Archive: 21 October 2026
Showing 1-500 of 1,517 articles
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:59 WIB
Batu Police Arrest Farmer Who Bought 5kg of Cannabis Through Social Media
Batu Police have arrested a 30-year-old farmer from Malang Regency after intercepting a five-kilogram cannabis shipment reportedly purchased for Rp25 million through social media. Investigators are examining his phone for possible links to a wider network, while the alleged seller in Padang is wanted by police; the suspect faces a potential prison sentence of six to 20 years.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:57 WIB
KPK Responds as GRIB Explains How Summarecon Gave Hercules Rp800 Million
GRIB Jaya says the Rp800 million handed to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) was given by a lawyer linked to PT Summarecon Agung before a KPK sting operation, in connection with efforts to facilitate a land-dispute resolution. The KPK says it is investigating whether the payment related to land management and alleged bribery of an official at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) to lift a land-registration block in Bogor.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
Police Hunt Drug-Dealing Network in Campor Village, Pamekasan
Pamekasan police have formed a multi-unit team to trace a suspected methamphetamine distribution network operating from Campor Village, with possible links to other areas of Madura and Malaysia. The investigation follows the arrest of a 56-year-old man accused of dealing methamphetamine and providing a room for its use; officers seized drugs and paraphernalia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:55 WIB
103 Cisarua Junior High School Pupils Suspected of Food Poisoning; Kitchen Operations Suspended for 20 Days
A total of 103 pupils at SMPN 2 Cisarua in Bogor Regency developed symptoms of suspected food poisoning after consuming meals and drinks provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The kitchen supplying the school has been suspended for 20 days while food samples undergo laboratory testing and its operations are reviewed; the local government says it will cover treatment costs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:53 WIB
Gold Demand in Indonesia Rises 40% in Second Quarter of 2026
Indonesia’s gold demand reached 15 tonnes in the second quarter of 2026, a 40% year-on-year increase, according to the World Gold Council. Research cited by GoPay points to barriers for younger investors, including limited access to physical gold, security concerns and high upfront costs; GoPay has launched a digital gold product intended to make investment more accessible.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:53 WIB
Two AKSARA Student Programmes at Universitas AKPRIND Win DPPM Funding for 2026
Two community-engagement proposals by Universitas AKPRIND Indonesia have secured funding from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology’s DPPM for 2026. The programmes will apply appropriate technologies to strengthen poultry and horticulture in Sleman, and develop coffee and onion production alongside sustainable water management in Klaten.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:51 WIB
POPULAR NEWS: BBCA Shares at Their Cheapest in Years, while BMRI Sets Dividend
BCA shares hit a five-year low and, by some valuation measures, their cheapest level in a decade, amid heavy selling. Other leading stories cover Bank Mandiri’s strong profit and dividend prospects, analysts’ preferred shares amid MSCI-related market turmoil, Jusuf Hamka’s comments on CMNP, and Danantara’s plans following the merger of four investment managers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:50 WIB
South Sulawesi Police Bust Human Trafficking Syndicate in Makassar
South Sulawesi Police say they have rescued eight suspected trafficking victims and arrested three people in two separate cases involving plans to send Indonesian workers to Malaysia through illegal channels. The provincial police chief warned residents against offers of high-paying overseas jobs and urged them to verify recruitment through local manpower offices.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:49 WIB
KPAI Highlights Child Protection Issues in Border Areas; BNPPDT Pledges Follow-up
The National Commission for Child Protection (KPAI) has identified widespread violence, neglect and discrimination affecting children in border and remote areas, including gaps in birth registration and school participation. BNPPDT says it will raise proposals for stronger protection with its leadership and is considering a programme on child custody issues for 2028, while basic infrastructure remains its immediate priority.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:46 WIB
MP Urges Expanded Financing for MSMEs to Support the People’s Economy
House of Representatives Commission VII member Hendry Munief has called for wider access to financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, alongside stronger regional tourism and small-industry competitiveness. He said coordinated central and local government support—including mentoring, digital marketing, infrastructure and protection from illegal imports—could expand business opportunities, create jobs and boost local economies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:44 WIB
PRR Task Force Schedules Briefings by Public Works Ministry and BNPB Chief
The post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction task force will hear updates from the Public Works Ministry on recovery work and recurring flood and landslide damage across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra. The new BNPB chief is also expected to brief the task force on permanent, in-situ housing for affected residents, as repeated disasters complicate rebuilding efforts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:41 WIB
Two Years of the Prabowo-Gibran Government: Religious Affairs Minister Highlights Progress for Pesantren with New Directorate-General
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar says the establishment of a Directorate-General for Pesantren under the Ministry of Religious Affairs is a strategic step to improve the quality and governance of Islamic boarding schools, following years of advocacy and support from the President, parliament and the Finance Ministry. He says pesantren contribute not only to religious education but also to social cohesion, national identity and character-building, while their students increasingly excel in science, technology and other fields.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:39 WIB
Kepri Police Arrest 17 People Linked to Ecstasy Network in Batam
Kepri Police have arrested 17 people during raids on nightclubs and residences in Batam, seizing 66 ecstasy tablets and other items. Police say 13 of those arrested tested positive for ecstasy, and investigators are continuing to examine the suspects’ respective roles and trace a potentially wider supply network.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:36 WIB
West Aceh Anti-Corruption Pilot Village Receives KPK Award
Pasi Pinang village in West Aceh has been recognised by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as one of Aceh’s anti-corruption pilot villages. The regency plans to encourage villages in every district to follow its example, with the aim of preventing corruption across West Aceh.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:34 WIB
Rambutan Tree Falls on House in Bogor Amid Strong Winds
A decayed rambutan tree fell onto the porch of a home in Babakan, Bogor Tengah, damaging its roof during strong winds. No one was injured, and the city’s disaster management agency evacuated the tree; officials said the house remains safe to occupy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:33 WIB
Vice-presidential advisory council member says national security must be fair and promote prosperity
Wantimpres member Bambang Soesatyo says the Prabowo administration’s national security policies must go hand in hand with justice and public welfare, particularly in Papua. He urged more effective use and oversight of special autonomy funds, protection of civilians and improved basic services, while also calling for stronger coordination on cyber security, energy and food security.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:31 WIB
Riau BNN Destroys 4.9kg of Crystal Meth Worth Rp7.3bn
Riau’s National Narcotics Agency (BNNP) has destroyed nearly 4.9kg of crystal meth seized in an inter-provincial trafficking case, with an estimated street value of Rp7.37bn. The agency said the seizure could prevent an estimated 24,573 people from being exposed to the drugs; one suspect was arrested in Pekanbaru, while investigators say the shipment was intended for Palembang.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:31 WIB
BNPPDT Follows Up Proposals to Fulfil Children’s Rights in Border Regions
BNPPDT is considering programmes to address child-custody issues in border areas, potentially beginning in 2028, while basic infrastructure remains its current priority. KPAI has highlighted widespread concerns including gaps in birth registration, violence, school dropout risks and trafficking, and is urging child-protection systems and complaint facilities at border crossings.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:30 WIB
Seven Recommended Films About Santri to Watch Together for National Santri Day 2026
The article recommends seven films depicting santri, pesantren life and Islamic figures for National Santri Day on 22 October. It also explains the day’s origins in the 1945 Jihad Resolution and its formal designation by presidential decree in 2015.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:30 WIB
Cybercrime Police Bust Online Gambling Operation Disguised as a Spin Game; Four Chinese Nationals Arrested
Indonesia’s National Police cybercrime directorate has arrested four Chinese nationals suspected of operating an online gambling site, Boxkia.com, whose games resemble spin games or gacha. Investigators are examining how virtual winnings could be resold for profit and tracing payment flows through bank accounts, cryptocurrency and digital payment services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:28 WIB
Amankila Resort in East Bali to Close for Three Months for Renovation
Amankila Resort’s planned three-month closure for renovations is expected to cut Karangasem Regency’s hotel and restaurant tax revenue by about Rp 6 billion, as the resort typically contributes Rp 1–2 billion a month. Local officials are seeking to offset the shortfall by identifying new taxpayers, tightening tax oversight and raising revenue from other sectors; the revised 2026 budget targets Rp 168 billion from the tax on certain goods and services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:25 WIB
Global Ethics Forum in Bali Highlights AI Ethics and Human Dignity
The Global Ethics Forum 2026 in Bali called for ethical responsibility to keep pace with rapid advances in artificial intelligence and other technologies. Speakers stressed that technology should serve people, with governance taking account of social consequences, fairness and human dignity, alongside economic and technical considerations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:20 WIB
BNPB Takes Stock of Needs to Determine Foreign Assistance for Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is assessing its needs before deciding what assistance to accept from other countries to tackle forest and land fires. Singapore has offered items including masks, drinking water and a Hercules C-130 aircraft, but BNPB says priority will go to equipment and technology not already available domestically.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:20 WIB
Two Tramadol Factories Raided in Sukoharjo, 16 Arrested
Police have uncovered two illegal factories producing Tramadol and trihexyphenidyl in Sukoharjo, Central Java, arresting 16 people and seizing more than seven million tablets. Investigators are tracing the source of the raw materials, the operation’s organisers, distribution routes and financial flows; those charged face up to 12 years in prison and a fine of Rp5 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:18 WIB
Irau Malinau included in Tourism Ministry’s 2026 KEN programme, boosting the region’s tourism appeal
The 12th Irau Malinau cultural festival has been selected for the Tourism Ministry’s 2026 Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN), one of 125 events chosen nationwide. Malinau’s regent says the designation will raise the profile of local culture, attract visitors and create economic opportunities, while the festival also celebrates the region’s diverse communities and traditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:16 WIB
ESDM stresses importance of community acceptance for renewable energy projects
Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry says community acceptance must be central to renewable energy development, citing the Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant as a major project with lessons for future schemes. Officials and the National Commission on Human Rights stressed early public engagement and protecting local livelihoods, including fishers’ access to fishing grounds.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:15 WIB
80,000 Litres of Clean Water Distributed to Residents in 10 Palembang Subdistricts Affected by Forest and Land Fires
PKB chairman Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has provided 80,000 litres of clean water to residents of Palembang affected by forest and land fires and haze. Distributed through the party’s city branch, the emergency supplies are intended to meet essential household needs across 10 urban wards in five districts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:14 WIB
Psychologist: Build a Connection with Children to Set Social Media Limits
Clinical psychologist Meiri Dias Tuti says parents should build trust and maintain open conversations with children to encourage moderate social media use and protect their mental health. Her advice includes offering offline activities, setting device rules and monitoring what children watch, as health ministry figures point to hundreds of thousands of children showing signs of depression or anxiety.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:13 WIB
PKS Says Fiscal Justice Must Reach 80,000 Villages
PKS president Almuzzammil Yusuf says fair central and regional fiscal policies are essential to ensure development and prosperity reach Indonesia’s roughly 80,000 villages. He called for transparent, measurable regional transfers that reflect local needs, poverty levels, geography and disaster risks, framing stronger central–regional partnerships as vital to national unity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:10 WIB
Elderly Farmer in Tasikmalaya Dies in Fire, Possibly After Burning Dry Leaves
A 65-year-old farmer was found dead after a fire spread through his dry hillside garden in Culamega, Tasikmalaya. Police believe he may have inhaled smoke and fallen into the flames while trying to extinguish the blaze; his family declined an autopsy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:09 WIB
The Times apologises to Infantino and FIFA over ‘second salary’ report
The Times has corrected and apologised for a report claiming FIFA president Gianni Infantino received an undisclosed ‘second salary’, saying the allegation was untrue. It also retracted a claim about a Miami property, while FIFA accused unnamed parties of a sustained effort to damage its reputation and called on media to verify information carefully.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:06 WIB
West Java Customs seizes 88.2 million illegal cigarettes in enforcement operations
West Java Customs seized 88.2 million illegal cigarettes worth Rp152.69 billion in 3,243 operations between January and September 2026, with Cirebon identified as a key distribution route. Officials say the illicit trade undermines state revenue and fair competition, and are combining enforcement and distribution monitoring with public education to curb it.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:05 WIB
Ubud Writers and Readers Festival Officially Opens as a Forum for Open Discussion
The 23rd Ubud Writers and Readers Festival has opened in Bali, bringing together more than 150 writers, thinkers, journalists, artists and poets from various countries for five days of events. Founder Janet De Neefe said the festival aims to foster open discussion, while organisers also urged participants to support the preservation of Ubud’s natural and cultural heritage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:05 WIB
Albanese Warns Indonesia: Good Intentions in the Board of Peace Could Spell Disaster for Palestinians
UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese has urged Indonesia not to compromise international law through its participation in the Board of Peace, arguing that the UN Security Council resolution underpinning the initiative fails to uphold Palestinians’ right to self-determination. She says diplomatic efforts must be measured by whether they end the occupation, protect civilians and secure Palestinian rights, rather than by participation in a peace mechanism alone.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:02 WIB
BI monitors capital outflows after MSCI’s Indonesia market proposal
Bank Indonesia is monitoring potential foreign capital outflows and rupiah pressure after MSCI proposed consulting on whether to reclassify Indonesia from an Emerging Market to a Standalone Market, with a decision expected by June 2027. The central bank says targeted hedging incentives have helped attract US$9.9 billion in inflows, while the IDX and OJK are pursuing transparency and enforcement measures to address market concerns.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:01 WIB
Komdigi and Brawijaya University Prepare AI-Based Module Prototype for Sekolah Rakyat
The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs and Brawijaya University are developing an AI-powered monitoring prototype for Sekolah Rakyat, intended to help staff detect and prevent harmful student behaviour. The boarding-school-focused system would use AI-equipped CCTV to mitigate risks including bullying and intolerance, but remains at an early design stage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:01 WIB
LPSK vows truth-tellers will not have to fight alone
The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) says a new law broadens protection beyond witnesses and victims to include cooperating perpetrators, reporters, informants and experts. Deputy Chair Wawan Fahrudin stressed that protection and recovery require collaboration, particularly with local governments, and urged North Sulawesi authorities and communities to create safe spaces for crime victims.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
Danantara to Use State-Owned Enterprise Assets to Develop 12 Smart Cities
BP BUMN and Danantara plan to use state-owned enterprise assets as the foundation for 12 future cities, combining housing, schools, hospitals and modern infrastructure. The programme is intended to provide affordable homes, particularly for lower- and middle-income residents, with a proposed Padalarang development featuring 200,000 to 250,000 housing units and transit-oriented development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
IKN Mega-Project Secures Rp4 Trillion Investment from Chinese and South Korean Investors
Two foreign companies, Starbright of China and South Korea’s Dian Jaya, have pledged a combined Rp4 trillion for apartment and office developments in Nusantara. The investment adds to private-sector and public-private partnership funding for the new capital, as government facility construction progresses at varying rates.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 23:00 WIB
Foodpreneur School Develops Value-Added Products
The government and a University of Brawijaya field team are helping farmers’ wives in the Klamono-Segun Transmigration Area develop processed foods from local produce. Fifty participants are being trained to turn surplus or underused crops into products for sale in local supermarkets and souvenir outlets, supporting household incomes and sustainable economic growth in the region.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:58 WIB
Transport Ministry and Army to Work Together to Optimise State Assets for Defence
Indonesia’s Transport Ministry and Army have agreed to share and temporarily use state assets at Kalimarau Airport in East Kalimantan to support military operations while maintaining civilian air services. A 50,600-square-metre site will be used for an Army Aviation Centre squadron facility, while the runway will serve both civilian and defence flights under coordination and aviation safety requirements.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:57 WIB
LPDB Cooperatives Seeks More Integrated Credit Insurance Scheme to Strengthen Guarantee Governance
Indonesia’s Revolving Fund Management Institution for Cooperatives (LPDB Koperasi) is reviewing its loan-guarantee governance, including a centralised credit insurance scheme and the possible use of insurance brokers as strategic partners. The initiative is intended to improve risk mitigation and ensure the sustainable, prudent distribution of state-funded revolving finance to cooperatives.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:56 WIB
OJK Fines 11 Brokerage Firms in Rp2.1 Trillion Stock Market Crackdown
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority has fined 11 brokerage firms and imposed additional sanctions over suspected market manipulation involving DSSA shares and concealed share subscriptions in BREN and CUAN. The penalties, which include a Rp1.5 trillion fine against SMT and fines of Rp500 billion and Rp100 billion in the other cases, form part of a wider enforcement drive to strengthen market integrity and investor confidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:55 WIB
Dry Ice Helps Bring Rain to Three Provinces Hit by Forest and Land Fires, BNPB Says Visibility Has Improved
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) says weather-modification operations using dry ice have helped trigger rain in three fire-affected provinces and improved visibility, which had fallen below 1,000 metres in some areas, to as much as 7,000 metres. The agency will continue the operations, prioritising areas still experiencing fires; its priority list now excludes Riau and includes South Papua, Central Sulawesi and East Kalimantan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:54 WIB
House Commission VII: Batumandi Incident Must Be a Turning Point for Maritime Safety
A House of Representatives Commission VII member says the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi should spur higher maritime safety standards, stronger emergency response and better coordination among operators, rescuers and nearby communities. He also urged the government not to cut funding for Basarnas, the Navy and water police, while Ombudsman findings point to recurring safety-compliance and oversight problems in passenger and tourist vessel accidents.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:52 WIB
Bekasi DPRD Secretary Sentenced to 2.5 Years Despite Acquittal on Primary Charge
A Bandung corruption court sentenced Rahmat Atong, the suspended secretary of Bekasi Regency’s Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), to two years and six months in prison over inflated housing allowances for legislators. Although the judges found he did not personally benefit from the overpayments and cleared him of the primary charge, they convicted him of abuse of authority; both his lawyers and prosecutors are still considering their next steps.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:51 WIB
NTB DPRD’s Rp120bn Constituency Fund Cut, Could Become Budget Surplus
Around Rp120 billion in potentially irregular 2026 constituency-proposal funding for the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial legislature may remain unspent and be recorded as a budget surplus. The provincial planning agency says anomalous items cannot be executed, while the public works agency has reviewed roughly 1,200 packages following anti-corruption commission supervision, with already contracted projects subject to further scrutiny.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:48 WIB
Indonesia sets up 477 emergency oxygen shelters amid wildfire haze
Indonesia’s Health Ministry has established 477 emergency oxygen shelters across three Kalimantan provinces as forest fires fuel a sharp rise in respiratory infections, with 314,124 cases reported across seven provinces. The government has expanded health services, distributed medicines and millions of masks, and deployed more than 2,600 health workers, while prioritising outreach to vulnerable groups.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:47 WIB
KKP Targets 1.05 Million Tonnes of Production from 4,582 Modern Fishing Vessels
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries estimates that modernising 4,582 fishing vessels could generate 1.05 million tonnes of fish annually, worth Rp28.5 trillion, while employing 61,729 crew. Officials say the initiative must be matched by better supporting infrastructure and environmental safeguards, as more than 2.2 million tonnes of fishery resources remain beyond the reach of the existing fleet.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:47 WIB
Buffet-Style Free Nutritious Meals Piloted at 66 Centres as Government Reviews Roll-out
The government is piloting buffet-style service for its Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at 66 nutrition service centres across 10 provinces, with the aim of keeping food warm, reducing waste and improving food safety. The trial forms part of four government priorities to improve the programme, alongside expanding access in remote areas, tightening kitchen governance and beneficiary data, and tackling irregularities; results will be assessed before any wider roll-out.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:46 WIB
Fishermen Help Evacuate Passengers from Burning KMP Batumandi off Merak
Local fishermen were the first to reach the burning KMP Batumandi, spontaneously mobilising around 50 boats to evacuate its passengers. ASDP Indonesia Ferry thanked the fishermen and residents of Medaksa, saying their swift response helped ensure everyone aboard was rescued safely.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:45 WIB
DPR on Ferry Fire: Maritime Accidents Keep Happening Again and Again
Lasarus, chair of the DPR’s Commission V, criticised the Transport Ministry after the Batumandi passenger ferry caught fire near Merak, saying repeated maritime accidents showed that promised safety reviews had not led to improvements. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although 11 people required further medical treatment; the fire’s cause is under investigation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:45 WIB
Haedar Nashir: Collaboration Needed to Ensure Policies Deliver Tangible Benefits
Muhammadiyah chairman Haedar Nashir has called for stronger collaboration between the government and the public so national policies produce tangible benefits, particularly in education and the economy. He urged the government to turn its priorities into sustained programmes, welcome public criticism and strengthen domestic institutions to help Indonesia withstand global uncertainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:44 WIB
Two Years of Government: Food Affairs Coordinating Minister Says Efforts Are Bearing Fruit
The Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs says Indonesia has stopped importing rice for domestic consumption and achieved self-sufficiency in eight food commodities during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. It also cited higher farm-gate prices and expanded support for farmers, fishers and village economies, alongside targets for fishing villages, cooperatives and waste-to-energy facilities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:44 WIB
ICE BSD City Records More Than 3,300 Events Since 2015
ICE BSD City says it has hosted more than 3,300 events and welcomed over 18.9 million visitors between 2015 and October 2026. The venue highlights its facilities, event-management services and safety measures as it adapts to organisers’ increasingly varied and complex requirements.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:39 WIB
King Charles Quotes a Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad at Banquet for Oman’s Sultan
King Charles quoted a hadith praising Omanis’ conduct during a state banquet for Sultan Haitham bin Tarik at Windsor Castle, and commended Oman’s tradition of tolerance and diplomatic mediation. The Sultan’s three-day state visit—the first by an Omani sultan to Britain in more than 40 years—comes amid regional tensions and is expected to include talks on security, trade and investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:39 WIB
Türkiye Submits Makkah Defence Pact to Parliament for Ratification
Türkiye’s government has submitted the Makkah Mutual Defence Agreement to parliament, where it will first be reviewed by the foreign affairs committee. Signed by Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in August, the pact provides for an attack on one signatory to be treated as an attack on all, without naming any specific country or region as a threat.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:38 WIB
Australia to Become a Market for Indonesian Coffee, with Rp10 Trillion in Exports Targeted Over Three Years
Indonesia is targeting Rp10 trillion in coffee exports over three years, with Australia among the markets for locally produced ready-to-consume coffee made by PT Nestlé Indonesia. The government and company have signed an agreement to promote exports and improve the competitiveness of farmers and domestic agricultural products, though the benefits to local suppliers will depend on implementation and demand for raw materials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:35 WIB
Regions Attracting the Most Investment in Java-Bali in 2025
Java-Bali recorded Rp982.8 trillion in investment in 2023, accounting for about 51% of Indonesia’s national total. Jakarta led, followed by Bekasi and Karawang regencies, underscoring the region’s continued dominance as an investment destination, supported by infrastructure and access to markets and established industrial centres.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:35 WIB
Indonesia and US Collaborate to Protect Historic USS Houston Wreck
Indonesia and the United States are working together through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation to protect the USS Houston wreck in the Sunda Strait. The project will establish and train three community-based monitoring groups over the next two years to deter the unauthorised removal of artefacts and safeguard the site as a shared historical memorial.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:35 WIB
Government accelerates electricity capacity to support AI development
Indonesia plans to add up to 70 GW of electricity capacity and promote 100 GWp of solar power to meet rising energy demand, including that of national data centres, as it pursues AI development. The government is also targeting nine million digital workers by 2030 and is steering AI adoption towards industry and public services, alongside calls for robust governance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:33 WIB
Transport Ministry Deploys KN Trisula P.111 to Cool KMP Batumandi
The Transport Ministry deployed the state vessel KN Trisula P.111 to assist with cooling the ferry KMP Batumandi after firefighting was reported 100 per cent complete on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities are continuing to monitor the vessel, coordinate the multi-agency response and use oil booms to limit the risk of marine pollution near Merak Port.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:32 WIB
CCTV Damaged as Thieves Break into Paborito Coffee in Karangasem
Thieves broke into Paborito Coffee in Karangasem and stole several valuable items, including a tablet, camera, printer and cash worth about Rp1.1 million. Police suspect the CCTV camera was damaged before the burglary and are investigating, including by questioning witnesses and reviewing nearby CCTV footage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:31 WIB
OJK chief: Our focus is ensuring capital market reforms deliver tangible results
Financial Services Authority (OJK) chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi says the regulator will focus on turning Indonesia’s capital market reforms into measurable improvements in market quality and investor confidence. Priorities include stronger free-float requirements, greater ownership transparency and improved listed-company standards, as MSCI consults on a possible change to Indonesia’s market classification.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:31 WIB
OJK insists capital market reforms will continue amid MSCI concerns
OJK chief Frederica Widyasari Dewi says Indonesia’s capital market reforms will continue to improve credibility, liquidity and transparency, rather than being driven solely by scrutiny from index provider MSCI. The authorities are seeking to keep Indonesia classified as an emerging market, while strengthening enforcement and addressing remaining weaknesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:30 WIB
Berani Sehat: A Health Safety Net for Central Sulawesi Residents
Central Sulawesi’s provincial government has launched Berani Sehat to help residents who cannot afford healthcare or lack active health insurance access medical services. The programme links regional health coverage with BPJS Kesehatan, aiming to extend protection to hundreds of thousands of people.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:29 WIB
Coordinating Minister AHY Calls for Stronger Central–Local Coordination on Spatial Planning
Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has called on central and regional governments to work together to enforce spatial-planning rules, warning that non-compliance heightens disaster risks in Indonesia’s Pacific Ring of Fire. President Prabowo Subianto also highlighted the challenges posed by the country’s geography and climate, while noting that the volcanic region offers fertile soil and valuable minerals.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:25 WIB
ITC Leadership Conclave Discusses Leadership Challenges in the AI Era
The 2026 ITC Leadership Conclave brought together leaders from government, business, education and industry to consider how organisations can integrate AI and other technologies while developing human capabilities. Speakers warned that AI could reshape employment, but said investment in skills, ethical leadership and business competitiveness will be essential for Indonesia to sustain economic growth and avoid the middle-income trap.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:24 WIB
ORI: Anti-corruption efforts must go hand in hand with improvements to public services
The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia (ORI) says recent KPK sting operations linked to alleged corruption in land administration and disaster response underline the need to improve public-service governance alongside law enforcement. It identified administrative-malpractice risks in land services and post-disaster assistance, and urged the relevant agencies to strengthen transparency, oversight and complaint mechanisms.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:23 WIB
KPAI Calls for Faster Progress on Childcare Bill to Prevent Repeated Abuse
Indonesia’s Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged lawmakers to accelerate deliberations and passage of the Childcare Bill following serious cases of violence involving children in Surabaya and Pemalang. The commission says prevention requires a comprehensive caregiving framework spanning families, schools and digital spaces, with clearer responsibilities, early detection and support services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:23 WIB
Zulhas Calls for Sustainable Environmental Governance Through Waste-to-Energy Projects
Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan is promoting integrated waste management and waste-to-energy facilities as part of a broader effort to strengthen environmental governance. The government aims to build at least 21 facilities by 2028 or 2029, while a 2025 presidential regulation is intended to speed up project delivery; the initiative is presented alongside gains in domestic food self-sufficiency.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:22 WIB
Francesca Albanese: Gaza Genocide Has Awakened Youth Resistance Worldwide
UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese says the suffering in Gaza has galvanised young people around the world to demand accountability from governments and institutions, including through campus protests and calls to sever ties with Israel. She links this mobilisation to broader youth movements against economic hardship and social injustice, while warning that repression of activism is also growing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:17 WIB
KPK Flags Anomalies and Disparities in Lombok Tengah DPRD Constituency Proposals
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified irregularities in Lombok Tengah DPRD members’ constituency proposals, including projects being implemented outside the legislators’ own constituencies and unequal funding allocations. DPRD chair Lalu Ramdan acknowledged the findings and said members would be guided to follow constituency boundaries, while maintaining that differences in allocations had not caused internal tensions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:15 WIB
GIC and Temasek Deny Allegations of Interference with MSCI
Singapore’s GIC and Temasek have rejected former Indonesian trade minister Muhammad Lutfi’s allegation that they tried to influence MSCI to downgrade Indonesia’s stock-market classification. MSCI is consulting on a possible move from emerging-market to standalone status, citing concerns including ownership transparency, insider trading and regulatory enforcement—a change that could affect the inclusion of Indonesian shares in global investment benchmarks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:15 WIB
Dudung: Digital Transformation Must Be Matched by Stronger Cybersecurity
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Dudung Abdurachman says Indonesia’s digital transformation must be backed by stronger cybersecurity, secure national data integration and locally developed technology and talent. The article also highlights Peruri’s role as Indonesia’s GovTech provider and calls for closer university-industry collaboration in strategic fields including artificial intelligence, post-quantum cybersecurity and semiconductors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:14 WIB
BPGMN Targets Repair and Construction of 7,000 Bore Wells by 2027
The National Peatland and Mangrove Restoration Agency (BPGMN) aims to repair and build nearly 7,000 bore wells in peatland ecosystems by 2027 as part of efforts to prevent forest and land fires. It also plans to complete canal blocks by mid-2028, working with the military, concession companies and relevant ministries to coordinate construction and monitoring.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:11 WIB
Prabowo Calls for Deregulation while Maintaining Priority Programmes
President Prabowo Subianto has directed ministries to pursue deregulation to make investment easier, while continuing to deliver government programmes that he has designated as priorities. Speaking after a cabinet meeting, Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas said Prabowo also praised the cabinet’s work over the past two years.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:11 WIB
A Look Inside Jakarta’s Slaughterhouses: Are They Halal-Certified?
Two neighbouring poultry slaughterhouses in East Jakarta are at different stages of obtaining halal certification. One operator says its application remains unfinished and workers’ adherence to the required slaughter practices is not always clear, while a second facility began the certification process in 2025 with external guidance and halal slaughter training.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:11 WIB
DPD Urges Central Java Healthcare Services Bill to Be Finalised Soon
Indonesia’s Regional Representative Council (DPD) is urging Central Java to complete and pass a regional regulation on healthcare services, with adoption targeted for 2027. The proposed regulation is expected to promote equitable access and clarify local government responsibilities for healthcare financing and National Health Insurance (JKN) coverage; while JKN enrolment in the province is nearly 98%, active membership stands at about 75%.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:10 WIB
Environment Minister Suspends Permits for 32 Companies; Bantargebang Waste to Generate Electricity
The programme rundown highlights the Environment Minister’s suspension of permits for 32 companies in connection with forest and land fires, alongside a plan to convert waste at Bantargebang into electricity. The waste-to-energy project is expected to supply power to 55,000 homes, while the wider broadcast also covered government policy and investment developments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:09 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo–Gibran: MBG, Kopdes and Danantara Dominate Public Discussion; Here’s the Sentiment
A digital-research report found that the Free Nutritious Meals programme (MBG), Merah Putih Village/Urban Ward Cooperatives (Kopdes) and Danantara were the most discussed government initiatives on social media during the second year of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. Media coverage was largely positive, while the three programmes generated substantial engagement and reflected the central role of public policy in online discussion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:09 WIB
UNM Opens Informatics Master’s Programme with OBE Curriculum
Universitas Nusa Mandiri has opened admissions for a three-semester Master’s programme in Informatics, designed around an Outcome-Based Education curriculum and four technology specialisms. The programme costs Rp40 million, offers instalment payments and scholarships of up to 25 per cent, and is accepting students for March and September 2027 intakes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:07 WIB
IKN development unaffected by East Kalimantan forest fires, OIKN says
OIKN chief Hadimuljono said forest fires affecting about 1,600 hectares in East Kalimantan had been extinguished and were far enough from the Nusantara capital development site to have no impact. He said ground-based firefighting had been sufficient, while the air quality index near IKN briefly reached 100–130 before falling below 100.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:02 WIB
Central Java Deputy Governor Criticises Buffet-Style Free Meals, Says They Must Not Cut into Learning Time
Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin has warned that buffet-style distribution under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme must not disrupt classroom learning if adopted more widely. A pilot at a school in Blora is being evaluated following reports of oversized portions and students experiencing food-related illness; successful results could lead to wider implementation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:01 WIB
Deputy Home Affairs Minister: Tackling Regional Leaders’ Corruption Requires More Than Arrests
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto says corruption prevention cannot rely solely on KPK sting operations and must address vulnerabilities earlier, including voter education and political parties’ candidate-selection systems. He cited hundreds of corruption cases involving regional executives and members of regional legislatures between 2010 and 2025, and said the underlying causes must be tackled to prevent the problem from persisting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Basuki Says Private Investment of Rp4 Trillion Will Fund Apartments and Offices
Nusantara Capital City Authority chief Basuki Hadimuljono says private investors from China and South Korea plan to invest a combined Rp4 trillion in apartment and office projects in the new capital. The development also includes public-private partnership housing for civil servants, while construction of the executive district is complete and legislative and judicial facilities are around 30% complete.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Indonesia’s Neighbour in Crisis: Dozens of Power Plants Offline as Grid Alert Turns ‘Red’
The Philippines’ National Grid Corporation has issued red and yellow alerts for the Visayas transmission network, as outages and reduced output at dozens of power plants leave supply close to peak demand. The situation has been compounded by the unavailability of two generating units in the Visayas and limited electricity imports from Mindanao.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Police Uncover Shipment of One Tonne of Ketamine in Belawan; Seven Indonesians and One Foreign National Named as Suspects
A joint operation involving the National Police, the National Narcotics Agency, Customs and the Indonesian military uncovered one tonne of ketamine aboard the MT Global 168 at Belawan Port. Eight people—seven Indonesian citizens and one foreign national—have been named as suspects, while police have yet to disclose their identities or alleged roles; an official briefing is expected on Friday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Bank Aladin Syariah Provides Rp24.9 Billion in Financing to the Real Sector
Bank Aladin Syariah has provided Rp24.9 billion in working-capital financing to three companies operating in food and beverage trading and retail construction. The deals, signed at ISEF 2026, will support business operations and the construction of Alfamart and Alfamidi outlets, while forming part of the bank’s strategy to expand real-sector and MSME financing through the Alfa Group ecosystem.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 22:00 WIB
Sudewo Embraces Family After Being Sentenced to Eight Years and Six Months in Prison
Pati’s suspended regent, Sudewo, was sentenced to eight years and six months in prison for corruption linked to railway projects and alleged extortion in village official recruitment. The court also imposed a Rp300 million fine and ordered him to pay Rp3.5 billion in restitution.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:59 WIB
Bareskrim Busts Boxkia Online Gambling Website, Arrests Four Including Chinese National
Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Department says it has dismantled an online gambling operation run through Boxkia.com and arrested four suspects, including a Chinese national. Investigators are examining the operation’s payment channels and suspected money-laundering flows, while seeking to block accounts allegedly used by the website.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:59 WIB
M Lutfi: Energy Sovereignty Must Return to the Nation
Former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi says the acquisition of a 30.25% stake in coal miner Bayan Resources by Indonesian businessman Haji Isam should be seen as strengthening national control over strategic natural resources. He links the deal to the constitutional mandate to use resources for public prosperity, while noting that the shares were bought at market price rather than through a lower-priced divestment mechanism.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:58 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: ABP Discusses Efforts to Strengthen Economic Independence
Arus Bawah Prabowo leader Michael F Umbas says the administration’s first two years have involved a shift towards a more people-centred economy and greater national self-reliance. He highlights policies and programmes covering food security, downstream processing, domestic capital, natural-resource management and access to education, healthcare and housing, while urging that economic growth deliver broader participation and more widely shared benefits.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:58 WIB
Tari Lang to Discuss ‘My Neighbour, The Dictator’ at UWRF 2026
Tari Lang will discuss the creative process behind her memoir, which recounts her teenage experience of the 1965 political upheaval in Indonesia and her parents’ detention without trial after Soeharto came to power. The 2026 Ubud Writers and Readers Festival, themed “Samarasā: Awareness. Empathy. Action”, will feature more than 150 international writers and artists across five days.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:57 WIB
Bank Indonesia to Take Firm Action Against Payment Service Providers Misusing QRIS for Online Gambling
Bank Indonesia says it will impose strict sanctions on payment service providers found using QRIS to facilitate illegal transactions, including online gambling. Oversight will include initial merchant verification and continuous transaction monitoring, with penalties ranging from activity restrictions to revocation of operating licences.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:56 WIB
Using Phones After 10pm Disrupts Teenagers’ Sleep Quality
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics linked smartphone use after 10pm with later bedtimes, shorter sleep and more frequent waking among teenagers. Researchers say limiting phone use at night, particularly just before bed, may help improve sleep quality.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:54 WIB
Government to Spend Rp31.8 Trillion on Year-End Programmes, from Wage Subsidies to Christmas and New Year Discounts
The government has set aside around Rp31.8 trillion for programmes running through the end of 2026, including food assistance, wage subsidies and discounts for the Christmas and New Year period. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the measures are intended to protect household purchasing power and support economic activity amid global uncertainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:54 WIB
Law Minister Open to Amending Legislation on Ecological Terrorism
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says existing laws could be amended to strengthen penalties and provisions for handling forest and land fires, which President Prabowo Subianto has labelled “ecological terrorism”. Prabowo has asked the Law Minister and State Secretary to review the relevant legal sanctions, including whether amendments should be proposed to the House of Representatives; no specific laws or changes have yet been identified.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:54 WIB
Malaysia bans civil servants from using Israeli-owned navigation app
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered civil servants to stop using Waze, citing concerns that government-sensitive information and users’ personal data could be misused. The government has also urged the public to switch to local alternatives such as TuJu, framing the move as a measure to protect national security and sovereignty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:54 WIB
ORI: Frequent Ship Accidents Point to Safety Compliance Problems
The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia says a review of more than 22 passenger and tourist-boat accidents over the past three years has revealed shortcomings in compliance with safety and seaworthiness standards, passenger manifests and pre-departure inspections. The Ombudsman warned that lax or manipulated inspections could put passengers at risk and create opportunities for corruption; the latest incident was a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi, from which all passengers were safely evacuated.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:54 WIB
Internet Café in Semarang Raided over Suspected Facilitation of Online Gambling
Central Java Police raided the Strix Cyber Arena internet café in Semarang after an investigation found suspected online gambling activity there. Seven people were taken in for questioning, and computer equipment was seized; the café’s owner operates two sites and reportedly earned Rp150,000–Rp200,000 a day.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:53 WIB
Women’s and Children’s Ministry Calls for Comprehensive Handling of Death of Child with Special Needs
Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged abuse that led to the death of a child with special needs in Surabaya. She said the response should include legal proceedings and support for the victim’s family and children involved, with a focus on safeguarding children’s rights and wellbeing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:50 WIB
Indramayu Deputy Regent Detained in DPRD Housing Allowance Case: How the Scheme Worked
West Java prosecutors have detained Indramayu Deputy Regent Syaefudin and a former acting DPRD secretary over alleged corruption in legislators’ housing and transport allowances, which prosecutors say caused Rp18.8 billion in regional losses. Investigators allege that allowance rates were raised without supporting documentation and that a subsequent 15 per cent increase was used to cover recipients’ income tax, which should not have been paid from the regional budget.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:49 WIB
BI NTB warns of 2027 El Niño risks to food inflation
Bank Indonesia’s West Nusa Tenggara office has urged local authorities and stakeholders to prepare for a possible 2027 El Niño, which could disrupt food production and drive up inflation. The warning comes as the province’s annual inflation rose to 4.18 per cent in September 2026, prompting efforts to strengthen supply, distribution and affordable food access.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:48 WIB
Luhut Proposes Narrowing Corruption Definition to Bribery and Removing State-Loss Requirement
Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says President Prabowo has approved a proposal to define corruption primarily as bribery and remove state financial loss as an element, arguing this would align with international standards and protect state-owned companies’ business decisions. The article notes that UNCAC and Indonesian law cover a broader range of offences, and warns that narrowing the definition could leave embezzlement, manipulated projects and other abuses beyond the reach of anti-corruption enforcement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:47 WIB
Indonesia’s forex hedging incentives attract US$9.9bn in foreign capital
Bank Indonesia says incentives for DNDF contracts, FX buy-swap instruments and local-currency trade settlements have attracted US$9.9 billion in foreign capital since the package was introduced in June. The central bank is expanding measures to support the rupiah, which weakened in October amid geopolitical tensions, a hawkish US Federal Reserve outlook and investor risk aversion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:45 WIB
Law Minister Floats Regulating ‘Ecological Terrorism’ in Legislation
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says legislation could classify forest and land fires as ecological terrorism, though he has not specified which regulations might be amended. President Prabowo Subianto has called deliberate fires environmental terrorism and urged police to investigate and prosecute those responsible, citing the threat to millions of people’s health.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:44 WIB
KDM hopes West Java’s investment growth will boost employment
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi says the province’s Rp91 trillion in investment in the third quarter of 2026 should translate into more job opportunities, despite continued layoffs and a shortage of vacancies relative to the labour force. Data from the Nyari Gawe job platform highlights the gap: hundreds of thousands of jobseekers have applied for just over 32,000 listed positions, while provincial investment authorities report that investment in the first nine months of the year generated 399,003 jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:43 WIB
BPK Finds 320 Deceased Students Still Receiving KIP Assistance, Ministry Says
Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) found that 320 students who had died continued to receive KIP Kuliah assistance, amounting to Rp2.70 billion. The Higher Education, Science and Technology Ministry says it is reviewing the findings and will use them to identify improvements to the programme, while BPK has recommended fixing data issues and addressing overpayments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:42 WIB
KKP backs US programme to preserve Indonesia’s underwater cultural heritage
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has voiced support for the US Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation project to protect the USS Houston wreck in the Sunda Strait, a Second World War gravesite. The two-year initiative will also build local capacity and public awareness, while Indonesia plans to host a regional conference on maritime and underwater cultural heritage in Bali in October 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:42 WIB
To Prevent Forest and Land Fires, BPGMN to Focus on Peatland Management in Seven Provinces and Concessions
The National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN) will prioritise peatland management in seven provinces and company concessions with peat ecosystems as part of efforts to prevent forest and land fires. Its work will include monitoring peat moisture and water management, building canal blocks to raise water levels, and coordinating with government agencies, environmental organisations and academics.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:42 WIB
Bima City wins third-best regional inflation control team award in Nusamapua
Bima City has received third place among cities and regencies in the Nusamapua consumer price index region in the 2026 awards for regional inflation control teams. Alongside the recognition, it signed a reciprocal food-trade agreement with Bangli Regency, prioritising eggs and maize to support supplies and help moderate prices.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:41 WIB
Riau Police Demolish Drug Den in Kampung Panger; Two Arrested
Riau Police and a multi-agency team demolished a hut allegedly used for drug transactions and consumption in Pekanbaru’s Kampung Panger. Two men suspected of using methamphetamine were arrested after testing positive, and authorities say they are investigating the source of the drugs before referring the pair for assessment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:40 WIB
Government to Review Special Economic Zones That Are Underperforming
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says the government is reviewing several Special Economic Zones (SEZs) whose development has been slow, singling out Lido as needing more support to attract visitors. SEZ investment reached Rp46 trillion in January–September 2026, 67% of the annual target, but was down 9.09% year on year compared with the same period in 2025.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:39 WIB
KPK Receives Information That Summarecon Paid Hercules to Secure Land
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating a Rp800 million payment returned by Hercules Rosario de Marshal, which it suspects came from PT Summarecon Agung. Investigators are examining whether the payment was for managing and securing the company’s land in Bogor, where alleged bribery involving officials at the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) is also under investigation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:37 WIB
‘Indonesia Fears No One’: Prabowo on MSCI Downgrade
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would not be intimidated by MSCI’s consideration of downgrading the country from emerging-market to standalone status, a move that could trigger billions of dollars in capital outflows. The prospect has rattled the stock market, while authorities pursue reforms to address MSCI’s concerns over opaque shareholding and trading practices; MSCI is expected to make its decision by the end of June.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:37 WIB
Basuki: Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan Have Not Disrupted IKN Construction
Nusantara Capital City Authority head Basuki Hadimuljono says fires in East Kalimantan have not affected construction of the new capital because they are some distance from the development area. Around 1,600 hectares burned across several locations, but Basuki says all fires have been extinguished and ground crews were sufficient; air quality readings briefly reached 100–130 before falling below 100.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:36 WIB
Local tax ratio falls to 1.12% as Bappenas urges regions to explore tax potential
Indonesia’s local tax ratio fell to 1.12% in 2025, below the 1.25% national target and the 1.22% recorded in each of the previous two years. Bappenas says it will review targets and strategies, urging local governments to broaden tax bases, improve compliance and administration, and use digital tools while avoiding measures that could undermine investment or growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:34 WIB
IA-ITB Urges Stronger Investment and Skills Development to Accelerate Papua’s Development
The Papua and West Papua branch of the Bandung Institute of Technology Alumni Association is calling for sustained investment, stronger local workforce skills and broader collaboration to unlock the region’s mineral and oil and gas potential. A national seminar in Jakarta highlighted the need for responsible resource management that delivers lasting economic and social benefits for Papuan communities, alongside infrastructure improvements and greater local participation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:34 WIB
Prabowo vows to stop Indonesia’s wealth from flowing abroad
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia must protect its natural resources and halt illicit outflows, describing smuggling as a threat to the national economy. The government’s measures include a single-door export policy for strategic commodities from 1 June 2026, alongside action against illegal mining and plantation activities in forest areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:33 WIB
New Developments in Case of TNI Official’s Quarters Rented Out as Online Gambling Base
A TNI lieutenant colonel has been named a suspect and detained over the rental of official military accommodation in Cijantung, East Jakarta, which was used as an online gambling base. Military police are investigating how long the property was rented out, while officials say renting out service accommodation to civilians violates the rules.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:31 WIB
OJK delivers sanction notices to market violators over DSSA, BREN and CUAN
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has delivered sanction notices over alleged market violations involving shares in DSSA, BREN and CUAN. Penalties include fines totalling Rp2.1 trillion, licence suspensions and warnings, as the regulator says the conduct distorted share prices and concentrated ownership, undermining market integrity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:31 WIB
DPR Commission XIII urges Human Rights Ministry to develop Musrenbang 5.0 in 2027
DPR Commission XIII has urged the Ministry of Human Rights to develop a digital, nationwide Human Rights Development Planning Forum (Musrenbang HAM) 5.0 in 2027, enabling public consultations from anywhere. The forum is intended to widen participation, especially for remote communities and vulnerable groups, and its recommendations will inform national human rights development and policy planning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:30 WIB
Yusril Says Definition of Corruption in Law Has Stagnated; Luhut’s Proposal Deserves Consideration
Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra says Indonesia’s statutory definition of corruption has not been updated to reflect the UN Convention Against Corruption, ratified in 2006. He backs consideration of National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to revise it, including his argument that state losses should not in themselves constitute corruption, a position he says could ease operating constraints on state-owned businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:30 WIB
Chaos as Protests Intensify; Government Alleges Foreign Interference
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has blamed foreign interference for a week of escalating anti-government clashes in Tirana, while acknowledging that the unrest is fuelled by genuine public grievances. Demonstrators are demanding improvements to higher education and action against alleged corruption, with rising living costs and housing affordability also among their concerns; hundreds have reportedly been injured.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:30 WIB
Bima Arya Urges Regional Leaders Not to Pursue Economic Growth at the Expense of the Environment
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged regional leaders to balance economic growth with environmental protection in planning development towards Indonesia’s Golden 2045 vision. He also called for meaningful involvement of young people, women, people with disabilities and marginalised groups, including through the development of green jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:30 WIB
UNM Students Serve as Liaison Officers at ISEF 2026
Two Digital Business students from Universitas Nusa Mandiri served as liaison officers at Bank Indonesia’s 13th Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival, gaining practical experience in event operations and the halal industry. The five-day festival featured more than 100 activities and involved over 1,000 halal-industry players, with a focus on sustainable growth and digital transformation in Islamic economics and finance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:27 WIB
Cirebon MBG Suspected Food Poisoning Victims Develop Leucocytosis
Patients affected by suspected food poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Cirebon have shown elevated white blood cell counts, which may indicate an infection. Authorities are awaiting laboratory tests on food and patient samples to identify the cause; results could take at least 14 days.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:25 WIB
Bali expands market access for designers using traditional fabrics
Bali’s Dekranasda is pairing local designers with small and medium-sized enterprises to create contemporary clothing using endek, while promoting traditional textiles and silver handicrafts to wider markets. The programme aims to strengthen the creative-industry ecosystem and raise demand and economic value for local communities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:24 WIB
Culture Minister Urges Universities to Strengthen Cultural Heritage Preservation
Culture Minister Fadli Zon has called on arts universities to preserve and pass on Indonesia’s cultural heritage through formal education, supporting the continuity of traditions and the development of new generations of artists. He said cultural heritage can also contribute to the economy, national identity and diplomacy, while the Indonesia Arts Festival XIII showcased work connecting local wisdom with modernity and ecology.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:24 WIB
OIKN Chief Says Forest and Land Fires Will Not Disrupt IKN Construction
Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) head Basuki Hadimuljono said fires in East Kalimantan would not affect construction of the new capital, as they were some distance from the development area and had been extinguished. He said the roughly 1,600 hectares affected were tackled with ground crews, while air-quality readings in the IKN area briefly reached 100–130 before falling below 100.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:23 WIB
Man’s Body Found in Burnt Field in East Manggarai
A man’s body was found in a burnt field in Kembur, Borong, East Manggarai, on Wednesday afternoon. Police have not yet identified him or established the cause of death, and are examining the scene.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:21 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo: Directorate-General for Pesantren Established to Strengthen Governance
The Ministry of Religious Affairs says the creation of a Directorate-General for Pesantren during the Prabowo-Gibran administration will strengthen governance, educational quality and the role of Islamic boarding schools in national development. The minister also highlighted efforts to improve oversight and student protection, alongside pesantren’s expanding achievements in science, technology and other fields.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:21 WIB
Luhut Proposes That State Losses Should Not Constitute Corruption; KPK Deputy Chairman Disagrees
KPK Deputy Chairman Johanis Tanak has rejected Luhut Pandjaitan’s proposal to remove state financial losses from the definition of corruption, arguing that this could leave the state unable to prosecute conduct that causes such losses. Luhut says the change would align Indonesia’s definition with the UN Convention against Corruption and ease the burden on state-owned businesses, while Tanak argues existing laws can address business risks without changing the anti-corruption law.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:21 WIB
Komnas HAM receives an additional Rp17.3 billion to strengthen human rights enforcement
Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has secured an additional Rp17.3 billion, bringing its definitive 2027 budget to Rp111.54 billion. The funding will support its human rights promotion and enforcement mandate, office operations and organisational management, with the commission urging the public to monitor how taxpayer money is spent.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:20 WIB
Creative Economy Ministry Highlights Sustainability at Creative Village Exhibition
The Creative Economy Ministry is foregrounding sustainability at the Creative Village exhibition, part of the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy, by reusing existing venues and limiting temporary construction to reduce waste. The event also showcases sustainable fashion made from alternative materials, presenting opportunities for Indonesian creative businesses to innovate and broaden access to international markets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:20 WIB
Indonesia steps up defence modernisation under President Prabowo
President Prabowo Subianto’s administration is pursuing a range of measures to strengthen Indonesia’s defence capabilities, including weapons procurement, organisational changes within the armed forces and the creation of Territorial Development Battalions. Defence Minister Sjafrie said the efforts also include developing the domestic defence industry, improving personnel and expanding international cooperation to help the country respond to global conflicts and protect its sovereignty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:20 WIB
Indonesia’s Vast Geothermal Reserves: Why Are They So Difficult to Tap?
Indonesia has an estimated 24 gigawatts of geothermal potential, but high investment costs and the risk of unsuccessful exploration drilling make projects challenging. Pertamina Geothermal Energy aims to raise its operating capacity from 727 megawatts to 1 gigawatt by 2028 and 1.8 gigawatts by 2034, while development typically takes five to six years and requires collaboration with local communities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:19 WIB
C-Suites Shift to Crisis Agenda as Rupiah Stands at 17,943
A Prasetiya Mulya alumni forum has put crisis preparedness ahead of growth, reflecting business leaders’ concerns amid a weak rupiah, high oil prices and elevated US Treasury yields. The article argues that these conditions could constrain corporate investment and margins, while highlighting regulatory uncertainty and several economic indicators to watch.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:16 WIB
Museum Association Presents Mahottama Adibudaya Award to Culture Minister
The Indonesian Museum Association has honoured Culture Minister Fadli Zon for his commitment to the country’s museum and cultural sectors. The ceremony in Bali also recognised economist Soemitro Djojohadikoesoemo and artist Nyoman Nuarta, while marking the 11th Indonesian Museum Day and National Culture Day 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:16 WIB
Carving Through Mountains Since 1879: Indonesia’s 10 Oldest Railway Tunnels
Indonesia’s oldest railway tunnels, built from 1879 to 1914 across Java and Sumatra, reflect the engineering challenges and economic purposes behind the country’s early rail network. KAI says the structures offer lessons in engineering, trade and social history, including the role of railways in the Ombilin coal industry and the experiences of forced labourers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:14 WIB
ATR/BPN Resolves 3,018 Land Disputes to Protect Rights
Indonesia’s Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ministry/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) says it has resolved 3,018 land cases over the past two years as part of efforts to protect public rights and provide legal certainty. Thousands of cases remain under handling, and the ministry says closer coordination with relevant parties, including law enforcement, is essential to resolving them effectively.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:14 WIB
Hosting AIHII’s 17th National Convention, President University Stresses the Importance of Unity Between Politicians and Academics
President University hosted the 17th National Convention of the Association of Indonesian International Relations Studies, bringing together around 200 participants from 70 universities. Speakers called for closer collaboration between academics, politicians and diplomats so research can inform policy and help Indonesia respond to global challenges.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:12 WIB
Culture Ministry Sets Out Two-Year Achievements, from Preservation to Diplomacy
Indonesia’s Culture Ministry has outlined its first two years of work since becoming a standalone ministry in 2024, reporting progress in heritage protection, cultural diplomacy and talent development. Its plans include further repatriations, wider UNESCO nominations and expanded support for cultural practitioners, while the ministry says strengthening the cultural economy remains a key challenge and priority for 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:12 WIB
A Look at Two Shares Suspended by the IDX as the Composite Index Rebounds on 20 October 2026
The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) suspended trading in PT Bank of India Indonesia Tbk (BSWD) and PT MNC Digital Entertainment Tbk (MSIN) on 20 October 2026, while the Jakarta Composite Index rebounded. The article does not specify the reasons for the suspensions, advising investors to consult the exchange’s official announcements; trading suspensions prevent transactions in the affected shares but do not automatically indicate fundamental problems.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:12 WIB
After More Than a Dozen Water-Bombing Runs, Gunung Lawu Wildfire Spreads to Nearly 500 Hectares
Three days of helicopter water-bombing have failed to contain the wildfire on the slopes of Mount Lawu, where the burned area has grown from 230 to about 490 hectares. Authorities say hot weather and strong winds are worsening the blaze, while investigators are examining whether charcoal-making activity caused it; further water-bombing will depend on a decision by the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB).
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:10 WIB
Sales Promotion Girl Dies After Falling from Kora-kora Ride at Night Market in Lombok
A 20-year-old food sales promotion worker died after falling from a swinging-ship ride at a night market in North Lombok. Police are investigating the incident, including taking statements from witnesses and the ride operator, to establish how it happened.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:10 WIB
Tips for jobseekers to avoid recruitment scams
Pegadaian’s human capital director has warned jobseekers about increasingly varied recruitment scams, including fake interview invitations that demand travel payments or transfers for online interviews. She stressed that the state-owned company never charges applicants and advised candidates to verify vacancies through official channels and check for warning signs before sharing money or personal information.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:10 WIB
Police and BNN Name Eight Suspects in One-Tonne Ketamine Smuggling Case in Belawan; One Is a Foreign National
A joint operation by Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Department and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) intercepted one tonne of ketamine aboard the MT Global 168 at Belawan Port, Medan. Eight people were arrested, including one foreign national; authorities say further details will be announced by the National Police chief on Friday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:10 WIB
Police Name 11 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Including Three Foreign-Invested Firms
Indonesia’s National Police have named 11 corporations as suspects in forest and land-fire cases, including three companies with foreign investment. Investigators are still gathering evidence in a wider set of cases, and police say accountability could extend to company owners and shareholders as well as the corporations themselves.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:10 WIB
Former Finance Ministry Official Arrested in Investment Scandal
Turkish police have detained 26 people, including a former Finance Ministry bureaucrat and investment fund executives, in a major probe into alleged market manipulation that is said to have harmed around 455,000 individual investors. The widening investigation has prompted arrests, asset freezes and senior-level resignations, placing further pressure on President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling AKP.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:09 WIB
Prabowo warns of foreign interference in Indonesia’s natural wealth
President Prabowo Subianto warned that foreign interests seek to undermine Indonesia’s progress and exploit its natural resources, citing narcotics smuggling and the illicit outflow of resources as examples. He said the government must protect the country’s wealth and praised cabinet members for their work during the administration’s first two years.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:09 WIB
Oppo Reno 17 Pro specifications leak ahead of expected November debut
Leaked details suggest the Oppo Reno 17 Pro will feature a compact 6.32-inch 1.5K, 120Hz display, a MediaTek Dimensity 8550 SUPER chipset and a 50-megapixel front camera. It is also said to have a battery of around 7,000 mAh, while Oppo is reportedly considering a telephoto extender for the Reno 17 series, a feature currently reserved for its flagship Find X phones.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:08 WIB
Jakarta Again Leads National Investment, Realisation Reaches Rp249.3 Trillion
Jakarta recorded Rp249.3 trillion in combined foreign and domestic investment in January–September 2026, accounting for 16.2 per cent of the national total and retaining its position as Indonesia’s leading investment destination. The provincial investment agency says it will focus on improving licensing services, expanding digital access and promoting investment-ready projects to sustain investor confidence and generate jobs and economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:08 WIB
Community Empowerment and Culture Ministers Coordinate Poverty-Reduction Strategy
Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, and Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Sugiono, are strengthening cooperation to accelerate poverty reduction through education and community empowerment. Their priorities include aligning vocational education with labour-market needs, fostering 10 million new entrepreneurs, upgrading MSMEs and making unused state-owned enterprise assets available for small businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:07 WIB
President Prabowo Chairs Plenary Cabinet Meeting, Nusron Wahid Also Attends
President Prabowo Subianto chaired a plenary cabinet meeting marking the first two years of the Prabowo–Gibran administration, with ministers reviewing government programmes and their implementation. He praised the Cabinet’s work while highlighting geopolitical conflict and intensifying economic and trade competition as challenges ahead.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:03 WIB
Hanura Task Force Consolidates Its Support in North Sulawesi
Hanura’s central task force says it is rebuilding the party’s organisation in North Sulawesi and preparing for the 2029 legislative elections, with hopes of winning a parliamentary seat and expanding its representation in regional councils. The party is strengthening local branches and setting seat targets across provincial and district-level constituencies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:01 WIB
Hole Found in Madiun After Loud Bang, with Mysterious Metal Fragment
Residents in Madiun found a hole and a metal fragment in a cornfield after a loud bang was heard near the Bojonegoro–Madiun border. Police have secured the palm-sized fragment and are investigating its origin and whether it was connected to the noise.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
Lebak Police Arrest Illegal Medicine Seller and Seize 1,629 Tramadol and Hexymer Tablets
Lebak Police have arrested a 34-year-old man suspected of selling medicines without marketing authorisation and seized 1,629 tablets of various types, including tramadol and hexymer. The suspect faces charges under Indonesia’s Health and Psychotropics laws, while police have urged the public to report suspected illegal medicine sales and avoid taking medicines without professional guidance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 21:00 WIB
AI Giant’s Losses Surge by Rp1,000 Trillion in Just One Year
Anthropic’s draft IPO prospectus shows its net loss ballooned to US$80 billion in the first half of 2026, although US$72 billion of that figure was a non-cash accounting charge. The disclosure highlights the enormous costs of competing in the AI sector as Anthropic prepares for a planned November IPO, with investors reportedly estimating its valuation at US$1.5 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:59 WIB
BRI expands global investors’ access to the Indonesian market
BRI has partnered with Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry to connect international investors with domestic companies and small and medium-sized enterprises, presenting its banking services at a forum attended by representatives from 14 countries. The bank is promoting foreign direct investment support, integrated corporate banking and digital services, while BRI and the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry launched an investment guidebook to help investors navigate opportunities and processes in Indonesia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:59 WIB
Tamchy SFIT Named Asia-Pacific’s Top Rising Star at Global Free Zones of the Year Awards
Kyrgyzstan’s Tamchy Special Financial Investment Territory ranked first in Asia-Pacific and second globally in the Rising Star category at the 2026 Global Free Zones of the Year Awards. The new financial zone, which offers extensive tax incentives and operates under English common law, is positioning itself to attract international businesses as infrastructure and registrations expand.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:58 WIB
Ministry Investigates Audit Finding That 320 Deceased Students Received KIP Aid
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology is examining a state audit finding that 320 students who had died continued to receive KIP Kuliah assistance, totalling Rp2.70 billion. The Audit Board has urged the relevant ministries and agencies to correct data problems and follow up on the resulting overpayments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:58 WIB
Bali Human Rights Office Holds Interfaith Prayer for Indonesia in a Village
The Bali working office of the Ministry of Human Rights held an interfaith prayer in Denpasar to mark the ministry’s second anniversary, with participants praying for national safety and showing solidarity with disaster-affected communities. The office also reported its human rights education, local legislation analysis and complaint-handling work since 2025, including 16 resolved complaints out of 23 recorded.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:57 WIB
Karawang Wins ‘Very Good’ Award as Investment Reaches Rp20.43 Trillion
Karawang Regency received a ‘Very Good’ rating from Indonesia’s Investment and Downstreaming Minister for its licensing services and efforts to accelerate business activity in 2026. Investment reached Rp20.43 trillion in the first half of the year, placing Karawang second in West Java and supporting 15,030 jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:57 WIB
KAI Transports 50.76 Million Tonnes of Goods, Supporting the National Supply Chain
KAI transported 50.76 million tonnes of goods from January to September 2026, including 9.15 million tonnes of non-coal commodities, whose volume rose 2.65% year on year. The figures highlight rail freight’s role in Indonesia’s distribution network, with containerised freight showing particularly strong growth as KAI stresses the importance of connections to terminals, warehouses and onward transport.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:56 WIB
WCCE 2026: Indonesia seeks global investment in the creative sector
Indonesia is using the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy to connect local creators with overseas investors and financial institutions, with business-matching sessions and a Jakarta showcase featuring firms such as Netflix and Tencent. The event aims to generate capital, international partnerships and export opportunities across the archipelago, while advancing the proposed Jakarta Vision on Creative Economy as a reference for the post-2030 global agenda.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:56 WIB
Toyota Introduces Latest T Intouch Feature in Innova Zenix, Allowing Drivers to Start the Engine from Their Phones
Toyota-Astra Motor has updated its T Intouch with Toyota Remote service for the 2026 Kijang Innova Zenix, enabling owners to start the engine, adjust the air conditioning and lock the doors remotely via smartphone. The service also adds vehicle-status monitoring and driver-monitoring features, alongside security and roadside-assistance functions, as Toyota seeks to make vehicle ownership more connected and convenient.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:55 WIB
KAI’s Intermodal Integration Connects Journeys Across Java and Sumatra
KAI Group served 394.4 million passengers between January and September 2026, up 7.06 per cent year on year, as rail services increasingly connect with one another and with urban transport and airports. Examples across Java and Sumatra include transfers between Whoosh and LRT Jabodebek, integrated rail services in Yogyakarta, feeder buses in Surabaya and airport rail links in Medan, Padang and Palembang.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:53 WIB
Prabowo highlights domestic energy push to reduce fuel imports
President Prabowo says Indonesia is expanding the use of biodiesel and bioethanol to cut reliance on imported fossil fuels, citing the B50 biodiesel blend and plans to scale up ethanol blending. The government targets E10 this year, E20 within two years and E50 thereafter, with the longer-term aim of ending fuel imports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:51 WIB
Indonesia and Malaysia strengthen cultural cooperation
Indonesia and Malaysia plan to deepen cultural ties through film and music co-productions, talent development and joint efforts to preserve shared heritage. The countries also discussed joint nominations for intangible cultural heritage and practical initiatives to expand the reach of their creative industries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:51 WIB
Metro Jakarta Police Chief and Provincial Government Prepare Social Rehabilitation in Drug-Hit Neighbourhoods
Metro Jakarta Police Chief Dadang Hartanto says the police will work with the Jakarta provincial government on social rehabilitation in areas affected by drug trafficking, combining community resilience, environmental improvements and attention to residents’ welfare. The initiative will focus on hotspots including Kampung Boncos, Kampung Ambon and Kampung Bahari, with officials stressing that sustained prevention requires community involvement and cross-sector cooperation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
Police Chief Backs Officer Who Fought Forest Fires Despite Acute Respiratory Infection
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto praised Iptu M. Agus Setiawan for continuing to help tackle forest and land fires in Palangka Raya despite suffering from an acute respiratory infection. He urged the officer to prioritise his health, after doctors recommended a week of rest; Agus said he wanted to keep assisting while physically able.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
Hijab ‘Ban’ Row in Muslim-Majority Country: 31 Turkish Citizens Barred
Azerbaijan has barred 31 Turkish citizens, including opposition politicians, journalists and religious writers, from entering the country amid a dispute over restrictions on hijab-wearing in schools. Baku accuses those listed of online statements threatening national security and the constitutional order, while the tensions have drawn criticism from Turkish figures and underscore a rare strain in the close allies’ relationship.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:50 WIB
Inclusive Transport Innovation by UNM’s DISABI Team Reaches PIMNAS 39
A student team from Universitas Nusa Mandiri has qualified for the 39th National Student Scientific Week with a technology-based concept to make public transport more accessible to people with disabilities. The project includes station accessibility information and tailored mobility assistance, following prototype development and discussions with PT KAI’s Jakarta operating region.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:47 WIB
CUAN IPO Case: OJK Sanctions Two Securities Firms and Their Director
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has imposed sanctions over alleged violations in the IPO of Petrindo Jaya Kreasi (CUAN), including a Rp100 billion fine for TC Pte Ltd and administrative penalties for two securities firms. OJK said obscured identities of share applicants linked to the company’s controller led to concentrated allocations and restricted the shares available in the market, as it pledged stronger capital-market enforcement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:47 WIB
ASDP: Three KMP Batumandi Passengers Remain in Intensive Care
Three passengers from the KMP Batumandi, which caught fire off Merak, remain in hospital receiving intensive care, while the other passengers have returned home. ASDP says passenger and belongings data collection is complete and is handling compensation claims, with support from Jasa Raharja and a dedicated hotline.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:47 WIB
Year 5 Pupil in East Nusa Tenggara Found Dead in Apparent Suicide
A 12-year-old primary-school pupil in Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara, was found hanging at home on Tuesday evening and later died after being taken to hospital. Police are investigating the circumstances, while the family has declined an autopsy; teachers said the child had shown no unusual behaviour at school that morning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:46 WIB
Village Ministry strengthens village-owned enterprises as drivers of rural economies
The Ministry of Villages and Disadvantaged Regions is stepping up efforts to strengthen village-owned enterprises (BUMDes) as a central pillar of rural economies, with villages positioned as both owners and business drivers. The ministry says recent reforms have improved institutional capacity and governance, and evaluations covering management, business operations, partnerships and community benefits are intended to help BUMDes grow professionally and support local welfare.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:45 WIB
Bahlil says subsidised fuel prices will not rise until the end of 2026
Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the government will keep subsidised fuel prices unchanged through the end of 2026 despite rising global crude prices. The higher Indonesian Crude Price (ICP) may increase the state’s energy subsidy bill, while coal-sector state revenue and export earnings are forecast to exceed their targets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:44 WIB
TBS Secures SGD555 Million Investment to Expand Waste Management Business in Asia
TBS Energi Utama has secured a potential investment of up to SGD555 million from HPS Investment Partners, part of BlackRock, to support the expansion of its waste-management platform across Asia. The transaction, involving newly issued preference shares in holding company SBTH Asia Holdings, requires shareholder approval, while TBS will retain control of the business.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:44 WIB
PTPN IV PalmCo partners with Trade Ministry to find new markets for Indonesian palm oil exports
PTPN IV PalmCo has partnered with the Trade Ministry to expand export markets for palm oil and other plantation commodities ahead of the EU Deforestation Regulation taking effect in 2027. PalmCo says it has increased the share of CPO exports and aims to reach 25 per cent next year, while the agreement also targets alternative markets and support for smallholder gambir producers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:44 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Leadership: Farhan Says Priority Programmes Are Under Way in Bandung
Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan says the city is implementing central government priority programmes in line with regional development plans, including the Sekolah Rakyat initiative and Merah Putih urban village cooperatives. He also pledged to monitor food quality under the free nutritious meals programme and flagged inflation of 3.35 per cent, warning that food demand may be rising faster than production.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
When Life Feels Difficult, Return to Patience and Prayer
The article reflects on Qur’anic guidance to seek help through patience and prayer when facing pressure, temptation and hardship. It explains that patience involves active commitment to what is right, while prayer strengthens spiritual resolve and should be reflected in improved conduct and continued practical effort.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
TOBA Plans to Expand Its Asian Waste Business as HPS Invests up to S$555 Million
PT TBS Energi Utama (TOBA) has secured a strategic investment of up to S$555 million from funds managed by HPS Investment Partners, part of BlackRock, to expand its waste-management platform across Asia. The investment, subject to shareholder approval, will be channelled through the platform’s holding company, while TBS says it will retain control of the business.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
BKPM Holds Market Sounding for Purabaya and Betan Subing Terminals
BKPM has invited investor feedback on public-private partnership plans to develop two Type A bus terminals in East Java and Lampung. The projects require a combined investment of about Rp1.18 trillion, and the market sounding is intended to refine their structures and procurement documents before they are offered to private partners.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
Stroke Sufferer Dies in House Fire in Ubud
A 48-year-old man with a stroke died after becoming trapped in a house fire in Banjar Yangloni, Peliatan village, Gianyar. The fire was extinguished without spreading to neighbouring buildings, and police are investigating its cause.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:43 WIB
Police hunt armed gang who robbed motorist in West Jakarta
Police are investigating an armed robbery in which a catering entrepreneur was attacked and had his motorbike stolen in West Jakarta. The victim said three assailants wielding machetes also took his catering supplies and important documents, while investigators are seeking witnesses and CCTV footage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:41 WIB
BNPB Still Assessing Needs for Assistance in Forest and Land Firefighting
Indonesia is assessing what equipment and support it needs to fight forest and land fires before accepting offers of assistance from countries including Singapore and Malaysia. BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi said foreign help would be requested only where domestic resources are insufficient, while authorities are also testing new firefighting methods and materials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:41 WIB
Two Years into Prabowo’s Government, Bakom Says Free Nutritious Meals Programme Is Regularly Reviewed
The government says the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has undergone periodic reviews during President Prabowo Subianto’s first two years in office, leading to changes in food storage, oversight and operating procedures. The National Nutrition Agency is also trialling AI-supported CCTV monitoring at meal-service units to help ensure compliance with food-safety standards.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
KPK Questions Summarecon Employees About Bribery in Bogor Land-Block Removal Process
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned employees of property developer Summarecon over an alleged bribery scheme to lift a block on land-use rights in Bogor. The investigation also includes two missed summonses for ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid and allegations of bribery linked to appointments and other land services; eight people have been named suspects.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:40 WIB
Sleeping Patterns Reveal Heart Failure Risk Before Other Symptoms Appear
A study by Emory University researchers and US health institutions found that electrical activity in the heart during light sleep can help predict heart failure, heart attacks and premature death over the following decade. An AI system trained on ECG data from 16,000 patients identified elevated risks, suggesting routine sleep examinations could provide an opportunity for earlier prevention.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:39 WIB
Astra Agro Optimises Productivity on Suboptimal Land While Safeguarding Environmental Sustainability
Astra Agro Lestari says it is using four site-specific measures—including improved varieties, soil amendments, biofertilisers and water management—to raise oil-palm productivity on suboptimal land. The company and researchers argue that collaboration, agronomic innovation and careful environmental management can help support Indonesia’s food and energy security without expanding into new land.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:37 WIB
Tips for Choosing the Right Electric Car to Suit Your Preferences and Needs
As electric vehicle options expand in Indonesia, buyers are encouraged to weigh everyday range, driving comfort, safety technology, charging access and after-sales support—not just battery specifications. Kia’s guidance also highlights the importance of test-driving a vehicle, assessing battery technology and choosing a design and cabin that suit the owner’s lifestyle.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:37 WIB
Aptisi and Kemdiktisaintek Strengthen Leadership Among Private University Rectors Through AERLA
Aptisi and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology have launched a leadership programme to prepare private university rectors for changes driven by artificial intelligence and global education trends. Its first cohort brings together 40 rectors, while the long-term initiative aims to improve leadership and governance among 70,000 private higher-education leaders nationwide.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:36 WIB
Bantul Police Investigate Viral Report of Klitih Victim Injured and Requiring Surgery
Police in Bantul are investigating a reported klitih attack in Pleret after a social media post said a man suffered deep facial injuries and needed surgery. Local officers have visited the scene and questioned witnesses, with Bantul Police detectives assisting the investigation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:36 WIB
Deli Serdang Community Organisation Member Shot Dead; Police Arrest Six
Police have arrested six people for questioning over the fatal shooting of a community organisation member inside a car in Tanjung Morawa, North Sumatra. All six remain witnesses, while the suspected mastermind is still being sought and investigators continue to examine the motive.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:33 WIB
OJK Uncovers Issues Behind BREN IPO, Imposes Rp500 Billion Fine
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has fined AH Ltd Rp500 billion over alleged concealment of information about parties ordering shares in Barito Renewables Energy’s IPO. OJK said related parties obtained large allocations using obscured identities, concentrating ownership and limiting the shares available to trade, as it pledged stronger capital-market enforcement and investor protection.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:31 WIB
PDI-P Opposes Luhut’s Proposal to Exclude State Losses from Corruption Offences
PDI-P secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto rejected National Economic Council chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal that state losses should not constitute corruption, arguing it oversimplifies the issue and runs counter to public expectations. Luhut says the proposed review would align Indonesia’s definition with the UN Convention against Corruption and ease constraints on state-owned businesses; Hasto instead called for stronger prevention and enforcement and raised concerns about alleged conflicts of interest.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:31 WIB
Pefindo Gives Batavia Its Highest Rating, Strengthening Its Position in the Mutual Fund Industry
Pefindo awarded Batavia Prosperindo Aset Manajemen its top idMIA-1 rating and gave three of its mutual funds the highest credit-quality rating, idAAA(f). Batavia reported 14.3% growth in assets under management to Rp56.4 trillion by September 2026, despite a contraction in the wider mutual fund industry, and has also secured regulatory approval to establish a pension fund institution.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:31 WIB
More Than 1,000 Hectares of Land Burned in West Java
West Java’s disaster management agency reported 526 land-fire incidents during the dry season, affecting more than 1,000 hectares across 357 villages and urban wards. Drought has affected 879 villages and urban wards, with 1.4 million people impacted; authorities have distributed 40 million litres of water to affected areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:30 WIB
DPR Commission III Praises KPK for 36 Sting Operations During Two Years of Government
DPR Commission III deputy chairman Ahmad Sahroni praised the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for carrying out 36 sting operations during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. He said the cases should serve as a warning to would-be offenders, while urging the KPK to strengthen prevention and oversight in regional governments, where many of those targeted were local leaders.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:30 WIB
Komnas HAM strengthens investigation into human rights impact of forest and land fires
Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) is investigating how forest and land fires affect human rights in areas including Kalimantan, Sumatra and Papua. The commission also welcomed the release of six environmental activists and said its 2027 budget increase will support investigations, research and public human rights education.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:30 WIB
China Encircles Taiwan Near Indonesian Waters, Raising Fears of an Asian War
China says its coastguard is maintaining order around the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands, while Taipei accuses Beijing of provocative incursions and attempts to assert jurisdiction. The dispute underscores rising tensions in the South China Sea, as Taiwan warns that China may increasingly use law-enforcement patrols to press its claims before any move towards unification.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:29 WIB
Police Name 11 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s National Police have named 11 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land fires, including three foreign-investment companies. The announcement follows 98 corporate-related cases reaching the investigation stage, while the Forestry Ministry says it has imposed administrative sanctions on 32 companies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:29 WIB
West Java Governor banks on Nyari Gawe to boost investment
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi is relying on the Nyari Gawe job-matching service to help ensure investment growth translates into employment opportunities. By 21 October 2026, the platform had recorded more than 728,000 jobseekers and 2.4 million applications, while 1,282 applicants had secured jobs; the province reported Rp91 trillion in investment in the third quarter, the highest among Indonesian provinces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:29 WIB
Serang Couple Posed as Factory Job Brokers to Defraud Jobseekers, Causing Losses of Tens of Millions of Rupiah
Police in Serang have arrested a husband and wife accused of taking Rp 26.4 million from eight jobseekers by promising them jobs at a factory. The case has prompted renewed warnings from the local manpower office about recruitment scams and calls for companies to recruit directly and ensure the process is free of charge.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:29 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo’s Government: Economy Grows, Workers’ Wages Rise, Says Bakom
Government Communications Agency head Syahganda Nainggolan says Indonesia’s economy grew by more than 5 per cent during President Prabowo Subianto’s first two years, with growth reaching 5.61 per cent in the first quarter of 2026. He also cites rising farmer and fisher terms of trade and average wage increases of 6.5 per cent, while acknowledging that about 11 million people have slipped from the middle-income group into the lower-middle class, an issue the government says it will focus on in 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
Man’s Body Found in Selemadeg, Tabanan
A 67-year-old man was found dead in Banjar Apit Yeh, Manikyang Village, Selemadeg, Tabanan, and evacuated by a joint search-and-rescue team. Police are still investigating how he died and the circumstances surrounding the discovery.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:28 WIB
BKPM Warns Businesses Not to Use Virtual Offices as Business Addresses
Indonesia’s Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM says virtual offices may be used for correspondence but not as the registered location of business activities, which must comply with zoning and land-use rules. The agency also says it is stepping up on-site checks, particularly on foreign-investment commitments, amid cases of misuse such as foreigners working under investment permits.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:27 WIB
TBS attracts HPS investment for waste management business
TBS Energi Utama has secured a potential investment of up to S$555 million from HPS Investment Partners in its waste-management platform, subject to shareholder approval. The funding is intended to support expansion across Asia as waste management and other non-coal operations increasingly underpin the company’s revenue and cash generation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:26 WIB
Cumulative investment in special economic zones reaches Rp382.1 trillion
Investment in Indonesia’s 25 special economic zones (SEZs) totalled Rp382.1 trillion from their establishment through September 2026, supporting 302,262 jobs and involving 509 businesses. Investment in the first nine months of 2026 reached Rp46 trillion, or 67 per cent of the annual target, with domestic investment contributing Rp13 trillion and foreign investment Rp33 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:26 WIB
Bareskrim Uncovers Online Gambling Case Involving Boxkia Website; Four Arrested
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has arrested four suspects in an alleged online gambling operation run through Boxkia.com, whose games used virtual currency and offered physical prizes. Investigators are examining electronic evidence and financial flows, including suspected money laundering, and plan to search the site’s reported office.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:25 WIB
Justice Minister Says Plan to Change Definition of Corruption Remains a Proposal
Justice Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says a proposal to redefine corruption remains at the discussion stage and will require consideration across ministries, as the definition is enshrined in law. The proposal, backed by a study by the National Economic Council and supported by President Prabowo Subianto, would shift the focus from state losses to bribery in line with the UN Convention against Corruption.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:24 WIB
Arjuno-Welirang Fire Burns 736.8 Hectares, Blaze Still Not Extinguished
The forest and land fire in East Java’s Arjuno-Welirang area has burned 736.8 hectares, with flames still active and the affected area potentially growing. Fire crews are battling difficult, steep terrain, while authorities report no casualties and say the blaze remains 2–3 kilometres from residential areas; another fire is also burning in Situbondo.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:22 WIB
Airlangga: Indonesia’s Economy Remains Resilient Amid Global Market Turmoil
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said Indonesia’s economic fundamentals remain strong despite global uncertainty and negative market sentiment, including concerns involving MSCI. He cited 5.45 per cent economic growth, inflation within the target range, rising bank lending and adequate food stocks, and said the stock market had begun to recover.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:21 WIB
Government to Disburse Rp31.8 Trillion in Social Assistance and Christmas–New Year Discounts to Protect Purchasing Power
The government has set aside about Rp31.8 trillion for programmes through the end of 2026, including food assistance, wage subsidies and discounts over the Christmas and New Year period. The measures are intended to protect household purchasing power and support economic activity amid global uncertainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:21 WIB
KPK Says Two Serving Military Personnel Named in BNPB Disaster Funds Corruption Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has informed the military police that two serving TNI personnel are implicated in the alleged misuse of disaster-response funds at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The investigation also centres on alleged conflicts of interest in procurement, including a suspected Rp148 billion in contracts linked to a former BNPB chief’s relative, and the KPK says proceeds were used to buy shares worth about Rp30.98 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:21 WIB
DPD RI: School Revitalisation in Yogyakarta Is Progressing Well but Needs Further Strengthening
The DPD RI’s Commission III says the school revitalisation programme in the Special Region of Yogyakarta is delivering benefits, but improvements are needed in construction quality, accountability and adherence to deadlines. The commission is gathering local evidence and plans to submit comprehensive recommendations to the central government and relevant ministries, with lessons intended to inform other regions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:21 WIB
Police Name 11 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires; Three Have Foreign Affiliations
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto says 11 corporations have been named as suspects in forest and land fire cases, including three with foreign investment affiliations. Investigators are examining 98 cases and are still gathering evidence; authorities have not yet disclosed the companies’ names.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:20 WIB
Police Chief: 11 Corporations Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Three Are Foreign Investors
National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto says police have named 11 corporations as suspects in forest and land fire cases, including three foreign investment companies. He said the three firms are based in Kalimantan, but did not identify them; further details are expected as investigations continue, with no obstacles reported so far.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:20 WIB
Once They Crossed the Sea to Buy Sandals; Now They Can Order from Their Pillows
Online shopping is changing daily life on remote Pulau Breueh, where residents once spent a day and about Rp250,000 travelling to Banda Aceh to buy goods. Improved internet access and informal boat-based parcel delivery have cut costs and time, while also creating small payment and digital-service businesses in the island community.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:19 WIB
Singapore’s Temasek Denies Intervening with MSCI to Push Indonesia’s Stock Market into Standalone Status
Singaporean sovereign wealth funds GIC and Temasek have rejected allegations that they pressured MSCI to downgrade the classification of Indonesia’s stock market. The claims, made by former Indonesian Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi, suggested a downgrade could trigger market panic and create opportunities to buy Indonesian shares at lower prices; both funds say their investment decisions are based on other considerations and deny contacting MSCI to influence its decisions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:19 WIB
Civil Service Minister Says Salaries Must Be Paid Easily and Transparently
Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini says civil servants’ salaries should be paid conveniently and transparently, without creating difficulties for staff. Her remarks come amid a proposal to channel salaries through Red-and-White Village/Urban Village Cooperatives, although Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has said payments will continue through the banking system; Indonesia has about 6.7 million civil servants.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:19 WIB
DSSA Share Case: List of Securities Firms Sanctioned by OJK
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has imposed sanctions over alleged market manipulation involving shares in Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA). The measures include a Rp1.5 trillion fine for PT SMT, a one-year suspension of an underwriter representative’s licence, fines for nine exchange members and written warnings for eight sales staff.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:18 WIB
Bappenas: Inclusive Economy Index reaches 6.27 out of 10 in 2025
Indonesia’s Inclusive Economic Development Index (IPEI) stood at 6.27 out of 10 in 2025, according to Bappenas, highlighting gradual progress but persistent gaps in economic growth and the distribution of development benefits. The agency said the index can help national and local governments target interventions, with financial inclusion, inequality and disparities between regions remaining key challenges.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:18 WIB
Bandung MSMEs Say Halal Certification Has Boosted Turnover
Around 150 West Java micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have received support to obtain mandatory halal certification, alongside training in digital marketing. Organisers say certification can strengthen consumer trust, while content-creation skills help businesses reach customers and increase sales ahead of the 2028 halal requirement for all products.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:15 WIB
Yusril: Luhut’s Statement on the Definition of Corruption Deserves Consideration
Yusril Ihza Mahendra says a proposal to reconsider Indonesia’s definition of corruption merits discussion, noting that the current framework has not been revised to reflect the country’s ratification of the UN Convention against Corruption. He argues that reform could distinguish bribery from other offences and reduce the risk that ordinary business losses at state-owned enterprises are treated as corruption, although no anti-corruption law revision has yet been planned.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:15 WIB
Foreign Tourist Molested and Robbed; Sampang Farmer Arrested for Villa Break-in in Badung
Badung police have arrested a 44-year-old farmer from Sampang suspected of molesting and robbing a Polish tourist after posing as a motorcycle-taxi driver. Investigators also link him to a March 2026 burglary at a villa in North Kuta, where an Australian tourist’s phone, laptop and hard drive were stolen.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:15 WIB
Meta’s Muse Reaches 10 Million Downloads in the US in 40 Days
Meta’s AI assistant Muse has recorded 10.2 million downloads in the US during its first 40 days, placing it among a small group of apps to reach that milestone so quickly. Sensor Tower data also points to substantial advertising investment and stronger early retention than rival AI apps, although Muse is currently available only in the US and Canada.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:14 WIB
BI Says Rupiah Pressure Remains Normal After MSCI Announcement
Bank Indonesia says the rupiah weakened briefly after MSCI reclassified Indonesia’s equity market from emerging to standalone status, but the pressure remained within normal bounds amid wider regional weakness. The central bank is monitoring capital outflows and will focus on exchange-rate and inflation stability while using targeted incentives and foreign-exchange interventions to attract portfolio inflows.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:12 WIB
National Integrated Schools help Indonesian children dream big
Indonesia’s National Integrated Schools (SNT) programme combines junior and senior secondary education, aiming to improve learning quality and reduce regional inequalities in access. With 17 schools operating in the 2026/2027 academic year, the programme uses a STEAMS-based approach and supportive environments to help students develop academic skills, character and personal talents.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:12 WIB
BGN, Attorney General’s Office and Kodam Jaya Deny Links to Abandoned Electric Motorcycles
The National Nutrition Agency, Attorney General’s Office and Kodam Jaya have all denied ownership or links to a viral pile of abandoned electric motorcycles in Bekasi, which were initially suspected of being vehicles for the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Authorities say the motorcycles do not match the agency’s 2025 procurement or evidence held in the corruption investigation, while the actual owner remains unknown.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:12 WIB
PLN Energi Gas Strengthens Oil and Gas Safety Culture
PLN Energi Gas has held a two-day in-house training programme on its oil and gas safety management system to strengthen operational safety and reliability. The company says the initiative aims to embed risk awareness and safety practices across office and field teams, supporting the safe and reliable delivery of gas energy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:11 WIB
Jakarta Running Festival to Cancel Car-Free Day on Sudirman-Thamrin and Rasuna Said This Week
Jakarta will suspend car-free day activities on the Sudirman-Thamrin and Rasuna Said roads on Sunday, 25 October, because the city is hosting the 2026 Jakarta Running Festival. Car-free day events will continue in five other city areas, from 5.30am to 9am.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:11 WIB
Bapanas Finds Excessive Zinc Levels in Substandard Fortified Rice
Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas) says laboratory tests found excessive zinc and widespread nutritional shortfalls in fortified rice products, with 25 of 27 brands failing to meet requirements. The agency has ordered production to stop and products to be withdrawn, while police have opened an investigation into five brands; no suspects have been named.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:11 WIB
32 Companies Sanctioned, Facing Licence Revocation and Ecosystem Restoration Orders over Forest and Land Fires
Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on 32 companies linked to forest and land fires, including licence revocations or suspensions and orders to restore damaged ecosystems. Six firms in Kalimantan have most recently been sanctioned, and the government is considering whether their cases should also be pursued criminally in coordination with police.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Indramayu DPRD Allowance Corruption: Deputy Regent Detained
West Java prosecutors have detained Indramayu’s deputy regent and a former acting regional parliament secretary over alleged corruption involving housing and transport allowances that caused state losses of Rp18.7 billion. Investigators say the allowance budget was raised without supporting documentation, and that a subsequent appraisal was manipulated to inflate the figures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Researchers create 1-gram microscope for precise neural detection
Chinese researchers have developed Airscope, a wireless, head-mounted microscope weighing just one gram that can record activity across thousands of neurons in freely moving mice. With a wide field of view and single-cell resolution, the device could enable studies of brain activity in more natural settings and support future advances in optical brain–computer interfaces and disease research.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
The ‘Red and White’ Spirit Behind the Acquisition of BYAN Shares
The article frames Haji Isam’s acquisition of shares in Bayan Resources as an opportunity to strengthen Indonesian ownership of the country’s natural resources and keep more economic benefits at home. It argues that market-based private investment can support national economic interests, while stressing that regulatory compliance, transparency and environmental responsibility remain essential.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:10 WIB
Health Special Economic Zone Planned to Reduce Indonesians’ Need to Seek Treatment Abroad
The government plans to develop a health-focused Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to improve domestic healthcare services and attract investment, citing Rp150 trillion spent annually by Indonesians seeking treatment overseas. It also hopes to bring in international-standard facilities, manufacture medical devices and advanced medicines locally, and facilitate knowledge transfer from foreign doctors to Indonesian practitioners.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:09 WIB
Affordable Food Movement in Pacitan Aims to Keep Staple Prices in Check
East Java Province held a two-day affordable food market in Pacitan on 21–22 October 2026 to help residents access staples at lower-than-market prices. Cooking oil and bird’s eye chillies were particularly sought after amid rising prices, while garlic supplies ran low on the first day.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:09 WIB
KM Laba-Laba Cargo Vessel Caught Smuggling Thousands of Unlicensed Bottles of Alcohol to Karimunjawa
Central Java Police have foiled an attempt to smuggle more than 2,600 bottles of alcohol to Karimunjawa and named the vessel’s captain and another person as suspects. The cargo vessel was carrying the drinks alongside building materials and was sailing without a valid sailing permit, which had expired on 7 October 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:08 WIB
Cak Imin Set to Provide Aid to South Kalimantan Residents Affected by Forest and Land Fires
PKB chairman Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin, is scheduled to deliver social assistance to residents affected by forest and land fires in South Kalimantan on 24 October 2026. The visit will coincide with the opening of the party’s provincial office and will also highlight support for frontline volunteers, following the death of volunteer firefighter Nurdin.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
Bank Indonesia Steps Up Efforts to Curb QRIS Misuse for Online Gambling with Four Strategies
Bank Indonesia says it is taking a four-pronged approach to prevent QRIS from being used for illegal online-gambling transactions, including stronger merchant checks, suspicious-transaction monitoring, oversight of payment providers and cooperation with law enforcement. The measures aim to protect the integrity and reliability of the widely used payment system; BI reported 69.32 million QRIS users and 47.11 million merchants as of August 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:07 WIB
Pigai Says Indonesia Has a ‘Democracy Surplus’ as Citizens Enjoy Greater Freedom of Expression
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says Indonesia’s increasingly open public dialogue reflects a “surplus” of democracy, contrasting it with the suppression of speech in authoritarian states. He argues that criticism and public debate are healthy provided officials do not use state institutions to silence citizens.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:06 WIB
ChatGPT Introduces Chat Lock Feature to Protect User Privacy
OpenAI is gradually rolling out a feature that lets users lock sensitive ChatGPT conversations with a four-digit PIN or a device’s biometric authentication. The chats are moved to a separate “Locked Chats” section, but the feature does not provide end-to-end encryption or change data-retention and model-training settings.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:05 WIB
Government Ready to Help Indonesian Businesses Expand Overseas
The government says it will support Indonesian businesses seeking to expand abroad, with BPKH Limited offering co-investment, technical assistance and licensing support in Saudi Arabia. Bumi Aki Group has signed an MoU with the Hajj Financial Management Agency subsidiary to prepare for opening restaurant branches there, with services for Indonesian pilgrims expected to begin gradually from 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:05 WIB
ASDP Secures Area Around KM Batumandi for Investigation
ASDP is coordinating with port authorities, Indonesia’s National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) and police to secure the area around the fire-damaged KM Batumandi as investigators prepare to examine the vessel. All 11 passengers who had been receiving treatment have been discharged, while three others remain in hospital; the company is also verifying affected vehicles and belongings for compensation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:05 WIB
Prabowo Reaffirms Commitment to Stop Indonesia’s Natural Wealth from Being Plundered
President Prabowo Subianto says his government will stop illegal practices that drain Indonesia’s natural resources, describing the effort as essential to protecting national and public interests. Measures include a single-export-channel policy for palm oil, coal and iron alloys from 1 June 2026, alongside action against smuggling and illegal mining and plantation activity in forest areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:05 WIB
Breaking: Bahlil Considers Halting Gas Exports to Neighbouring Countries
Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia is considering not renewing gas export contracts with neighbouring countries, prioritising domestic energy security amid heightened geopolitical tensions. The issue follows President Prabowo Subianto’s call for the country to protect national resources, while existing contracts supply substantial volumes of gas to Singapore through 2028.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:04 WIB
Government Claims Workers’ Wages Have Risen by 6.5%, While Ride-Hailing Drivers Now Receive 92% of Fares
Government Communications Agency head Syahganda Nainggolan says average workers’ wages have risen by 6.5 per cent under President Prabowo Subianto, while ride-hailing app commissions have been set at 8 per cent, leaving drivers with 92 per cent of the fare. He described the figures as evidence of the government’s commitment to workers, while acknowledging challenges in implementing wage policies locally, including the risk of layoffs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:03 WIB
Government Sets Aside Rp31.8 Trillion for Social Assistance and Christmas-New Year Discounts
The government has allocated about Rp31.8 trillion for year-end measures, including food assistance, wage subsidies and discounts for the Christmas and New Year period. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the programmes are intended to support household purchasing power and economic activity amid global uncertainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:03 WIB
UBSI forges international partnership with INTI Malaysia
Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has signed an MoU with Malaysia’s INTI International University and Colleges covering research collaboration, student exchange and community service. The institutions say the agreement is intended to lead to practical, sustained academic programmes that broaden international experience for students and staff and strengthen higher education ties between Indonesia and Malaysia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:03 WIB
BP Batam helps 100 businesses complete permits through OSS
BP Batam has provided permitting assistance to representatives of more than 100 companies and businesses using the risk-based Online Single Submission (OSS RBA) system. The clinic offered one-to-one consultations with BP Batam, the Investment Ministry/BKPM and other units to resolve administrative issues, clarify requirements and improve businesses’ compliance with licensing rules.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:02 WIB
Udayana Military Commander Highlights Tri Hita Karana in Effort to Maintain Harmony in Bali
The newly appointed commander of the IX/Udayana Military Regional Command, Major General Made Putra Widiastawa, says the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana can help foster social harmony and maintain security. He also called for closer collaboration with local government and community groups, while outgoing commander Major General Piek Budyakto thanked those who supported him during his tenure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:02 WIB
Hanura Vows to Keep North Sulawesi ‘Fired Up’ Ahead of 2029 Elections
Hanura’s central task force is conducting organisational consolidation across Indonesia, with North Sulawesi its 23rd stop in a campaign scheduled to cover all 38 provinces by October 2026. The party says its local organisation is rebuilding from the grassroots and sees potential to win a House of Representatives seat and increase its regional assembly representation in the 2029 elections.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
KKP Seizes 154 Illegal Fishing Vessels by September 2026
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries says it has seized 154 vessels involved in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in Indonesian waters by September 2026, following 88 seizures in 2024 and 355 in 2025. The ministry is also expanding marine conservation areas, which covered 31.6 million hectares by October 2026, to protect biodiversity and sustain fish stocks and coastal livelihoods.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
Crisis! Trump Cabinet at Odds Ahead of US Midterm Elections
With only two weeks left before the US midterm elections, Trump’s aides reportedly fear that heavy Republican losses could trigger a sweeping White House shake-up, resignations and blame-shifting. Internal disputes have surfaced publicly, while the administration denies rumours of imminent departures and says Trump is focused on retaining Republican control of Congress.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 20:00 WIB
Police Chief Says 11 Companies Named as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Including Three Foreign Firms
Indonesia’s National Police chief says 11 companies have been named as suspects in forest and land-fire cases, including three foreign-investment companies whose countries of origin are still under investigation. The disclosure comes as police have escalated 98 corporate-linked fire reports to the investigation stage and are gathering evidence to identify those responsible.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:59 WIB
Tito targets Rp42 trillion for Sumatra disaster recovery in 2027
Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian expects around Rp42 trillion to be available for post-disaster recovery in Sumatra in 2027, combining Rp9 trillion unspent in 2026 with a planned Rp33 trillion allocation. He is seeking approval to carry over the unused funds so recovery work can start early next year, avoiding delays and ensuring projects already identified for affected communities are not cancelled.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:59 WIB
Firefighters Struggle to Extinguish Blaze at Tangerang Ice Cream Warehouse, Need Heavy Equipment
Firefighters were still battling a blaze at an ice cream warehouse in Tangerang, with heavy machinery needed to break up debris and reach smouldering hotspots. Fifty personnel and 14 fire engines had been deployed; witnesses said the fire may have started with an electrical short circuit that ignited stored cardboard.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
28 Early Childhood Education Centres in Central Jakarta Receive Educational Equipment
Twenty-eight early childhood education (PAUD) centres across four districts in Central Jakarta have received educational equipment from the Jakarta provincial government, following requests submitted through the 2025 development planning process. The aid includes indoor and outdoor play and learning materials, intended to support children’s cognitive, motor, social and emotional development and improve access to quality facilities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Human Rights Minister: Certification to Become a ‘Brake’ on Sources of Injustice
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says mandatory human-rights certification for promotions among civil servants and military and police officers would help deter abuses and unfair conduct. Draft regulations have been completed and sent to the House of Representatives; further rules would also apply certification to promotion, transfer and demotion systems in the TNI and Polri.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Prabowo: Indonesia Will Not Tolerate Being Constantly Provoked
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia had repeatedly faced foreign interference and efforts to foment division, but had demonstrated resilience through periods of rebellion and the 1997–98 crisis. He also called for a full investigation into alleged violations and smuggling, with companies found responsible to have their permits revoked.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:58 WIB
Strengthening Security, Riau Police Chief Pays Courtesy Visit to Tuanku Tambusai Military Command
Riau Police Chief Arman Achdiat met the commander of the XIX/Tuanku Tambusai Military Command as part of efforts to strengthen coordination among the police, military and provincial agencies. The discussions focused on public order, security stability and law enforcement across Riau.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:57 WIB
POCO X8s Debuts with a 6,330mAh Battery and 6.35-inch OLED Display
POCO has launched the X8s, the fifth model in its X8 Series, with a compact 6.35-inch LTPO OLED display and a 6,330mAh battery. The phone is available for pre-order in Vietnam in two memory configurations, with prices starting at 11.5 million dong.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:57 WIB
Five Gandrung Sewu dancers from Banyuwangi survive ferry fire
Five dancers travelling from Palembang and Lampung to perform in Banyuwangi’s Gandrung Sewu cultural event survived a fire aboard a ferry on the Bakauheni–Merak route. Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani contacted them to offer support, and the regency government will arrange transport and assistance through their stay and return journey.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:57 WIB
Semarang City Government Offers 19 Investment Opportunities to Businesses
Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti has presented 19 opportunities to develop municipal and regional-owned assets, spanning logistics, food storage, digital services, tourism and recreation. Eight proposals have financial models and preliminary studies, while the city’s strong transport links and 2025 investment of Rp11.15 trillion underpin its pitch to investors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:56 WIB
UNM Opens Highly Accredited PhD Programme in Informatics
Universitas Nusa Mandiri has opened enrolment for its Informatics doctoral programme, which holds the highest ‘Unggul’ accreditation and is designed around applied research and the needs of the digital industry. The programme offers specialisations in Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, takes six to 10 semesters, and costs Rp105 million, payable in instalments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:56 WIB
Prabowo calls on all sides to unite
President Prabowo Subianto urged Indonesians to set aside their differences and unite in the public interest, arguing that global instability makes national cohesion essential. He said his political approach is one of national unity while recognising the value of diversity, competition and criticism.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:55 WIB
OJK Reveals Parties Sanctioned over Violations Involving Three Conglomerate Issuers
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has imposed sanctions over alleged market manipulation in DSSA shares and the concealment of identities by parties placing orders for BREN and CUAN shares. Penalties include fines of Rp1.5 trillion, Rp500 billion and Rp100 billion, alongside licence suspensions and sanctions against securities firms and their staff, as OJK seeks to strengthen market integrity and investor protection.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:54 WIB
President Says Indonesia Is Not Intimidated by MSCI
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would not be cowed by global pressures, including issues involving index provider MSCI, and pledged to safeguard national interests and economic stability. He also said the government was prepared to pursue deeper spending cuts if needed, with savings focused on lower-priority areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:54 WIB
Communications Minister Denies Restricting Wildfire Content
Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid says her ministry has not asked social media platforms to remove or restrict information about forest and land fires. She says public posts help the response and urges platforms to be transparent about their algorithms, while advising users to appeal restrictions and report issues to the government.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:54 WIB
Yusril Calls for Influence-Peddling and Private-Sector Corruption to Be Covered by Anti-Corruption Law
Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for Indonesia’s Anti-Corruption Law to be revised to include influence-peddling and corruption in the private sector, arguing that the legislation has not been substantially updated since 2001. The proposal follows debate over how to clarify corruption offences while bringing Indonesian law into line with the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), without removing state financial losses from the definition.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:53 WIB
BNPB intensifies weather modification in three fire-hit provinces
Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is continuing weather-modification operations in West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra to help tackle forest and land fires, deploying salt and dry ice by aircraft. The operations are being supplemented by aerial support, standby aircraft and ground firefighting equipment, with more than 321 hectares still unextinguished in Central Kalimantan and 80 hectares in South Sumatra.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:53 WIB
Rano urges follow-up on investment opportunities at Jakarta Film Summit
Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno has called for investment and international cooperation discussed at Jakarta Film Summit 2026 to be turned into concrete partnerships. The summit brought together more than 500 participants and featured policy support measures, including streamlined filming services and a 50 per cent tax reduction for screenings of national films, as Jakarta seeks to become a major film-production hub in Southeast Asia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:53 WIB
PDI-P Flags Burden of Gibran’s Diploma Controversy on Prabowo Government
PDI-P says the controversy over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high-school diploma is weighing on President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, arguing it raises questions about the vice-president’s legitimacy. Party secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto linked the issue to the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the presidential and vice-presidential candidacy rules and called it a matter of ethics and public accountability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:53 WIB
Forest and Land Fires Continue to Affect Several Regions of Indonesia, Burning 1,500 Hectares
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) says forest and land fires remain active across Indonesia, with about 1,500 hectares still burning as of 20 October 2026. Firefighting is focused on six priority provinces, while fires elsewhere—including in Central Java, East Kalimantan and North Maluku—have prompted the deployment of ground crews and aircraft.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:51 WIB
US Warships Head to the Middle East as Pakistani General’s Mediation Effort with Iran Fails
The United States is sending additional naval forces and about 9,000 personnel to the Middle East as diplomatic efforts to restart talks with Iran stall. Tehran has ruled out transferring its enriched uranium and says negotiations will resume only after Washington meets its demands, including ending the maritime blockade and lifting sanctions on Iranian oil exports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:51 WIB
Krom Bank partners with Easycash to expand access to digital financing
Krom Bank has partnered with online lending provider Easycash under a loan-channeling arrangement, with the bank supplying credit and Easycash handling digital distribution and operations. The deal forms part of Krom Bank’s strategy to expand lending through fintech partnerships, amid strong growth in its loan book and broader expansion in Indonesia’s online lending sector.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:51 WIB
Prabowo cites food self-sufficiency as key government achievement
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia had achieved food self-sufficiency in a short period, calling it a foundation for resilience amid global uncertainty and a strategic safeguard during crises. He warned that dependence on food imports could leave the country vulnerable, and said government preparations had helped it withstand drought and El Niño while anticipating La Niña.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
Donny Damara: Escaping the ‘Naughty Child’ Label Is Not Just a Child’s Burden
Actor Donny Damara says both children labelled as ‘naughty’ and their parents need to change their attitudes, with empathy and mutual understanding central to improving behaviour. The upcoming film *Yang Disebut Nakal* explores how young people branded as troublesome can be guided through character-building, including by channelling their energy into sport.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
Luhut Explains Why State Losses Do Not Automatically Constitute Corruption
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says proposed revisions to Indonesia’s anti-corruption law would retain state financial loss as an element of corruption offences, while clarifying how it is proved. The recommendations also include protections for good-faith decision-makers, new offences aligned with the UN anti-corruption convention and a state-finance omnibus law, which the council says could strengthen legal certainty and support investment without weakening enforcement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
Ice Cream Warehouse Fire in Tangerang Still Burning After More Than 29 Hours
Firefighters were still battling a blaze at an ice cream production warehouse in Jatiuwung, Tangerang, more than 29 hours after it broke out on 20 October. Fifty personnel and 14 fire engines were deployed; witnesses said an electrical short circuit may have ignited cardboard in the storage area.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:50 WIB
The Beauty of the Calligraphy at Ulu Cami Mosque at the Foot of Mount Uludağ
Ulu Cami, Bursa’s largest mosque, is a landmark of early Ottoman Islamic architecture, known for its 20 domes, Seljuk-influenced design and monumental calligraphy. Its 192 calligraphic panels, created by 41 Ottoman masters, alongside its historic wooden minbar and central ablution fountain, continue to draw worshippers and visitors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:44 WIB
BI monitors capital outflows after MSCI’s Indonesia market proposal
Bank Indonesia is monitoring potential capital outflows after MSCI proposed consulting on whether to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging market to a standalone market, a move that put pressure on the rupiah. The central bank says exchange-rate stability remains its priority and has expanded hedging incentives, while the stock exchange and financial regulator are pursuing transparency and enforcement measures amid broader capital-market reforms.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:44 WIB
Suspect and Victim Who Died After Being Stabbed with Screwdriver Had Drunk Arak Together
A 26-year-old worker died after being stabbed in the head with a screwdriver in North Kuta, Badung, following an argument with a suspect who was under the influence of alcohol. Police say the suspect is a repeat offender who previously served a one-year prison sentence for stabbing a colleague, and he now faces a charge carrying a maximum nine-year sentence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:44 WIB
Four Suspects Arrested in Synthetic Cannabis Transaction in Kebon Jeruk
Police have arrested four people suspected of involvement in a synthetic cannabis transaction in West Jakarta, seizing small packets of the substance and equipment and materials allegedly used to produce it. The suspects face charges under Indonesia’s Narcotics Law and the Criminal Code.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:43 WIB
YouTube changes interface in a move that could make disliking content harder
YouTube is reportedly testing interface changes that could make its dislike option less accessible to some users, following its earlier controversial decision to hide public dislike counts on creators’ videos. The experiment appears limited to a small number of desktop users and is not confirmed as a permanent feature, although YouTube Shorts has already removed its dislike option from the interface.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:43 WIB
LPDB Koperasi strengthens governance of revolving fund guarantees
LPDB Koperasi is tightening governance of financing guarantees through a centralised credit insurance scheme and by considering insurance brokers as strategic partners. The move aims to improve risk management and accountability while preserving cooperatives’ access to government-backed revolving funds.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:43 WIB
Ombudsman: Not Every Permit Delay Is Maladministration — Here Are the Limits of Its Oversight
Ombudsman member Radian Syam says legal certainty and transparent, accountable procedures are essential to making it easier to do business, while stressing that the watchdog does not replace licensing authorities and that delays or refusals are not automatically maladministration. BKPM also called for clear rules on virtual offices, saying they can help small businesses reduce costs, as Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment in January–September 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:42 WIB
Fisheries Non-Tax State Revenue Reaches Rp1.64 Trillion by September 2026
Indonesia’s fisheries and marine sector generated Rp1.64 trillion in non-tax state revenue by September 2026, according to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. The ministry is pursuing six presidential priority programmes to boost productivity, employment and the competitiveness of fishery products, as production and exports continue to grow.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:40 WIB
BI Maintains Indonesia’s 2026 Growth Forecast at 4.9–5.7%
Bank Indonesia has kept its 2026 growth forecast at 4.9–5.7%, citing household consumption, investment and exports as key drivers despite a weak global outlook. Middle East tensions, elevated commodity prices and the prospect of prolonged US monetary tightening pose risks to external stability, prompting calls for closer fiscal and monetary policy coordination.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:40 WIB
Searched for More Than 90 Years, but It Turned Out to Be a Driftwood Trunk
An expedition to Nikumaroro has confirmed that a long, silver-coloured object previously thought by some to be Amelia Earhart’s missing aircraft was a tree trunk washed ashore. Although the search yielded no evidence of the plane, researchers say the expedition added to knowledge of the remote island, where theories about Earhart’s disappearance have persisted since 1937.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:38 WIB
KPK Issues New Investigation Warrant in Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq Money-Laundering Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened a new investigation into alleged money laundering linked to the corruption case against suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq. She is currently on trial over alleged rigging of outsourcing contracts and receiving gratuities, for which prosecutors have sought a five-year prison sentence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:37 WIB
Interior Ministry’s BSKDN prepares strategy to support 8% economic growth target through regional innovation
The Interior Ministry’s Agency for Domestic Policy Strategies (BSKDN) is developing a regional innovation strategy to help Indonesia achieve its 8% economic growth target by 2029. Officials stressed that the focus should be on measurable public and economic benefits, with innovation embedded in local government systems rather than judged by the number of programmes or applications.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:37 WIB
BMKG Warns of Extreme Rain at the End and Start of the Year, Urges Preparations for Floods and Landslides
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says the rainy season will arrive later than usual, with its onset expected in November or December 2026. Although rainfall is forecast to be normal overall, the season’s shorter duration may bring more frequent heavy to extreme rain around the turn of the year, raising the risk of floods and landslides.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:37 WIB
West Jakarta Police uncover 43 theft cases and arrest 53 suspects
West Jakarta Metro Police say they have uncovered 43 theft cases from September to October 2026 and arrested 53 people. The cases include 21 aggravated thefts, four robberies and 18 vehicle thefts; police highlighted an alleged armed motorcycle-theft gang suspected of operating at 14 locations and urged residents to take precautions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:36 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: IKA BEMNUS Backs Government’s Strategic Programmes and Calls for Stronger Economy
The Ikatan Alumni BEM Nusantara (IKA BEMNUS) has issued ten recommendations marking the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. While backing its strategic programmes, the group called for stronger implementation and budget transparency, with priorities including economic resilience, food and energy security, downstream processing, youth employment and targeted poverty relief.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:33 WIB
Crude Oil Prices Surge; Bahlil Prepares to Top Up Fuel Subsidies
Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the government is considering additional fuel subsidies as global crude prices rise amid tensions in the Middle East. The move is intended to prevent an increase in subsidised fuel prices, with Indonesia’s crude price averaging US$92 a barrel against an assumption of about US$70 in the state budget.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:33 WIB
Indonesian Air Force Aircraft Delivers 1.2 Tonnes of Dry Ice for Weather Modification in Kalimantan
An Indonesian Air Force aircraft has delivered 1.2 tonnes of dry ice to Banjarbaru for renewed weather-modification operations aimed at tackling forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The operation, ordered by President Prabowo Subianto, will combine dry-ice dispersal with salt seeding, with three CASA NC212s and three Cessna Caravans on standby.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:33 WIB
Prabowo rebuts claims of an oversized Cabinet by comparing it with Europe
President Prabowo Subianto defended the size and efficiency of his Cabinet, arguing that Indonesia’s population and land area justify a single national administration, while Europe has around 30 countries and separate governments. He said his broad governing coalition was intended to unite political forces to improve people’s lives, and used a football analogy to urge political ‘reserves’ not to become frustrated during the first two years of his five-year term.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:32 WIB
Prabowo Approves DEN Proposal to Change Definition of Corruption
President Prabowo Subianto has reportedly approved the National Economic Council’s proposal to align Indonesia’s definition of corruption with international provisions it has ratified, with a focus on bribery rather than state losses alone. The proposal could affect how losses from state-owned companies’ investments are assessed, while questions of bribery, abuse of authority and unlawful conduct would remain central to criminal cases.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:31 WIB
PT Indonesia Tri Sembilan Strengthens Human Capital to Drive Business Growth
PT Indonesia Tri Sembilan says its integrated human-capital strategy helped support 35.7 per cent revenue growth in 2025, alongside a tenfold increase in training investment and a record 17.7 million working hours without an accident. The Mojokerto-based tobacco processor is linking workforce planning, leadership development, safety and ESG practices to productivity and the competitiveness of Indonesian tobacco products in international markets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Creative Village Could Help Indonesia Lead the Customisation Industry, Deputy Minister Says
Deputy Creative Economy Minister Irene Umar says the Creative Village programme at the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy could help Indonesian creative businesses tap into growing demand for customised, personalised products. The exhibition showcases work from 21 creative subsectors, while the government aims to connect producers with wider markets and build confidence in their ability to scale without sacrificing quality.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Tuberculosis treatment success rate in Jakarta reaches 76 per cent
Jakarta’s tuberculosis treatment success rate reached 76 per cent by September 2026, according to the provincial development planning agency, which credits integrated case tracing and community-based TB preparedness initiatives. The city plans to expand these communities as part of its goal to eliminate TB by 2030; 54,305 cases had been identified by 8 December 2025, and 90 per cent of patients found during 2025 had started treatment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Police Investigate Alleged Sexual Abuse of Employer’s Child by Domestic Worker in East Jakarta
Jakarta police are investigating allegations that a domestic worker sexually abused her employer’s five-year-old son in Matraman, East Jakarta. The case was reported to East Jakarta Police and later withdrawn before a new report was filed with Polda Metro Jaya, whose investigators are now examining evidence and witnesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
GIC and Temasek Respond to Allegations They Influenced MSCI Downgrade of Indonesia’s Stock Market
Singaporean sovereign wealth funds GIC and Temasek have denied claims that they pressured MSCI to downgrade Indonesia’s stock market, calling the allegations unfounded. MSCI is consulting market participants on a proposed reclassification of Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, with a final decision due by 30 June 2027, citing concerns over investability, ownership transparency and coordinated trading.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Stalled Electric Trail Bikes Allegedly Intended for Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Bekasi Spark Controversy; TNI Responds
The TNI says a line of abandoned electric trail bikes seen in Bekasi is not owned by any unit under the Jakarta Military Command, contradicting claims circulating online. The Attorney General’s Office has also said the vehicles are not evidence in its investigation into alleged corruption in the National Nutrition Agency’s electric-motorcycle procurement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Expert Warns Media Trial Could Undermine Law Enforcement in Febrie Adriansyah Case
Al Azhar Indonesia University law professor Suparji Ahmad has cautioned against “trial by press” coverage of the alleged extortion and money-laundering case involving former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah. He said reporting should be balanced, uphold the presumption of innocence and explain that seized evidence—including 74 kilograms of gold—is held for investigative purposes, so media scrutiny supports rather than prejudices the legal process.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:30 WIB
Prabowo Speaks Out on MSCI Threat, Insists Indonesia Is Not Intimidated
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would not be intimidated by MSCI’s plan to reclassify the country’s stock market from emerging to standalone market status. Speaking at a cabinet meeting marking two years of his administration, he also said the government was prepared to make substantial spending cuts if needed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:29 WIB
KPK Rebuts Luhut: State Losses Must Remain an Element of Corruption
KPK chairman Setyo Budiyanto has rejected National Economic Council chief Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to remove state financial losses from Indonesia’s definition of corruption, arguing that the country’s complex corruption cases require the element to be retained and strengthened. Setyo says that if Indonesia is aligning its law with the UN Convention against Corruption, it should prioritise criminalising offences not yet covered, including foreign bribery and illicit enrichment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:28 WIB
Police Officer Shoots Fellow Officer in Pondok Cabe; Bharada Andika Admits to the Act
Polda Metro Jaya says Bharada Andika Ramadani has admitted to shooting fellow officer Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez Lawai at the Pondok Cabe naval police headquarters. Andika surrendered after the incident and has been named a suspect; investigators say questioning is continuing in stages, taking his psychological condition into account.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:27 WIB
Prabowo Says Indonesia Is Not Intimidated by MSCI
President Prabowo Subianto has said Indonesia will not be intimidated by global index provider MSCI, amid scrutiny of the country’s stock market. Officials say the economy remains resilient and the country is not dependent on a single index provider, while Fitch and analysts warn that a prolonged loss of investor confidence could pressure financing conditions and equities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:25 WIB
JCI Plunges After MSCI Reclassification Proposal as UGM Economist Calls for Capital Market Reform
Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index fell 11.57% after MSCI proposed consulting on reclassifying the country from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, raising concerns about foreign investment flows. A UGM economist said the proposal reflects concerns over ownership transparency and fair trading, and urged authorities to demonstrate that reforms are producing tangible improvements before MSCI makes a final decision, expected by 30 June 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:24 WIB
Toyota’s App Lets Owners Control Their Cars from a Phone: What Can It Do?
Toyota has updated its T Intouch with Toyota Remote connected-services platform, enabling owners to check vehicle status, access driving data and control selected functions via a smartphone. The service is currently available on the 2026 Kijang Innova Zenix Improvement and includes emergency support and proactive customer-care calls, with three years’ access included at no subscription cost.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:21 WIB
Analyst Says AI Talent Factory Programme Needs to Be Expanded
Telecommunications analyst Heru Sutadi says the government’s AI Talent Factory should be expanded and linked more closely to employers to address Indonesia’s growing need for digital talent. He urges a broader curriculum and outcome-based evaluation, arguing that the programme must connect training, research and industry with real jobs and deployed Indonesian AI solutions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:21 WIB
After Missing Two KPK Summonses, Nusron Wahid Attends Cabinet Meeting
Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid attended a plenary cabinet meeting after failing to appear twice for questioning by Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving the lifting of a land-title block in Bogor. The KPK says he cited a conflicting schedule and official travel to Malaysia, and is evaluating whether to reschedule his questioning; the case has eight suspects and investigators are also examining alleged job-trading within the ministry.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:21 WIB
Bandung Mayor Responds Forcefully to Case of Doctor Accused of Abusing Child
Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan says the city is arranging psychological support and protection for a mother and child in a case involving alleged sexual abuse by the child’s father, a general practitioner. The city is also providing specialist healthcare facilities, while police are handling the case; Farhan urged the public to protect the victims’ identities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:20 WIB
How LAKUEMAS, The Palace and Blibli Are Making Gold Investment More Practical
LAKUEMAS, Blibli and The Palace have launched a campaign running until 31 December 2026, allowing customers to buy gold vouchers through Blibli and collect physical vouchers at participating jewellery stores. The online-to-store service, available at 30 outlets across Greater Jakarta and Karawang, is intended to make gold investment more accessible by linking digital shopping with in-person retail and customer education.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:18 WIB
Co-operatives Minister to Meet Finance Minister over Proposal to Pay Civil Servants’ Salaries through Village Co-operatives
Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono says a proposal for Village Merah Putih Co-operatives to help pay civil servants’ salaries and pensions remains only an idea, and will be discussed with the Finance Ministry. Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara stressed that salaries are currently paid directly from the state treasury and that the existing system has not changed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:18 WIB
Central Java Provincial Games Expected to Boost SMEs and Hotels in Five Areas
Central Java’s 2026 Provincial Sports Week is expected to generate business for hotels, food vendors, transport operators and local SMEs across five host districts and cities. More than 13,000 athletes, officials and match personnel will attend, while organisers are also involving local businesses in event activities and preparing for weather-related disruptions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:17 WIB
Purwakarta to Host Filming of ‘Yang Disebut Nakal’
The family drama ‘Yang Disebut Nakal’ is being filmed in Purwakarta, West Java, with permission from the local government. The film explores the lives of young people labelled ‘naughty’ by their families and communities, and features a cast of actors and comedians.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:16 WIB
Hoax Alert: Fake Website Impersonates detikcom and Chairul Tanjung
A fake website impersonating news outlet detikcom has spread fabricated claims that CT Corp chairman Chairul Tanjung was attacked, alongside a false investment endorsement. The incident highlights the growing use of AI-generated imagery and deepfakes in financial scams, prompting calls for the public to verify suspicious online content and report it to the authorities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:15 WIB
Bappenas: Growing Older Population Could Create a New Market
Bappenas Deputy Minister Febrian Alphyanto Ruddyard says Indonesia’s ageing population could drive new markets, investment and jobs through a developing “silver economy”. He urged policymakers to pair innovation with affordable access and protection, noting that the population aged 65 and over is projected to reach 50 million by 2050, while many older Indonesians lack pension savings and remain in informal work.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:13 WIB
Partnering with the Foreign Ministry at A Taste of Harmony Forum, BRI Connects Global Investors with MSMEs
BRI and Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry convened diplomats, business groups and officials to link international investors with Indonesian business opportunities, including those available to MSMEs. The bank outlined its foreign direct investment services and integrated banking solutions, while BRI and the Investment Ministry launched an investment guidebook to help investors navigate opportunities and procedures in Indonesia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:11 WIB
Luhut Clarifies Remarks on Removing State Losses from the Definition of Corruption
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says his recommendations to President Prabowo do not seek to remove state financial losses as an element of corruption offences. The proposals instead aim to clarify proof requirements, add offences covered by the UN Convention against Corruption, and provide legal certainty for good-faith decisions, following Constitutional Court concerns about inconsistent enforcement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:10 WIB
Bappenas: Investment in the Bioeconomy Hinges on Bankable Projects
Bappenas says investor interest and available funding for Indonesia’s bioeconomy are not matched by enough projects that are ready and viable for financing. A new collaborative finance lab aims to connect bioeconomy businesses with funders and develop funding solutions, against an estimated annual financing gap of US$50.8 billion for impact-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:10 WIB
BMKG Says Dry Ice and NaCl Weather Modification Successfully Brought Rain to Fire-Affected Areas
BMKG chief Teuku Faisal Fathani says a weather-modification operation combining dry ice and sodium chloride (NaCl) has helped bring rain to areas affected by forest and land fires. The technique is intended first to break an atmospheric inversion trapping smoke, then to encourage rain-cloud growth; rainfall was reported in South Sumatra, Central Kalimantan and South Kalimantan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:10 WIB
Indonesia Buys 1,461-Room Hotel in Mecca: A Look at Its Facilities
Indonesia, through Danantara, has completed a Saudi riyal 2 billion (about Rp9.5 trillion) acquisition of the Novotel Thakher Makkah and 14 surrounding development plots, making it the first foreign country to own property in Mecca under Saudi Arabia’s new rules. The investment is intended to support Indonesian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, reduce reliance on seasonal accommodation rentals and establish a long-term hospitality investment platform in Saudi Arabia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:10 WIB
Minister Stresses Digitalisation Must Make Public Services Easier
Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini says government digital transformation should be judged by its tangible benefits for the public, including easier access to services and reduced administrative burdens. She stressed that technology must support civil servants rather than replace bureaucratic responsibility, with success also depending on integrated services, cybersecurity, privacy safeguards and trusted governance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:07 WIB
Indonesia vows to defend national interests amid global challenges
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would protect its national interests and withstand external pressure, while acknowledging that substantial challenges remain. He also warned of possible sweeping spending cuts to preserve fiscal resilience after MSCI’s proposed market reclassification prompted a sharp fall in the Jakarta Composite Index.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:06 WIB
Former Singapore MP Responds to M Lutfi’s Criticism over Forest and Land Fires
Former Singapore MP Calvin Cheng has rejected criticism by former Indonesian trade minister Muhammad Lutfi over Singapore’s warnings to seven Indonesian companies linked to forest and land fires. Lutfi says four of the companies are listed on the Singapore Exchange and alleges that Singapore-based structures facilitate tax avoidance; he has urged Singapore to investigate them under its own laws.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:05 WIB
President’s Ally Says Further Cabinet Reshuffle Is Possible
Fuad Bawazier, a member of Prabowo’s 2024 campaign team and a former finance minister, expects further changes to the cabinet to fill vacancies and respond to performance assessments. He cited the appointment of Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia as a coordinating minister, while stressing that any reshuffle remains the President’s prerogative.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:04 WIB
Deputy Social Affairs Minister Calls for Stronger Social Protection for Older People through the Silver Economy
Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has called for stronger protection and integrated services for older people as Indonesia’s ageing population grows, alongside inclusive development of the silver economy. With older people projected to make up more than one-fifth of the population by 2045, the government is prioritising support for vulnerable seniors while creating opportunities for those able to contribute to social and economic life.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:02 WIB
Prabowo Stresses Resilience and Unity Amid Global Uncertainty
President Prabowo Subianto has called for Indonesia to strengthen national resilience, protect its natural wealth and prioritise unity as geopolitical uncertainty deepens. He reaffirmed a non-aligned foreign policy based on friendship with all countries, while arguing that domestic political differences must not undermine national cohesion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:01 WIB
Luhut Explains Plans to Revise Indonesia’s Definition of Corruption
National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says proposed revisions to Indonesia’s anti-corruption law would retain state financial losses as an element of corruption, while clarifying how offences are proved and adding offences covered by the UN Convention against Corruption. The recommendations also propose protections for good-faith policy and business decisions and an omnibus law on state finances, with legal certainty presented as essential to effective enforcement and sustainable growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:01 WIB
Prabowo calls forest fires ‘environmental terrorism’ and orders probe
President Prabowo Subianto said forest and land fires were deliberately set, including by corporations, and ordered a broad investigation by police, prosecutors, the Forestry Ministry, the military and the State Intelligence Agency. He warned that companies found to have violated the law could lose their permits, while firefighting efforts had extinguished 502 hectares across six priority provinces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:01 WIB
Home Affairs Ministry’s BSKDN Prepares Regional Innovation Strategy to Help Achieve 8% Growth Target
The Home Affairs Ministry’s BSKDN is working to strengthen regional innovation as part of efforts to reach Indonesia’s 8% economic growth target by 2029, emphasising measurable benefits over the number of initiatives. Officials called for durable innovation embedded in local government, alongside cooperation with universities and businesses to raise productivity and add value to regional products.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Don’t Miss It! detikJateng-Jogja Awards 2026 Takes Place in Two Days
The detikJateng-Jogja Awards will be held on 23 October at the Industropolis Batang Special Economic Zone, alongside a forum discussing Central Java’s investment prospects. Organisers say the province recorded Rp88.50 trillion in investment realisation in 2025, up 28 per cent year on year, and that investment supported around 326,000 jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
NasDem MP Joins KPK Chief in Rejecting Luhut’s Proposal as ‘Irrelevant’
NasDem lawmaker Rudianto Lallo has rejected National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to define corruption solely as bribery, saying it is ill-suited to Indonesia’s legal and political context and could hamper anti-corruption efforts. Luhut said President Prabowo had approved the proposal, which would remove state financial losses as an element of the offence and, he argued, help improve the business climate.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
China’s ‘Rice Field’ in Space Begins Harvesting as Astronauts Show Off Rice
Astronauts aboard China’s space station have harvested, planted and stored rice samples as part of an experiment into how plants grow and maintain genetic stability in microgravity. The project aims to grow two generations of rice in orbit, while other research examines robotics, crew decision-making and the physical effects of long-duration spaceflight.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Anwar Ibrahim Explains Why Waze Is Banned for Malaysian Civil Servants
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has barred civil servants from using Waze, citing concerns that sensitive government information and personal data could be exposed to Israel-related threats. The government has encouraged the public to switch to local navigation alternatives, including TuJu, as part of efforts to protect national security and data privacy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Prabowo Tells Ministers at Cabinet Meeting: Don’t Get Frustrated, Your Turn Will Come
President Prabowo Subianto compared his cabinet to a football team, telling ministers who have yet to take on prominent roles not to become frustrated because they will have opportunities to contribute. He also called for more thorough health check-ups for ministers, deputy ministers and agency heads after some cabinet members required hospital treatment during the first half of the government’s term.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 19:00 WIB
Indonesia’s Geothermal Potential Reaches 24 GW, with Significant Scope for Development
Indonesia has an estimated 24 GW of geothermal potential, but only about 11 per cent has been developed, while the government’s electricity plan targets a further 5.2 GW by 2034. KISI says tariff certainty remains a key constraint, even as Pertamina Geothermal Energy reports rising output, strong availability and long-term PLN contracts; investors are also weighing project execution and market-wide risks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:59 WIB
LRT Jabodebek Strengthens Staff Preparedness to Protect Passengers in Emergencies
LRT Jabodebek has conducted emergency-response simulations covering fires, hazardous-material spills, lift rescues, medical incidents and passenger evacuations. The operator says the exercises strengthen coordination across departments and help identify improvements to procedures, with a focus on protecting passengers who need additional assistance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:58 WIB
Indonesia’s stock market turmoil: What the MSCI warning means
MSCI is considering downgrading Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone status, citing concerns over ownership transparency, market fairness and accessibility; the prospect triggered a sharp sell-off, though shares rebounded after officials announced reforms. The proposed change is not final, and Indonesia has until 2027 to demonstrate improvements, with the episode highlighting the importance of credible market governance alongside the country’s broader economic strengths.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:58 WIB
Fortified Rice Producers Falsely Claim Nutritional Benefits, Authorities Say
Bareskrim Polri and the National Food Agency say laboratory tests found that 90% of fortified rice products failed to match their nutritional claims, with many also mislabelled as premium rice despite using medium-grade grain. Authorities have ordered licences revoked, products withdrawn and production halted, while investigators probe suspected profiteering amid the absence of a retail price ceiling for fortified rice.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:58 WIB
Metro Jaya Police and Kodam Jaya Join Forces to Strengthen Security and Disaster Response
Metro Jaya Police Chief Dadang Hartanto met Kodam Jaya Commander Deddy Suryadi to coordinate security preparedness, disaster response and protection for vulnerable groups in Jakarta and surrounding areas. The two institutions agreed to strengthen communication, rapid-response arrangements and the division of responsibilities to ensure emergencies are handled effectively and safely.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:58 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga wins award for circular-economy innovation
Pertamina Patra Niaga has won the Social Innovation & Circular Economy Impact award at the 2026 ESG NOW Awards for its Sagari programme in Indramayu. The initiative turns mango harvest waste into organic fertiliser and value-added products, while supporting local livelihoods and reporting average annual income of Rp234 million for its assisted groups.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:57 WIB
Bank Indonesia Cuts Average Reserve Requirement by 2 Percentage Points to Boost Rupiah Liquidity
Bank Indonesia will lower average reserve requirements by two percentage points for conventional and Islamic banks in two stages from November 2026, injecting an estimated Rp190 trillion in liquidity. The central bank is also adjusting its macroprudential liquidity incentives, aiming to maintain financial stability while directing financing support to sectors that need it and sustaining economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:57 WIB
Living Lab Ventures Promotes Global Innovation Collaboration with Indonesian Start-ups
Living Lab Ventures has launched Innovation Lab (Innolab), a programme designed to help global companies enter the Indonesian market, validate business opportunities and work with local start-ups and partners. Focusing on sectors including renewable energy, digital health and semiconductors, the initiative aims to turn market testing and co-innovation into commercially viable solutions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:56 WIB
BPK’s election to UN Board of Auditors hailed as diplomatic win
Indonesia’s Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) has begun its six-year term on the UN Board of Auditors, a move Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir described as an opportunity to influence UN governance and strengthen multilateral accountability. BPK auditors are preparing to audit the UN Secretariat and five agencies, with the government stressing that rigorous findings can support budgetary discussions and institutional reform.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:56 WIB
Tri Hita Karana Offers a Perspective at Global Ethics Forum
Bali’s Tri Hita Karana philosophy is being presented as a local perspective for addressing global ethical challenges, including the societal influence of artificial intelligence and environmental concerns. The Global Ethics Forum 2026, held in Indonesia for the first time, brought together around 200 participants from 18 countries to discuss responsible governance and human flourishing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:55 WIB
Indonesia and Singapore Launch Project NUSA for AI Governance
Indonesia and Singapore have launched Project NUSA, a joint initiative to create a secure, integrated framework for AI governance and open data. The project brings together 20 other parties, draws on both countries’ strengths, and aims to promote ethical, human-centred and adaptable AI standards while keeping sensitive data within each country’s jurisdiction.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:55 WIB
OJK Urges Running Events to Protect Participants with Insurance
The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is urging running-event organisers to provide insurance protection for participants, citing the risks of accidents and medical emergencies. It also sees events as an opportunity to improve insurance literacy and reach, while stressing clear product information, accessible claims and compliance with personal-data protections.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:54 WIB
BPBD Extinguishes Forest and Land Fire in Karang Raja Village, Muara Enim
A joint team from Muara Enim’s Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has extinguished a fire that burned about 1.5 hectares of land in Karang Raja Village. Authorities suspect it was caused by the remains of a rubbish-burning fire; crews are continuing to cool the site to prevent the flames from reigniting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:54 WIB
UBSI and BRIN Monitor BINTARA Programme in Garut as Sheep Farming Becomes More Technology-Driven
Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) monitored the BINTARA integrated farming programme in Garut on 13–14 October 2026. The initiative combines digital livestock records, smart feeding, barn sensors and CCTV, organic fertiliser production and forage cultivation to improve productivity and sustainability for local sheep farmers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:54 WIB
Industry Minister Urges Non-Fiscal Incentives for Hybrid Cars, PHEVs and REEVs
Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji is urging the government to introduce non-fiscal incentives for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range-extended electric vehicles, including exemptions from odd-even traffic restrictions and dedicated parking. The government will coordinate with relevant agencies and consider tax relief, aiming to finalise measures this year to support fuel savings, lower emissions and the domestic automotive industry.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:54 WIB
Houthi Attacks Continue as Gulf States Discuss Military Readiness
GCC member states held an extraordinary meeting in Riyadh to strengthen military cooperation and coordination in operations and training, amid continuing Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. The UAE defence ministry said discussions focused on joint defence and military readiness, but gave no details of decisions or participants.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:54 WIB
Prabowo accuses MSCI of trying to intimidate Indonesia after market rout
President Prabowo Subianto accused MSCI of trying to intimidate Indonesia after the index provider warned it could downgrade the country’s equities to standalone market status, a warning that triggered a record-breaking sell-off. MSCI says its decisions follow transparent, rules-based methods, while Indonesian officials and politicians have challenged its approach and investors Temasek and GIC have rejected allegations that they pressured the provider.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:52 WIB
TBS Secures HPS Investment to Strengthen Green Infrastructure
TBS Energi Utama has secured a strategic investment from funds and accounts managed by HPS Investment Partners, part of BlackRock, into SBTH Asia Holdings, the parent company of its waste-management platform. Subject to shareholder approval, the proceeds—potentially reaching US$555 million across several stages—will support the platform’s expansion across Asia and advance TBS’s shift towards sustainable infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:50 WIB
NTB Provincial Government Tightens Regular Price Monitoring to Curb Inflation
West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is strengthening routine price monitoring and coordination with Bulog and businesses as annual inflation rose to 4.18 per cent in September 2026, driven mainly by food, beverages and tobacco. The provincial government is urging officials to anticipate price pressures early, while advancing local food production, climate-adaptive agriculture and inter-regional supply cooperation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:50 WIB
Images of Bukangi the Shark Raise Concern After a Month Trapped in a Canal
South Korean authorities are making a third attempt to guide Bukangi, a dusky shark trapped in a Busan canal for more than a month, back to open water. The shark has not been observed eating and has minor injuries, prompting concern as temperatures are forecast to fall sharply.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:49 WIB
Prabowo: Human Activity Is Behind Indonesia’s Forest and Land Fires
President Prabowo Subianto said investigations indicate that forest and land fires in Indonesia are not caused solely by natural factors, but also involve human activity. He ordered officials to take the fires seriously and said permits would be revoked for companies found to have violated the law or taken part in land burning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:49 WIB
Domestic Investors Support Indonesia’s Stock Market
Domestic investors made net purchases of Rp71.9 trillion in a sample of 12 large, liquid stocks between January and September 2026, absorbing about 93% of foreign investors’ Rp77 trillion in net sales. Yet the Jakarta Composite Index fell sharply, underscoring that local buying is a buffer rather than a guarantee of recovery; market resilience also depends on reliable disclosure, effective oversight and investor confidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:49 WIB
Defence Minister Says National Defence Is Growing Stronger Under Prabowo
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin says President Prabowo Subianto has made strengthening national defence a priority during his first two years in office. Measures include acquiring advanced military equipment, reinforcing the Indonesian military’s organisational structure, developing territorial units and domestic defence industry, and improving personnel and international cooperation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:49 WIB
Heru Says He Once Targeted Cilegon Mayor’s Home Before Killing PKS Politician’s Son
Heru Anggara told a Serang court that he had considered robbing Cilegon Mayor Robinsar’s home before abandoning the plan because of security patrols and targeting the home of PKS politician Maman Suherman instead. The nine-year-old son of Maman was found murdered there on 16 December 2025; Heru is the sole suspect in the case.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:48 WIB
Said Abdullah Says Drought and Forest Fires Must Not Be Treated as Seasonal
East Java PDI-P chairman Said Abdullah has urged local governments to strengthen long-term mitigation of drought and forest and land fires, rather than relying on emergency water deliveries and firefighting each dry season. He cited relief efforts across the province while calling for permanent solutions, forest rehabilitation and protection of water sources.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:47 WIB
Transparency of Digital Vote Counting Challenged at Election Law Hearing
A petitioner has challenged the transparency of digital vote-counting and the use of the election commission’s Sirekap system in a constitutional review of Indonesia’s Election Law. He argues that public participation and open mathematical tabulation are essential to ensure honest results, while Chief Justice Suhartoyo said the petition needs clearer arguments on the petitioner’s legal standing and the alleged constitutional conflict.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:46 WIB
Technology Must Support Civil Servants, Not Replace Their Responsibilities, Minister Says
Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini said digital transformation should use technology to improve civil servants’ work and public services, rather than transfer government responsibilities to machines. She stressed that success depends on integrated services, capable staff, secure data governance and tangible benefits for citizens—not simply advanced technology or higher digitalisation scores.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:46 WIB
Indramayu Deputy Regent Detained in Case Over DPRD Housing Allowances
West Java prosecutors have detained Indramayu Deputy Regent Syaefudin and former acting regional parliamentary secretary IH over alleged corruption involving housing and transport allowances for Indramayu’s Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD). Prosecutors estimate the alleged state losses at Rp18.7 billion; two other officials have also been named suspects, with one unable to attend questioning after reportedly suffering a traffic accident.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:46 WIB
IDX crash is a wake-up call for Indonesia’s retail investors
Indonesia’s historic stock-market sell-off has highlighted the risks of investing on social-media tips and short-term speculation, Recompound co-founder Toby Limanto says, urging investors to reassess their holdings against company fundamentals. He also called for stronger action against suspected market manipulation and misleading online investment advice, as regulators face pressure to advance capital-market reforms amid a growing retail-investor base.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:45 WIB
Indonesia Could Overtake Vietnam in Ceramic Production, but Only if This Condition Is Met
Indonesia has risen to become the world’s fifth-largest ceramic producer, with industry leaders saying reliable gas supplies and continued protection from unfair imports could help it overtake Vietnam next year. The sector plans a 110-million-square-metre capacity expansion worth an estimated Rp12 trillion, while the government’s three-million-home programme could provide a significant demand boost.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:45 WIB
West Java Prosecutors Detain Two Suspects in Indramayu Council Allowance Corruption Case
West Java prosecutors have detained two suspects, including Indramayu’s former council speaker who is now deputy regent, over alleged corruption involving housing and transport allowances that caused state losses of Rp18.79 billion. Investigators say the allowance rates were increased without proper supporting documents and that 15 per cent was added to an appraisal to cover recipients’ personal income tax, which should not have been charged to the regional budget.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:44 WIB
Indonesia extinguishes fires across more than 502 hectares in six priority provinces
Firefighting teams have extinguished more than 502 hectares of forest and land fires in six priority provinces, with 481 hectares of the targeted area still burning; Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra have the largest remaining areas. BNPB has mobilised tens of thousands of ground personnel and expanded its helicopter fleet to support suppression, patrols and weather-modification operations amid heightened peatland and extreme-weather risks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:44 WIB
Ombudsman Identifies High-Risk Areas for Maladministration in Land and Disaster Services
Indonesia’s Ombudsman has identified recurring maladministration risks in land administration, post-disaster assistance and passenger-vessel safety, warning that weak controls can create opportunities for corruption. It called on relevant ministries and agencies to improve transparency, oversight, complaints handling and accountability, and singled out six land offices for particular attention.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:43 WIB
Ombudsman Opens Online Complaints Desk to Monitor Halal Certification
Indonesia’s Ombudsman has opened an online complaints channel from October to December 2026 to monitor services for both self-declared and regular halal certification. The initiative follows a delay to the certification deadline and an agreement with BPJPH, aiming to resolve public and business complaints and ensure the process is accessible and transparent.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:43 WIB
Toyota launches technology to control Innova Zenix from a smartphone
PT Toyota-Astra Motor has introduced T Intouch with Toyota Remote, a connectivity service that lets owners monitor and control selected vehicle functions via smartphone. Available on the 2026 Kijang Innova Zenix Improvement, the service includes remote controls, vehicle-status monitoring and safety and assistance features, with three years’ access included at no subscription cost.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:43 WIB
Metro Jaya Police find dozens of suspected drug packages in Kampung Ambon
A joint operation in Jakarta’s Kampung Ambon uncovered suspected methamphetamine and ketamine, along with other items linked to drug use and distribution. Five people were detained for further questioning as authorities urged residents to report suspected narcotics activity safely.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:43 WIB
KPK Responds to National Economic Council, Identifying Four Urgent Areas for Anti-Corruption Law
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says Indonesia’s Anti-Corruption Law urgently needs to criminalise foreign bribery, trading in influence, private-sector bribery and illicit enrichment, as required under the UN Convention against Corruption. It also opposes removing the state-loss element from corruption cases, arguing that the offence should remain in the law and that the phrase should be restored as a special provision.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:42 WIB
Fuel Tanker Wrecked After Hitting Material Truck on Klungkung’s IB Mantra Bypass
A fuel tanker collided with a material-hauling truck on the Ida Bagus Mantra Bypass in Klungkung, Bali, after the truck attempted to move into the right lane. Both vehicles were damaged, but no one was killed; police secured the scene and managed traffic to prevent lengthy congestion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:42 WIB
KPK Cannot Bar Nusron Wahid from Travelling Abroad under New Criminal Procedure Code as He Is a Witness
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it cannot impose a travel ban on Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid because he has been questioned as a witness, and the new Criminal Procedure Code allows such bans only for suspects. Nusron has missed two previous summonses in a bribery investigation involving land rights at PT Summarecon Agung and alleged payments within the ministry; the KPK says it will reschedule his questioning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
East Java Police Launch ‘Polisi Jogo Sekolah’ Programme to Prevent Bullying
East Java Regional Police have launched a school-based programme to prevent bullying, brawling, drug abuse and other risks to students. The initiative will pair officers with schools and families through a pre-emptive, persuasive and humane approach, with school mapping and periodic evaluations planned ahead of a province-wide rollout.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
Blora Regent Seeks Certainty on Relocation for 535 Families Affected by Dam
Blora Regent Arief Rohman is pressing for clarity on new homes for 535 households affected by the Karangnongko Dam project, while urging construction and administrative processes to move faster. A local transmigration scheme is being considered, but remains an option for further discussion with the relevant ministries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Urges People’s Schools to Reach More Children and Help Them Achieve Their Dreams
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called for the People’s School programme to expand its reach, providing education to children from low-income families, including those who have dropped out. The Malang school has 75 pupils and uses former civil service academy facilities, with support from several government bodies and the city mayor.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:41 WIB
Trump Wants to Sit Down with Putin and Xi Jinping: Is a New World Order Being Prepared?
Donald Trump says he is open to a three-way meeting with Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC summit in China in November 2026, with nuclear arms control as his priority. The proposal, initially raised by Putin to discuss the war in Ukraine, remains exploratory: the Kremlin says no concrete arrangements have been agreed, and Beijing has yet to confirm Xi’s participation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:40 WIB
Prabowo: Natural Resources Are Like Blood; If They Keep Leaking, We Will Not Survive
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia must protect its national wealth from illegal outflows, including smuggling of natural resources and subsidised goods. Speaking at a Cabinet plenary session marking two years of the Merah Putih Cabinet, he likened these resources to blood, warning that continued losses threaten the country’s economic survival.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:39 WIB
Communications Minister Says No Requests Made to Remove Social Media Content on Forest and Land Fires
Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid says her ministry has not asked social media platforms to remove or restrict posts about forest and land fires. She urged platforms to be transparent about their algorithms and said users who believe their posts have been restricted should appeal to the platform or report the issue to the government.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:38 WIB
DIR: Danantara Receives Positive Public Response During Prabowo’s First Two Years
Deep Intelligence Research (DIR) says Danantara Indonesia has received largely positive coverage during the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, with mainstream media reporting 90.1 per cent positive sentiment. The research also tracked extensive online discussion of a one-stop natural resource export policy and Danantara’s activities, while noting that media sentiment should not be treated as a measure of public opinion as a whole.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:37 WIB
Brimob Supports Drug Den Operation in Kampung Ambon; Two People Detained
A joint team from Jakarta police, the National Police’s Criminal Investigation Agency, the Jakarta provincial narcotics agency and municipal officers detained two people during a raid on suspected drug-trading sites in West Jakarta’s Kampung Ambon. Officers seized methamphetamine, ketamine, weapons and drug paraphernalia, while Brimob personnel provided security support; police urged residents to report suspected narcotics activity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:36 WIB
Henan Asset: Taking a Clear-Eyed View of MSCI
Henan Asset urges investors to distinguish MSCI’s ongoing consultation over Indonesia’s market classification from a final decision, which is not expected before June 2027. It says the market sell-off reflects concerns about governance and accessibility rather than a collapse in economic activity, while stressing that liquidity, corporate earnings and reform progress will shape the recovery.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:35 WIB
Indonesia’s SEZs generate 302,000 jobs and US$21.24 billion in investment
Indonesia’s 25 Special Economic Zones recorded cumulative realised investment of Rp382.1 trillion (about US$21.24 billion) from their establishment through September 2026, supporting around 302,000 jobs. In the first nine months of 2026, investment reached Rp46 trillion—67 per cent of the annual target—with foreign investment accounting for most of the total; the government says faster SEZ development will support its 8 per cent growth ambition.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:35 WIB
Indonesia’s command centre for the fight in Nagoya
Indonesia’s support team at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games is coordinating athlete services from a base in Nagoya, covering medical care, performance analysis, media and logistical support. The team says advance planning has helped prepare essentials ranging from food and medicines to hand warmers, while match data is used to assess medal prospects.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:35 WIB
Bogor Health Office Tests Food and Drink Samples After 103 Students Fall Ill
Bogor Regency’s Health Office is testing food and drink samples after 103 students at SMP Negeri 2 Cisarua developed symptoms consistent with food poisoning. Laboratory results are expected within at least three days and will guide the local government’s response; most students are stable, while one may require hospitalisation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:35 WIB
Jakarta’s Clean Water Service Coverage Reaches 83.15%
Clean water service coverage in Jakarta reached 83.15% in the third quarter of 2026, up from 75.24% a year earlier, with customer connections rising to 1.22 million. The provincial government aims for universal coverage by 2029, supported by more than 2,000 kilometres of additional pipelines and new water treatment and financing initiatives.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:35 WIB
In a White Shirt and Black Cap, Prabowo Chairs Plenary Cabinet Meeting
President Prabowo Subianto chaired a plenary Cabinet meeting at the Merdeka Palace, marking the first two years of the Red and White Cabinet. He praised ministers’ teamwork and cited action against smuggling as a key achievement, arguing that illicit imports threaten Indonesian industry and the wider economy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:34 WIB
Despite Impeachment Talk, Gibran Remains Among Top Five in Electability Surveys, Analyst Says
Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka remains among the top five figures in several electability surveys despite criticism and calls for his impeachment, political analyst Adi Prayitno says. He attributes Gibran’s high ranking largely to name recognition exceeding 90 per cent, while noting that popularity has not translated proportionately into voter support.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:34 WIB
KPK Opposes Removing State Losses from the Definition of Corruption
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has rejected a proposal to define corruption solely as bribery, arguing that state financial losses must remain an element of the offence. KPK chair Setyo Budiyanto says Indonesia should instead prioritise criminalising other offences under the UN anti-corruption convention, including foreign bribery and illicit enrichment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:34 WIB
BP Batam Targets South Korean Aviation Investment to Develop Hang Nadim
BP Batam is seeking South Korean investment to expand aviation-related industries at Hang Nadim International Airport, including aircraft maintenance, air cargo, logistics and supporting services. The push comes as South Korean investment in Batam reached about US$65.1 million in the first half of 2026, roughly 34 times the full-year 2025 total, although the figures cover different periods.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:33 WIB
Bima Arya Urges People’s Schools to Reach More Underprivileged Children and Help Them Achieve Their Dreams
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called for the People’s School programme to expand its reach, highlighting the determination of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, including children who have been out of school for years. The Malang school, which has 75 pupils, uses a former government academy site and is supported by several ministries and the city government.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:31 WIB
Prabowo Proud of Achievements in First Two Years of Government
President Prabowo Subianto said he was proud of his government’s tangible results during its first two years, while cautioning officials against both arrogance and undue modesty. He thanked the Red and White Cabinet for its hard work and unity, and urged ministers from diverse backgrounds to maintain their cooperation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:31 WIB
President Says Indonesia Is Always Attacked When It Rises
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia faces forceful interference whenever it begins to rise, alleging that foreign parties seek to exploit the country’s wealth. At a cabinet meeting, he urged the government to protect natural resources and resist smuggling, describing national resources as vital to the country’s survival.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
World Zakat and Waqf Forum: Productive Zakat Supports Indonesia’s Economic Empowerment
World Zakat and Waqf Forum Secretary-General Datuk Mohd Ghazali Md Noor says Indonesia’s zakat and waqf institutions are helping strengthen the global Islamic social-finance ecosystem. He highlighted Baznas’s productive zakat programmes and called for international standards, technological innovation and stronger cross-border cooperation to improve zakat management and community empowerment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
Out-of-School Children in Penajam Given the Opportunity to Continue Their Education at Sekolah Rakyat
Out-of-school children in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, will be able to resume their education at a Sekolah Rakyat planned by the central government. The school is expected to include 36 classrooms and boarding facilities, with construction scheduled to begin in November 2026 and finish in July or August 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
Prabowo Changes the Definition of Corruption; Warning of Wider Budget Deficit Amid MSCI Effects
President Prabowo Subianto has agreed to a National Economic Council proposal to review the definition of corruption, with the study shifting its focus from state losses to bribery. The Finance Ministry is also alert to the possibility that an MSCI downgrade of Indonesia’s capital-market classification could trigger capital outflows, weaken the rupiah and widen the state budget deficit.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
Elon Musk Wants to Combine Tesla and SpaceX into One Company
Elon Musk says Tesla and SpaceX are discussing a merger, with both companies’ boards establishing special committees to consider the deal, although no timetable has been disclosed. The report also highlights SpaceX’s rising revenue, driven largely by Starlink, and its recent combination with Musk’s AI start-up xAI ahead of a reported potential IPO.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
Challenged at the Constitutional Court, Appointment of 26 Presidential Advisory Council Members Said to Be Constitutional
A constitutional law expert says President Prabowo Subianto’s appointment of 26 members to the Presidential Advisory Council is permitted under the Constitution and the 2024 amendments to the governing law. The appointments have nevertheless been challenged at the Constitutional Court over concerns that the absence of a statutory membership cap could expand the institution and burden the state budget.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:30 WIB
ITB Students Develop AI for Waste Recycling
Three Bandung Institute of Technology students have built AI prototypes addressing industrial challenges in workplace safety, cold-chain logistics and paper recycling. Their systems use computer vision and truck telemetry to identify ergonomic hazards, forecast cargo temperature risks and detect contaminants, with GPU computing supporting model development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:29 WIB
Prabowo Says He Has No Problem with a ‘Bulky’ Red and White Cabinet: ‘Our Coalition Is Large’
President Prabowo Subianto defended the size of his cabinet, arguing that a broad coalition is needed to unite political forces in a country as large and diverse as Indonesia. He also said the administration had coordinated responses to recent natural disasters, while acknowledging that the government must continue learning from its experience.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:29 WIB
Palembang Airport Reports 13 Flights Disrupted by Haze
Smoke haze reduced visibility at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport in Palembang to 400 metres on Wednesday, disrupting the schedules of 13 flights—seven departures and six arrivals. Visibility improved to 1,200 metres by 4pm, while the airport continued monitoring conditions and advised passengers to check with their airlines for updates.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:29 WIB
Zaidar Continues to Hone Preparations Ahead of the Youth Olympic Games
Indonesian skateboarder Zaidar Maulana Ibrahim says his preparations for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar are progressing smoothly as he refines the tricks he plans to use in competition. Indonesia will send 12 athletes to the Games, including one skateboarder, after securing its quota through world championship qualifying in Japan.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:28 WIB
Police arrest 16 people linked to illegal prescription-drug factories
Police in Central Java have arrested 16 people suspected of working at two illegal factories producing tramadol and trihexyphenidyl, seizing more than 7.8 million tablets and 69.27 tonnes of raw materials. Investigators are pursuing two alleged masterminds and say the suspects face up to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to Rp5 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:28 WIB
UN Reviews Progress Towards 2030 Biodiversity Targets
The UN’s first global review of progress towards the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework finds that, although most countries have set national targets, fewer than half are on track to meet them. At COP17 in Yerevan, delegates will focus on accelerating action and funding, while the 30x30 goal remains far off course, with protection covering 18.7% of land and inland waters and 10% of the oceans.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:28 WIB
PPEDI: MUI Fatwa on Digitally Traded Physical Gold Strengthens Sharia Certainty
The Indonesian Digital Gold Traders Association (PPEDI) has welcomed a National Sharia Council–Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN-MUI) fatwa on buying and selling physical gold digitally, saying it will strengthen Sharia certainty and public confidence. The guidance sets out a religious framework alongside existing regulation and industry arrangements as digital platforms widen access to gold ownership.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:28 WIB
KPK Suspects Two Active TNI Soldiers in Alleged BNPB Corruption Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that two active-duty TNI soldiers were involved in alleged corruption involving the National Disaster Management Agency’s (BNPB) ready-use funds for disaster response. The KPK has notified the TNI Commander and offered support to the military police, as the investigation follows an October sting operation that led to five suspects and the seizure of assets worth Rp5.47 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:27 WIB
Aurora Ribero Warns Young People Against Ambition That Leaves Them Stressed
Actress Aurora Ribero says young people can harm their mental health by putting excessive pressure on themselves to succeed quickly and support their families. Speaking about her role in the film *Lagi Probation: Kerja Ngejar Apa Sih?*, she encouraged them to be kinder to themselves and described how she researched the corporate world to portray a character struggling to secure permanent work.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:26 WIB
BMKG Records Forest and Land Fire Haze Over Jakarta for Six Hours at an Altitude of 4km
BMKG chief Teuku Faisal Fathani said haze from forest and land fires was detected over Jakarta for about five to six hours at an altitude of more than 4km, but was not perceptible at ground level. The haze has since moved away from Greater Jakarta and West Java, although officials warn that Jakarta’s air quality remains affected by PM2.5, vehicle emissions, industry and dry-season conditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:26 WIB
Yogyakarta Police Release 32 Protesters Previously Detained
Yogyakarta Police have released all 32 people detained during a disturbance at the Yogyakarta Regional Legislative Council building on Tuesday night. Police said they were taken into custody as a precaution to protect their safety and prevent further clashes, and were returned home safely by early Wednesday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:25 WIB
Central Lombok Regency Allocates Rp58.9 Billion to Repair 27 Kilometres of Damaged Roads
Central Lombok Regency has budgeted Rp58.9 billion to repair 15 damaged road sections spanning 27 kilometres in 2026. The procurement process is now under evaluation, with work expected to be completed by December under two-month contracts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:25 WIB
KDM: Forest and Land Fires Caused by Poor Planning
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi says forest and land fires (karhutla) can result from flawed planning and engineering, and has called for the engineers responsible to be publicly identified. He urged the Indonesian Engineers Association’s ethics council to impose penalties ranging from reprimands to blacklisting, arguing that engineering decisions can either serve the public or cause harm.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:25 WIB
Communications Minister Responds to Claims of Restrictions on Social Media Content About Forest and Land Fires
Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid denied that her ministry had asked social media platforms to remove or restrict posts about forest and land fires. She called for greater transparency and accountability in platform algorithms, and urged users experiencing reduced reach to appeal to the platforms and report the issue to the ministry.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:24 WIB
DEN: Proposed Definition of Corruption Retains Accountability for State Losses
Indonesia’s National Economic Council (DEN) says its proposed revisions to the Anti-Corruption Law would retain criminal accountability and recovery obligations for losses to state finances, while making the elements of offences clearer to prove. The recommendations also include protections for good-faith policy and business decisions, adoption of additional offences under the UN Convention against Corruption, and an omnibus law to clarify the status of state assets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:22 WIB
Quinta Brunson Teases Upcoming ‘Betty Boop’ Film
Quinta Brunson says the film adaptation of the iconic cartoon character will take an unexpected approach, exploring not only Betty Boop but also the wider era of animation. The project is being developed by Fleischer Studios and Brunson’s Fifth Chance Productions, and is expected to examine more of the character’s origins and the history surrounding her creation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:20 WIB
The Viral ‘Hyunbaek-core’ Style Inspired by the Children of the Rich: Its Key Features
Hyunbaek-core, a South Korean fashion aesthetic associated with Hyundai Department Store, favours understated, polished clothing and quality materials over conspicuous designer branding. Its popularity among younger consumers reflects both growing interest in the retailer and wider fascination with inherited wealth and affluent lifestyles.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:20 WIB
Bapanas: Losses from Fake Fortified Rice Reach Rp89 Trillion
The National Food Agency (Bapanas) estimates that the circulation of falsely labelled fortified rice has caused economic losses of Rp89 trillion nationwide. Authorities say producers repackaged ordinary premium or medium-grade rice and sold it at inflated prices, while police have opened an investigation into five brands that allegedly lacked the required added vitamins.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:20 WIB
President Prabowo Sets Out Firm Measures to Tackle Forest and Land Fires
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered law enforcement agencies and relevant ministries, supported by the military and intelligence services, to investigate suspected human and corporate involvement in forest and land fires. He said companies proven to have broken the law could lose their operating permits, while stressing that enforcement must be based on clear evidence and careful investigations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:18 WIB
Police and BNN Foil Attempt to Smuggle One Tonne of Ketamine at Belawan; Eight Suspects Arrested
A joint operation involving the Indonesian National Police, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and Customs and Excise seized one tonne of ketamine from the vessel MT Global 108 at Belawan Port, North Sumatra. Eight suspects—seven Indonesians and one foreign national—were arrested, with further details due to be announced by the National Police chief on Friday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:18 WIB
Bappenas targets 200,000 globally competitive talents by 2035
Bappenas aims to develop 200,000 globally competitive talents by 2035 through an SDGs Entrepreneurial Centre bringing together skilled people, businesses and investment-ready projects. The initiative will focus on market-led innovation, technology transfer and partnerships, drawing on research facilities at BRIN to improve productivity and efficiency.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:17 WIB
East Kalimantan Health Office Shares Five Ways to Protect Against Influenza
East Kalimantan’s Health Office has outlined five measures residents can take to reduce the risk of influenza transmission, despite only 19 cases being recorded in the province from January to 21 October 2026. The advice includes hand hygiene, cough etiquette, mask use when symptomatic, annual vaccination for high-risk groups and seeking medical care if symptoms worsen or persist.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:17 WIB
KPK Suspects Two Active-Duty Military Personnel in BNPB Corruption Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that two active-duty military personnel were involved in alleged corruption involving the National Disaster Management Agency’s (BNPB) emergency-response funds. The agency has notified the TNI commander and hopes the military will follow up, while five people have already been named as suspects in a case involving procurement worth Rp148 billion from 2024 to 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:17 WIB
MIND ID strengthens downstream processing to retain economic value in Indonesia
State-owned mining holding MIND ID says it is expanding downstream processing and industrialisation to keep more value, jobs and technological capability in Indonesia. Its plans span mineral-processing facilities and electric-vehicle battery supply chains, with 26 strategic cross-sector projects involving around Rp225 trillion in investment and an estimated 37,833 jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:17 WIB
North Korean Workers Allegedly Enslaved at Russian Drone Factory
A report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies and the George W. Bush Institute alleges that up to 12,000 North Koreans at Russia’s Yelabuga drone plant face severe human rights abuses and human trafficking, with Pyongyang withholding as much as 90% of their wages. It says Russia and North Korea are violating a UN Security Council resolution and calls for investigations, sanctions and protection for workers, while warning that the factory is helping strengthen military cooperation among Russia, North Korea, China and Iran.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:17 WIB
Said Abdullah Urges Permanent Measures to Mitigate Drought and Forest and Land Fires
Said Abdullah has called on East Java local governments to move beyond seasonal emergency responses to drought and forest and land fires, with lasting measures to protect water sources and restore damaged forests. He cited repeated aid efforts by party members across the province, while stressing that these do not replace government responsibilities and should be accompanied by prevention, monitoring and ecological rehabilitation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:17 WIB
Bandung Legislative Council Says Sekolah Rakyat Could Boost Poor Residents’ Economic Prospects
Bandung Regency’s legislative council says the Sekolah Rakyat programme could help lift poor families’ economic prospects by combining children’s education with skills training and economic support for their parents. It also calls for central and local government initiatives to be coordinated, and has approved 7.6 hectares of land and related site-preparation works for the programme.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:16 WIB
Koster Meets Bali’s Kamisan Protesters, Pledges to Raise Wages Closer to Rp5.2 Million
Bali Governor Wayan Koster has pledged to review the province’s 2027 minimum wage after protesters said the current formula would leave it far below the estimated Rp5.2 million monthly cost of a decent living. He has asked the regional research agency to examine alternative calculations, while stressing that workers’ demands must be balanced with employers’ interests.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:15 WIB
Alberta Rejects Independence from Canada, with 77% Choosing to Remain
Preliminary referendum results show about 77% of Alberta voters favour remaining in Canada, rejecting a step towards a potential separation referendum. The result bolsters Prime Minister Mark Carney’s call for national unity as Canada faces a trade dispute and annexation threats from US President Donald Trump, although separatists say their movement will continue.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:15 WIB
New Special Economic Zone Investment Reaches 67% as Airlangga Pursues Rp69.1 Trillion Year-End Target
Investment in Indonesia’s special economic zones (KEKs) reached Rp46 trillion in January–September 2026, or 67% of the annual Rp69.1 trillion target. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said ongoing construction could lift the figure to the full target in the fourth quarter, while KEK operators cited strong investor interest alongside planning and data-alignment obstacles.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:15 WIB
MSMEs and Social Enterprises Face Funding Gap as Indonesia Impact Investment Summit Discusses Impact Investing
Indonesia’s MSMEs and social enterprises face an estimated US$50.8 billion annual shortfall in unmet financing, with many needing amounts below the minimum thresholds set by global impact investors. The 2026 summit brought together business, government and finance stakeholders to discuss bridging this “missing middle” through local capital, stronger financial readiness and collaboration between public, philanthropic and private funding.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:15 WIB
Indonesian Ceramic Makers Raise Gas Supply Concerns with Industry Minister, Cite Vietnam
Indonesia’s ceramic industry says unreliable gas supplies and rising prices are undermining its competitiveness, despite government protections that have helped it climb to fifth place among the world’s largest producers. The industry association says guaranteed, competitively priced gas is essential to overtake Vietnam and support a planned Rp12 trillion expansion that could create up to 7,500 jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:14 WIB
Communications Ministry to Take Risk-Based Approach in AI Ethics Rules
Indonesia’s draft presidential regulation on AI ethics will classify artificial intelligence systems as high-risk, low-risk or unacceptable-risk, with sector-specific standards set by ministries and agencies. It also provides for operational monitoring, voluntary self-assessments to encourage maturity and public trust, and incident-reporting mechanisms to address technical problems or harm to users.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:13 WIB
CATL expands EV ecosystem and battery-swapping network
China’s CATL is expanding its electric heavy-truck ecosystem with a dual-battery range-extender system and plans to scale up its Qiji battery-swapping network. It aims to build 900 swapping stations by the end of 2026 and 2,000 by 2027, alongside initial orders for 13,000 vehicles from 14 partners.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:13 WIB
Sleman Regency launches SOPIKAN app to expand market access
Sleman Regency has launched SOPIKAN, a digital information system intended to connect agricultural and fisheries producers with buyers and widen marketing opportunities. The launch, held during World Food Day 2026, formed part of broader local efforts to improve food-system resilience, alongside the distribution of farming equipment and awards to sector stakeholders.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:13 WIB
MP: ‘Police Are with the People’ Slogan Has Been Seriously Put into Practice
A House of Representatives member praised students and police for ensuring a protest marking two years of the Prabowo Subianto–Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration was peaceful and orderly. He said the police’s persuasive, non-violent approach should become a consistent model for forces across Indonesia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:13 WIB
Manpower Minister Still Calculating Decent Living Needs for 2027 Provincial Minimum Wage
Manpower Minister Yassierli says the government is estimating decent living needs (KHL) to inform the setting of provincial minimum wages (UMP) for 2027. The ministry will also discuss wage-setting methods with national tripartite and wage councils, while provincial governors will ultimately set the rates with input from provincial wage councils.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:13 WIB
Arjuno-Welirang Wildfires Damage 10km of Water Pipes Serving Three Pasuruan Villages
Wildfires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang have damaged about 10km of clean-water pipelines serving three villages in Pasuruan, East Java, prompting provincial and local authorities to prioritise water supplies and plan repairs. While emergency water deliveries continue, crews are still battling the fires, with 92 hotspots recorded in the R Soerjo Grand Forest Park area as of Tuesday night.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:12 WIB
Prabowo Highlights National Resilience Amid Global Geopolitical Uncertainty: ‘We Do Not Want to Join Any Bloc’
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia must strengthen national resilience, safeguard its natural wealth and put public interests first amid mounting global uncertainty. He reaffirmed a foreign policy of non-alignment and friendship with all countries, while calling for national unity and policies centred on the nation rather than particular groups.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:11 WIB
Dubai Customs Authority Studies Indonesia’s Single Window System
A Dubai customs delegation visited Indonesia’s National Single Window Agency to learn about its integrated trade-facilitation system and dry-port practices. Indonesia’s system links 29 ministries and agencies, is free to use, and supports electronic data exchanges with ASEAN members and several bilateral partners.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:11 WIB
Central Jakarta Administration Promotes School Bullying Prevention
The Central Jakarta Administration has held a school outreach session on preventing bullying, stressing the need for safe learning environments and character education alongside academic achievement. The PAAREDI programme will be taken to other schools across Central Jakarta, with schools, families and communities urged to work together to protect children.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:10 WIB
Skadik 103 Teaches Indonesian Air Force Personnel to Tackle Forest and Land Fires Using Drones
Skadik 103 is training Indonesian Air Force students to use drones and their sensors to locate hotspots and identify new fires for early suppression. Its commander says drones can monitor fire-prone areas for longer and more effectively than helicopters, supporting humanitarian missions and military operations other than war.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:10 WIB
BMKG Warns of No Rain Clouds as Thousands of Hectares of Land Continue to Burn
Indonesia’s meteorology agency has warned that very strong El Niño conditions and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole are reducing cloud cover and rainfall, increasing the risk of wildfires. Thousands of hectares remain affected, while smoke has pushed air quality in several provinces into hazardous categories; authorities are using dry-ice weather modification alongside ground firefighting and other measures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:09 WIB
66 Pieces of Heavy Equipment Deployed to Restore Pidie Jaya Rice Fields and Fish Ponds after Disaster
Pidie Jaya Regency has deployed 66 pieces of heavy machinery and support vehicles, borrowed from the Ministry of Home Affairs, to restore farmland, fish ponds and waterways damaged by the 2025 hydrometeorological disaster. The local government is seeking to extend the equipment loan and obtain additional machinery as it targets recovery of 10 hectares of community fish ponds and 15 hectares of severely damaged rice fields.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:09 WIB
Central Java Government Says Investment Has Absorbed 340,334 Workers
Central Java recorded Rp72.54 trillion in investment through the third quarter of 2026, supporting 340,334 jobs across 82,420 projects. Governor Ahmad Luthfi said private investment and inter-regional cooperation are crucial to expanding business and employment, and noted that 57 labour-intensive Vietnamese companies are expected to establish operations in the province.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:08 WIB
Housing and Fisheries Recovery in Sumatra Continues to Be Accelerated
The government is speeding up post-disaster recovery in Sumatra, including fisheries infrastructure and permanent housing for people who lost homes or land. The Housing and Settlement Areas Ministry plans to build 26,036 relocated homes across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra in 2026–27, while officials say land availability and further flooding and landslides remain key obstacles.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:08 WIB
DPD RI Speaker Says Environmental Awareness Must Be Instilled from an Early Age
DPD RI Speaker Sultan B Najamudin says environmental awareness should be nurtured among pupils from primary through secondary school, alongside concern for others. He has led a tree-planting event involving students in Bengkulu Tengah and distributed hundreds of seedlings, aiming to encourage a lasting culture of environmental stewardship.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:06 WIB
PDIP Invites Students to Party School: Running for President Takes Time
The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) held political education for university students at its party school in South Jakarta, emphasising that electoral candidacies require preparation and a process. Party official Komarudin Watubun said the programme aimed to discourage political apathy among young people and introduce them to Sukarno’s ideas, while acknowledging that it could also attract younger voters.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:06 WIB
Poltekimipas Cadet Selection: 1,361 Candidates Take Physical Fitness Test
A total of 1,361 candidates for the Indonesian Immigration and Corrections Polytechnic (Poltekimipas) took the physical fitness test as part of the 2026 cadet selection. The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections said the process, conducted with the National Police Mobile Brigade, was open and accountable, with ministry inspectors monitoring the tests.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:06 WIB
Land Dispute in Karang Sidemen-Lantan Resolved, Residents to Manage 229 Hectares
A decades-long dispute over former concession land in Central Lombok has been settled, with 229 hectares allocated for management by residents across Karang Sidemen and Lantan. The agreement covers 921 farming households, while land will also be reserved for conservation, roads and water-source protection; residents will initially receive use rights to guard against sales and conversion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:06 WIB
KPK Questions Narmada Awet Muda Regional Hospital Director and West Lombok Health Chief
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned the director of Narmada Awet Muda Regional Hospital and West Lombok’s health chief as witnesses in a corruption case involving the district’s suspended regent. The investigation concerns alleged conflicts of interest in procurement and bribery, with the KPK suspecting the regent received up to Rp12.4 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:05 WIB
West Java’s Investment in Q3 2026 Tops Rp91 Trillion
West Java recorded Rp91 trillion in investment during the third quarter of 2026, the highest provincial total nationally and 17.2 per cent of Indonesia’s overall investment. The figure brings the province’s January–September total to about Rp229.1 trillion, putting it closer to its annual target of Rp276.88 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:03 WIB
Pupuk Indonesia Supports Agriculture and Education Through AKSI Initiative
Pupuk Indonesia’s annual AKSI programme brought 100 employees from 10 subsidiaries to Bulutana, Gowa, reaching 2,340 residents through activities spanning agriculture, health, environmental conservation and education. The initiative provided practical facilities and services, including irrigation improvements, health screenings and school reading resources, with the company saying the work is intended to support longer-term community self-reliance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:03 WIB
Child with Special Needs Allegedly Sexually Abused in Matraman; Complainant Files New Report
A five-year-old child with special needs was allegedly sexually abused by a domestic worker in East Jakarta. After an initial report was withdrawn, the child’s parents filed a new report with the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, whose women and children’s protection unit is now examining the case and gathering evidence and witness statements.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:03 WIB
KKP Confirms 4,582 Modern Fishing Vessels Will Be Distributed to Fishers Free of Charge
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries says all 4,582 vessels in its modernisation programme will be given to fishers across the country at no cost. The Rp234.55 trillion programme, expected to be completed by 2029, aims to improve catch quality and coastal livelihoods, with the ministry seeking National Strategic Project status.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:02 WIB
Central Java Emerges as a New Property Investment Hub
Central Java, particularly Batang, Kendal and Semarang, is emerging as a potential property investment destination, supported by manufacturing growth, infrastructure development and stronger supply-chain connectivity. A JLL report says opportunities across Indonesia also include data centres and the upgrading or repurposing of existing buildings, while investment prospects will depend on selecting suitable locations, sectors and assets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:02 WIB
Indonesia’s SEZs Reach 67% of Annual Investment Target
Investment in Indonesia’s special economic zones reached IDR 46 trillion in January–September 2026, or 67 per cent of the year’s IDR 69.1 trillion target, and generated 53,000 jobs. Cumulative investment since the zones were established stood at IDR 382.1 trillion, with foreign direct investment accounting for IDR 33 trillion of the 2026 total.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:01 WIB
BMKG: Weather Modification to Disperse Haze from Forest and Land Fires and Prevent Delays to Rainy Season
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says weather modification operations are being used to disperse smoke from forest and land fires, amid concern that haze could further delay the rainy season in affected areas. Rainfall is expected to be broadly normal but concentrated in a shorter period, raising the risk of intense rain, floods and landslides as moderate-to-strong El Niño conditions persist into early 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:01 WIB
Lampung Deputy Governor Urges Faster TB Response to Meet Case-Detection Target
Lampung has notified just 44 per cent of its tuberculosis cases by October 2026, well below the national target of 90 per cent, while preventive therapy coverage is also low at 14 per cent against an 80 per cent target. Deputy Governor Jihan Nurlela has called on local governments to intensify screening, active case-finding, treatment and reporting, and to address barriers before the end of the year.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:01 WIB
Metro Jakarta Police Raid Kampung Ambon, Seize Dozens of Ketamine and Methamphetamine Packets
A joint operation involving police, military police, municipal officers and the Jakarta branch of the National Narcotics Agency raided suspected drug outlets in West Jakarta’s Kampung Ambon. Officers seized suspected methamphetamine and ketamine, vape cartridges possibly containing etomidate, and weapons; investigations are continuing to establish whether those detained were connected to the finds.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:01 WIB
103 Cisarua Junior High School Students Suspected of Food Poisoning After Drinking MBG Milk
A total of 103 students at SMP Negeri 2 Cisarua in Bogor were suspected of food poisoning after consuming milk provided through the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The local government is covering their medical costs, while the kitchen supplying the meals has been suspended for 20 days pending an evaluation and laboratory results.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:00 WIB
British Fighter Jets Deployed to Protect Saudi Arabia from Houthi Attacks
The UK will deploy RAF Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia to intercept Houthi missiles and drones, while ruling out strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen. The deployment comes amid escalating regional hostilities that are disrupting oil exports and prompting Saudi Arabia to postpone its flagship investment conference until 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:00 WIB
Gus Ipul Backs KPK Probe into Alleged Bribery at NU Congress, Threatens to Sue Reporters if Claims Are Unsubstantiated
Social Affairs Minister and Nahdlatul Ulama executive Saifullah Yusuf has backed the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in investigating alleged bribery linked to NU’s 35th Congress. He says NU will take the branch officials who filed the report to court if their allegations are not proven; meanwhile, the KPK has seized Rp250 million and is examining its possible links to the congress or a separate alleged corruption case at the land ministry.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 18:00 WIB
Women Urged to Have Regular Health Checks and HPV Vaccinations
Women employees at the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry were encouraged to prioritise preventive care, including HPV vaccination to reduce the risk of cervical cancer and regular clinical breast examinations. The programme reached 784 vaccination participants across four cities, while 100 people registered for breast examinations, as part of the 81st Mining and Energy Anniversary events.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:59 WIB
Law Minister to Discuss Luhut’s Proposal to Exclude State Losses from Corruption Offences
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says he will discuss National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to review Indonesia’s definition of corruption, pending direction from President Prabowo Subianto. Luhut argues that state losses should not in themselves constitute corruption, citing the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and saying the current approach can burden state-owned businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:59 WIB
Hudoq tradition preserves culture and nature in East Kalimantan
The Hudoq Pekayang Festival in Mahakam Ulu celebrates a tradition officially recognised as an Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013, with performances timed to the rice-planting season as prayers for a good harvest. Cultural preservation officials say passing the practice to younger generations also sustains local agricultural knowledge and the community’s relationship with forest resources and the natural environment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:59 WIB
Aion UT Records Sales of 2,000 Units in 2026
GAC Indonesia’s AION UT recorded wholesales of 2,010 units from January to September 2026, retaining its position as the best-selling model in Indonesia’s medium electric hatchback segment for six months. The company says the result supports its efforts to offer EVs suited to local consumers, with three variants priced from Rp345 million to Rp395 million and warranty coverage for key electric components.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:58 WIB
BNPB Urges Local Governments to Issue Decrees for Flores Earthquake Aid Recipients
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has urged local governments to issue decrees naming recipients of housing assistance after verification of earthquake damage on Flores was completed. The verification found 5,964 severely damaged homes across seven regencies and cities, while authorities are also being asked to complete recovery plans and supporting documents to speed rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:57 WIB
KISI Sees Bright Prospects for Renewable Energy Industry Despite Market Pressures
Korea Investment and Sekuritas Indonesia (KISI) says Indonesia’s renewable energy sector, including geothermal power, retains strong prospects despite current stock-market volatility. It highlights pending revisions to renewable electricity tariff rules and project execution as factors to watch, while pointing to PGEO’s long-term contracted revenue, rising output and robust financial performance as important supports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
Extreme Heat in Surabaya: Chickens Die of Heatstroke While Being Transported by Lorry
A lorry carrying broiler chickens from Magelang to Surabaya stopped at a fire station after its water supply ran out, with many birds reportedly dying from the heat. The episode highlights the risks posed by extreme temperatures, as East Java’s weather agency forecast highs of 39°C and fire officials warned residents against open-air rubbish burning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
Police and BNN seize vessel suspected of smuggling ketamine in North Sumatra
A joint team involving the National Police, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), customs and military police seized the MT Global 168 in North Sumatra over an alleged ketamine smuggling attempt. Eight suspects—seven Indonesian citizens and one foreign national—were detained; police said further details would be announced by the National Police Chief on Friday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
JSMR weighs share buyback option in line with growth targets
Jasa Marga is assessing a possible share buyback as part of its long-term growth strategy, while weighing liquidity needs and operational expansion plans. The toll-road operator reported first-half 2026 net profit of Rp1.91 trillion and revenue of Rp10.31 trillion; its shares rose 6.82% on Wednesday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:55 WIB
Airlangga Confident Indonesia’s Economy Can Grow by 7.5%: Here’s How
Economic Affairs Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto says Indonesia could achieve 7.5% growth if investment reaches 30% of GDP and investment efficiency improves, bringing the ICOR down from 6.1% to about 4%. The target remains ambitious: Indonesia has recorded growth of around 5% in recent years, while the government’s 2026 growth forecast is 5.4% and President Prabowo Subianto has set an 8% goal.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:54 WIB
In Wake of Forest and Land Fires, Indonesia Suspends Permits for Six Companies, Bringing Total Sanctioned to 32
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni says Indonesia has suspended the permits of six companies suspected of involvement in fires affecting 7,531 hectares in West and Central Kalimantan, bringing the number of corporations sanctioned this year to 32. The companies also face orders to restore ecosystems, while the Forestry Ministry is coordinating with police over possible criminal proceedings.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:54 WIB
Jakarta South City Administration Says Satpol PP Has Key Role in Enforcing Smoke-Free Area Regulation
The South Jakarta City Administration says the municipal public order agency, Satpol PP, is central to enforcing Jakarta’s 2025 smoke-free area regulation, alongside coordination with communities and other sectors. Officials say consistent oversight, public education and cessation services are needed to protect residents—particularly children and vulnerable groups—from exposure to tobacco smoke.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:53 WIB
BPKH partners with PP PERSIS to strengthen hajj financial education and literacy
Indonesia’s Hajj Fund Management Agency (BPKH) has partnered with Islamic organisation PP PERSIS to improve public understanding of how hajj funds are managed and used. BPKH reported Rp185.72 trillion in assets under management as of September 2026, while the partnership also highlighted the contribution of investment returns to hajj costs and community programmes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:52 WIB
Telkom Brings Numeracy Learning to 100 Schools in Indonesia’s 3T Regions
Telkom Indonesia is rolling out its BISA PandAI Numeracy programme in 100 primary schools across disadvantaged, frontier and outermost areas, combining teacher training, learning equipment and classroom support. The three-month initiative aims to improve numeracy and STEM learning, with its impact assessed through changes in teaching practice and pupils’ skills.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:52 WIB
Customs seizes illegal cigarettes worth Rp3.4bn in Sumbawa by October
Customs seized more than 2.27 million illegal cigarettes on Sumbawa between January and the third week of October 2026, with an estimated value of Rp3.4bn and potential state revenue losses of Rp2.21bn. The cases involved untaxed cigarettes and misuse of excise stamps, prompting intensified inspections and coordination with law-enforcement agencies to curb distribution and protect compliant businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:52 WIB
Prabowo: I Have Followed Jokowi’s Political Line Since Before Being Sworn in as President
President Prabowo Subianto says he has continued Joko Widodo’s approach to foreign policy, prioritising good relations with neighbouring countries and respect for all states. He reiterated Indonesia’s non-aligned stance, opposition to military blocs and pacts, and commitment to resisting imperialism and colonialism.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
Citing MSCI, Prabowo Says Indonesia Is Ready to Face Challenges
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would withstand global pressures, including developments in financial markets, and would continue to protect national interests. He also acknowledged that significant challenges remain and said the government could impose deeper spending cuts if necessary to safeguard the country’s financial resilience.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
Pigai Says Rights of 7,000 Victims of Gross Human Rights Violations to Be Restored Soon
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says the rights of around 7,000 identified victims of gross human rights violations will be restored after President Prabowo signs a revised presidential instruction. Assistance will involve several ministries and agencies, and the victim list must first be verified; the government says support has so far reached less than 10 per cent of those identified.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
PSL Establishes Emergency Response Team and Trains Workers to Tackle Fires
PT Pelindo Sinergi Lokaseva (PSL) has established an emergency response team, equipped its workplaces with fire-protection systems and trained workers in the use of fire extinguishers. The company says ongoing safety education is essential to help employees recognise risks and respond effectively to fires.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
AGI Explains Why Indonesia’s Gaming Industry Has a Bright Future
The Indonesian Game Association (AGI) says the country’s gaming sector is poised to grow as young people increasingly view it as a career and local developers expand into premium PC and console games. Indonesian games are reaching overseas markets, while the association is calling for supportive regulation and stronger skills development to help the industry contribute more to GDP.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:51 WIB
Transporting Coal and Livestock, KAI Logistik Strengthens Distribution of Indonesian Commodities
KAI Logistik says it is expanding rail-based freight services across commodities, from coal and agricultural produce to livestock and courier deliveries, while supporting government programmes. By August 2026, the company had transported more than two million tonnes of goods, and is seeking to improve efficiency, diversify markets and make better use of its wagons amid infrastructure constraints.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:50 WIB
DPR Commission IV inaugurates Women’s Food Garden in Sleman
DPR Commission IV chair Siti Hediati Hariyadi inaugurated a maternal and child health post and a Women’s Food Garden in Hargobinangun, Sleman, as part of efforts to address stunting and strengthen household food security. The initiative combines community-based support during the first 1,000 days of life with women’s involvement in producing nutritious food and developing local economic opportunities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:50 WIB
This Car Can Park Itself and Pick Up Passengers: A Look at Its Specifications
Chery Group’s LUXEED has demonstrated an automated valet-parking system that can find a space and later drive to a designated pick-up point when summoned by app. The article also outlines the luxury LLounge MPV’s passenger-comfort and safety features, while noting that LUXEED has not yet launched the model in Indonesia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:49 WIB
Cabinet Member Hospitalised as Prabowo Urges Ministers to Get Regular Health Checks
President Prabowo Subianto said a member of his Cabinet had been admitted to hospital and urged ministers and other senior officials to undergo more thorough, routine health checks. He also asked them to take vitamins to help maintain their health.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:48 WIB
Why Do Rumours of Kim Jong Un’s Death Keep Emerging?
North Korean state media has published images of Kim Jong Un at a public event, countering an unsubstantiated claim that he died after suffering a brain haemorrhage. Rumours persist because of the country’s secrecy, uncertainty over succession and concerns about the consequences of a sudden leadership crisis, despite South Korean intelligence finding no evidence to support the latest report.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:47 WIB
Iranian President Calls on US to End Threats and Lift Sanctions Before Resuming Talks
Masoud Pezeshkian says Washington must end pressure and threats and lift sanctions before negotiations to end the war can resume, amid deep Iranian distrust of the US. Tehran’s conditions include ending hostilities across the Middle East, releasing frozen Iranian assets and lifting restrictions on its oil and ports, while disputes over the Strait of Hormuz continue to stall diplomacy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:47 WIB
Government to establish task force to oversee implementation of AI regulations
Indonesia plans to establish a National Artificial Intelligence Coordination Task Force to coordinate implementation of two proposed presidential regulations on the national AI roadmap and AI ethics. The framework is intended to foster cross-sector collaboration while promoting innovation and ensuring AI is developed and used responsibly.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:45 WIB
Indonesia positions artificial intelligence as a new growth engine
Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto said artificial intelligence and the digital economy could help drive Indonesia’s growth ambitions, including a target of 8 per cent by 2029, as the country seeks to boost productivity, competitiveness and public services. The government’s priorities include expanding data-centre and energy capacity, developing digital talent, accelerating AI adoption and attracting international collaboration, with the national AI economy projected to reach US$360 billion–US$400 billion by 2030.