024 additional Hajj quota, with prosecutors alleging state losses of Rp622.09 billion.

Bareskrim Names PT Dana Syariah Indonesia a Suspect in Rp2.4 Trillion Embezzlement Case

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named PT Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI) a corporate suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving losses of about Rp2.4 trillion for thousands of lenders. Investigators say asset tracing and recovering victims’ funds are central to the case, which has already seen five individuals named as suspects across three investigation clusters.

PII and West Java provincial government agree to work together to address regional issues

The Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) and the West Java provincial government have agreed to collaborate on regional challenges, including spatial planning, disaster mitigation and environmentally friendly public transport. The partnership is intended to turn engineering expertise into practical solutions for recurring urban problems such as congestion and flooding, while supporting sustainable development.

Densus 88 Joins Forces with Central Sulawesi Provincial Government to Discuss Extremism Threats and Children Exposed to Radical Ideology

Indonesia’s Densus 88 counter-terrorism unit and the Central Sulawesi provincial government have agreed to strengthen coordination to prevent the spread of intolerance, radicalism, extremism and terrorism. Their discussions covered emerging online phenomena, early detection and approaches for supporting children exposed to extremist beliefs, while Governor Anwar Hafid stressed the importance of tolerance and community involvement.

Indonesia and Portugal Reach Agreement: Why Crew Members Must Be Certified

Indonesia and Portugal have signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement that recognises internationally compliant competency certification for Indonesian fishing-vessel crew seeking work in Portugal. The certification is intended to verify seafarers’ skills and safety readiness, while technical discussions will determine which specific qualifications the two countries recognise.

The Paradox of Acquiring the Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier

Indonesia’s commissioning of the former Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi as KRI Sriwijaya marks a historic expansion of the Navy’s capabilities, but raises questions about its strategic value and costs. The article argues that the acquisition should be judged against Indonesia’s archipelagic geography, defensive doctrine and the alternative of strengthening a distributed network of bases and maritime capabilities.

Chinese Rocket Debris Reportedly Falls on Kalimantan Palm Oil Plantation

A large piece of debris believed to be from a Chinese Zhuque-2E rocket was found at a palm oil plantation in Central Kalimantan, with no injuries or property damage reported. BRIN says heat-resistant spacecraft components can survive atmospheric re-entry, while the European Space Agency assesses the risk to people as very low despite rising launch numbers.

Police Evacuate Six Greenpeace Activists at HI Roundabout; One Needs Medical Attention

Police, military personnel and Jakarta provincial authorities evacuated six Greenpeace Indonesia activists who unfurled a banner atop the Welcome Monument at Jakarta’s HI Roundabout. One woman appeared weak while descending and was taken by ambulance for medical care; police also said they would investigate how the group reached the monument and warned that demonstrations must respect public safety and cultural heritage protections.

Police evacuate six Greenpeace Indonesia activists at Bundaran HI

Police, military personnel and Jakarta officials evacuated six Greenpeace Indonesia activists who had unfurled a banner on the Selamat Datang Monument at Bundaran HI. One woman appeared weak while descending and was taken for medical attention; police say they will investigate how the group reached the monument and have reminded demonstrators to protect public safety and the heritage site.

Jetour T2 i-DM Launched in Medan, Priced at Rp700 Million

Jetour has introduced its T2 i-DM plug-in hybrid SUV in Medan at an on-the-road price of Rp700 million, expanding its sales reach in North Sumatra. The model combines a turbo petrol engine and electric motors, with a claimed combined range exceeding 1,200 kilometres, and features fast charging, driver-assistance technology and extensive warranty coverage.

AirNav Continues to Strengthen National Air Navigation Services

AirNav Indonesia is upgrading its air traffic management systems and facilities, developing staff skills and improving operational procedures to enhance safety and efficiency. Its new automation system is now operating at four service centres, while Free Route Operation helped airlines save US$8.04 million in fuel costs and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 5,426 tonnes in 2025.

Mysterious Metal Object in Kotim Palm Oil Plantation Turns Out to Be Chinese Rocket Debris

A large metal object found in a palm oil plantation in Central Kalimantan has been identified by Indonesian authorities as debris from China’s Zhuque 2E satellite-launch rocket. A second object was discovered nearby, prompting police and military personnel to secure the sites and urge residents not to touch any further debris while investigations continue.

Telkom Strengthens Digital Infrastructure Security to Combat Cybercrime

Telkom is strengthening network and data protections as businesses and the public become more reliant on digital connectivity and cyber threats grow increasingly complex. The company is promoting measures including zero-trust access, multi-factor authentication and stronger organisational procedures, while coordinating with government agencies.

KPK’s Arrest Operations Surge in Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted 36 sting operations during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration—more than double the total in the equivalent period of Joko Widodo’s second term. The operations have ensnared 19 regional heads, while KPK has also reviewed corruption risks in flagship government programmes and pursued cases spanning public services and local government.

BGN Urges SPPGs in Jayawijaya and Yahukimo to Resume Operations

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is urging nutrition service units in Jayawijaya and Yahukimo to restart the Free Nutritious Meals programme, which has been suspended there since 14 September 2026. The shutdown has disrupted meals for around 13,000 beneficiaries in Jayawijaya and affected workers, farmers and market traders, amid security concerns and operational funding and account issues.

PGE Sets New All-Time High for Production Through September 2026

Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) generated a record 4,114 GWh of electricity from its own-operated geothermal sites in the first nine months of 2026, 8.22% above its period target and 9.8% higher year on year. The company said strong plant availability and operational discipline supported the performance, while it is pursuing further projects and competitive financing to expand installed capacity to 1 GW by 2028 and 1.8 GW by 2034.

Why US Vice-President JD Vance Refuses to Back Netanyahu in Israeli Election

US Vice-President JD Vance says he will not take sides in Israel’s 27 October election, despite President Donald Trump’s full-throated endorsement of Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump has predicted a “tremendous” victory for Netanyahu and suggested the United States could otherwise be left to shoulder the burden alone, while Netanyahu has spoken of completing their joint task against Iran.

Indef: MBG–KDKMP integration needed to expand MSME participation

Indef says the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and the Red and White Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) should be integrated to bring more local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) into their supply chains. A survey found that although awareness and programme coverage are high, only a small share of MSMEs have partnered with either initiative, and 80 per cent see no new business opportunities; Indef also recommends easier procurement access, reliable payments and stronger local distribution.

Central Lombok Regency Sets Aside Rp8.1bn for Part-Time PPPK Salaries in 2026

Central Lombok Regency has allocated about Rp8.12 billion in its revised budget to pay part-time Government Employees under Work Agreements (PPPK), whose salaries have been unpaid since their appointment in December 2025. Up to ten months’ pay is due to be paid in a lump sum in early November, followed by regular monthly payments in November and December; the allocation also provides minimum income and social security cover.

Investment Realisation Under Two Years of Prabowo Government Tops Rp 3,923.2 Trillion

Investment realisation from October 2024 to September 2026 reached Rp 3,923.2 trillion, equal to 30.1% of the national investment requirement for 2025–2029, and supported nearly 5.5 million jobs. For January–September 2026, investment rose 7.3% year on year to Rp 1,539.2 trillion, with foreign and domestic investment contributing almost equally and investment outside Java slightly ahead.

Mount Ibu in North Maluku Erupts Five Times Since Early Morning

Mount Ibu in West Halmahera erupted five times between early morning and afternoon on Tuesday, sending ash columns 300–500 metres above its summit. Geological authorities have maintained its Level II (Alert) status and advised the public to stay outside a two-kilometre radius, with a wider exclusion zone extending 3.5 kilometres north of the active crater.

IRGC Says It Will Reveal New Targets, Highlights Hormuz Strait Internet Cables

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned that it will disclose new targets and weapons, drawing attention to seven major undersea internet cables crossing the Strait of Hormuz. The remarks come amid heightened tensions with the United States and follow Iranian warnings that digital infrastructure could be targeted if conflict resumes.

Bulog Rebrands SPHP Rice as Beras Kita Medium

Perum Bulog has launched a new five-kilogram pack for its government-subsidised SPHP medium-grade rice, branded “Beras Kita Medium”, to strengthen the product’s identity and promote affordable access. The launch also highlights the government’s food-security agenda and Bulog’s role in purchasing farmers’ harvests, managing state rice reserves and distributing rice to the public.

Lumajang Makes Permit Applications More Digital, Relying on OSS and the National Digital Public Service Mall

Lumajang regency is expanding digital channels for licensing and non-licensing services to improve access for residents and businesses, using systems including OSS and the National Digital Public Service Mall. Regent Indah Amperawati also said the administration would implement the Civil Service Talent Management Information System, linking professional public services to officials’ performance, competence, qualifications and integrity.

Rp2.47 Trillion in Victims’ Funds Still Unreturned as Police Seize PT DSI Assets Worth Up to Rp500 Billion

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Department says it has traced assets worth more than Rp500 billion in the alleged investment fraud case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, while Rp2.47 trillion in victims’ funds remains unrecovered. Investigators are pursuing asset recovery across four case clusters and examining potential corporate criminal liability, as police warn lenders against paying anyone who promises a quick refund.

Forest Fire Seen on the Slopes of Mount Lawu

A forest fire continued to burn on the slopes of Mount Lawu in Karanganyar, Central Java, on Monday, with footage showing flames near Segorogunung. Authorities had deployed 244 joint personnel and were continuing suppression efforts, while considering weather modification with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG); the cause has not yet been established.

Haze Blankets Bima and Dompu, Possibly Caused by Land Burning

Haze has shrouded Bima and Dompu in West Nusa Tenggara in recent days amid low rainfall and a temperature inversion that is allowing airborne particles to linger. BMKG suspects local land burning may be contributing, although satellite monitoring has not detected significant smoke and the exact source remains unconfirmed; air quality is currently moderate.

Environment Minister: Carbon Potential Can Benefit Communities

Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat is backing a shift from extractive development towards a restorative economy, with carbon value used to help finance environmental recovery and benefit local communities. The Environment Ministry is working with regional governments to integrate carbon governance into local planning and support credible, transparent national emissions-reduction targets.

BNPB Chief and Army Chief Step Up Efforts to Speed Up Forest and Land Firefighting in Central Kalimantan

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) chief and the Indonesian Army chief have inspected firefighting operations in Pulang Pisau, Central Kalimantan, to strengthen coordination among government agencies and security forces. Daily efforts are extinguishing more than 80 per cent of newly burned areas on average, with helicopters carrying out water-bombing missions and weather-modification operations deployed to contain the fires.

Taj Yasin Promotes Cleanliness Campaign at Central Java Islamic Boarding Schools Ahead of National Santri Day 2026

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen has launched a cleanliness campaign across 117 Islamic boarding schools ahead of National Santri Day 2026, encouraging students to sort waste and turn recyclable and organic waste into useful products. The province-wide initiative also included health services and aid for schools and local residents, with the provincial event held in Pemalang.

iPhone Duo vs Galaxy Z Fold 8 Battery Comparison Finally Revealed

An EU energy-label database reportedly lists Apple’s first foldable, the iPhone Duo, with a 4,883mAh battery, slightly larger than the Galaxy Z Fold 8’s rated capacity. The iPhone is said to offer longer use per charge, although Samsung’s device is rated for more charging cycles; the iPhone Duo is priced from US$1,999 and is expected to go on sale in early 2027.

Prabowo Pays His Last Respects to Former Army Chief Subagyo HS

President Prabowo Subianto attended the lying-in-state of retired General Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo at Army Headquarters in Jakarta, paying his respects and offering condolences to the family. Subagyo, a senior Indonesian Army figure who served as Army Chief of Staff under three presidents, died in Yogyakarta on 19 October 2026.

Pelni’s KM Dorolonda to Begin Serving Donggala Port on 31 October

Pelni will move KM Dorolonda’s port call to Donggala, Central Sulawesi, from 31 October 2026, under an assignment from the Ministry of Transportation to broaden access to sea transport. KM Lambelu will continue serving Pantoloan, keeping both ports in operation, while Pelni says it is coordinating safety, port readiness and passenger services.

Social Immunity and Indonesia’s Demographic Dividend at Stake

The article argues that protests in Europe should be read as warnings about young people’s shrinking economic opportunities and declining trust in public institutions, rather than merely as security problems. It urges Indonesia to strengthen its “social immunity” by improving education, creating decent jobs and affordable housing, and responding fairly to public criticism so its demographic dividend does not become a source of social strain.

Police Trace Assets and More Than Rp500 Billion in DSI Case

Indonesia’s National Police say they have traced assets worth more than Rp500 billion in the alleged criminal case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, with the investigation intended to support recovery for lenders. Prosecutors have declared three case files complete, while investigators continue pursuing corporate criminal liability; regulators’ figures show more than Rp2.47 trillion owed to over 11,000 lenders.

Immigration Steps Up Cyber Patrols to Prevent Indonesians Becoming Mercenaries

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration says it is stepping up cyber patrols and working with Interpol to counter human trafficking schemes that lure Indonesians abroad with promises of work, including recruitment as mercenaries. It is also seeking to tackle the economic causes of vulnerability through village development programmes, while pursuing Indonesians suspected of acting as recruiters or agents.

BMKG: Beware of Smoke Haze Across Southeast Sulawesi Until 22 October

BMKG has warned residents of Southeast Sulawesi to remain alert to smoke haze expected to persist until 22 October 2026, with visibility in some areas falling below five kilometres. Satellite data recorded 189 hotspots in the province; BMKG urged people to take health precautions and travellers to use lights when visibility deteriorates.

When the Yellow Books Are Read by Fingertips

The article argues that publishing Braille editions of traditional Islamic texts can help make pesantren education more inclusive for blind students. It calls for collaboration with disabled learners, accessible teaching materials and facilities, teacher training, and policies shaped by real needs rather than simple book distribution.

Pramono Aims to Make Jakarta a Film Hub Like Busan

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the capital has the infrastructure, talent and economic momentum to become a major film-production centre for Indonesia and South-east Asia. He pointed to improved global-city rankings and public-transport connectivity, and hopes Jakarta will eventually be recognised internationally in the way Busan is for South Korean cinema.

Bio Farma Records More Than Rp10 Trillion in Vaccine Exports in 2021–2025

State-owned pharmaceutical company Bio Farma recorded vaccine exports worth more than Rp10 trillion between 2021 and 2025, with products supplied to more than 150 countries. The company says its export reach, WHO-prequalified portfolio and use of free-trade agreements demonstrate the contribution of Indonesia’s health industry to exports and global health supply chains.

State Secretary Reveals Dry Ice Tactic to Help Tackle Haze from Forest and Land Fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan: ‘Thankfully, Rain Has Fallen’

The government is intensifying weather modification operations in four provinces to address forest and land fires and the resulting haze, using dry ice alongside sodium chloride cloud seeding. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said several districts have reported rain, while field reports also indicate lower PM2.5 concentrations and improved visibility in parts of South Sumatra.

Indonesia’s Food Inflation Ranks Among the Top Three, with the Philippines and India Worst Hit

Indonesia’s annual headline inflation was 3.19% in August 2026, lower than in the Philippines, India and South Africa, but its 3.86% food inflation was the third-highest among six countries compared. LPEM FEB UI says global pressures, including elevated oil prices and tight US monetary policy, are affecting countries differently, while domestic food supplies and government energy pricing policies remain key factors for Indonesia.

Global Manufacturer Expands into Indonesia’s Home Appliance Market

Aucma Group has opened a showroom and headquarters for its Indonesian subsidiary in North Jakarta, signalling a push from commercial cold-chain products into household appliances. The company plans to build a retail distribution network with local partners across several regions and establish after-sales services, as global manufacturers compete for Indonesia’s growing consumer market.

Prabowo Pays His Last Respects to Subagyo at Army Headquarters

President Prabowo Subianto attended the lying-in-state of former Army chief General (Ret.) Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo in Jakarta, offering condolences to his family. Subagyo, who held senior military posts including Army chief during the 1998 Reformasi period, died aged 80 and was due to be buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

Profile of Former Army Chief of Staff Subagyo HS, Who Has Died

Former Indonesian Army Chief of Staff General (Ret.) Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, known as Subagyo HS, has died and is to be buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta. The government has paid tribute to his military service, including his leadership of Kopassus and his tenure as Army chief under three presidents.

Indonesia’s Investment Realisation Reaches Rp1,539 Trillion by September 2026, Creating 2.19 Million Jobs

Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, up 7.2 per cent year on year and equivalent to 75.4 per cent of its annual target. The investment generated employment for more than 2.19 million people, according to Investment and Downstreaming Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani.

Police Vow to Trace PT DSI Assets to Recover Victims’ Losses

Indonesia’s National Police say they have traced assets worth more than Rp500 billion in the alleged investment fraud involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, with investigations continuing across four case clusters. The effort aims to recover funds for lenders, while authorities warn victims against paying anyone who promises a rapid refund; OJK data show more than Rp2.47 trillion owed to over 11,000 lenders.

Bulog: 4 Million Tonne Rice Procurement from Farmers Part of 2026 Presidential Instruction

Perum Bulog says it has procured 4.13 million tonnes of rice-equivalent from domestic farmers, reaching 103.29 per cent of the national target of four million tonnes. The achievement fulfils part of Presidential Instruction No. 4 of 2026 and is intended to bolster government rice reserves and national food security, with East Java contributing nearly a quarter of the total.

AirNav Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Indonesia’s Air Navigation Services

AirNav Indonesia says it is modernising systems at four service centres, upgrading operational facilities and developing staff to improve aviation safety, reliability and efficiency. Its Free Route Operation scheme was used by 5,030 flights in 2025, generating reported fuel savings of US$8.04 million and avoiding 5,426 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, while international partnerships are supporting further operational and workforce development.

At Trial, Khalid Basalamah Says He Returned Rp6.3 Billion to KPK in Hajj Corruption Case

Khalid Zeed Abdullah Basalamah, director of Uhud Tour, told a Jakarta corruption court that he had returned US$354,500 (about Rp6.3 billion) to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). He also confirmed evidence of a separate US$200,000 transfer seized by investigators in the case concerning alleged corruption in additional Hajj quotas for 2023–2024, involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and others.

Prabowo Pays Last Respects to Former Army Chief Subagyo HS at Army Headquarters

President Prabowo Subianto attended the lying-in-state of retired General Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo at Army Headquarters in Jakarta, offering condolences to his family. Subagyo, a senior Indonesian Army figure who served as Army Chief of Staff under three presidents, died in Yogyakarta aged unspecified; he also served on the Presidential Advisory Council from 2015 to 2019.

‘Hamka Awal Mula Vol. 3’ to be released in cinemas in November 2026

Fajar Bustomi’s film about the early life of national hero Hamka is scheduled to open in Indonesian cinemas on 19 November 2026. Starring Vino G. Bastian, the story follows Hamka’s youth in Maninjau, his relationship with his father and his time studying in Makkah.

Riau Police Chief Maps Drug-Infested Villages, Plans to Turn Them into ‘Drug-Free Villages’

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Arman Achdiat says he has identified several villages associated with drug trafficking and plans to transform them into positive community spaces under a ‘Drug-Free Village’ initiative. The effort will involve local government, police, the military, customary leaders and residents, alongside public education and a zero-tolerance approach to narcotics.

Higher Education Ministry Accelerates Net Zero Emissions Transition on Indonesian Campuses

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has launched guidance and an analysis programme to help Indonesian universities accelerate their transition towards net zero emissions. With around 200 campuses already participating, the initiative aims to embed sustainability in higher education while avoiding additional administrative burdens and supporting Indonesia’s 2060 net-zero target or earlier.

Strong Potential: Pramono Wants Jakarta to Become Southeast Asia’s Film Hub

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is seeking to establish the capital as a Southeast Asian film-production hub through easier permits, tax incentives and international industry partnerships. The city says its production infrastructure and talent base give it a strong foundation, while the creative economy contributes Rp410.56 trillion, or 11.16 per cent, of Jakarta’s regional GDP.

National Cultural Festival 2026: Keeping Indonesian Culture Alive

The National Cultural Festival 2026 in Bogor brought together artists, cultural communities, academics and young people to celebrate Indonesia’s diverse traditions and encourage their preservation. Its programme included performances by 200 artists, interactive activities centred on ten cultural domains, and a national dialogue on how heritage, innovation and social change can shape culture’s future.

Police Investigate How Greenpeace Activists Climbed the Welcome Statue at Bundaran HI

Police are investigating how six Greenpeace Indonesia activists climbed the Welcome Statue at Jakarta’s Bundaran HI, and say they will review CCTV footage and question related parties. The activists were evacuated safely after displaying banners calling for government action on the climate crisis and people’s socio-economic conditions.

Syarikat Islam: True Independence Must Be Underpinned by Economic Self-Reliance

Syarikat Islam says genuine independence requires communities to build their own economic capacity, manage resources and broaden access to prosperity, alongside freedom from political colonisation. As it marks its 121st anniversary at its 42nd national congress in Surabaya, the organisation is renewing its commitment to economic outreach rooted in justice, sustainability and public welfare.

LPEI Brings Exporters to Trade Expo Indonesia to Expand Global Reach

Indonesia Eximbank (LPEI) is showcasing export-oriented businesses at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026 to help them reach international buyers and build partnerships. Tea producer Sila Indonesia and organic coconut sugar maker Global Coco Sugar say access to export financing and market connections is crucial as they seek to grow sales and support their farmer networks.

A 120-Hectare Coffee Plantation Nestled in a Former Jakarta Rubbish Dump

Sangga Buana Urban Forest in Lebak Bulus, Jakarta, is home to 1,200 Arabica, Robusta and Liberica coffee trees across 120 hectares, in an area once blighted by rubbish. The urban green space also serves as an educational and conservation destination, although its coffee harvest is currently used mainly by local residents and visiting community groups.

ITB Alumnus and Reka AI Founder Joins Endeavor’s Global Network

Dani Yogatama, founder and chief executive of Reka AI, has been selected as Endeavor Entrepreneur Indonesia’s 120th member, joining the global network after an international selection panel in Montreal. The company, valued at more than US$1 billion after raising US$110 million in 2025, develops multimodal AI models; Dani’s selection also highlights the potential for Indonesian talent to build global technology businesses.

Government Uses Salt and Dry Ice in Weather Modification to Extinguish Forest and Land Fires

The government has carried out weather-modification operations using salt and dry ice across four provinces affected by forest and land fires. Officials report rainfall in several districts and say operations in South Sumatra helped lower PM2.5 levels and improve visibility.

MP: Strengthening National Defence Is a Priority for Prabowo’s First Two Years

Commission I MP Oleh Soleh says strengthening national defence is a key priority during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming’s administration. He points to recent acquisitions of strategic military equipment, while stressing that modernisation must also develop the domestic defence industry, improve troop professionalism and welfare, and remain aligned with operational needs and budget capacity.

Haze Returns to Labuan Bajo

Haze has returned to Labuan Bajo, irritating residents’ eyes and reducing visibility to 4–5 kilometres. A local meteorologist says the conditions reflect a combination of smoke, urban emissions, dry surface dust and marine salt aerosols, trapped beneath an atmospheric inversion.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy shares video highlights of two years of government achievements

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya shared a video outlining claimed achievements from the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration, spanning food security, education, healthcare, housing, infrastructure and investment. The figures cited include Rp3,923 trillion in investment, 62 million recipients of the Free Nutritious Meals programme and food reserves of 5.2 million tonnes; President Prabowo said managing national wealth effectively was essential to serving the public.

Telkom Accelerates Rp 4 Trillion Share Buyback, with More Than Rp 3 Trillion in Funds Remaining

Telkom is preparing to accelerate its share buyback programme, worth up to Rp 4 trillion, which was approved by shareholders and runs until 8 June 2027. More than Rp 3 trillion remained unused as of 19 October 2026; the company says purchases will be guided by market conditions, cash flow, operational needs and investment priorities as part of its broader capital-management and transformation strategy.

Prabowo Pays His Last Respects to the Late General Subagyo HS at Army Headquarters

President Prabowo Subianto attended the lying-in-state of retired General Subagyo Hadi Siswoyo, Army Chief of Staff from 1998 to 1999, at Army Headquarters in Jakarta. He paid his respects and offered prayers, expressing condolences to the bereaved family.

Indonesia Becomes First Foreign Country to Own Property in Mecca

Indonesia has acquired the Novotel Thakher Makkah, with 1,461 rooms, and 14 neighbouring development plots for 2 billion Saudi riyals (about Rp9.5 trillion) through Danantara. The purchase could reduce Indonesia’s reliance on seasonal hotel rentals for pilgrims and establish a long-term hospitality investment platform in Saudi Arabia.

BSSN stresses data protection amid cyber threats

Indonesia’s National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN) has urged stronger data protection as cyber threats increasingly target interconnected systems, including critical national infrastructure. Deputy Chief Albertus Rachmad Wibowo said protection must cover the full data lifecycle and be backed by layered security and cryptography, while warning of risks to supply chains, economic activity and children’s personal data.

Mount Ibu in North Maluku erupts five times within a few hours

Mount Ibu in West Halmahera, North Maluku, erupted five times between the early morning and afternoon on Tuesday, sending ash columns hundreds of metres above its summit. The Geological Agency has maintained the volcano’s alert status at Level II (Advisory) and urged residents to follow official guidance and take precautions against volcanic ash.

BLUETTI Showcases Innovative Energy Solutions at 140th Canton Fair

BLUETTI presented portable power stations, home energy storage and commercial and industrial systems at the 140th Canton Fair, held from 15 to 19 October. The company also promoted integrated solar and pay-as-you-go offerings and sought international partners to expand access to clean energy and grow its business in emerging markets.

Saudi Arabia Executes Bangladeshi Man and Woman Accused of Indecency in Mosque

Saudi Arabia executed two Bangladeshi nationals in Mecca after convicting them of unspecified “indecent acts” in a mosque, under a discretionary tazir sentence. Bangladesh says it received no advance notice and has asked Riyadh for an explanation and the full court ruling, raising concerns over consular communication despite close bilateral ties.

PLN Adds 50 MW Diesel Power Plant in Sigi, Central Sulawesi, to Bolster Reliability

PLN is adding 50 MW of diesel generation capacity in Sigi, Central Sulawesi, to maintain electricity reliability as prolonged dry conditions reduce hydropower output. Twenty megawatts are already operating, with the remaining 30 MW being prepared for service, in a move backed by provincial and district governments to support households, economic activity and investment.

Integrated RDTR and OSS Focus of Ternate’s Urban Spatial Planning

Ternate Mayor M. Tauhid Soleman has pledged to accelerate the city’s Detailed Spatial Plan (RDTR), integrated with the Online Single Submission (OSS) business-permit system, to provide legal certainty for investors and support sustainable development. The city plans to finalise the technical materials and regional-head regulation, following a regional coordination meeting convened by the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency.

JCI Rebounds 4%: What Is Driving the Rise?

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) jumped 4.16% in the first session on Tuesday, supported by corporate share buybacks, planned stock-market disclosure reforms and optimism over state-owned bank shares. Analysts said the recovery will be tested at resistance levels of 5,318–5,400, while investors await consistent implementation of reforms amid MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market classification.

Baznas Tackles Forest and Land Fires at 12 Sites, Distributes Aid in Dozens of Locations

Baznas has carried out firefighting operations at 12 locations across Kalimantan, Sumatra and Sulawesi, while providing support to affected residents and response teams. Its assistance includes water-and-refreshment stations, ready-to-eat meals, vitamins and masks distributed across 27 locations.

Communications Minister Urges Digital Platforms to Prioritise Algorithmic Accountability

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has called on electronic system operators to make transparency, accountability and platform responsibility central to addressing concerns about algorithms. At Bali Tech Week 2026, officials from Indonesia and Malaysia highlighted the need to protect children online, including through age restrictions and regulation of digital services.

Following a Series of Eruptions, Geological Agency Bars Public from Approaching Anak Krakatau

Indonesia’s Geological Agency has prohibited residents, tourists and hikers from entering a five-kilometre zone around Anak Krakatau after the volcano erupted three times on Tuesday and remained at Alert Level III. It also imposed a one-kilometre exclusion zone around a newly emerged island and urged people on the Banten and Lampung coasts to remain calm and avoid spreading false tsunami claims.

Indonesia and Portugal Mutually Recognise Fishing Crew Qualifications, Opening Up Job Opportunities

Indonesia and Portugal have signed a mutual recognition agreement for Indonesian fishing-vessel crew qualifications, helping workers access employment in Portugal and the wider international market. The Indonesian fisheries ministry says it graduates at least 2,000 vocational students annually and plans to support a further 2,000 people with training, with certification aligned to the international STCW-F standard.

These State-Owned Shares Drove the IDX Composite Up 4%

The Jakarta Composite Index rose 4.16% in the first session on Tuesday, with four state-owned companies accounting for about 40% of the gain. Investors remained focused on Indonesia’s response to MSCI’s warning about a possible downgrade from Emerging Market to Standalone Market status, as the Indonesia Stock Exchange announced changes to shareholding disclosures and index calculations.

Riau Islands Provincial Government Seeks to Build Power Plant on Bintan Island

The Riau Islands provincial government plans to ask the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry to approve a power plant on Bintan, which currently relies on electricity supplied from Batam. The proposal follows a two-day blackout and aims to improve reliability and help Bintan meet demand of about 105 megawatts.

South Korea to withdraw some Ukraine embassy staff after POW row

South Korea will withdraw some staff from its embassy in Ukraine, citing persistent air-strike threats and difficult conditions for protecting personnel, as a diplomatic dispute over the transfer of North Korean prisoners of war to Seoul continues. Seoul says Ukraine’s response to the recall of its ambassador has not been positive and is seeking an official apology for the disclosure; Kyiv says it considers the matter resolved.

Demonstration Near Monas: KAI Urges Gambir Station Passengers to Arrive Early

KAI has advised passengers travelling from Gambir Station to allow extra time on 20 October, as a demonstration near the National Monument could cause traffic congestion. Authorities say 9,505 combined police, military and Jakarta regional-government personnel have been deployed, with officials emphasising the public’s right to demonstrate and the need for a proportionate, humane response.

Tourism grows more resilient in Prabowo-Gibran’s two years: minister

Indonesia’s tourism sector recorded rising visitor numbers and spending, with 15.39 million foreign visits in 2025 and domestic trips reaching a record 1.2 billion. The ministry says growth has continued into 2026, while international rankings and awards point to stronger competitiveness and wider recognition for Indonesian destinations and hotels.

Where Are the World’s Goods Headed? China Owns the Ports

China accounts for six of the world’s eight busiest container ports, with Shanghai retaining the top spot after handling 55.1 million TEUs in 2025. The rankings highlight the strategic role of Chinese port infrastructure in global supply chains, while Singapore serves as a major transshipment hub and California’s ports connect Asian manufacturing with the US market.

Schools in Nagekeo shorten lessons as pupils study in post-earthquake tents

Schools in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, have been allowed to end classes by 11am rather than the usual 1pm while operating from emergency tents after an earthquake. The local education and culture department cited the harsh conditions, including high temperatures and dust blown about by strong afternoon winds.

Geely EX2 Production Reaches One Million Units Two Years After Debut

Geely says cumulative production of its EX2 electric hatchback has reached one million units, about two years after the model debuted. The car has recorded strong sales in China, while local assembly began in Indonesia and production is planned in Brazil, although Geely has not disclosed how many units are destined for domestic and export markets.

China Urges Filipino Politicians Not to Inflame Tensions Between the Countries

China has urged Filipino politicians to avoid escalating a diplomatic dispute after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and the Philippine foreign secretary criticised the Chinese ambassador’s remarks about the South China Sea. The row has raised calls in the Philippines to declare the ambassador persona non grata, while Manila says it will defend its interests diplomatically and keep communication open with Beijing.

Banten Police and Education Department Step Up Monitoring to Prevent Students Joining Protests

Banten Police and the provincial education department have agreed on preventive measures to discourage students from joining demonstrations and to monitor their safety. Schools, parents and education supervisors are being asked to track absences, stay in contact and report potential security concerns to local police.

Ternate Mayor Pushes for RDTR Integration with OSS at ATR/BPN Meeting in Makassar

Ternate Mayor Tauhid Soleman has pledged to accelerate the city’s Detailed Spatial Plan (RDTR), including its integration with the Online Single Submission (OSS) business-licensing system, following a regional coordination meeting convened by the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency. The plan is intended to provide greater legal certainty for investors, prevent land-use conflicts and guide sustainable development; Ternate will follow up by finalising technical materials and drafting a regional regulation.

President Shot at by Gunmen, Bullets Miss His Head by Inches

French President Charles de Gaulle survived an OAS assassination attempt near Paris in August 1962, when gunmen fired 150 rounds at his car and several bullets came within inches of his head. The attack grew out of fierce opposition to his policy of granting Algeria independence; its chief organiser was later executed, while de Gaulle remained in office and pursued direct presidential elections.

Arjuno-Welirang Wildfire Moves Closer to Residential Areas

A wildfire on Mount Ringgit, within the Arjuno-Welirang area of Pasuruan, East Java, has spread, with flames now reported 2–3 kilometres from nearby homes. Residents have not been directly affected, while emergency teams continue to monitor the fire and tackle it from the ground; there are no reported casualties, and the cause and burned area remain under investigation and assessment.

Ponorogo Woman Dies on Motorbike While Taking Child as Passenger, After Pulling Over

A 38-year-old woman in Ponorogo died after suddenly losing consciousness while travelling by motorbike to seek medical treatment, with her child reportedly accompanying her. She had stopped outside Slahung Community Health Centre and was attended by medical staff, but could not be revived; her family said she had a history of gastric illness.

Two Years of Prabowo: Deputy MPR Speaker Praises Energy Security and Faster Transition

As President Prabowo Subianto’s government reaches its second year, Deputy MPR Speaker Eddy Soeparno has praised its attention to energy security, the energy transition and climate action. He called for measured fossil-fuel phase-down, backed ambitious solar and renewable-energy targets, and urged stronger investment, infrastructure and legal frameworks to support Indonesia’s 2060 net-zero goal.

Bulog launches new SPHP packaging under the Beras Kita Medium identity

Bulog has introduced new five-kilogram packaging for government-subsidised SPHP medium rice, branded Beras Kita Medium, to strengthen product recognition and promote affordable food. The launch was presented as supporting national food self-sufficiency, while also recognising farmers’ contribution and Bulog’s role in managing rice reserves and distribution.

January–September 2026 Downstreaming Investment Reaches Rp480 Trillion, with Minerals Still Dominant

Indonesia’s downstreaming investment reached Rp480 trillion in January–September 2026, accounting for 31.2% of total investment and rising 11.3% from the previous period. Minerals remained the leading sector, while Central Sulawesi and North Maluku were the biggest regional destinations, underlining the continued importance of resource processing to domestic value creation.

Video: How a Local Dairy Producer Is Expanding and Supporting Smallholder Cattle Farmers

Greenfields is expanding its role in Indonesia’s dairy industry amid rising demand and government-backed nutrition programmes, despite domestic production meeting only about 20% of national needs. The company says it controls production from farm to distribution and works with around 2,000 local dairy farmers to supply quality milk.

Indonesia and Portugal Sign MRA on Fishing Vessel Crew Certification

Indonesia and Portugal have agreed to mutually recognise certification and competency credentials for fishing vessel crew, a move expected to support Indonesian workers and help Portuguese vessels operate. Indonesia’s ambassador to Portugal said the agreement strengthens bilateral maritime ties and formalises a cooperation sought by both sides.

All Greenpeace Banner-Holders at Bundaran HI Taken to Polda Clinic

Six Greenpeace Indonesia activists who unfurled banners at the Welcome Statue in Central Jakarta were evacuated and taken to the Metro Jaya Police medical clinic, with one reportedly in a particularly weak condition. Police said the evacuation was complete and prioritised the activists’ safety, while reminding demonstrators that Bundaran HI is a designated cultural heritage site; no decision has yet been made on possible legal action.

Badung’s Strategy to Broaden Economic Gains Through a Catfish Farming Hub

Badung Regency has allocated more than Rp951 million to establish a catfish farming hub in Darmasaba village, supplying 49 cultivation packages to local fish-farming groups. The initiative aims to raise household incomes and food production, while the regency considers expanding the programme and addressing feed costs and market access.

Analyst: JCI rebounds 4% on buybacks and regulatory measures

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 4.16% to 5,204.63 in Tuesday’s first session, supported by planned corporate share buybacks and proposed regulatory changes. BRI Danareksa Sekuritas analyst Helmy Kristanto said the recovery’s durability will depend on consistent implementation of reforms as investors await the outcome of MSCI’s consultation on Indonesia’s market classification.

Depok Resident Reports Neighbour for Playing Loud Music Late at Night

A resident of Graha Cinere in Depok contacted the police hotline 110 after a neighbour repeatedly played loud music late at night. Police visited the home, and the neighbour gave an assurance not to repeat the disturbance; the matter was settled amicably.

Banjarwangi State Primary School Short of Classrooms; Pandeglang Regency Promises to Find a Solution Soon

Pandeglang Regency officials have confirmed that Banjarwangi State Primary School lacks three classrooms, leaving pupils to study in a prayer room and library. Although the school received central government refurbishment funding for six classrooms, the local government says it will assess repairs to the library and consider a two-storey classroom building, subject to available budget.

Relaxed Restrictions Could Allow Indonesia’s Coal Production to Reach 700 Million Tonnes This Year

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia will introduce a limited relaxation of coal production controls as prices for high-calorie coal rise, with the aim of balancing supply and demand and increasing foreign-exchange earnings. The revised 2026 work plan and budget has reportedly approved a coal production target of up to 700 million tonnes, above the original 600 million-tonne target, alongside nickel production of about 290 million tonnes.

Suspected Tyre Blowout Causes Box Truck to Overturn Before SUV Crashes into It on Jagorawi Toll Road

A box truck overturned after a rear tyre reportedly burst while it was travelling on the Jagorawi Toll Road in Bogor, and was then struck by an SUV. Police said the truck was overloaded and the SUV was following too closely; no one was killed, although traffic was briefly disrupted.

Two Years of Prabowo–Gibran: Rice Production Rises and BULOG Reserves Surpass 4 Million Tonnes

The government says Indonesia has achieved rice self-sufficiency and stopped importing ordinary rice for consumption, citing higher production and BULOG procurement exceeding its 4-million-tonne target. Official figures also show increased maize output and projected aggregate surpluses across 11 strategic food commodities, although soybean, garlic and beef production still need strengthening.

PII Holds ASEAN Engineers Conference in Bandung

The Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) is hosting the 44th Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations in Bandung from 20 to 22 October 2026, bringing together delegates from 11 ASEAN countries. The conference will examine how engineers can foster inclusive, sustainable industrialisation and turn regional cooperation into practical initiatives.

Tourism sector employed 25.91 million people in 2025, says minister

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana says the sector employed 25.91 million people in 2025, its highest level in a decade, while tourism investment reached Rp73.56 trillion. The ministry also highlighted investment growth, government support and expanding village tourism, where monitored villages recorded higher revenues, visitor numbers and local employment.

Lawyer: Bandung Doctor Suspected of Abusing Own Child, Who Contracted Sexually Transmitted Infection

A lawyer representing a three-year-old girl says she was allegedly sexually abused by her father, a doctor in Bandung, and subsequently diagnosed with gonorrhoea. The case has been reported to police and is being handled by the West Java Police’s Women and Children Protection Directorate.

Surabaya City Government Integrates Mother and Baby Services through Bunda Jelita

Surabaya’s Bunda Jelita programme brings maternal and infant healthcare, civil registration and health insurance services together, with support from 265 health facilities. The city says the initiative has helped speed up babies’ access to legal identity, while birth-certificate ownership among residents aged 0–18 reached 99.13% in 2025.

Telkomsel Showcases Nine Locally Developed AI Products, from Anti-Scam Tools to IoT

Telkomsel presented nine locally developed AI products and services at Bali Tech Week 2026, seeking feedback from users and potential partners before further development. The offerings range from scam detection and AI learning tools to enterprise services and connected-home energy concepts, as the company looks to make AI safer and more accessible.

Police Analyse CCTV Footage in Probe into Alleged Assault on UI Student Executive

Jakarta police are analysing additional CCTV footage and forensic evidence as they investigate the alleged assault, robbery and death threats against University of Indonesia student executive Hafidz Hernanda. The BEM UI has filed a police report, and investigators say they are examining witness statements and evidence to identify those responsible.

KPK Deputy Chairman Praises Pramono as Practical and Not Reckless

KPK Deputy Chairman Fitroh Rohcahyanto praised Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung for being practical and cautious, while using the occasion to stress integrity and fair public service. The remarks came as the KPK handed over two confiscated properties worth around Rp9.65 billion to Jakarta; one is intended to become a fire station.

Mount Semeru Erupts, Sending Grey-White Ash 200 Metres into the Air

Mount Semeru erupted on Tuesday, sending an ash column about 200 metres above its summit, while authorities maintained the volcano’s alert status at Level III. The Geological Agency has tightened exclusion-zone guidance, warning residents and visitors to stay clear of areas vulnerable to hot material, pyroclastic flows and lahars.

Immigration Tightens Upstream Oversight to Prevent Indonesians from Becoming Mercenaries

Indonesia’s Immigration Directorate General is stepping up preventive measures to stop citizens from being trafficked and recruited as mercenaries in Russia. Its approach combines community outreach in trafficking-prone villages, technology-led monitoring of illegal recruitment adverts and cross-border law enforcement, while treating Indonesians sent to Russia as victims and pursuing recruiters and agents.

Greenpeace’s Giant Banner at Bundaran HI Goes Viral: Disasters Worsen, Life Gets Harder

Greenpeace Indonesia unfurled giant banners at Jakarta’s Bundaran HI, urging the Prabowo-Gibran government to address the climate crisis and the rising cost of living. The campaign, staged on the administration’s second anniversary, highlights how extreme weather and ecological disasters threaten health, livelihoods and food affordability, particularly for economically vulnerable workers.

Video: Emerging Market Status at Risk as JCI Slumps

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index has fallen to its lowest level in about six years and is the world’s worst-performing major equity index so far this year. The pressure has intensified after MSCI highlighted concerns over market transparency and alleged coordinated trading, raising the possibility that Indonesia could be reclassified from an emerging market to a standalone market.

DJP to Auction 42 Salemba Residence Apartments, Starting at Rp300 Million

Jakarta Senen Tax Office will auction 42 individually sold units at Salemba Residence on 11 November 2026, with reserve prices ranging from Rp328.4 million to Rp1.05 billion. Buyers must register and pay a deposit in advance; the units are sold as-is, and successful bidders must settle the price plus a 2% auction fee within five working days.

Foreign Investors Sell Rp1.97 Trillion in First Session, with BCA Shares the Biggest Target

Foreign investors recorded net selling of Rp1.97 trillion across the market during the first trading session on Tuesday, despite the Jakarta Composite Index rising 4.16%. Bank Central Asia led the net-sell list at Rp1.02 trillion, while Telkom Indonesia topped foreign purchases with Rp175.47 billion.

Baznas and Bima Regency Government Join Forces to Develop Locally Distinctive Zakat Programmes

Baznas RI and the Bima Regency Government are seeking to use zakat to support community economic empowerment by building programmes around local strengths, including agriculture, livestock and traditional weaving. The initiatives are to align with Baznas’s 13 national priorities as well as the regency’s development plan, so they respond to local needs.

Immigration Digitises APEC Card Services to Make Overseas Travel Easier for Indonesian Businesspeople

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration is digitising applications for the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC), which allows eligible businesspeople to use fast-track immigration services and, in most participating economies, travel without a visa. The agency says 1,814 Indonesian businesspeople currently use the card and is seeking to make the online application process more user-friendly; processing takes five days and fees range from Rp2.5 million to Rp5 million.

Government aligns energy planning with AI infrastructure development

Indonesia is coordinating plans for AI factories and data centres with energy provision, as the facilities are expected to require an additional 20 gigawatts of power. The government also plans rules to attract data-centre investment while encouraging collaboration with national and regional businesses and ensuring host communities benefit.

Downgraded by MSCI to Standalone Status, This Stock Exchange Stages a Comeback

Bulgaria’s stock exchange has been upgraded by MSCI from Standalone Market to Frontier Market, with implementation scheduled for the May 2027 index review. The decision follows improved market liquidity, a broader pool of qualifying shares and Bulgaria’s smooth adoption of the euro, highlighting that market classifications can change as investor access and conditions improve.

North Jakarta administration says teachers play a strategic role in shaping the nation’s future generations

North Jakarta Deputy Mayor Fredy Setiawan says teachers must continually develop their skills to keep pace with change, while shaping students’ character and creativity. The city administration is backing ongoing professional development, including career guidance, digital skills, teaching methods and collaboration among teachers.

Bekasi Fashion Event Generates Rp334.95 Million in Turnover for Local Creative Businesses

Bekasi City Fashion Movement 2026 generated Rp334.95 million in turnover over three days, benefiting local fashion and creative-economy businesses. Sewing services accounted for the largest share, followed by batik sales, as organisers seek to use the event to expand markets for local designers, craftspeople and small businesses.

Indonesia pursues legal enforcement as fire suppression continues

Indonesia is pursuing investigations into suspected permit violations and concession holders linked to forest and land fires, with administrative sanctions, criminal prosecution and compensation claims among the possible measures. The government says enforcement is part of its commitment to tackling transboundary haze and restoring damaged ecosystems, alongside ongoing firefighting and monitoring.

List of ASEAN’s Most Peaceful Countries: Indonesia Ranks Below Laos

The 2026 Global Peace Index says global peacefulness continued to decline, with armed conflict identified as the main driver. Singapore leads South-east Asia and ranks eighth worldwide, while Indonesia fell to 69th globally after worsening safety and security indicators and rising political instability and political terror scores.

Wildfire in Mount Arjuno-Welirang Spreads, with 70 Fire Hotspots

Wildfires across the Mount Arjuno-Welirang area have spread across Pasuruan, Mojokerto and Batu, with around 70 hotspots recorded on Tuesday morning, down from more than 100 the previous day. Joint teams are tackling the blazes from the ground, while access is restricted to trained personnel because conditions and hotspot figures remain volatile.

Viral Video Shows Tourists Asked to Pay Rp150,000 to Sit at Klui Beach Stall

A group of local tourists in North Lombok said a stallholder asked them to pay Rp150,000 to use her beachside stall as a place to rest, prompting them to leave. North Lombok’s tourism chief said the beach area is privately owned and that the local government does not collect any fees there.

Singapore Prepares Sanctions Against Indonesian Companies Over Haze

Singapore’s National Environment Agency has notified three Indonesian companies operating in Kalimantan over fires on their concessions that may have contributed to cross-border haze, adding to seven companies previously notified in Sumatra. The companies have been ordered to fight and prevent fires and submit response plans, while Singapore says it will pursue enforcement under its Transboundary Haze Pollution Act if evidence establishes responsibility.

Bali SEZ develops plant nursery to support green tourism

Kura Kura Special Economic Zone in Denpasar is developing a nursery with nearly 26,000 plants across 83 species to support sustainable tourism and landscaping. The site also turns leaf waste into compost, while its wider green space now contains more than 737,000 shrubs and trees, up sharply from 177,000 in 2023.

IDX to Exclude HSC Stocks from Composite Index; 10 Companies Suspected of Causing Forest Fires

The Indonesian Stock Exchange is preparing two capital-market reforms following last week’s announcement by MSCI, including excluding all stocks on the High Shareholding Concentration list from the Composite Stock Price Index. Separately, Singapore is broadening enforcement against Indonesian companies suspected of links to forest and land fires that have caused cross-border haze.

Expert: Tesla Flying Car Unlikely to Be Mass-Produced

A University of Florida professor says safety and product-liability concerns make mass production of Tesla’s flying Roadster highly unlikely, despite a live demonstration he believes was genuine. The comments come after the electric carmaker showcased the vehicle’s aerial manoeuvres, prompting praise from US President Donald Trump and bold claims from Elon Musk about its autonomous capabilities.

Police Detain 20 Young Men Suspected of Planning a Brawl in East Jakarta

Police in East Jakarta detained 20 young men after receiving a report of a potential brawl in the Bassura area early on Tuesday. Officers seized weapons, suspected corrosive liquid, mobile phones and motorbikes, and handed the group over for further investigation.

Manpower Minister Urges Vocational Training Centres to Measure Success by Graduate Employment

Manpower Minister Yassierli has urged vocational training centres to assess their performance by how many graduates find work, rather than by the number of people trained. The ministry is also running vocational training and internship programmes for recent university graduates and plans to establish a specialist disability training centre in Bekasi.

WGC: Awareness of Digital Gold Investment in Indonesia Is the Highest Globally

A World Gold Council and Boston Consulting Group study found that awareness of digital gold in Indonesia is the highest among 12 surveyed countries, at 76 per cent, with about five million Indonesians having transacted in it. The report estimates latent global demand could reach US$700 billion, while forecasting the digital gold market to grow to US$160–170 billion by 2031 in its base case.

Five subsectors attracting the largest investments in Indonesia in Q3 2026

Indonesia’s investment realisation reached Rp528.7 trillion in the third quarter of 2026, up 7.6% year on year, with foreign direct investment accounting for 51.1% and domestic investment 48.9%. Basic metals and metal products led the subsectors with Rp118.8 trillion, while total investment supported 745,634 jobs, 5.1% more than a year earlier.

Hajj Quota Trial: Khalid Basalamah Admits Returning US$354,000

Businessman Khalid Zeed Abdullah Basalamah acknowledged in court that his staff returned US$354,500 to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), and confirmed a separate US$200,000 seizure. He testified in the case over alleged corruption involving additional Hajj quotas in 2023–24, which investigators say caused state losses of about Rp622 billion.

Jakarta receives land and buildings worth Rp9.65 billion from KPK

Jakarta’s provincial government has received two plots of land and buildings, valued at about Rp9.65 billion, from Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The assets, confiscated in law-enforcement cases, will be put to public use, with the Kemayoran property designated as a fire station; the handover also reflects the agencies’ broader cooperation on governance and anti-corruption.

Chinese satellite internet connects the Arctic, Antarctica and Qinghai–Xizang Plateau for the first time

China’s 16th Arctic Ocean expedition says it has successfully tested a domestically developed satellite internet system along its Arctic route, linking the Arctic with an Antarctic station and facilities on the Qinghai–Xizang Plateau. The test demonstrated low-latency, high-bandwidth communications in extreme conditions and enabled remote medical consultations, while a Chinese-made ocean buoy also transmitted survey data without relying on international satellites.

Waskita Responds to BPK Findings on Palembang–Betung Toll Road Project

Waskita Karya says a Rp8.55 billion audit finding over construction volumes and specifications on the Palembang–Betung toll road has already been accounted for through deductions from payment claims submitted by its subsidiary, Waskita Sriwijaya Tol. The company says the finding is not material to its finances, while awaiting Hutama Karya’s verification to ensure the amount is not deducted or reimbursed twice; it has pledged to address any outstanding balance in line with the BPK’s recommendations.

Investment under Prabowo-Gibran Reaches Rp3,923 Trillion, Creating 5.4 Million Jobs

Investment realised during the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration totalled Rp3,923.2 trillion, equivalent to 30.1% of the government’s 2025–2029 target, and supported nearly 5.49 million workers. Investment outside Java accounted for 51.8% of the total, while domestic and foreign investment contributed almost equally.

Kemayoran Corruption-Confiscated Asset to Become Fire Station

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says a 234-square-metre plot in Kemayoran, valued at about Rp5.36 billion and donated by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), will be used for a fire station. A second donated property in Tebet has not yet been assigned a purpose; both assets were confiscated in corruption cases and transferred to the Jakarta provincial government for public benefit.

Zakat Reaching the Most Vulnerable

Surabaya’s zakat agency has been urged to prioritise the city’s poorest households, particularly those in the lowest welfare decile, while ensuring aid is allocated independently and on the basis of verified need. Although the city’s poverty rate fell in 2026, nearly 98,000 residents remained below the poverty line, highlighting the need for careful targeting and support that can improve families’ prospects over the long term.

KPK Summons West Lombok Investment and Licensing Agency Chief and Tripat Hospital Director

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned West Lombok’s investment and licensing agency chief and the director of Tripat Regional Hospital as witnesses in a suspected corruption case involving the district’s suspended regent. Investigators allege the regent received up to Rp12.4 billion in connection with procurement conflicts of interest and a bribe linked to a project won by PT Meconel Sistim Instrument.

State Secretary Says Rain Has Begun in Several Regencies: Here Are the Figures

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi says weather-modification operations, including a trial using dry ice, are being used to tackle forest and land fires, and rain has been reported in several regencies. Government teams continue ground and aerial firefighting, while authorities say they are pursuing legal action against those responsible and educating the public about human-caused fires.

Pramono Hopes Jakarta Can Become a Film City Like Busan in South Korea

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the capital’s transport and other infrastructure could support its ambition to become a leading film-production hub, comparable to Busan. The city and Bank Indonesia are seeking to strengthen the film ecosystem, attract investment and jobs, and streamline policies and facilities for domestic and international productions.

Why Immigration Has Not Barred Nusron Wahid from Travelling: No Request from Law Enforcement

Indonesia’s Immigration Directorate General says it has received no request from law enforcement to prevent Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid from travelling abroad, so it has no basis to impose a travel ban. The statement comes amid a corruption investigation involving alleged bribery in the processing of building-use rights in Bogor, in which the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named eight suspects and seized Rp106.3 billion in cash.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: How Have the Government’s Priority Programmes Fared?

After two years in office, the Prabowo-Gibran government has rolled out major programmes spanning nutrition, education, healthcare, food and energy security, housing and infrastructure. Several have reached millions of people, but implementation remains uneven, while flagship projects such as the 100 GWp solar programme and the Giant Sea Wall are still in early stages.

Bandung Doctor Accused of Abusing Three-Year-Old Daughter, Who Developed Gonorrhoea

A lawyer says a Bandung doctor sexually abused his three-year-old daughter, who was later diagnosed with gonorrhoea. The case has been reported to police and is being handled by the West Java Police’s Women and Children Protection Directorate.

Forest and Land Fires Disrupt 2,600 Flights: Transport Ministry’s Mitigation Measures

Forest and land fires have affected 2,604 scheduled domestic flights since 11 August 2026, including delays, cancellations, diversions and returns to origin, while smoke also led to 14 international cancellations. The Transport Ministry says it is strengthening monitoring and safety coordination, with operational decisions guided by visibility, weather and safety assessments.

UN chief Guterres hails Indonesia as a pillar of multilateralism and peace

UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised Indonesia’s role in shaping international cooperation, citing its diplomatic legacy from the 1955 Bandung Conference and its participation in multilateral forums. He also highlighted Indonesia’s contribution of nearly 2,000 military and police personnel to UN peacekeeping missions and its role as a bridge-builder between regions and the Global South.

Khalid Basalamah Testifies at Corruption Trial over Hajj Quotas Involving Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut

Preacher Khalid Zeed Abdullah Basalamah appeared as a witness in the alleged Hajj quota corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and other defendants. A planned witness, Umar Abdul Aziz, was unable to attend because he was reportedly receiving hospital treatment; prosecutors also called BPKH finance deputy Irwanto and other witnesses.

Deputy Religious Affairs Minister: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Has Reached 6.3 Million Pupils and Santri

Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Romo Muhammad Syafi’i says the Free Nutritious Meals programme has reached around 6.3 million pupils and santri in religious education institutions over the past two years, while free health checks have covered more than three million. He said accurate data, targeted distribution and food quality are essential, and argued that strengthening pesantren institutions should also support education, preaching and community empowerment.

Putin Proposes Meeting with Trump and Xi Jinping to Discuss Ukraine

Russia’s Vladimir Putin has proposed meeting Donald Trump and Xi Jinping next month to discuss a settlement to the four-year war in Ukraine, with the Kremlin confirming talks are under way but no agenda agreed. The proposal comes amid worsening US–Ukraine tensions over intelligence-sharing, which Marco Rubio denies was suspended, and after Washington reportedly agreed to buy Russian diesel and suspend key sanctions.

Police Rule Out Bomb in South Tangerang’s Cimanggis Market Blast

Police found no evidence of a bomb or other explosive materials at the Cimanggis Market blast site, but are awaiting forensic results to determine whether gas or another cause triggered the explosion. The incident killed two people and injured 11, while investigators examine whether it involved deliberate action or negligence.

The Limitations of Econometrics in the Age of AI: An Indonesian Case Study

The opinion article argues that economic models and historical data cannot adequately predict human behaviour, particularly amid political shifts and contested property rights in Indonesia. It links changes in economic leadership, disputes over mining assets and concerns raised by MSCI to weakening investor confidence, while questioning whether quantitative analysis can capture these dynamics.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Rosan Claims Investment Realisation of Rp3,923 Trillion, Creating 5.4 Million Jobs

Investment realisation during the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration reached Rp3,923.2 trillion, according to Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, and generated nearly 5.49 million jobs. More than half of the investment was recorded outside Java, while the government says it is seeking to improve investment quality through downstream processing and streamlined licensing.

BSSN prepares cryptography migration to counter quantum computing threat

Indonesia’s National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN) is preparing a national cryptography migration as quantum computing could eventually undermine encryption in use today. Its 2027–2035 roadmap sets out three phases, alongside plans to catalogue critical cryptographic assets, strengthen technical capabilities and develop domestic expertise and industry.

Police Trace More Than Rp 500 Billion in Assets Linked to PT DSI Fund Embezzlement Case

Indonesia’s National Police are tracing assets worth more than Rp 500 billion in connection with alleged fraud and embezzlement at Dana Syariah Indonesia, aiming to recover losses suffered by thousands of lenders. Investigators have divided the case into four clusters, with three individual case files already at the prosecution-ready stage, while the corporate investigation continues; regulators say Rp 1.87 trillion of funds yet to be repaid may have been channelled into fictitious projects.

Foreign Investors’ Share of Indonesia’s Stock Market Shrinks as Many Sell

The value of foreign-held shares on Indonesia’s stock market fell 32.27% between January and September 2026, while foreign investors recorded net selling of Rp86.08 trillion year to date. Foreign investors’ share of KSEI-listed equities dropped below 40%, although the decline in holdings reflects both transactions and changing share prices; September data do not yet include October’s market movements.

Danantara Studies Turning Industrial and Medical Waste into Electricity

Denera and investment holding Danantara are looking beyond municipal waste-to-energy projects to explore processing industrial and medical waste, as well as wastewater. The plan forms part of Denera’s broader strategy to build an integrated, sustainable waste-management value chain and support Indonesia’s circular-economy transition.

Frequent KRL Problems Leave Passengers Feeling Stifled and Crushed

Commuters on Jakarta’s KRL network say train shortages and recurring technical problems are making journeys crowded and uncomfortable, with some carriages feeling poorly ventilated. KAI says it is pressing manufacturer INKA to investigate and correct faults affecting seven trainsets, as ridership on the Jabodetabek Commuter Line rose by 6.02% in January–September 2026.

Tourism Sector Generates Rp305.47 Trillion in Foreign Exchange in 2025

Indonesia’s tourism sector generated US$18.27 billion in foreign exchange in 2025, up 9.41 per cent year on year, and contributed 4.78 per cent of national GDP. Tourism-supported events also drew millions of visitors and generated an estimated Rp45.9 trillion in economic activity, highlighting the sector’s role in local economies and supply chains.

KPK Donates Two Confiscated Corruption Assets Worth Rp9.6 Billion to Jakarta Provincial Government

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred two assets confiscated in separate corruption cases, worth a combined Rp9.6 billion, to the Jakarta Provincial Government. One site in Kemayoran will be used for a fire station, while plans for the Tebet property have yet to be decided; the transfer is intended to put seized state assets to public use.

KAI Jakarta: Gambir Train Services Operating as Normal Despite Demonstration Plans

KAI’s Jakarta operating region says all train services from Gambir Station are running to schedule despite planned demonstrations at several locations across the capital. It recorded 5,768 passengers who had departed or were scheduled to depart by 9.40am, and advised travellers to arrive early amid possible congestion and traffic management measures.

BPKN Urges Mandatory AEDs in Public Spaces to Address Cardiac Arrest

Indonesia’s National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) is urging local governments to require automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces, arguing that immediate access can be critical when someone suffers cardiac arrest. The agency says the proposal would strengthen consumer safety and must be matched by wider device coverage, accessibility, maintenance and public training.

Preacher Khalid Basalamah to testify at Yaqut case hearing today

Preacher and Hajj travel company owner Khalid Basalamah is due to testify alongside a BPKH official in the corruption trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and three other defendants. Yaqut is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion through the improper allocation and sale of additional Hajj quotas in 2023 and 2024.

Viral Video Shows Residents Raiding Cakung Boarding House After Man Allegedly Blackmailed Over Online Booking

Police are investigating a viral video of residents raiding a boarding house in Cakung, East Jakarta, amid allegations that it was being used for online prostitution. A man, reportedly an online motorcycle-taxi driver, was allegedly blackmailed after meeting a woman there; police say the dispute was mediated and no formal report was filed.

Bakom Calls for Structural Economic Transformation in Prabowo’s Third Year

Government Communications Agency expert Fithra Faisal Hastiadi says the Prabowo administration’s third year should turn economic growth into a more productive and sustainable structural transformation. He points to investment growth above GDP growth in the first half of 2026, but says investment must raise productivity, deepen industry and create quality jobs while preserving fiscal and monetary credibility.

Will Civil Servants’ Salaries Be Paid Through Village Cooperatives? Finance Ministry Responds

Indonesia’s Finance Ministry says there have been no discussions about paying civil servants’ salaries through Merah Putih Village/Urban Village Cooperatives, reaffirming that government payments should be made directly to eligible recipients. The Cooperatives Ministry has separately explored allowing cooperatives to act as payment partners for civil-service pensioners, while stressing that this would complement rather than replace banks.

KPK Summons Pemalang Water Utility and Central Java Water Company Chiefs

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the heads of Pemalang’s regional water utility and Central Java’s provincial water company as witnesses in an alleged extortion case involving the suspended Pemalang regent. The investigation includes two alleged extortion schemes, including claims that a police officer seconded to the KPK leaked case-handling information that was used to solicit money.

Sufmi Dasco Ahmad Welcomes 2.92% IHSG Rebound as Major Bank Shares Rise in Unison

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rose 2.92% to 5,142 in Tuesday morning trading, recovering after a sharp decline over the previous week. Shares in major state-owned and private banks also gained, while planned share buy-backs by listed companies were cited as one factor drawing market attention; the rebound does not yet establish that selling pressure has ended.

State Secretary: Weather Modification Operations Intensified to Contain Forest and Land Fires in Four Provinces

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said intensive weather modification operations are under way in South Sumatra and three Kalimantan provinces to help suppress forest and land fires, using dry ice and sodium chloride cloud seeding. Authorities report rainfall across several districts, alongside reduced PM2.5 levels and improved visibility in South Sumatra.

Deputy Minister Fauzan Urges Universities to Transform and Strengthen Their Impact on Society

Deputy Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Fauzan has urged Indonesian universities to reform their governance and teaching while aligning research and academic expertise with local needs. He said universities should work more closely with local governments and businesses to develop research-based solutions, widen access to higher education and contribute to local economic activity.