Archive: 21 October 2026
Showing 501-1,000 of 1,517 articles
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:45 WIB
National Energy Independence Strengthening During Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Administration
Golkar legislator Bambang Patijaya says the government has made progress in strengthening energy security and reducing reliance on imports, citing oil output, the rollout of B50 biodiesel and village electrification. He also points to subsidised fuel price stability and a 100 GWp solar programme as measures intended to protect consumers and diversify the energy mix.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:45 WIB
Ride-Hailing Apps Must Transfer Drivers’ Earnings Immediately After an Order Is Completed
A new presidential regulation caps digital platform service fees for ride-hailing and delivery at 8 per cent, leaving drivers with 92 per cent of the transport service fee. It also requires platforms to pay drivers’ earnings in real time after a job is completed and to ensure access to social security, while ministries will set service tariffs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:44 WIB
After Being Sought, Nusron Wahid Appears at Prabowo Cabinet Meeting
Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid attended a cabinet meeting in Jakarta after twice failing to appear for questioning by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving land-use rights at PT Summarecon Agung. The KPK has named eight suspects in the case and warned Nusron to co-operate with its investigation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:42 WIB
Prabowo rebukes countries that ‘insult’ Indonesia over wildfires
President Prabowo Subianto criticised countries he said had insulted Indonesia over the wildfires and haze affecting Indonesia and neighbouring states, while promising investigations into their causes. He said authorities would identify responsible companies and revoke the licences of those found to have broken the law, as experts cite land-clearing practices and drought among the factors worsening the fires.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:42 WIB
Two Young Men Set Fire to Rice Threshers and Sangeh Forest Fence After Losing at Gambling
Police in Badung have arrested two young men suspected of setting fire to three rice threshers and a fence at the Alas Pala Sangeh tourist attraction, saying they acted out of anger after losing at gambling. The fires, which occurred at four locations between June and September 2026, caused losses totalling at least Rp37 million; the suspects face up to nine years in prison under Article 187 of the Criminal Code.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:40 WIB
Tourist’s Car Nearly Seized by Debt Collectors in Malioboro Despite Being Paid Off
A tourist’s car was nearly seized by people claiming to be debt collectors while she was visiting Malioboro, despite her saying she had bought the vehicle outright. Yogyakarta police checked the registration and vehicle details, found the plate number in the collectors’ data did not match, and said the matter was resolved amicably without legal action.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:40 WIB
‘Bismillah’ Emerges as Official Slogan of Mass Protests in France
A phrase combining Arabic and French slang became an unofficial slogan for French secondary-school protests, after students circulated it as a mockery of messages they suspected were posted by undercover police. The claims of police infiltration remain unverified, while the demonstrations stem from complaints about overcrowded, run-down schools and wider cost-of-living pressures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:39 WIB
Cumulative Investment in SEZs Reaches Rp382.1 Trillion
Indonesia’s special economic zones (SEZs) have attracted Rp382.1 trillion in cumulative investment since their establishment in 2012, generating 302,262 jobs and involving 509 businesses. Investment from January to September 2026 totalled Rp46 trillion, or 67% of the annual target, with the country now operating 25 SEZs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:39 WIB
Raja Juli Says 120 Forest and Land Fire Cases Are Being Processed, Forestry Ministry to Coordinate with Police
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni says 120 cases related to forest and land fires are being processed by the Forestry Ministry. The ministry’s law-enforcement directorate and the National Police’s Criminal Investigation Agency are due to compare case data next week and identify matters that can be handled jointly, as the government seeks to strengthen enforcement alongside firefighting.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:38 WIB
Jakarta Poverty Rate Falls Below 4% for First Time, Governor Says
Jakarta’s poverty rate reached 3.96% in March 2026, falling below 4% for the first time, while unemployment stood at 5.79% and labour force participation rose to 66.05%. The provincial government is expanding job training linked to 214 companies and aims to lift between 69,510 and 167,270 residents out of poverty by 2030.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:38 WIB
PBNU Rais Syuriah Holds Family Harmony Workshop for Bu Nyai and Ning
KH Imam Jazuli said marital communication, mental health and household harmony can affect the running of Islamic boarding schools, citing his review of police-handled cases. The second workshop, held in Banten for female pesantren leaders and their relatives, drew 372 participants and forms part of a planned nationwide programme targeting 5,000 attendees.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:37 WIB
KPK Chief Rejects Luhut’s Proposal: Other Issues Are More Urgent
KPK chief Setyo Budiyanto has opposed National Economic Council head Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to remove the state-loss element from Indonesia’s definition of corruption, arguing that local circumstances and sophisticated white-collar crime require it to remain. He says that if the government uses the UN Convention against Corruption as its benchmark, it should prioritise criminalising foreign bribery, trading in influence, bribery in the private sector and illicit enrichment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:37 WIB
Government steps up health response for residents affected by forest fires
The government is monitoring health conditions in communities affected by forest and land fires, with particular attention to acute respiratory infection cases and residents exposed to haze. It is coordinating health services, protective measures such as mask use, air-quality monitoring and support for vulnerable groups to help communities recover.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:37 WIB
Indramayu Deputy Regent Syaefudin Detained in Case Involving DPRD Housing Allowances
West Java prosecutors have detained Indramayu Deputy Regent Syaefudin and a former acting regional council secretary in an alleged corruption case involving housing and transport allowances for Indramayu’s council during the 2022–2025 budget years. Prosecutors estimate state losses at Rp18.7 billion; a third suspect, a former council secretary, did not attend after reportedly suffering a traffic accident.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:35 WIB
Prabowo Records Rp3,923.2 Trillion in Investment over Two Years
Indonesia recorded Rp3,923.2 trillion in investment from the fourth quarter of 2024 to the third quarter of 2026, generating nearly 5.49 million jobs, Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani reported. The government says it is prioritising downstream processing and industrialisation while integrating licensing across 28 ministries and agencies to give investors greater certainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:35 WIB
Thailand Allows Myanmar Refugees to Work, but What Is the Reality?
Thailand’s decision to let refugees from Myanmar work outside camps has offered some a route to income as humanitarian aid has dwindled and labour shortages have grown. But workers report unclear contracts, lower-than-promised pay, recruitment costs and poor conditions, prompting advocates to call for stronger protections and oversight.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:31 WIB
JCI Closes 0.94% Higher at 5,328 as SOHO and STRK Shares Surge
Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 0.94% to 5,328.360 on Wednesday, led by gains in healthcare stocks, while industrial and technology shares fell. STRK, SOLA, MKNT, IPTV and SOHO were among the biggest gainers, with STRK up 34.31%; the article also identifies ATAP, SINI, TMPO, UANG and WIFI as leading decliners.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:31 WIB
Government Speeds Up Recovery of Sumatra’s Fisheries Sector and Permanent Housing
The government is accelerating post-disaster recovery in Sumatra, including rehabilitation of fisheries facilities and construction of permanent homes for displaced residents. The Housing Ministry plans 26,036 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, 17:30 WIB
OJK and IDX Gather Institutional Investors after MSCI Announcement to Discuss Reforms
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) met domestic and international institutional investors following MSCI’s consultation on a possible change to Indonesia’s market classification. OJK said it would address investor concerns through concrete, sustained reforms, as the announcement had triggered sharp selling and a steep fall in the Jakarta Composite Index.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:30 WIB
Indonesia steps up cross-sector efforts to protect women and children
Coordinating Minister Sugiono pledged stronger collaboration among ministries to address violence against women and children, overcome bureaucratic barriers and ensure protection programmes are sustained. The government will track progress using gender and child-protection indices, while the PPPA Ministry is expanding regional service units and its SAPA 129 hotline, alongside initiatives to support women’s economic self-reliance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:29 WIB
Bank Indonesia Holds Benchmark Rate at 5.75% in October 2026
Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark BI-Rate at 5.75% and its Lending Facility rate at 6.50% following its October policy meeting, while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5.00%. Governor Destry Damayanti announced the decisions at a press conference in Jakarta on 21 October.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:28 WIB
Indonesia Hit by Thousands of Disasters Again; BNPB Reveals Main Cause
Indonesia recorded 2,186 disasters between January and 21 October 2026, with forest and land fires and floods accounting for the largest numbers. More than 99% of incidents were linked to hydrometeorological conditions, while the disasters caused 427 deaths and forced 5.79 million people to evacuate; firefighting remains a priority in six provinces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:28 WIB
Wildlife Predators Descend from Mount Lawu Amid Forest Fires, Killing Livestock
At least five goats in Tengklik village, Karanganyar, were killed in an apparent attack by a large predator as fires spread across the slopes of Mount Lawu. Local officials suspect displaced, stressed wildlife may have descended from the burning forest, while police and conservation officers have inspected the site; the fires are estimated to have burned about 490 hectares.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:28 WIB
Jakarta Seeks Global Film Hub Status, Using Busan as a Benchmark
Jakarta Governor Anung is seeking to build the capital into an international film-production hub, citing its infrastructure and calling for investment, talent, facilities and distribution networks. A summit co-organised by the Jakarta Provincial Government and Bank Indonesia is considering permit reforms, production incentives and access to public locations, with officials pointing to the film industry’s potential to support Jakarta’s service economy and local businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:28 WIB
Metal Industry Is Indonesia’s Largest Investment Recipient from January to September 2026
Indonesia recorded Rp1,539.2 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, up 7.3% year on year, with foreign and domestic investment accounting for 50.5% and 49.5%, respectively. Basic metals and metal products attracted the largest share, Rp269.2 trillion or 17.5% of the total, while investment during the period generated approximately 2.19 million jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:28 WIB
South Jakarta PPAPP provides trauma support to residents affected by Tebet brawl
South Jakarta’s Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection and Population Control Sub-agency (PPAPP) has provided psychosocial support and trauma counselling to residents affected by a brawl in Tebet. The programme also promotes positive parenting, urging parents to work together to prevent children from becoming involved in violence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:27 WIB
Joint Police, BNN and Customs Operation Uncovers Vessel Carrying One Tonne of Ketamine at Belawan Port
A joint operation involving the Indonesian National Police, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and Customs has uncovered one tonne of ketamine at Belawan Port in North Sumatra. Police say the vessel was escorted safely to the port, with the National Police Chief expected to provide further details on Friday.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:27 WIB
WIFI Appoints New President Commissioner and President Director, with Fadel Muhammad Replacing Hashim
PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk (WIFI) has appointed Fadel Muhammad as president commissioner and Shannedy Ong as president director following an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. Hashim Djojohadikusumo stepped down as president commissioner, citing his busy schedule, including his role as a presidential special envoy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:27 WIB
Bapanas Suspects Fake Fortified Rice Has Cost Consumers Rp89tn
Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas) estimates consumers may have lost Rp89 trillion to allegedly fraudulent fortified rice sold under 25 brands by 11 businesses. Tests found 25 of 27 brands failed to meet quality and nutritional claims, prompting administrative sanctions, while police have begun investigating one producer.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:27 WIB
How Vaping Affects the Vocal Cords and Changes the Voice
Vaping can dry and irritate the vocal cords, causing hoarseness, a dry throat and vocal fatigue; research also suggests it may affect vocal-cord movement. A doctor says stopping vaping is the main step towards recovery, although structural changes may not fully reverse, and advises seeking medical assessment if hoarseness lasts more than two to three weeks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:26 WIB
ATR/BPN Case: KPK Questions Employees of PT Trans Jabar Tol and Summarecon
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned employees of PT Trans Jabar Tol and Summarecon as witnesses in an alleged corruption case involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). The investigation stems from a September 2026 sting operation concerning the handling of a building-use right for Summarecon in Bogor, with eight people named as suspects and searches conducted at several offices and homes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:25 WIB
Excessive Zinc Found in Fake Fortified Rice: What Are the Risks?
Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas) says laboratory tests found zinc levels above the permitted limit in samples of fortified rice, raising concerns about possible health effects. The finding emerged during an investigation into five rice brands allegedly mislabelled; Bapanas says 25 of 27 tested brands failed requirements, while police have opened an investigation into the producer of the five brands.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:24 WIB
JCI rises on regulators’ initiatives to restore market confidence
Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 0.94% as market regulators’ efforts to rebuild investor confidence supported sentiment. Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark rate at 5.75%, while Asian markets were mixed amid strong US technology earnings and renewed concerns about oil prices and inflation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:23 WIB
With the JRF and Ye Concert Coming Up, Pramono Orders Jakarta Weather Modification on 22–23 October
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered weather-modification operations for 22 and 23 October ahead of the Jakarta Running Festival and a concert by Ye (Kanye West). The operation is intended to encourage rainfall and cooler conditions before the international events, and could begin as early as 21 October if conditions allow.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:23 WIB
Dekranasda Bali Fashion Road Show in Gianyar Strengthens the Profile of Balinese Wastra
Bali’s regional handicrafts council has staged a fashion road show in Gianyar to promote local designers, traditional textiles and the island’s creative industries. Organisers say collaboration can boost the competitiveness and market reach of Balinese wastra while encouraging younger generations to preserve the cultural heritage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:23 WIB
Pramono to improve Transjabodetabek connectivity
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo is considering new Transjabodetabek routes to improve connectivity and attract more people to public transport. Ridership on public transport in Jakarta rose by 10.8% through September 2026, while use of the Blok M–Bogor route has climbed from a target of 2,000 passengers to nearly 10,000 on average.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:22 WIB
Weather modification operation to tackle forest and land fires receives 6.2 tonnes of seeding materials in Palembang
A C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft has delivered 1.2 tonnes of dry ice and five tonnes of sodium chloride to Palembang for a weather modification operation aimed at addressing forest and land fires. The materials will support efforts to induce rainfall as fires burn in South Sumatra.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:21 WIB
Putin Frees US Citizen Held Since 2022
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that 74-year-old US citizen Stephen Hubbard, convicted in a closed trial of mercenary activity, had been released after being detained in Russia since 2022. The announcement came during talks with US envoy Steve Witkoff, which also focused on ideas for ending the war in Ukraine, and was viewed as a possible goodwill gesture amid concerns over Washington’s support for Kyiv.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:20 WIB
Prabowo Outlines Two Years of Government Achievements, from Food Self-Sufficiency to B50
President Prabowo Subianto highlighted Indonesia’s achievement of food self-sufficiency in under two years and its adoption of B50 biodiesel, despite prolonged drought and rising global oil prices. He said the government aims to expand ethanol blending to E50, with the longer-term goal of ending fuel imports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:20 WIB
Pramono Reports DKI Jakarta Revenue of Rp44.98 Trillion in Third Quarter
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung reported that the capital had collected Rp44.98 trillion in regional revenue by 30 September 2026, equivalent to 62.95% of its annual target, while expenditure reached Rp40.40 trillion. He also highlighted spending on education, healthcare and transport, alongside economic growth, lower poverty and unemployment, and plans to extend free public transport eligibility from 15 to 21 groups in 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:20 WIB
Two Years in Government: Prabowo Sets Out Mission to Be a Good Neighbour
Marking two years in office, President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia should pursue a “good neighbour” policy, co-operating with regional countries while avoiding alignment with military blocs. He also stressed national interests and praised his cabinet’s record, while warning that foreign powers have historically sought to hinder Indonesia because of its wealth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:20 WIB
Pati Regent Sudewo Shocked by 8.5-Year Prison Sentence: ‘I Actually Hoped to Be Acquitted’
Suspended Pati Regent Sudewo has been sentenced to eight years and six months in prison in cases involving alleged corruption and gratuities linked to the railway project agency (DJKA), as well as extortion in village official appointments. He rejected the verdict, alleging political interference and arguing that the judges relied on investigation records rather than evidence presented at trial.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:20 WIB
Latest Update on Employment Protection Law After Parliament’s Approval
Manpower Minister Yassierli says the Employment Protection Law is still undergoing the legislative process at the State Secretariat before it is signed, promulgated and published. The law will take effect one year after enactment, meaning its new provisions—including wage-setting rules and a Statistics Indonesia survey of decent living needs—are expected to apply from 2027, with the new rules likely to inform the 2028 minimum wage determination.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:19 WIB
BI holds its rate at 5.75 per cent and deposit facility rate at 5 per cent
Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 per cent, its deposit facility rate at 5 per cent and its lending facility rate at 6.5 per cent. The central bank said it would strengthen incentives for hedging through its DNDF scheme to attract foreign capital, stabilise the rupiah and deepen domestic money and foreign exchange markets while maintaining its inflation target for 2026 and 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:19 WIB
BI continues to monitor capital market risks after MSCI reclassification proposal
Bank Indonesia says it is closely monitoring foreign capital outflows and rupiah movements following MSCI’s proposal to consult on reclassifying Indonesia from an Emerging Market to a Standalone Market. The central bank has increased hedging incentives to attract inflows, while the exchange and financial regulator have announced measures intended to strengthen market transparency and integrity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:18 WIB
Prabowo highlights global challenges at two-year cabinet review
President Prabowo Subianto told a plenary cabinet meeting that his administration’s first two years had been shaped by geopolitical conflict, intensifying economic and trade competition, and climate-related risks. He praised cabinet cooperation and urged ministers to recognise the government’s achievements without becoming complacent.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:17 WIB
Two Years of the Merah Putih Cabinet: President Reviews Government Programmes
President Prabowo Subianto chaired a plenary Cabinet meeting in Jakarta to discuss strategic issues and assess the government’s programmes, marking two years of the Merah Putih Cabinet. Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended the meeting alongside the President.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:15 WIB
BP Batam assists businesses with OSS licensing requirements
BP Batam held a coaching clinic for more than 100 company representatives to help them complete business licences and supporting permits through the risk-based Online Single Submission system. The event offered one-to-one consultations with BP Batam and investment ministry officials, aiming to resolve administrative obstacles, improve compliance and make licensing services more effective.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:15 WIB
Gen Z Farmer Has No Pride About Growing Potatoes, Harvesting 9.5 Tonnes at a Time
Hendro Gunawan, a 29-year-old farmer in West Java, is carrying on his family’s agricultural livelihood despite many young people opting for office jobs. With support from Pertamina Geothermal Energy’s Kamojang area, his farmers’ group adopted geothermal-dried organic fertiliser and reported a potato harvest of 9.5 tonnes, while seeking to expand production and tackle water and pesticide costs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:14 WIB
BPOM Praises Metro Jakarta Police for Uncovering Factory Producing Millions of Tramadol Pills in Sukoharjo
Jakarta’s Food and Drug Monitoring Agency has praised the Metro Jakarta Police for uncovering two illegal drug factories in Sukoharjo and seizing 7.8 million tramadol and trihexyphenidyl pills. BPOM said the medicines were counterfeit and unlicensed, and warned of serious harms associated with misuse, urging the public to obtain such medicines only through authorised medical facilities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:14 WIB
Tax Consultants Set to Be Required to Provide Services Through Tax Consulting Firms
Indonesia’s Finance Ministry plans to require tax consultants to provide services through licensed tax consulting firms, although the rule is not included in the current regulation and remains in transition. Officials say the approach follows requirements already applied to other professions, while the ministry intends to promote licensed firms; the article also reviews tax policy, crypto reporting, state spending and investment developments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:14 WIB
Geely celebrates production of 2 million EX2 units
Geely says it has produced two million units of its compact electric vehicle, the EX2, in two years, as it expands production amid competition in the small EV segment. The model, known as Xingyuan in China, has also begun local assembly in Indonesia, where production started in Purwakarta in January 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:14 WIB
Aceh Provincial Government Urges Districts to Secure Land for Permanent Housing
Aceh’s provincial government has urged district and municipal administrations to secure land to accelerate permanent housing for disaster-affected residents, with completion targeted for 2027. Updated figures show 402,197 homes were damaged, while 18,030 severely damaged homes are scheduled for communal reconstruction by the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:13 WIB
Bandung Regency Holds Taniverse 2026 to Advance Food Self-Sufficiency
Bandung Regency is using Taniverse 2026 to promote food self-sufficiency through irrigation investment, protection of agricultural land and modern farming technology. The event also showcased local agricultural products and initiatives to attract younger farmers, amid an ageing farming population.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:13 WIB
Government drafts national shipping roadmap to drive growth
Indonesia’s Industry Ministry is preparing a national shipping industry roadmap to expand shipyard capacity, develop skills and technology, promote greener vessels and raise domestic content. The 2026–2030 targets include building larger vessels beyond Java and Batam, while import volumes exceeding exports highlight an opportunity for local shipyards to meet domestic demand.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:12 WIB
Weather Modification Operations Intensified in West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra
Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is stepping up weather-modification flights in three provinces to help tackle forest and land fires, despite natural rainfall in some areas. Central Kalimantan has more than 321 hectares of fires yet to be extinguished, while South Sumatra has about 80 hectares remaining; ground equipment and personnel support have also been distributed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:12 WIB
Three programmes dominate social media discussions during Prabowo’s second year in office
A study by Deep Intelligence Research found that the Free Nutritious Meals programme, Merah Putih village cooperatives and Danantara were the leading subjects of social media discussion during the second year of the Prabowo-Gibran administration. Monitoring recorded 12.28 million online conversations, while media coverage was largely positive, with President Prabowo the most frequently quoted figure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:11 WIB
GoPay Launches Digital Gold Investment Feature
GoPay has launched a digital gold investment feature, allowing users to buy and sell gold from as little as Rp1,000 through its app. The company says the product aims to make investing more accessible and address barriers such as limited time, physical gold availability and security concerns; it is offered in partnership with a Bappebti-licensed and supervised company.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:11 WIB
Prabowo Highlights Smuggling of State Wealth, from Gold and Coal to Subsidised Fuel and Fertiliser
President Prabowo Subianto has warned that the smuggling of Indonesian natural resources and subsidised goods is a serious threat to the national economy. Speaking at a Cabinet Plenary Session, he called for the government to confront illegal outflows of commodities including tin, gold, coal, timber, fuel and fertiliser.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:11 WIB
West Java’s Investment Realisation Remains the Highest Nationally, Reaching Rp91 Trillion in Q3 2026
West Java recorded Rp91 trillion in investment in the third quarter of 2026, accounting for 17.2% of Indonesia’s total and the highest provincial figure. The province’s cumulative investment from January to September reached about Rp229.1 trillion, putting it on course towards its Rp276.88 trillion target for the year.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:10 WIB
Indonesia suspends permits of six more companies over forest fires
Indonesia has suspended the Forest Utilisation Business Permits of six companies operating in Central Kalimantan and ordered them to restore areas affected by fires. The move brings the total number of companies facing administrative sanctions to 32, with authorities warning that criminal proceedings may follow if investigations uncover evidence of wrongdoing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:10 WIB
KPK Summons MP as Witness in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Golkar MP Doni Akbar for questioning as a witness in an alleged extortion case involving suspended Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. Investigators say four people have been named suspects and that Rp1.98 billion was allegedly collected through the regent’s confidant, with some funds allegedly linked to a KPK staff member’s father.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:10 WIB
Prabowo Candidly Says the World Is Facing Physical and Economic Wars
President Prabowo Subianto says the global environment is beset by crises, conflicts and open warfare, alongside trade, economic and tariff wars. He warns that intensifying rivalry among major powers affects all countries because the world is deeply interconnected and mutually dependent.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:09 WIB
Jakarta’s Retribution Revenue Reaches Rp910 Billion
Jakarta collected Rp910 billion in regional retribution revenue from January to September 2026, up 2.25% year on year but equal to 41.06% of its annual target. Regional tax receipts reached Rp34.58 trillion, with growth led by land and building tax and taxes on specific goods and services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:09 WIB
WCCE 2026 Opens International Markets to Indonesia’s Creative Economy Players
The World Conference on Creative Economy 2026 will connect Indonesian creative businesses with international partners through business-matching sessions, investment discussions and co-production opportunities. Attended by representatives from 65 countries and seven international organisations, the forum will also advance a proposed Jakarta Vision aimed at making the creative economy a global development priority after the Sustainable Development Goals end in 2030.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:08 WIB
KPK Places PT MSI President Director Accused of Bribing Regent LAZ in NTB Police Detention Centre
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has placed Alvonsus Gani, president director of PT Meconel Sistim Instrument, in the West Nusa Tenggara Police detention centre because it is close to the Mataram Corruption Court. Prosecutors allege he provided former West Lombok regent LAZ with more than Rp2.07 billion in cash, goods and facilities to secure government projects; the case stems from a KPK sting operation in July.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:08 WIB
Prabowo Says Forest and Land Fires Are Not Caused Solely by Natural Factors, Calls for Corporate Probe
President Prabowo Subianto says forest and land fires are also caused by human activity and has directed law enforcement agencies, the Forestry Ministry, the military and intelligence services to investigate. He said corporations may be responsible, describing deliberate burning as environmental terrorism and warning that companies found in violation could lose their permits.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:08 WIB
BCA extends share buyback period to 23 October 2026
Bank Central Asia (BCA) has extended its share buyback period by two days, to 23 October 2026, with the programme now running from 19 to 23 October. Approved by shareholders in March, the buyback is intended to reflect confidence in the bank’s fundamentals and support stability in Indonesia’s capital market; BCA says it will have no material impact on its financial performance or business activities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:06 WIB
BI Says Indonesia’s Balance of Payments Performance Continues to Strengthen
Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark rate at 5.75% and the lending facility rate at 6.50%, while raising the deposit facility rate to 5.00%. A trade surplus, portfolio inflows in the fourth quarter to date and robust foreign-exchange reserves are supporting Indonesia’s external position, with the current-account deficit forecast at 1.6–2.4% of GDP in 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:06 WIB
Indonesia and Sudan Discuss Boosting Trade and Investment Cooperation
Indonesia’s Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti met Sudanese Ambassador Yassir Mohamed Ali in Jakarta to discuss expanding bilateral trade and investment. Indonesia currently exports products including soap, batteries and machinery to Sudan, and sees further potential in palm oil and derivatives, sugar, and processed fats and oils.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:05 WIB
Prabowo Confident Indonesia Will No Longer Need to Import Fuel Under This Programme
President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesia could end fuel imports by expanding the use of domestic energy sources and biofuel blends. The government is working towards E10 this year, with ambitions to reach E20 in two years and E50 thereafter, alongside its B50 biodiesel target.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:05 WIB
Indonesia promotes special economic zones to meet 8% growth target
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says accelerating special economic zone development could help Indonesia achieve its 8% growth target, citing average investment efficiency (ICOR) below 4 in the zones compared with 6.1 nationally. Indonesia’s zones span about 24,000 hectares, and recorded Rp382.1 trillion in cumulative investment through September 2026, while investment in the first nine months of 2026 reached Rp46 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:05 WIB
Iran Threatens to Cut Undersea Cables in the Strait of Hormuz: What Would the Impact Be on the Middle East and the World?
Iran’s threat to sever undersea cables in the Strait of Hormuz has heightened concern across the Arab region, where daily services and economic development increasingly depend on digital connectivity. Qatar says the consequences would affect Iran as well as neighbouring countries, while satellite internet is not yet a substitute for the capacity and importance of submarine cables.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:05 WIB
Australian MP Has Both Legs Amputated After Being Hit by Car
Australian MP Helen Haines has had both legs amputated after being struck by a car in what police are investigating as a deliberate attack. A 43-year-old man has been charged, while authorities examine possible motives amid concerns about rising threats against elected officials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:04 WIB
South Sumatra Residents Struggle to Sleep as Forest and Land Fires Continue
Residents in Talang Kelapa say nightly firefighting sirens are disrupting their rest as forest and land fires continue on the Palembang–Banyuasin border. Forestry Ministry data recorded 1,277 hotspots across South Sumatra on 21 October, while smoke from dry peatland and scrub fires blanketed Palembang and reduced visibility.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:04 WIB
Asahan Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Agency Rated ‘Very Good’ in National Performance Assessment
Asahan Regency’s Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Agency (DPMPTSP) received a ‘Very Good’ rating in the 2026 assessment of regional one-stop services and business implementation acceleration. The recognition acknowledges the local government’s efforts to improve public services and business licensing, and is expected to support a more favourable investment climate and sustainable economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:04 WIB
Residents Flock to Affordable Food Market in Majalengka
Majalengka regency’s government held an affordable food market to help stabilise supplies, curb inflation and make staple goods more accessible. Residents welcomed prices below those at ordinary shops, while officials said similar events would continue in other areas in partnership with the PKK and Bulog.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:03 WIB
UGM Expert Explains the Difference Between Expert Advisers and Special Advisers at Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut’s Trial
A legal-administration expert from Gadjah Mada University told the Jakarta Corruption Court that ministry special advisers generally support leaders with advice but have no authority to make strategic decisions. His testimony came in the trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, who is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion in a case involving additional Hajj quotas for 2023–2024.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:03 WIB
Prabowo: Food Self-Sufficiency Is the Government’s Main Achievement in Two Years
President Prabowo Subianto has described rapid food self-sufficiency as one of his government’s foremost achievements over the past two years. He said domestic food resilience is vital amid global uncertainty, supply disruptions and difficult weather conditions, when food can become a strategic weapon.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:02 WIB
Car-Free Day Cancelled on Sudirman-Thamrin and Rasuna Said on Sunday, 25 October
Jakarta’s provincial government has cancelled car-free-day activities on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman-MH Thamrin and Jalan HR Rasuna Said on 25 October because the Jakarta Running Festival 2026 requires special traffic management and security. Car-free-day events will still take place at designated locations in five other parts of the capital.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:02 WIB
Adyos and Yayang Silence China in Men’s MD8 Para Table Tennis Doubles
Indonesia’s Adyos Astan and Yayang Gunaya opened their Group B campaign at the 2026 Asian Para Games with a 3–2 win over China’s Zhengyang Peng and Panfeng Feng. The closely contested match, decided 12–10 in the fifth game, gives the pair a positive start in their bid to progress to the next round.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 17:00 WIB
Police Uncover Suspected Fake Fortified Rice; Five Brands Allegedly Fail to Meet Nutritional Claims on Packaging
Indonesia’s National Police have opened a formal investigation into PT Dewa Tunggal Abadi over the production and sale of fortified rice whose nutritional content allegedly did not match its packaging. Laboratory tests reportedly found discrepancies across five brands, although no suspects have been named.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:59 WIB
Central PKK Strengthens Legal Awareness and Transforms Bali’s Posyandu
Central PKK chair Tri Suswanti Tito Karnavian has promoted legal-awareness education and the transformation of community health posts (posyandu) among volunteers in Bali. The initiative focuses on preventing violence against women and children, encouraging bystanders to support victims, and improving village-level health data through the Posyandu Information System; it also included sanitation assistance for 10 villages.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:59 WIB
Nutritionists share four eating habits for people with ADHD
Nutritionists recommend four practical habits to help people with ADHD meet their nutritional needs more consistently: scheduling meals, keeping water visible, pairing protein with fibre, and simplifying food preparation and clean-up. They stress that these measures can support nutrition but are not a treatment or cure for ADHD, and should not replace medical care.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:59 WIB
Bappenas Aims to Complete Bioeconomy Road Map by December 2026
Bappenas expects to complete Indonesia’s bioeconomy road map by December 2026, aligning government, businesses and development partners around the sustainable, higher-value use of biological resources. The plan forms part of the country’s long-term economic transformation and is intended to increase domestic value creation while supporting jobs, community welfare and environmental goals.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:59 WIB
Soekarno-Hatta Airport Serves 39 Million Passengers through September 2026
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport handled 39.29 million passengers in the first nine months of 2026, alongside 268,200 aircraft movements. Passenger traffic in the third quarter rose 7.96 per cent quarter on quarter, as the airport continues terminal upgrades and expands digital services to improve capacity and the passenger experience.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:59 WIB
Foreign Minister: BPK’s Election to UN Board of Auditors Marks a Diplomatic Achievement for Indonesia
Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir said Indonesia’s election to the United Nations Board of Auditors (UN BoA) for the first time is a diplomatic achievement that will allow the country to contribute to UN governance from within. BPK is preparing to audit the UN Secretariat and five UN funds and programmes, with its first-year performance expected to underpin its six-year mandate.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:58 WIB
Prabowo Tells Cabinet: We’re Only Two Years In; the Reserves Will Get Their Chance
President Prabowo Subianto compared his cabinet to a football team, urging ministers with limited roles not to become frustrated. At a cabinet meeting marking two years in government, he said the administration was still in the first half and that reserve players would have opportunities to contribute.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:58 WIB
Prabowo to Cabinet Ministers: Don’t Get Frustrated if You’re on the Bench; 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. At a cabinet meeting marking two years of his administration, he said the government was still in the first half and that every minister would have an opportunity to play a part.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:58 WIB
Riau Police Seize 6,500 Litres of Suspected Diverted Subsidised Diesel in Siak
Riau Police have seized 6,500 litres of subsidised biodiesel and detained two men suspected of storing and reselling the fuel illegally in Siak regency. The suspects face up to six years in prison and a fine of Rp60 billion if convicted.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:58 WIB
Fadli Zon: Art Is Not Merely an Identity, but Must Also Be an Investment
Culture Minister Fadli Zon says Indonesia should treat art and cultural heritage not only as sources of national identity and unity, but also as long-term investment and a driver of economic growth. Speaking at the 13th Indonesian Arts Festival in Padang Panjang, he called for stronger arts institutions and university education to sustain cultural traditions and develop the cultural economy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:57 WIB
Central Government Rejects Three Proposed New Tax Sources for West Nusa Tenggara
The Ministry of Home Affairs has rejected three tax provisions proposed by West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), citing the absence of a higher-level national legal basis. The province says it still expects to meet its Rp5.6 trillion own-source revenue target, focusing on making tax payments easier through digital and retail channels.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:57 WIB
Prabowo Says Global Conditions Are Rife with Crises and Conflict
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia faces a challenging global environment marked by armed conflicts, trade and economic wars, and rivalry among major powers. He also cited climate change and Indonesia’s position on the Pacific Ring of Fire as factors that heighten the country’s exposure to natural disasters.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:56 WIB
Prabowo Suspects Efforts to Set Indonesians Against One Another, Says the People Are Wise
President Prabowo Subianto said there had been attempts, backed by significant funding, to foment conflict and division in Indonesia. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, he cited past rebellions and said the country had proved resilient, with increasingly astute citizens and leaders committed to national unity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:56 WIB
Prabowo: Indonesia Is Under Heavy Attack
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia was being strongly targeted through various channels as its prospects of becoming a powerful, developed country grew. He linked this to the country’s natural wealth and argued that the government’s actions were necessary to protect national resources and ensure Indonesians benefit from them.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:55 WIB
Against Market Forecasts, BI Holds Interest Rate at 5.75%
Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark BI Rate at 5.75% at its October meeting, contrary to most analysts’ expectations of a 25-basis-point rise. The decision follows cumulative rate increases of 100 basis points in May and June, which the central bank made to stabilise the rupiah and anticipate inflationary pressures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:55 WIB
A New Slogan Emerges Among French Protesters: ‘Bismillah, c'est les tenebres’—What Does It Mean?
A phrase blending an Islamic invocation with French slang has become an unofficial slogan among student protesters in France. Reportedly originating in a Snapchat chat, it is seen as a concise expression of the generational divide.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:55 WIB
Government Races to Restore Fisheries and Build Permanent Housing After Sumatra Disasters
The government is accelerating recovery of the marine and fisheries sector and construction of permanent homes for communities affected by disasters in Sumatra, under a 2026–2028 rehabilitation and reconstruction master plan. Fisheries programmes are planned for 2026, while the Housing and Settlement Areas Ministry aims to build 26,036 permanent homes across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra in 2026–2027; officials say land constraints and further flooding and landslides remain obstacles.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:54 WIB
Government Accelerates Construction of 26,036 Permanent Homes for Sumatra Disaster Victims: The Breakdown
The government is targeting 26,036 permanent homes for disaster-affected residents across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra during 2026–2027. The centrally managed relocation programme is intended for people who have lost their homes or land, and those living in high-risk areas, as authorities press agencies and local governments to speed up recovery work.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:54 WIB
502 Hectares of Land Extinguished in Wildfires Across Six Priority Provinces
The BNPB says more than 502 hectares of land have been extinguished across six provinces prioritised for forest and land-fire response, against a target of 983 hectares. Around 481 hectares remain unextinguished in those provinces, while an estimated 1,000 hectares remain outside the priority areas; ground and air operations are being reinforced with additional personnel and helicopters.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:54 WIB
KPK Responds to Luhut’s Proposal to Exclude State Losses from Corruption
KPK chairman Setyo Budiyanto said Indonesia’s Corruption Law differs in its interpretation of state losses from the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), while stressing that the country’s specific corruption methods should also be considered. He said that if UNCAC is used as the benchmark, the law should be amended to criminalise additional offences, including foreign bribery and illicit enrichment; Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has argued that treating state losses as corruption can constrain state-owned businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:52 WIB
Active Indonesian Soldier in Langkat Arrested as Courier for 47kg of Crystal Meth; Allegedly Made 15 Runs
Riau Police have arrested two men, including an active Indonesian soldier serving in Langkat, over the alleged transport of 47kg of crystal methamphetamine from Malaysia. Authorities say the pair had made 15 previous collection trips and were paid Rp50 million to more than Rp100 million per large shipment; the soldier is being examined by military police as the legal process continues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:52 WIB
Prabowo Says Foreign Powers Funded Rebellions, from RMS to PRRI
President Prabowo Subianto said foreign powers had historically intervened in Indonesia and financed unrest and rebellions, citing movements including DI/TII, APRA, RMS and PRRI/Permesta. He argued that Indonesia’s national resilience and commitment to unity had endured, while the article notes that he and his supporters have also accused foreign actors of funding demonstrations during his two years in office.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:51 WIB
French PM to Deploy Large Police Force if Protests Continue
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised a large-scale police deployment for planned weekend protests after demonstrations over the cost of living escalated into serious rioting. Authorities have imposed partial curfews and restrictions in Paris, while Lecornu accused ultra-left groups of plotting an uprising.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:51 WIB
Kodam XXII/TB Receives Firefighting Support from Raffi Ahmad
Kodam XXII/Tambun Bungai has received five vehicles and firefighting equipment donated through presidential special envoy Raffi Ahmad to strengthen responses to forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. The military commander also warned of suspected deliberate fires in Sebangau National Park and stressed that prevention and community involvement are essential to limit recurring fires and smoke-related health risks.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:51 WIB
Prabowo: Indonesia’s Wealth Has Been Plundered for Years
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s abundant natural resources had been plundered and smuggled out for generations, citing tin, gold, coal, timber, subsidised fuel and fertiliser. He described the country as being in a survival situation and said it must protect its natural wealth from continued losses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:50 WIB
QRIS Misused for Online Gambling, BI Prepares Four Enforcement Measures
Bank Indonesia is stepping up oversight after QRIS, Indonesia’s standardised QR payment system, was found to be used for illegal transactions, including online gambling. Its four measures include tighter merchant verification, suspicious-transaction monitoring, periodic checks and possible blacklisting, and stronger coordination with law-enforcement authorities; payment providers could also face suspension or licence revocation for breaches.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:50 WIB
Sudewo sentenced to 8.5 years in prison for bribery and extortion
Pati’s inactive regent, Sudewo, has been sentenced to eight years and six months in prison in cases involving alleged bribery and gratification linked to railway projects and extortion during 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, 16:49 WIB
Metro Jaya Police Chief and Jakarta Prosecutors’ Office Strengthen Law Enforcement Coordination
Metro Jaya Police Chief Dadang Hartanto met Jakarta’s chief prosecutor to strengthen cooperation between police investigators and prosecutors, including in applying the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. Both officials stressed early, open communication to align case handling and support professional, accountable law enforcement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:49 WIB
KKP: Modernising 4,582 Fishing Vessels Will Require Rp234.5 Trillion
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries estimates that modernising 4,582 fishing vessels by 2029 will require Rp234.55 trillion. The fleet is projected to produce up to 1.05 million tonnes of fish annually, worth Rp28.5 trillion, with funding for 1,582 vessels backed by the UK and the remaining 3,000 potentially financed through domestic loans.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:49 WIB
West Sumatra Ombudsman: People’s Schools Must Have an Anti-Bullying Task Force
The West Sumatra Ombudsman has urged People’s Schools in the province to establish anti-bullying task forces before any cases arise, to strengthen prevention, monitoring and education. The call aims to ensure safe schools for pupils, particularly children from poor and extremely poor families who rely on the free programme.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:48 WIB
Prabowo on Broad Coalition: I Want as Many Forces as Possible to Unite
President Prabowo Subianto defended his broad political coalition, saying it is intended to unite as many forces as possible to improve people’s lives. He argued that national unity is essential in a country as large and diverse as Indonesia, while acknowledging the need for democratic competition.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:48 WIB
Health Ministry prepares 477 oxygen centres in response to health impacts of forest and land fires
Indonesia’s Health Ministry has prepared 477 oxygen centres and deployed medicines, masks and health workers to areas affected by forest and land fires. The response comes as seven provinces report more than 314,000 cumulative cases of acute respiratory infection, including nearly 71,000 among children aged five and under.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:47 WIB
Netflix’s Q3 2026 net profit rises nearly 44%
Netflix reported a 44% year-on-year increase in third-quarter net profit to US$3.66 billion, while revenue growth eased to 11.8%. The company cut its full-year advertising revenue forecast to US$2.7 billion because the rollout of advertising products was slower than expected, and its Q4 earnings-per-share forecast fell short of analysts’ expectations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:46 WIB
Bought in 1980: 111-Year-Old in Gunungkidul Struggles to Obtain Land Certificate
A 111-year-old Gunungkidul resident is seeking a title certificate for 5,000 square metres of land he says he bought in 1980, but the land has since been suspected of being village treasury land. His grandson and legal advocates have reported alleged maladministration by the Gunungkidul land office to the DIY Ombudsman, which says the complaint cannot yet be formally registered because supporting documents are incomplete.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:46 WIB
Muhammadiyah Calls for Impartial Law Enforcement in Forest and Land Fire Cases
Muhammadiyah has urged law enforcement agencies to investigate forest and land fires transparently, including any suspected involvement by corporations, officials or those shielding perpetrators. It says investigations must reach all those responsible and calls for central and local governments to coordinate prevention, response and recovery measures, particularly in fire-prone areas of Kalimantan and Sumatra.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:46 WIB
KPK Questions Directors of PT Sungai Danau Jaya and PT Tanah Bumbu Resources
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned two company directors as witnesses in an alleged tax-inspection bribery case involving the Banjarmasin Medium Tax Office. The investigation stems from a February 2026 sting operation and has led to seizures of cash, US dollars and gold as the KPK pursues the case’s wider network.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:46 WIB
PGN targets bi methane from South Sumatra to be supplied from 2027
State gas company PGN aims to begin supplying biomethane produced from palm oil mill waste in South Sumatra in 2027, with buyers in West Java and Japanese companies involved in the project. Production is expected to fluctuate with the palm harvest, while PGN will act as both the principal buyer and transporter through its pipeline network.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:45 WIB
BI Says Undisbursed Loans Reach Rp2,562 Trillion by September 2026
Bank Indonesia says undisbursed loan facilities stood at Rp2,562 trillion in September 2026, equivalent to 21.7% of available credit and indicating significant potential for further lending. The central bank is cutting reserve requirements for conventional and Islamic banks in stages to encourage lending, while bank credit growth reached 13.26% year on year.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:45 WIB
Bogor SPPG Suspended for 20 Days After 103 Students Suspected of Food Poisoning from Free Meals
A food service unit in Bogor has been ordered to suspend operations for 20 days after 103 students at a state junior high school in Cisarua developed symptoms after eating meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Officials suspect milk may be responsible, but food and drink samples have been sent for laboratory testing; authorities say students are receiving care and the school’s learning arrangements will be reviewed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:45 WIB
ASDP-Owned KMP Batumandi Gutted by Fire as KNKT Launches Investigation
The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire in the approach channel to Merak on 20 October, after sailing from Bakauheni; all passengers and crew were evacuated safely. Indonesia’s Transport Ministry says the KNKT and police are investigating the cause, while response teams coordinated firefighting and vessel safety measures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:44 WIB
Nusa Penida Adds 20 New Villas to Its Accommodation Options
Jeevawasa has introduced Emana Aruna, a coastal property with 20 villas offering views of the sea and Mount Agung, expanding accommodation choices on Nusa Penida. The resort also features dining and spa facilities, while a launch package with added inclusions is available for stays through 31 March 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:44 WIB
BRI Marks 131st Anniversary with a Commitment to Sustainable Growth and National Progress
BRI has launched celebrations for its 131st anniversary, setting out a theme of sustainable growth and progress for Indonesia as it continues its business transformation and digitalisation. The kick-off also featured programmes supporting local MSME clusters, environmental awareness and employee wellbeing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:42 WIB
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Says AI Is a New Engine of Economic Growth
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says artificial intelligence and the digital economy will be crucial new sources of growth as Indonesia pursues economic expansion of up to 8% by 2029. Government priorities include digital infrastructure and energy resilience, developing nine million digital talents, accelerating AI adoption, and strengthening governance and international cooperation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:42 WIB
Kemkomdigi Identifies Four Key Factors for Building National AI Sovereignty
Kemkomdigi Director General Mira Tayyiba has outlined four interlinked capabilities needed to establish Indonesia’s AI sovereignty: skilled talent, secure data interoperability, control of digital infrastructure and effective governance. She said partnerships should support local research and expertise, while infrastructure must be sustainable and collaboration should improve public services without compromising national control.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:42 WIB
Metro Jaya Police Seize Millions of Pills from Illegal Factory in Central Java
Metro Jaya Police say they dismantled two illegal drug factories in Sukoharjo, Central Java, seizing 7.86 million ready-to-sell tablets and 69.27 tonnes of raw materials. Sixteen suspects were arrested; police estimate the seized ingredients could have produced about 492 million tablets, while the facilities reportedly generated billions of rupiah in daily turnover.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:41 WIB
Prabowo Sends Message to MSCI: ‘Indonesia Is Not Afraid and Will Not Be Intimidated’
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would not be intimidated by MSCI’s warning that it could downgrade the country’s stock market from emerging-market to standalone-market status. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the issue concerns capital-market governance and would not directly affect investment in special economic zones, where investment reached Rp46 trillion in the first nine months of 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:41 WIB
A Digital Resolution for Santri in the Digital Age
The article traces the historical role of santri in Indonesia’s independence struggle and the origins of National Santri Day, observed on 22 October. It argues that today’s santri should bring moral values to digital technology through spiritual, intellectual, entrepreneurial, leadership and global roles, while promoting responsible and ethical use of tools such as AI.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:41 WIB
BI Cuts Reserve Requirements as Bank Chiefs Highlight Liquidity Pressures
Bank Indonesia will lower reserve requirements for conventional and Islamic banks in stages from November, a move bankers say should ease tight liquidity and support lending. Industry leaders welcomed the decision but called for further measures, noting that funding remains costly and year-end competition for deposits is approaching.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:41 WIB
Central Java Secures Rp72.54 Trillion in Investment, Creating 340,000 Jobs
Central Java recorded Rp72.54 trillion in investment across 82,420 projects through the third quarter of 2026, supporting 340,334 jobs. Governor Ahmad Luthfi said collaboration between the private sector and neighbouring regions could unlock new centres of economic activity, while Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti stressed that the city must work with surrounding areas because of its limited industrial land.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:41 WIB
Bareskrim Uncovers Five Fake Fortified Rice Brands, Generating Rp69 Billion in Revenue
Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) says five fortified rice brands failed to meet quality standards and did not contain the added vitamins declared on their packaging. The brands were produced by one company, PT DTA, which allegedly made about 2,500 tonnes between April and August 2026, with an estimated economic value of nearly Rp70 billion; investigators have seized rice and milling equipment and say suspects will be named soon.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:41 WIB
Prabowo: Currency and Rice Are Now Weapons
President Prabowo Subianto said global geopolitical dynamics have changed, with currencies, trade and food—including rice—being used as instruments of state power. He argued that strength determines survival in international politics and urged Indonesians to uphold national unity, invoking former President Soekarno’s longstanding call for unity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:40 WIB
Cyberattacks Could Disrupt Business Operations in the AI Era
Cyberattacks pose a growing risk of disrupting services and business operations as artificial intelligence advances, speakers at Bali Tech Week 2026 said. They stressed that cybersecurity must underpin AI adoption and digital innovation, supported by sustained investment in skills, infrastructure and technology and cooperation across government, industry, academia and civil society.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:40 WIB
Kim Jong Un Rumoured to Have Died of a Brain Haemorrhage
Unverified social media claims that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un died after a brain haemorrhage have been contradicted by recent photographs published by state media, although his appearance has not been independently verified. Analysts and South Korean officials say they have no evidence supporting the death rumours, which have renewed attention on succession uncertainty and regional tensions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:39 WIB
Pelindo Integrates Enhanced Passenger Services Ahead of the 2026/2027 Cruise Season
Pelindo is coordinating passenger handling, berth assignments, safety and other port services at Benoa ahead of the 2026/2027 cruise season, as it seeks to improve the experience for passengers and crew and support Bali’s tourism economy. An expanded eastern berth can now accommodate two large cruise ships simultaneously; 76 ships have registered to call in 2026, following 65 visits that brought 140,000 international tourists in 2025.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:39 WIB
KPK Investigates Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq over Suspected Money Laundering
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened a new investigation into suspected money laundering arising from a corruption case involving suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq. No suspects have been named in the new probe, which has included questioning her aide; meanwhile, Fadia is on trial and prosecutors are seeking a five-year prison sentence and Rp2.69 billion in restitution.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:38 WIB
NTT Provincial Government Spends Rp28 Billion of President’s Aid on Flores Earthquake Response
East Nusa Tenggara received Rp40 billion in emergency disaster assistance from President Prabowo Subianto and has transferred about Rp28 billion to regional agencies for the Flores earthquake response. Agencies are preparing accountability reports, while unused funds will be returned to the regional treasury and the spending framework is being adjusted now that the emergency-response period has ended.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:37 WIB
Bogor Resident’s House Damaged by Landslide as Cliff Gives Way, Soil Erosion Suspected
An eight-metre-high cliff collapsed in South Bogor, damaging the kitchen and bathroom walls of a resident’s home. No injuries were reported; the city’s disaster management agency said the unstable, eroded soil caused the landslide and recommended construction of a retaining wall and installation of a tarpaulin as follow-up measures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:36 WIB
Prabowo Cites Unrest in France and Italy, Emphasises National Unity
President Prabowo Subianto said unrest and looting following mass demonstrations in Europe underscore the importance of maintaining Indonesia’s national unity. He defended his broad governing coalition as a way to unite political forces and improve people’s lives, while affirming that political differences and criticism remain necessary.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:35 WIB
Inside the Sukoharjo Tramadol Factory Capable of Producing Millions of Pills a Day
Police say two illegal drug factories in Sukoharjo, Central Java, had the capacity to produce millions of Tramadol pills daily, with one factory generating an estimated turnover of up to Rp3 billion a day. Officers seized 29 tonnes of raw materials, large quantities of finished tablets and production equipment, arrested 16 suspects, and are pursuing two alleged factory owners.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:35 WIB
Meta’s New AI Leaks Users’ Intimate Information
Meta’s Muse AI agent exposed users’ supposedly private conversations through shareable links that were indexed and easily searchable, revealing sensitive financial, corporate and personal information. Meta has disabled the feature, but researchers warn that similar vulnerabilities could recur unless the systems managing user data are improved.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:34 WIB
Krom Bank Emphasises Risk Management as Loans Grow 50%
Krom Bank’s loans rose 50.4% year on year to Rp11.59 trillion in August 2026, as the digital lender expands distribution through fintech partnerships. Its loan-channeling agreement with Easycash combines Krom Bank’s credit facilities with Easycash’s digital platform, with both companies stressing asset quality, responsible lending and consumer protection.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:33 WIB
West Java’s Exports to Pakistan Reach US$242m, Led by Vehicles and Man-Made Fibres
West Java exported US$242.18 million worth of goods to Pakistan from January to August 2026, up 22.81% year on year. Vehicles and their parts were the leading export category, while provincial officials say the growth offers an opportunity to broaden the range of regional products sold in the Pakistani market.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:33 WIB
At Two-Year Cabinet Meeting, Prabowo Explains Rationale for Broad Coalition
President Prabowo Subianto said his broad governing coalition is intended to unite as many political forces as possible to improve people’s lives, pointing to Indonesia’s large population and vast territory. He also defended the size of his Cabinet, arguing that its composition reflects the demands of governing a country comparable in scale to Europe, while noting that parliamentary seats are limited.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:33 WIB
Two Years into His Government, Prabowo Says: ‘I Am Proud to Be Your Leader’
At a cabinet plenary meeting marking two years in office, President Prabowo Subianto thanked the Red and White Cabinet, praising ministers for their hard work, teamwork and achievements. He acknowledged the government’s strengths and weaknesses but said its tangible results were a source of pride rather than arrogance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:32 WIB
ShopeePay Offers Cash Withdrawals with No Administration Fee
ShopeePay says users can withdraw funds without a card at BCA ATMs and participating Indomaret, Alfamart and Alfamidi outlets, with no administration fee or monthly quota, subject to applicable terms. The company also offers cash top-ups and other payment services, while reminding users to plan their finances and protect their account credentials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:32 WIB
Bakom Insists Prabowo Sides with Workers, Citing Moment He Sang ‘The Internationale’
The Government Communications Agency (Bakom) says President Prabowo Subianto has demonstrated support for workers, as unions urge him to sign the newly passed Labour Protection Bill and seek a copy of its final text. Bakom chief Syahganda Nainggolan said he would raise the unions’ requests with the Manpower Ministry and Parliament, while workers also want a role in drafting implementing regulations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:32 WIB
vivo Introduces V80 with Cold-Carved Glass Design, ZEISS Portrait Imaging and Long-Lasting Battery
vivo has unveiled the V80 smartphone, highlighting its one-piece cold-carved glass design, ZEISS cameras, 7,200 mAh battery and OriginOS 7 software. The company says the device will be rolled out gradually in India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and other regions, with pricing and specifications varying by market.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:32 WIB
Prabowo Criticises Deference to Foreign Achievements over Domestic Ones
At a cabinet meeting marking two years of his administration, President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesians have a tendency to value foreign achievements more highly than their own, which he linked to the legacy of colonialism. He praised his ministers’ work and argued that Indonesia has repeatedly faced attempts to obstruct its progress, but will continue to advance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:31 WIB
Chinese Universities Go Global, but Why Are Academics Worse Off?
Chinese universities are gaining ground in global rankings, but academics face tighter research-grant competition, budget cuts and uncertain career prospects. Although spending on strategic research is still growing, funding is increasingly selective, while the rapid rise in applications and pressure to publish are adding strain across the sector.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:30 WIB
Two Years Leading Indonesia, Prabowo Says He Is Proud of Cabinet’s Work: ‘We Have Faced Various Challenges’
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s government had navigated two years of global geopolitical and economic uncertainty, including conflicts, trade competition and tariff measures. He praised the Red and White Cabinet’s teamwork, while noting that climate volatility and Indonesia’s location in the Pacific Ring of Fire present both risks and opportunities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:30 WIB
BI warns of global risks as Indonesia targets growth of up to 5.7%
Bank Indonesia projects Indonesia’s economy will grow by 4.9–5.7% in 2026, supported by resilient household consumption and investment, despite a weak and volatile global outlook. The central bank warns that Middle East tensions, high commodity prices, tight global monetary conditions and strong US Treasury yields pose risks, and calls for coordinated fiscal and monetary action to support stability and growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:29 WIB
What Might a War Between Washington and Tehran Look Like? Analysts Weigh In
With diplomatic space narrowing, US and Iranian officials are signalling sharply different conditions for talks, raising fears of renewed conflict. Analysts say the next round of fighting could be more intense, while some in Washington appear to have lost faith in negotiations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:29 WIB
KPK Questions Former Head of Palembang Railway Technical Centre
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned former Palembang Railway Technical Centre chief Ikhsandy Wanto Hatta as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving railway construction and maintenance projects. The investigation, which began with a KPK sting operation in April 2023, has led to 22 individual suspects and two corporate suspects being named.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:28 WIB
Coordinating Minister: Indonesian Capital Market Assessment Does Not Depend on One Agency
Airlangga Hartarto says Indonesia should not rely solely on MSCI’s assessment of its capital market, pointing to other providers such as FTSE Russell. His comments come as MSCI consults investors on a proposed downgrade of Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, amid concerns over market transparency and governance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:28 WIB
Environment Minister: Legal Penalties Are Not Enough; Damaged Ecosystems Must Be Restored
Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat said environmental enforcement must go beyond punishing offenders to restore damaged ecosystems and protect affected communities. At a Bali forum, officials highlighted the need for scientific evidence in court, citing a government lawsuit worth more than Rp4.8 trillion against six companies over alleged environmental damage across more than 2,500 hectares in North Sumatra.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:28 WIB
BRI People’s Business Credit Opens Up Opportunities Across Generations
A micro-entrepreneur in South Bengkulu has used a Rp25 million BRI People’s Business Credit (KUR) loan to develop his family’s ketoprak business, moving from a mobile cart to a fixed shop and adopting QRIS digital payments. The account is presented alongside BRI Research Institute findings that 66.2% of surveyed BRI borrowers reported higher turnover, underscoring the role of productive lending in supporting small businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:28 WIB
BPBD Jakarta Holds Earthquake Drills at 55 Sites to Improve Preparedness
Jakarta’s Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) conducted earthquake drills at 55 sites in North Jakarta, including government offices, health facilities and schools, following a provincial secretary’s instruction. The exercise tested evacuation procedures and highlighted varied levels of staff readiness, while city officials called for better emergency facilities and a stronger culture of disaster preparedness.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:27 WIB
Academic: Child Protection in Schools Needs Special Attention
A psychology lecturer from Atma Jaya Catholic University says bullying in schools and other educational settings remains a major challenge, requiring continued education on children’s rights alongside accessible reporting channels. Tangerang officials say the city will expand training and support, including professional psychological assistance, as part of efforts to uphold children’s rights and prevent violence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:26 WIB
KPK Questions Former Bank BJB President Director After Last Interview on 9 September
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned former Bank BJB president director Yuddy Renaldi, who arrived at its Jakarta headquarters on Wednesday. He is among five suspects in an alleged advertising-procurement corruption case estimated to have cost the state Rp223.6 billion; four other suspects have been detained, while Yuddy was previously not detained because he was ill.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:25 WIB
Prabowo Says Human Activity Is Behind Forest and Land Fires, Orders Investigation
President Prabowo Subianto says investigations indicate that Indonesia’s forest and land fires are not purely natural and may involve deliberate burning and corporate responsibility. He has ordered the police, prosecutors and relevant ministries, with military and intelligence support, to investigate and says companies found to have breached the law could lose their permits.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:25 WIB
Tourism Industry Reaches Its Highest Level in a Decade: The Tourism Minister’s Data
Indonesia’s tourism sector employed 25.91 million people in 2025, its highest workforce figure in a decade, according to Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana. Tourism investment reached Rp73.56 trillion in 2025 and continued in the first half of 2026, while investment in tourism special economic zones and growing employment in tourist villages indicate broader economic benefits.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:25 WIB
Trump Grows ‘Closer’ to Putin as Zelenskyy Comes Under Pressure: Could Ukraine Be Sacrificed?
A series of Trump administration decisions—including easing some restrictions on Russian fuel, delaying approval for Patriot interceptor transfers and uncertainty over satellite communications—has heightened concern in Kyiv that Washington’s approach is shifting in Moscow’s favour. The White House says delays are not intended to weaken Ukraine, while Kyiv fears that reduced pressure on Russia could leave it facing greater pressure to accept a damaging peace deal.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:24 WIB
BI Raises Hedging Incentives Again for DNDF Instruments
Bank Indonesia has increased incentives for hedging through Domestic Non-Deliverable Forwards (DNDFs), aiming to attract foreign capital inflows and support rupiah stability. The move comes as foreign inflows reached US$9.9 billion by 20 October 2026, while the central bank kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 per cent and raised the deposit facility rate to 5.00 per cent.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:24 WIB
Prabowo Cites Attempts to Sow Discord and Rebellion, Says Indonesia Is Strong
President Prabowo Subianto said major powers had sought to divide Indonesia and had funded rebellions and unrest over the decades since independence. Citing past uprisings and predictions that the country would fracture in 1999 or 2000, he said Indonesia’s national resilience and public awareness had proved stronger, and described national unity as the focus of his politics.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:24 WIB
Flu cases in Russia continue to rise
Russia reported more than 635,000 cases of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza and COVID-19 in epidemiological week 42 of 2026, with influenza cases continuing to increase. The health watchdog said non-influenza viruses accounted for most reported infections and urged vaccination, particularly among vulnerable groups; more than 25.7 million people had been vaccinated by 20 October.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:24 WIB
Game Developers Urged to Provide Tools to Prevent Sexual Violence
UNFPA has called on game and AI developers to build safeguards into digital platforms to prevent sexual violence, particularly against children and women. The agency cited survey data indicating that about 20 per cent of sexual violence experienced by girls and women aged 15–24 in 2024 occurred online, and urged developers to work with the government and comply with regulations designed to make digital spaces safer.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:24 WIB
Rupiah’s Movement Remains Clouded by Uncertainty over MSCI Plans
The rupiah weakened to Rp18,022 per US dollar as uncertainty over MSCI’s proposed reclassification of Indonesia’s stock market raised concerns about potential foreign capital outflows. Bank Indonesia is deploying interest-rate and hedging measures to support the currency, while global factors including US yields, Middle East tensions and oil prices remain influential.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:23 WIB
Central Java Investment Reaches Rp72.54 Trillion, Creating 340,334 Jobs
Central Java recorded Rp72.54 trillion in investment, comprising Rp31.77 trillion in domestic investment and Rp40.77 trillion in foreign investment, with 340,334 workers employed. Governor Ahmad Luthfi urged stronger collaboration between Semarang and surrounding regions to attract investment, while the provincial government expects 57 Vietnamese labour-intensive companies to establish operations in Central Java.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:23 WIB
Korean Peninsula Tensions Rise as North Korea Puts Troops on Firing Positions
North Korea says it has moved new military units into firing positions along its border with South Korea, amid a sharp escalation following a landmine blast that injured South Korean soldiers. Both sides have issued warnings and reinforced their military posture, raising fears of further confrontation along the heavily militarised border.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:21 WIB
Central Java Investment Reaches Rp72.54 Trillion as 57 Vietnamese Companies Eye Business Opportunities
Central Java recorded Rp72.54 trillion in investment through the third quarter of 2026, equal to 73.21% of its annual target, and reported that 57 labour-intensive Vietnamese companies may establish operations in the province. Governor Ahmad Luthfi and Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti said investment should be spread across the region, create jobs and support local businesses, while Semarang strengthens its role in trade and services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:21 WIB
Bogor Regency to Test Food Samples After 103 Pupils Suspected of Being Poisoned by Free Nutritious Meals
Bogor Regency will test food and drink samples after 103 pupils at a state junior high school in Cisarua fell ill after eating meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The results will help determine the cause, while the local government is covering medical costs and considering whether to suspend classes as it prioritises pupils’ recovery.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:21 WIB
Prabowo Says Indonesia Is Not Afraid of Potential MSCI Downgrade for Stock Exchange
President Prabowo Subianto has dismissed MSCI’s warning that Indonesia’s stock market could be downgraded from emerging-market to standalone status, describing it as an attempt to intimidate capital-market investors. His remarks followed a sharp fall in the Jakarta Composite Index, which dropped below 5,000, and he insisted Indonesia would not be deterred.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:20 WIB
Official: Malaysian Civil Servants Banned from Using Waze Amid Suspected Israel Links
Malaysia has barred civil servants and relevant government agencies from using Waze, citing concerns about users’ personal information and location data. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has recommended the locally developed TuJu app as an alternative, while the government says further questions should be directed to the National Cyber Security Agency.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:20 WIB
The Path to Paradise Set Out by the Prophet for a Righteous Wife
The article cites hadiths stating that a woman who fulfils key religious duties, preserves her chastity and obeys her husband in what is right may enter Paradise, and that a woman whose husband is pleased with her at her death will enter Paradise. It frames these teachings in terms of the husband’s responsibility to provide for his family, including food, clothing and medical expenses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:20 WIB
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Leaders to Listen to Young People’s Aspirations
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged governors, mayors and regents to involve young people in regional development planning and remain open to their ideas. He warned against treating young people merely as a source of votes and called for universities to be included in discussions about local development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:20 WIB
Indonesia’s Chef de Mission Hopes Zaidar Can Compete at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games
Indonesia’s Chef de Mission, Ita Yuliati, says skateboarder Zaidar Maulana Ibrahim has the confidence and mental readiness to compete at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar after qualifying for the event. She is coordinating preparations, including travel timing, to ensure the schedule does not undermine athletes’ morale; Indonesia plans to send 12 athletes across 12 sports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:19 WIB
Prabowo Cites Protests in France, Emphasises the Need to Preserve National Unity
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia must safeguard national unity while allowing debate, criticism and competition. Citing large demonstrations in France and elsewhere in Europe, he defended his decision to form a broad coalition, saying it would unite forces to improve people’s lives.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:19 WIB
RSUI pledges to strengthen control of lead exposure in Indonesia
Universitas Indonesia Hospital (RSUI), backed by Pure Earth Indonesia, has brought together seven health professional organisations to strengthen early detection, prevention and control of lead exposure. The initiative highlights the risks posed by informal or poorly managed used-battery recycling, which can expose workers and their families, including children and pregnant women, and calls for stronger policy, technical standards and professional capacity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:18 WIB
Prabowo Orders Revocation of All Permits Held by Companies Involved in Forest and Land Fires
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered officials to revoke the permits of companies found to have violated regulations and contributed to forest and land fires. He called for a thorough investigation by the police, prosecutors and Forestry Ministry, assisted by the military, describing deliberate burning as a serious threat to public health and the environment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:18 WIB
Law Minister: Deregulation and Digitalisation of Law Under Prabowo
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says the ministry has cut the number of ministerial regulations from 153 to 35 as part of efforts to remove overlapping rules and make doing business easier. It has also digitised and integrated 470 public services, including an automatic tax-number service for applicants establishing legal entities, while expanding access to justice.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:17 WIB
Prabowo Issues Stern Warning to Countries That Insult Indonesia
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered an investigation into companies suspected of responsibility for forest fires, saying the blazes were not solely caused by natural factors and had endangered millions of Indonesians. He warned that companies found to have violated the law could lose their permits, and said Indonesia would respond to countries that continued to insult it.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:17 WIB
Dedi Mulyadi Teams Up with Engineers to Tackle Congestion and Flooding in West Java
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has asked the Indonesian Engineers Association to help address traffic congestion and flooding through better spatial and transport planning. A proposed pilot project would provide drivers with new, environmentally friendly public-transport vehicles that they own, while the association says its regional conference will focus on technology and sustainable development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:17 WIB
Tokyo and Osaka record latest-ever 30°C temperatures
Tokyo and Osaka recorded temperatures above 30°C on 21 October, the latest such readings in either city since their weather records began. The unusually warm conditions, linked to humid southern air, come amid Japan’s hottest summer on record in 2025 and wider climate change-driven increases in extreme heat.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:17 WIB
Why Has Criminal Investigation Agency Yet to Name Suspects in Fake Fortified Rice Case?
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) says it has at least two pieces of evidence in a case involving fortified rice allegedly sold with nutrition claims that do not match its contents, but has not yet named suspects. Investigators are examining 11 businesses cited by the National Food Agency, while five brands made by PT DTA are currently the focus of the investigation; the company’s production during April–August 2026 was estimated to be worth nearly Rp70 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:16 WIB
Prabowo Raises Smuggling: ‘We Must Save Our Wealth’
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s natural wealth must be protected from smuggling and other practices he described as fraudulent, warning that both illegal imports and the illicit outflow of resources harm the country. Speaking at a Cabinet plenary session, he urged the government to confront these challenges rather than preserve a system that allows national wealth to be taken year after year.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:16 WIB
Government Targets Sulawesi and Kupang for Data Centre Investment Expansion
The government is preparing to expand private data centre investment into eastern Indonesia, with Sulawesi and Kupang among the areas under consideration. Its plans include new rules for data centres and submarine cables, backup connectivity, reliable power and land access, as well as streamlined permits—measures intended to support regional investment and the growing energy and computing needs of AI.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:16 WIB
Prabowo Wants Indonesia to Be a ‘Good Neighbour’: ‘I Followed President Jokowi’s Foreign Policy Line’
President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesia will maintain its independent and active foreign policy, prioritising national interests while seeking friendly relations with all countries. He says this approach follows the tradition of Indonesia’s founders and the foreign policy pursued by his predecessor, Joko Widodo, and rejects alignment with military blocs or pacts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:15 WIB
Jakarta Stocks Open Higher as Investors Await Bank Indonesia Rate Decision
Indonesia’s benchmark stock index opened higher before retreating as investors awaited Bank Indonesia’s decision, with markets expecting a 25-basis-point rate rise to 6% amid inflation and rupiah pressures. The decision could shape the rupiah, bonds and equities, while global market sentiment and foreign outflows remain key considerations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:15 WIB
MIND ID Commissioner Jokes: PT Timah Used to Mine, Now It Just Weighs the Ore
MIND ID chief commissioner Fuad Bawazier says PT Timah had effectively been reduced to weighing ore mined by others on its own concessions, reflecting years of weak enforcement and illegal mining. He credits the government’s crackdown on illegal tin mining with sharply improving the state-owned company’s performance, including a ninefold rise in profit, while helping curb illicit exports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:14 WIB
NTB Provincial Government Strengthens Trade Cooperation with West Java
The governments of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) and West Java have signed a cooperation agreement covering food supplies, skills development, and the exchange of livestock-sector data and technology. The partnership aims to stabilise prices and strengthen interregional food security, while opening markets for NTB livestock and encouraging investment from West Java.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:14 WIB
Gus Ipul affirms support for KPK probe into alleged vote-buying at NU congress
Social Affairs Minister and Nahdlatul Ulama deputy chairman Saifullah Yusuf has backed the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in investigating alleged vote-buying linked to the organisation’s 35th congress. He also warned that NU branch officials who filed the report could be taken to court if the allegations prove unfounded; the KPK says it is reviewing the complaint.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:14 WIB
Police Investigate Fortified Rice Case Over Misleading Packaging Claims
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Department has opened a formal investigation into five fortified rice brands after laboratory tests found their nutritional content and quality did not match their packaging claims. Police have seized 1,194 packs of rice and production machinery, while the company behind the products is estimated to have made about Rp69.9 billion in fortified rice between April and August 2026; no suspects have yet been named.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:13 WIB
Women Urged to Play a Role in the Palestine Movement
Indonesia’s MUI has called for women to have a stronger role in humanitarian advocacy and global solidarity efforts for Palestine, including in peace negotiations and decision-making. MUI official Siti Ma’rifah says women are key to building peace and advocates a minimum 30 per cent quota for women’s participation in peace processes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:11 WIB
Prabowo on the Red and White Cabinet: We’re Accused of Having an Oversized Cabinet, Aren’t We?
President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged criticism that his Red and White Cabinet is too large, but argued that it has worked efficiently during his two years in office. He defended the broad coalition by pointing to Indonesia’s vast population and territory, and cited the government’s coordinated response to natural disasters as evidence of its ability to work together.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:10 WIB
Amid Global Turmoil, Here Is the Direction of Bank Indonesia’s Policy
Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti said the central bank will assess incoming data before deciding its policy rate next month, while prioritising rupiah stability and continuing to support economic growth. BI kept the benchmark rate at 5.75% and outlined measures to attract foreign capital, deepen money and foreign-exchange markets, and sustain credit and digital payments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:10 WIB
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Seeks to Strengthen Forensic Auditors’ Role in Preventing Corruption in the Digital Era
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called for forensic auditors to play a stronger role in detecting and preventing corruption as financial fraud moves increasingly into the digital realm. He urged closer cooperation between the auditors’ association and government, alongside investment in auditors’ skills and integrity, to support transparent and accountable regional governance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:09 WIB
Jasa Raharja Issues Medical Cost Guarantees for 11 KMP Batumandi Victims
Jasa Raharja has issued guarantees covering medical treatment costs for 11 people injured in the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi, who are being treated at Krakatau Medika Hospital in Cilegon. The state-owned insurer said the guarantees are provided under the 1964 law on compulsory passenger accident insurance, as officials visited the victims and coordinated their care.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:09 WIB
Motive Revealed in Fatal Screwdriver Attack on Co-worker in North Kuta
Police say a workplace misunderstanding over a door closer repair escalated into a fatal attack in a car park in North Kuta, Badung. The victim, a 26-year-old worker, was struck on the head with a screwdriver after he allegedly hit and insulted his 24-year-old colleague; police have secured the weapon and are investigating the case.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:09 WIB
Pati Regent Sudewa to Appeal 8.5-Year Prison Sentence
Suspended Pati Regent Sudewa says he will appeal his 8.5-year sentence for corruption involving projects at the Directorate General of Railways and village official appointments. He criticised the court for relying on investigation records and prosecutors’ demands rather than trial evidence, while urging supporters to remain orderly and respect the law.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:08 WIB
UMY Governance Expert’s Assessment of Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran
A government studies lecturer at Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta says flagship programmes under President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka have the potential to boost economic inclusion, but weak implementation and governance threaten their impact. He also questions how state-owned enterprise profits are used and argues that an oversized Cabinet could burden coordination and slow delivery.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:08 WIB
Jakarta’s Air Quality Remains Unhealthy; Pramono Calls for Weather Modification Ahead of JRF
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has asked the city’s disaster management agency to carry out weather-modification operations on 22–23 October, hoping to bring rain and improve air quality before the Jakarta Running Festival and a Ye concert. IQAir data placed Jakarta among the world’s most polluted major cities, with PM2.5 concentrations at 89.5 micrograms per cubic metre.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:08 WIB
SEZ investment reaches Rp382.1 trillion as Indonesia targets growth of up to 8%
Investment in Indonesia’s 25 Special Economic Zones has reached Rp382.1 trillion and generated 302,000 jobs, with a further Rp46 trillion invested in the first nine months of 2026. The government views the zones as a key means of pursuing growth of up to 8%, and is seeking to expand and optimise them, including healthcare, tourism, industrial and digital developments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:08 WIB
Prabowo: We Are Forced to Face Hardship; Our Nation Has Been Deceived
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia had for years been made to endure hardship while national wealth was siphoned overseas through practices he described as deception. Speaking at a plenary cabinet meeting, he said he had a mandate to confront these issues and challenged political leaders and legal experts to say whether smuggling national wealth was a violation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:08 WIB
Manggala Agni Deploys 104 More Personnel to Fight Forest and Land Fires in Jambi
Manggala Agni has deployed 104 personnel across eight fire locations in Jambi, including areas in the Orang Kayo Hitam Forest Park and Berbak Sembilang National Park. Teams are supported by pumps, hoses and excavators supplied by government agencies and private companies to help create firebreaks, clear access and clean canals.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:06 WIB
Concession Areas Burned; Forestry Ministry Sanctions 32 Companies
The Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on 32 companies linked to forest and land fires affecting 12,926.74 hectares, with measures ranging from licence suspensions and ecosystem restoration orders to licence revocations. Criminal proceedings are also under way against 125 individuals and corporations, while officials say they are investigating responsibility, including beneficial owners, and may seek compensation for forest damage.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:05 WIB
Apple Seeks 6G Modem Engineers for the iPhone
Apple is reportedly recruiting cellular modem systems engineers to develop 6G technology for the iPhone, as it targets a potential 2030 rollout. The move comes while global 6G standards and spectrum allocations remain in development, with major technology firms competing to advance the next generation of mobile connectivity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:05 WIB
JCI Closes 0.9% Higher
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) recovered from a sharp intraday fall to close 0.94% higher at 5,328.36, although foreign investors recorded net selling of about Rp600 billion. Investors are watching Bank Indonesia’s interest-rate decision and the response to MSCI-related concerns, including potential share purchases by Danantara and buybacks by conglomerate issuers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:05 WIB
KPK Summons Five Witnesses in Suspected Corruption Case Involving South Sumatra Railway Project
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned witnesses as it expands its investigation into alleged corruption in railway construction and maintenance projects in South Sumatra. The probe, launched under a new general investigation warrant in May 2026, has yet to name any suspects in this phase, although the wider case has led to charges linked to projects in several regions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:05 WIB
KPK Summons Former Transport Attaché at Tokyo Embassy in Railway Project Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned former transport attaché Ikhsandy Wanto Hatta and three others as witnesses in an expanding investigation into railway construction and maintenance projects in South Sumatra. The inquiry, opened under a new general investigation warrant in May 2026, has not yet named any suspects in this phase, though the broader case has already implicated former Pati regent Sudewo.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:05 WIB
Will the National Internship Scheme Be Expanded to Senior High and Vocational School Graduates? Manpower Minister Responds
Manpower Minister Yassierli says a proposal to extend the national internship scheme to senior high and vocational school graduates remains under review, partly because it could overlap with a separate national vocational training programme. For now, the internship scheme targets 150,000 university fresh graduates, while vocational training is intended for school leavers and offers different durations and allowances.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:04 WIB
Bappenas: Integrated Funding Needed to Accelerate Digital Transformation
Bappenas says combining funding from government, state-owned and regional enterprises, private companies and public-private partnerships will be essential to advance digital transformation in 2027. It also calls for aligned central and local regulations, targeted incentives and stronger digital infrastructure, data governance and skills to unlock AI’s contribution to productivity and growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:03 WIB
June Active Studio Launches Recreational Athletes Club to Make Sport a Community Space
June Active Studio has launched the Recreational Athletes Club (RAC), a multisport initiative designed to help urban residents stay active and build social connections without the pressure of professional performance targets. The project brings together Juni Goods, Bali-based Guds Bali and Tuku, reflecting the growing role of communities and local brands in Indonesia’s recreational sports culture.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:03 WIB
Prabowo Calls Forest Arsonists ‘Environmental Terrorists’
President Prabowo Subianto said deliberate forest and land fires were caused by human actions and described those responsible as environmental terrorists. He ordered law enforcement agencies, the Forestry Ministry, the military and intelligence services to investigate, warning that companies found in breach could lose their permits.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:03 WIB
As Forest and Land Fires Continue to Recur, Muhammadiyah Calls on Businesses and Law Enforcement to Be Held Accountable
Muhammadiyah has expressed concern over recurring forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, citing harm to the environment, public health, education and livelihoods. It is urging businesses to prevent fires and repair damage, while calling for transparent investigations and legal accountability for companies, individuals and anyone who obstructs enforcement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:01 WIB
OpenAI acquires start-up to strengthen its biotechnology business
OpenAI has acquired four-year-old biotechnology software start-up Orchestra Bio, adding its team and technology to the company’s life sciences AI model, Rosalind, and related research tools. The deal’s terms were not disclosed; the acquisition comes as major AI laboratories expand software offerings for industries such as pharmaceuticals.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:01 WIB
Taiwan regulator blocks Grab’s purchase of Foodpanda delivery business
Taiwan’s Fair Trade Commission has blocked Grab’s proposed US$600 million acquisition of Delivery Hero’s Foodpanda delivery business in Taiwan, saying competition harms outweigh the deal’s economic benefits. Grab expressed disappointment, while Delivery Hero noted that the transaction includes deal protections, including a break-fee arrangement subject to certain conditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:00 WIB
LAN: Civil Servants’ Competence Key to Development in Greater Papua
The National Institute of Public Administration (LAN) says strengthening civil servants’ skills, integrity and capacity for innovation is essential to successful development across Greater Papua. It is promoting human capital development plans and a corporate university model, while encouraging more local governments to measure policy quality and make evidence-based decisions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:00 WIB
Pramono Reveals Plans to Expand Transjabodetabek Services
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the provincial government is considering new Transjabodetabek routes after passenger numbers on existing services exceeded initial targets. The network now has 18 routes linking Jakarta with surrounding areas, and further expansion is intended to improve transport connectivity across the metropolitan region.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:00 WIB
Prabowo: 1,000 Friends Are Too Few, One Enemy Too Many
President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesia will maintain an independent foreign policy, seeking friendly relations with all countries while avoiding alignment with any bloc or military pact. He said the approach serves national interests while remaining consistent with Indonesia’s constitutional opposition to imperialism and colonialism.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 16:00 WIB
Former Pati Regent Sudewa Sentenced to 8.5 Years in Prison for Taking Rp1.3bn in Bribes and Rp2.1bn in Gratuities
A Semarang corruption court sentenced suspended Pati Regent Sudewa to 8.5 years in prison after finding him guilty of taking bribes and gratuities connected to railway projects and the alleged extortion of village-official candidates. The ruling also imposes a Rp300 million fine and Rp3.5 billion in compensation, while the judges rejected prosecutors’ request to bar him from holding public office.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:59 WIB
NTB Museum to Temporarily Close Permanent Exhibition Galleries from 22 October 2026
The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) State Museum will close its permanent exhibition galleries from 22 October to 17 November 2026 for a revamp, while keeping other areas open to visitors. A temporary exhibition on the province’s history and culture is planned, with the renovation expected to finish in early December and coincide with NTB’s 68th anniversary celebrations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:59 WIB
Forest and Land Fire on Mount Lawu Grows, Advancing Towards Hargo Dalem Summit
A forest and land fire on the slopes of Mount Lawu has spread from Gondosuli towards Ngargoyoso and the Hargo Dalem summit, with reports of ash reaching nearby plantations and homes. Firefighters are using water bombing and manual containment, while local teams are protecting residents’ water pipelines amid difficult weather conditions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:58 WIB
A Dozen Rental Homes in Penjaringan Destroyed by Fire After Gas Cylinder Leak
A fire triggered by a suspected leak during gas-cylinder refilling destroyed 12 rental homes, seven stalls and a pile of scrap in North Jakarta early on Wednesday. Firefighters deployed 21 engines and 110 personnel, bringing the blaze under control after nearly four hours; authorities are still assessing the losses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:57 WIB
Manpower Ministry: 2027 Minimum Wage Setting Still Follows Government Regulation No. 49/2025
The Manpower Ministry says Indonesia’s 2027 minimum wages will continue to be set under Government Regulation No. 49/2025, using inflation and economic growth alongside a specific index of 0.5–0.9. The ministry says decent living needs inform that index, while workers’ unions have proposed a 7.5–9.5 per cent increase and the final adjustment must follow statutory procedures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:57 WIB
Prabowo: We Are Now in a Situation Where We Must Survive
President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia must prioritise national and public interests as it confronts the threat of resource exploitation and smuggling. He argued that smuggling of goods ranging from narcotics and minerals to fuel and fertiliser damages the national economy and called for the country to protect its wealth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:57 WIB
Presidential Chief of Staff explains the importance of national industrialisation to workers
Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo said stronger national industrialisation and faster downstream processing could boost competitiveness, increase value added and create jobs. He called for skilled workers and harmonious labour relations, while urging workers to support President Prabowo’s development agenda and the government’s strategic programmes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:56 WIB
Baznas and Religious Affairs Ministry to Renovate 700 Private Madrasahs, Setting Aside Rp17.5 Billion
Baznas has allocated Rp17.5 billion for a 2026 programme to renovate classrooms at 700 private Islamic schools, in partnership with the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The initiative provides Rp25 million per school for improvements to comfort, cleanliness, ventilation, lighting and structural safety, while its organisers say demand far exceeds the programme’s current reach.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:56 WIB
Europe Is in a Bad Way
Protests that began over deteriorating school conditions in France have spread into broader challenges to democratic governance, fuelled by public-service failures, rising prices and economic hardship. The article describes mass demonstrations in France and a separate Spanish protest over the eviction of an elderly tenant, illustrating wider discontent across Europe.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:56 WIB
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Wiyagus Urges Stronger Role for Forensic Auditors in Preventing Corruption in the Digital Era
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called for forensic auditors to work more closely with government to detect and prevent corruption as financial fraud increasingly shifts into the digital realm. He said technology brings both opportunities for more efficient, transparent governance and new threats, including cybercrime, data manipulation and AI-enabled scams, requiring stronger auditor capacity and collaboration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:56 WIB
Nur Arning Kasih, the Creator of SOBIKU, an App for the Early Detection of Childhood Cancer
Nur Arning Tengara Kasih has been named among the top three candidates in the Health Technology Innovator category of the 2026 DPD RI Awards for developing SOBIKU Indonesia. The app supports community-level early detection of childhood cancer and has reached tens of thousands of website visitors, while training health-post volunteers and connecting families with psychosocial and practical support.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:55 WIB
Pati Regent Sudewo Sentenced to 8.5 Years in DJKA Corruption and Village Official Extortion Case
A Semarang corruption court sentenced suspended Pati Regent Sudewo to eight years and six months in prison and ordered him to pay Rp3.5 billion in compensation over corruption involving railway projects and extortion of village officials. The court also imposed a Rp300 million fine, convertible to 100 days in prison if unpaid.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:55 WIB
Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture steps up collaboration to curb violence against women and children
Coordinating Minister Sugiono is seeking stronger cross-ministry cooperation to address violence against women and children and improve their quality of life. The government is expanding regional protection services and reporting access, while using measurable indicators to track progress and promoting initiatives intended to strengthen women’s economic resilience in villages.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:55 WIB
Many Changes: Here Are BI’s Decisions at the October 2026 Board of Governors Meeting
Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark BI Rate at 5.75% at its October meeting, while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5.00% and announcing measures to ease bank liquidity and support lending. It also strengthened foreign-exchange interventions and hedging incentives, extended zero-down-payment rules for property and vehicle financing through 2027, and advanced plans to expand QRIS cross-border payments and other digital payment systems.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:54 WIB
Tabanan Police Chief Hears Residents’ Concerns at Coffee Shop, Fuel and Traffic in Focus
Tabanan Police Chief AKBP I Putu Bayu Pati met around 30 residents in Dauh Peken to hear concerns including fuel shortages, traffic diversions and waste management. Residents also raised questions about the Free Nutritious Meals programme, village-head elections and the Merah Putih Cooperative, with the police chief pledging to coordinate follow-up with relevant agencies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:54 WIB
Central Java MUI’s LPPOM Urges Support for Halal Certification among Micro and Small Businesses
LPPOM Central Java is calling for stronger guidance to help micro and small businesses understand and complete halal-certification requirements, including addressing documentation, ingredient-sourcing and financing obstacles. The adjusted transition period, which gives certain product categories until 17 October 2028, is an opportunity for businesses to prepare, while MUI’s regional network is expected to expand outreach and assistance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:54 WIB
Paid up to Rp10 Million, Operators Were Barred from Leaving Tramadol Factory
Police say operators at an illegal tramadol factory in Sukoharjo were paid Rp5 million to Rp10 million a month but were not allowed to leave the premises. The factory allegedly produced medicines without BPOM standards or clear legal status; suspects face charges carrying up to 12 years in prison and a Rp5 billion fine.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:52 WIB
Prabowo to Red and White Cabinet: Thank You for Your Teamwork Over the Past Two Years
President Prabowo Subianto praised his ministers for their hard work and cohesion during the government’s first two years, saying their performance was a source of pride. He stressed that effective teamwork matters more than individual brilliance and described the ministers as among the nation’s finest.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:52 WIB
Communications Ministry stresses need to strengthen a sovereign, self-reliant AI ecosystem
Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says the country must build a sovereign and self-reliant AI ecosystem rather than remain merely a market for global technology. The ministry emphasises national control over rules, data and strategic decisions, while developing domestic capabilities and pursuing international collaboration that builds local capacity rather than dependency.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:52 WIB
Two Teenagers Arrested After Motorcyclist Is Macheted, Losing a Finger in Imogiri, Bantul
Police in Bantul have arrested two 17-year-old students in connection with a machete attack that severed an 18-year-old motorcyclist’s finger in Imogiri. Investigators say the group had been drinking and set out on a planned dawn attack; the suspects are being held at a youth rehabilitation centre and face up to nine years in prison.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:51 WIB
Prabowo: We Should Be Proud of the Government’s Achievements in Two Years
President Prabowo Subianto said the government had delivered tangible results during its first two years and urged ministers to take pride in them without becoming complacent. He highlighted enforcement against smuggling—including narcotics and goods that threaten domestic industries—and efforts to protect Indonesia’s natural resources and subsidised commodities from illicit exports.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:50 WIB
China Condemns US Ban on DeepSeek AI
China has condemned a US order requiring federal agencies to stop using DeepSeek, accusing Washington of politicising science, technology and trade under an expansive definition of national security. The dispute comes as China’s AI sector rapidly narrows the gap with the US, intensifying concerns and accusations over the use of American models to train Chinese systems.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:50 WIB
Pati Regent Sudewo Sentenced to 8.5 Years in Prison
A court in Semarang has sentenced suspended Pati Regent Sudewo to eight years and six months in prison and fined him Rp300 million for bribery and gratification linked to railway projects and the sale of village official posts. The sentence matches the public prosecutor’s demand, although the prosecution had also sought Rp3.6 billion in restitution.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:50 WIB
Forestry Ministry stresses importance of public participation in tackling forest and land fires
Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry says public involvement is essential to tackling forest and land fires, citing the social and cultural dimensions of fire incidents. It aims to establish 500 Fire-Aware Community groups, equivalent to 15,000 members, while fires had affected about 1,024 hectares as of 20 October 2026, with more than half still burning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:50 WIB
Cabinet Secretary Presents Two-Year Government Achievements at Start of Cabinet Meeting
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya opened a plenary meeting marking the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration by presenting a video of reported government achievements. The figures covered education, healthcare, housing, infrastructure, energy and state-asset management, including claims of Rp54.8 trillion in state assets saved and Rp218.3 trillion in BLBI-related bond debt repaid.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:50 WIB
Manpower Minister Issues Stern Warning, Says National Internship Scheme Must Not Be Used to Replace Workers
Manpower Minister Yassierli says the government will monitor the National Internship Programme to ensure companies use interns for skills development rather than as substitutes for regular employees. The warning follows concerns from CORE Indonesia that government-funded stipends could make the scheme a low-cost recruitment channel, even as the programme offers work experience to recent graduates.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:49 WIB
West Jakarta Police Solve 43 Theft Cases in a Month, Arresting 53 Suspects
West Jakarta police say they solved 43 street-crime cases between September and October 2026, arresting 53 people suspected of involvement. The cases include motorcycle thefts, robberies and burglaries, with police also investigating alleged intimidation by debt collectors and seizing weapons, vehicles and other evidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:49 WIB
Prabowo Opens Cabinet Meeting, Highlights Global Challenges
President Prabowo Subianto opened a plenary cabinet meeting marking the government’s first two years, praising ministers for their teamwork while outlining geopolitical, economic and climate-related challenges. He said global tensions and economic interdependence affect all countries, while Indonesia’s position on the Pacific Ring of Fire brings both disaster risks and opportunities, including fertile soil and valuable minerals.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:48 WIB
OVO and Superbank Partnership Makes Transactions Easier Without Multiple Apps
OVO and Superbank are integrating their services to let customers access digital banking features through a wider ecosystem, reducing the need to download and use multiple apps. The partnership reflects growing demand for e-wallet and digital banking services as Indonesia’s digital economy expands towards US$100 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:48 WIB
BI: Hedging incentives since June support US$9.9 billion in inflows
Bank Indonesia says hedging incentives introduced in June 2026, including swap and DNDF instruments, helped attract US$9.9 billion in foreign capital by 20 October. The central bank says it will continue using monetary tools to stabilise the rupiah, which weakened in October amid geopolitical tensions, tighter US monetary policy and foreign investor sentiment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:47 WIB
Bogor Regency Government to Cover Treatment Costs for 103 Cisarua Junior High School Pupils Suspected of MBG Food Poisoning
Bogor Regency is covering medical costs for 103 junior high school pupils who fell ill after eating food provided under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Officials said the pupils were in stable condition, with symptoms including nausea and dizziness, as health workers monitored them at Cisarua Lung Hospital.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:46 WIB
ASDP to Cover Losses Suffered by Passengers of KM Batumandi
ASDP Indonesia Ferry says passengers affected by the fire aboard KM Batumandi will receive insurance cover based on their losses, and is coordinating with Jasa Raharja to assess claims. All 420 passengers were evacuated safely; six people received treatment for minor injuries or other effects and have since been discharged. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Committee and police.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:46 WIB
Iran Refuses to Transfer Enriched Uranium Abroad
Iran has ruled out allowing any nuclear material, including its stockpile of enriched uranium, to leave the country, calling it a national asset intended for domestic use. The statement comes as diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington remain stalled, with Pakistan and Qatar seeking to revive negotiations and disputes over Iran’s uranium stockpile unresolved.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:46 WIB
PDI-P Seeks to Pass Bung Karno’s Legacy of Struggle on to Young People
PDI-P’s Party School says it aims to pass on the values championed by the country’s founding fathers, particularly Bung Karno, while teaching young participants about Pancasila and the Constitution. The programme is also intended to bridge the communication gap between older political leaders and young people and prepare future leaders through a gradual cadre-building process.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:45 WIB
Penglipuran in Bali named among world’s 20 most beautiful villages in 2026
Condé Nast Traveler has recognised Penglipuran in Bangli Regency for its cultural preservation, traditional architecture and clean environment, marking the second consecutive year the village has appeared on the magazine’s beauty lists. The recognition highlights the community’s efforts to balance tourism growth with protecting its cultural identity and environmental sustainability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:44 WIB
Free Nutritious Meals Programme helps meet the food needs of pupils at SLB B YPAC Banda Aceh
Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is helping pupils at SLB B YPAC Banda Aceh, including those who travel long distances and arrive without breakfast. A teacher says the shared meals also support families with limited means and provide an opportunity to teach good habits, while stressing that food quality and pupils’ differing preferences should be taken into account.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:43 WIB
Driving the Local Economy through Global Investment with BRI
Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has partnered with the Foreign Ministry to connect international investors with Indonesian business opportunities and help domestic companies and MSMEs access overseas markets. A forum in Jakarta brought together diplomats, government representatives and business chambers to explore partnerships and investment that could support national growth and deliver wider benefits to local businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:43 WIB
Police Name Five Suspect Fortified Rice Brands in Consumer Protection Probe
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Department has opened an investigation into five fortified rice brands after laboratory tests found their nutritional content and quality did not match the packaging claims. The producer, PT DTA, made an estimated 2,500 tonnes between April and August 2026, with production valued at up to Rp69.995 billion; the company and its alleged conduct face potential consumer-protection penalties.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:43 WIB
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Officially Opens Plenary Cabinet Meeting at the Palace
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya opened a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace, attended by ministers and senior officials. The session is focused on reviewing the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming’s administration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:42 WIB
Repeated Ship Accidents Raise Questions over Seaworthiness Certification
A senior Indonesian MP has questioned the reliability of ship seaworthiness certificates issued by state-owned classification body BKI, following a series of maritime accidents including the fire aboard KMP Batumandi. He called on the Transport Ministry to revise a regulation that gives BKI a sole role in classifying passenger ships, arguing that closer oversight and reform are needed to address systemic safety concerns.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:39 WIB
CIMB Niaga Chief Responds to Reports of Possible IDX Delisting
CIMB Niaga is assessing options to meet Indonesia’s 15% free-float requirement, with its current public float estimated at about 8.5%, and says it remains committed to complying with regulations. Reports say parent company CIMB Group is considering a delisting, partly because it believes the bank’s shares are undervalued; the news sent BNGA shares up 11.29% to Rp1,730 in Wednesday’s session.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:39 WIB
BNPB: 60 Hectares of Forest Burned in Palolo, Sigi
A forest fire has burned 60 hectares in Palolo, Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, with authorities suspecting it was sparked by community activity involving damar trees. Difficult terrain near the buffer zone of Lore Lindu National Park is hampering efforts by joint teams to extinguish the flames and contain the fire.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:38 WIB
Bareskrim Investigates Suspected Fraud Over Fortified Rice Quality Claims
Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has opened a formal investigation into five fortified-rice brands after laboratory tests found their nutritional content did not match the packaging labels. The brands are made by one company, PT DTA, and investigators have seized 6.4 tonnes of rice and a rice-milling production line; no suspects have yet been named.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:38 WIB
Government Offers 100% VAT Relief on Flights During Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
The government will cover 100% of VAT on eligible domestic economy-class scheduled flights during the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year holiday period. The relief applies only to the ticket base fare and fuel surcharge, while charges for optional services such as extra baggage and seat selection remain payable by passengers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:38 WIB
Kadin: Employment Protection Law Should Safeguard Productivity and Well-being
Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) says the proposed new employment law should support workers’ productivity and well-being while establishing a wage framework acceptable to both employees and businesses. Kadin also urges improvements in workplace culture and wider access to competency certification, as it awaits the government’s rules for setting minimum-wage increases, including for 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:38 WIB
Prabowo on Two Years in Government: My Assessment Is Quite Encouraging
President Prabowo Subianto praised the performance of his ministers and officials at a plenary Cabinet meeting marking two years of his administration, saying their work had been impressive. He cited global conflicts and trade tensions, Indonesia’s location in the Ring of Fire, and climate and weather changes among the challenges facing the government.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:38 WIB
Alvonsus Accused of Bribing Lombok Barat Regent with Rp1.6 Billion, a Car and Air Tickets
Prosecutors say businessman Alvonsus Gani gave inactive Lombok Barat Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini more than Rp2.07 billion in cash, goods and travel and hotel benefits to secure government projects. Gani admitted to the bribery charge and did not challenge the indictment; the case is linked to alleged manipulation of tenders worth Rp17.9 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:37 WIB
Interior Ministry Secretary-General Urges Newly Appointed Officials to Conduct Thorough Reviews and Set Measurable Targets
Interior Ministry Secretary-General Tomsi Tohir has appointed four senior officials and urged them to review their units’ performance, identify shortcomings and set measurable improvement targets. He said programmes should be judged by tangible outcomes and public benefit, not merely by completed activities or administrative paperwork.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:37 WIB
Indonesia records $660m in October capital inflows after Q3 outflow
Indonesia recorded a net foreign capital outflow of $80 million in the third quarter of 2026, before portfolio investment returned to a $660 million net inflow from 1 to 19 October, Bank Indonesia said. A larger trade surplus and $146.3 billion in foreign exchange reserves support external resilience, while the central bank forecasts a 2026 current account deficit of 1.2–1.6% of GDP and economic growth of 4.9–5.7%.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:36 WIB
112 Schools and 10 Offices in South Jakarta Hold Simultaneous Earthquake Drill
A total of 112 schools and 10 government offices in South Jakarta took part in a simultaneous earthquake preparedness drill. The exercise tested evacuation procedures and building readiness, with the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency saying regular practice can strengthen emergency response and reduce the risk of casualties.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:35 WIB
Russian Oil in the Spotlight as US Secretary of State Visits Indian Refinery
Marco Rubio’s visit to Reliance Industries’ Jamnagar refinery comes as Washington and New Delhi struggle to finalise a trade deal and the US weighs sanctions over India’s purchases of Russian oil. The visit highlights the refinery’s importance to global fuel supplies, while shifting US policy and restrictions affecting Indian workers and businesses are adding to concerns about trust in the bilateral relationship.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:35 WIB
Interior Ministry Secretary-General Urges Newly Appointed Officials to Set Measurable Targets
Interior Ministry Secretary-General Tomsi Tohir has appointed four senior officials and called on them to assess existing programmes, identify shortcomings and set measurable improvement targets. He stressed that success should be judged by tangible results and public benefit, not simply completed activities or administrative paperwork.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:35 WIB
Apple to Spend Rp1.8 Trillion on US Content for Foldable Phone
Apple has pledged to buy up to US$100 million worth of titanium over three years from Pennsylvania-based Perryman Company, as it expands US manufacturing under its American Manufacturing Programme. The move supports components for products including its rumoured first foldable iPhone, while Apple is also expanding US production of camera films, chips and protective glass.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:33 WIB
Global Tipping Points Conference 2026 concludes in Malaysia with Kuala Lumpur Declaration and new roadmap for Asia
The Global Tipping Points Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur concluded with a declaration endorsed by 521 participants from 37 countries, urging coordinated action to accelerate positive societal and environmental change. Organisers also committed to produce the first Asia Tipping Points Report by 2028 and said regional perspectives will inform the next global conference in 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:32 WIB
Prabowo Thanks the Red and White Cabinet
President Prabowo Subianto thanked the Red and White Cabinet for its work and teamwork during the first two years of his administration, speaking at a plenary cabinet meeting in Jakarta. He said effective cooperation mattered more than individual brilliance and praised cabinet members as among Indonesia’s finest citizens.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:31 WIB
BI Holds Its Rate: The 10 Countries with the Highest Interest Rates in the World
Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% on 21 October 2026, well below rates in countries such as Venezuela, Türkiye and Argentina. The article says exceptionally high rates often reflect efforts to curb inflation and support currencies, but can also raise borrowing costs and weigh on consumption, investment and economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:30 WIB
Syahganda Highlights Achievements of Prabowo Government’s First Two Years, with Farmers’ Welfare and Workers’ Wages Rising
Government Communications Agency head Syahganda Nainggolan cited 5.61 per cent economic growth in the first quarter of 2026, alongside increases in farmers’ terms of trade and workers’ wages, as indicators of progress under President Prabowo Subianto. He also acknowledged that around 11 million people from the middle class have slipped into the lower-middle-income group, saying this would be a government focus in 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:30 WIB
98 Resolution Network Highlights Prabowo-Gibran Government’s Actions Over Two Years
The 98 Resolution Network, a volunteer group supporting President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, has outlined policies it says have advanced economic equality and public welfare during their first two years in office. Its claims span natural-resource management, finance, food and housing programmes, education, healthcare and legislation, including the establishment of Danantara and measures it says curb digital transport app commissions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:29 WIB
The Grandeur of Hagia Sophia and Çamlıca Mosque in Istanbul
Istanbul’s historic mosques and places of worship draw visitors despite autumn rain, with Hagia Sophia standing out for its Byzantine architecture and Islamic features. Its changing roles—as a church, mosque and museum—reflect the city’s layered religious and political history.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:29 WIB
MP Rejects Luhut’s Proposal to Remove State Losses from Corruption Offences
Rudianto Lallo, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission III, has rejected Luhut Binsar Panjaitan’s proposal to exclude state financial losses from the definition of corruption, arguing it does not fit Indonesia’s legal and anti-corruption framework. Luhut says President Prabowo supports a National Economic Council study based on the UN convention, which he argues would align Indonesia with international standards and avoid burdening businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:27 WIB
Government steps up healthcare support for residents affected by forest and land fires
The government is strengthening health monitoring and protection for people exposed to smoke from forest and land fires, with an emphasis on mask use and coordination with the Ministry of Health. Measures include air-quality monitoring, health warnings, distance-learning readiness and expanded medical services and supplies, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:26 WIB
Apple Says 100 Components for iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro Are Made in the US
Apple says 100 components for its iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro are now manufactured in the United States, following new and expanded partnerships with Perryman and Qnity Electronics. The agreements include US-made titanium for the iPhone Duo and advanced film for the iPhone 18 Pro camera, as Apple also plans for Corning to make all cover glass for iPhones and Apple Watches sold worldwide by the end of 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:26 WIB
PDI-P Urges Gen Z to Inherit the Spirit of the Youth Pledge
PDI-P’s party school chief, Komarudin Watubun, has urged young Indonesians to uphold the unity embodied in the 1928 Youth Pledge. The party’s programme combines political discussion, ethical dialogue and cultural activities, while encouraging Gen Z to create digital content grounded in ideology, morality and nationalism.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:25 WIB
BBC to close three television and radio channels amid cost pressures
The BBC plans to move BBC Three and BBC Scotland to online-only services and discontinue Radio 4 Extra as it pursues £500 million in savings over two years. The broadcaster says urgent cost pressures require difficult choices and a tighter focus on services with the greatest audience impact.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:24 WIB
PDI-P Backs End to Automatic Grade Promotion, Citing Primary Pupils Who Cannot Read Fluently
PDI-P legislator MY Esti Wijayati has backed a proposal to end automatic grade promotion from the 2027/2028 academic year, while calling for further discussion before it is introduced. She argues that promotion should reflect pupils’ mastery of minimum learning standards, pointing to primary-school children who still struggle to read and suggesting automatic promotion may weaken students’ and parents’ motivation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:23 WIB
Pramono urges Jakarta to speed up projects to avoid year-end APBD spending rush
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has urged city departments to complete planned projects progressively, after expenditure from the 2026 regional budget reached 54.39% of its allocation by the end of September. He warned that postponing work until November and December risks creating a year-end bottleneck, and said transparent budget management should be judged by its benefits to residents and public services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:23 WIB
Police Investigate Rp9 Billion in Cash Found at Sukoharjo Tramadol Factory
Police have found Rp9 billion in cash, vehicle ownership documents and securities while investigating two illegal tramadol factories in Sukoharjo, Central Java. Sixteen people have been detained, while investigators are pursuing two suspected owners and examining whether the assets are connected to the factories’ operations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:23 WIB
Monitoring MSCI’s Impact, BI Governor Says: ‘We Held Two Days of Very Intensive Discussions’
Bank Indonesia held two days of intensive discussions at governor level in response to MSCI’s assessment of Indonesia’s capital market and pressure on the rupiah. The central bank is monitoring capital outflows and plans targeted measures, including enhanced hedging-cost incentives, to attract foreign funds back into domestic assets and support market stability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:23 WIB
Pramono: Jakarta Inflation at 2.71%, ‘Well Managed’
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the capital’s inflation is under control at between 2.5% and 2.71%, below the national rate of 3.28%. The Jakarta administration is focusing on affordable prices, food-stock availability and smooth distribution, while monitoring the impact of chilli and rice prices.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:23 WIB
Gibran and Raja Juli Attend Second Anniversary Cabinet Meeting at the Palace
Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended a cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace marking two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. Ministers and agency heads were expected to report on the government’s achievements as the President reviewed its performance.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:22 WIB
PII Reviews PT Pindad with Delegation of ASEAN Engineers
The Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) and engineers from across ASEAN visited PT Pindad in Bandung during CAFEO 44 to learn about the company’s defence and security technologies. PII chair Ilham Akbar Habibie said domestic propellant production could strengthen Indonesia’s defence-industrial independence, while Pindad expressed readiness to collaborate with professional engineers on product development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:22 WIB
Forestry Minister announces permit suspensions for six companies over forest fires in Central Kalimantan
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said permits for six more companies had been suspended and ecological restoration ordered in connection with forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. The latest action brings the total number of companies sanctioned to 32, with authorities also pursuing criminal proceedings against 125 legal subjects, including companies and individuals.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:22 WIB
Yemen’s Central Bank Freezes Accounts and Assets Linked to the Houthis
Yemen’s Central Bank has ordered financial institutions to freeze the accounts and assets of 135 individuals, entities and vessels linked to the Houthis, following their inclusion on an official terrorism list. The measures prohibit transactions with those listed and require institutions to report their holdings, amid escalating conflict and moves by Yemen’s internationally recognised government to criminalise Houthi activities and funding.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:22 WIB
France Extends Curfews in Several Cities as Protests and Rioting Continue
France has extended curfews in Paris, Lyon and Marseille after protests over rising living costs and deteriorating public services escalated into clashes, arson and looting. At least 2,400 people have been arrested since the weekend, as authorities impose movement and assembly restrictions to restore order.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:21 WIB
Jasa Marga Weighs Share Buyback Option Amid Market Conditions
Indonesia’s state-owned toll-road operator Jasa Marga is monitoring capital-market developments and says it is considering a possible share buyback. Any move would be assessed against liquidity needs, expansion plans and the company’s financial fundamentals, with further information to be disclosed in line with regulations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:21 WIB
Indonesia targets 17.6 million tourist visits through tourism SEZs
Indonesia aims to attract 16–17.6 million foreign visitors in 2026 and earn about US$24 billion in foreign exchange, with six tourism special economic zones expected to contribute to the target. Officials outlined projected visitor numbers and economic benefits for several zones by 2027, while stressing the need for coordinated promotion, stronger workforce skills and improved transport connectivity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:20 WIB
Minibus Carrying Kindergarten Pupils to Hajj Ritual Practice Crashes into Bus in Pandeglang; Brake Failure Suspected
A minibus carrying kindergarten pupils to a Hajj ritual practice in Pandeglang crashed into a coach and a motorbike after suspected brake failure, injuring five people. The injured were taken to Berkah Regional Hospital for further treatment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:20 WIB
Manpower Minister’s Remarks Reveal the Future of National Apprenticeship and Vocational Programmes in 2027
Manpower Minister Yassierli says Indonesia will continue its national apprenticeship programme in 2027, targeting around 150,000 participants, alongside a vocational programme for 300,000. The ministry plans to improve programme governance and broaden access across the country following its 2026 implementation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:19 WIB
Digitalisation Makes Life Easier for Aceh Residents: Shopping Is Now Just a Click Away
Online shopping and improved internet access are giving residents of Pulau Breueh, Aceh, more choice while reducing the time and cost of buying goods. The growth in digital transactions has also created local payment and top-up services, although mobile coverage remains uneven.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:18 WIB
Pramono says food price monitoring helps keep Jakarta inflation in check
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said regular monitoring of food prices, smoother distribution and adequate supplies have helped keep the capital’s annual inflation below the national rate. Inflation stood at 2.71 per cent in September 2026, compared with 3.28 per cent nationally, although chillies and, to a lesser extent, rice remained sources of price pressure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:18 WIB
Jasa Raharja Guarantees Treatment Costs for 11 KMP Batumandi Fire Victims
State-owned insurer Jasa Raharja has issued guarantees to cover medical treatment for 11 people injured in the KMP Batumandi fire near Merak Port. The company says it is coordinating with hospitals and authorities under Indonesia’s compulsory passenger accident insurance law, while all 420 passengers and 40 crew members were safely evacuated.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:16 WIB
Lombok Tengah Residents Turn Waste into Fertiliser and Valuable Crafts
Residents of Segala Anyar village in Central Lombok are turning animal waste and recyclable materials into organic fertiliser and products for sale through a community-run Waste Station supported by Mataram University. The multi-year initiative aims to improve local incomes and environmental awareness, with plans to develop crafts, expand marketing and establish the village as a waste-management-based educational tourism destination.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:16 WIB
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Leaders to Plan for Green Jobs
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged governors, mayors and regents to develop green employment tailored to local needs, rather than relying solely on conventional industries. He said Indonesia has an estimated 8–13 million potential green jobs, with the figure projected to reach 72 million by 2029, and stressed that economic growth must not come at the expense of the environment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:15 WIB
Elon Musk Considers Tesla-SpaceX Merger as Shares Soar
Elon Musk says the boards of Tesla and SpaceX have formed special committees to discuss a possible merger, while SpaceX reported sharply higher third-quarter revenue and profits. Growth was driven by Starlink connectivity and its rapidly expanding AI business, although Musk’s target of US$500 billion to US$1 trillion in annual recurring revenue by the end of 2027 far exceeds analysts’ forecasts.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:14 WIB
KMP Batumandi Was Carrying 89 Vehicles; Police Open Lost Property Desk
The KMP Batumandi ferry, which caught fire near Merak Port, was carrying 420 passengers and 89 vehicles. Police have opened a desk to record lost valuables and vehicles destroyed in the fire, while 11 passengers received medical attention and ASDP arranged onward transport for those travelling to Greater Jakarta.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:14 WIB
Bali Police Urge Victims of Overseas Job Scam to Come Forward
Bali Police have arrested two suspects accused of posing as agents arranging documents and visas for overseas work, but so far only two victims have been identified. Investigators are checking for further victims and possible links to a wider network, and are urging anyone affected by the same alleged scheme to report it.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:13 WIB
Suspected MBG Food Poisoning Cases Among Cisarua, Bogor, Middle School Pupils Rise to 103
A total of 103 pupils from a state middle school in Cisarua, Bogor, were treated after suspected food poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto said their condition was stable, with authorities observing them before discharge and planning follow-up checks at their homes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:12 WIB
From Willem’s Toren III Lighthouse, Bustami Opens a Window on the World
Improved mobile and internet coverage on Aceh’s Pulo Aceh has helped fishermen check prices, negotiate better sales and stay in contact with family and emergency services. Government-backed towers and public internet access points have expanded connectivity across the islands, though signal speeds still vary.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:12 WIB
Coordinating Minister Stresses Role of Parents and Schools in Preventing Bullying of Children
Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar says schools and parents must work together to prevent bullying, rather than communicating only after incidents occur. He calls for early, coordinated steps to protect potential victims, address children who bully others and make educational settings safer for all children.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:12 WIB
West Kalimantan Police Handling 33 Corporate Forest and Land Fire Cases
West Kalimantan Police and district and municipal units are handling 101 forest and land fire cases, including 33 involving corporations and 41 involving individuals. Of the total, 56 have reached completion, while the rest remain under investigation or inquiry; police stressed that corporate involvement alone does not establish liability, which must be determined through legal proceedings and evidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:11 WIB
Video: Superbank Strengthens Digitalisation to Serve Millions of OVO-Grab Customers
Superbank is expanding integrated digital banking services through the OVO and Grab ecosystems, with 3.2 million users already accessing the services and transactions continuing to rise. The bank is investing in digital technology and AI-assisted credit assessment while partners promote financial literacy and transparent lending.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:10 WIB
KPK Writes to TNI Commander over Soldiers Suspected of Involvement in BNPB Corruption
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has sent TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto details of an alleged bribery and conflict-of-interest case involving disaster-response funds at BNPB, including suspected involvement by military personnel. Five people have been named suspects; the KPK expects the TNI Military Police Centre to follow up, while Indonesia Corruption Watch has urged investigators to examine senior decision-makers as well as technical officials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:10 WIB
Minimum Wage for 2027 Proposed to Rise by Up to 9.5%, Manpower Ministry Says
Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry says the proposed 7.5–9.5% increase in the 2027 minimum wage cannot be applied uniformly and must reflect local economic and labour-market conditions. The proposal, put forward by the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation, will be weighed against inflation, economic growth, decent living needs, productivity and businesses’ capacity under the applicable formula.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:10 WIB
Forestry Minister Says 32 Companies Have Been Sanctioned over Forest and Land Fires
The Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on six more companies in Central Kalimantan over areas affected by forest and land fires, bringing the total sanctioned to 32. The minister said 120 cases are being processed and that the ministry will coordinate with the police to align investigations and determine which cases may proceed jointly or criminally.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:08 WIB
BI Holds Interest Rates as Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp18,000 per US Dollar
The rupiah weakened 0.11% to Rp18,000 per US dollar, while Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75%, contrary to most surveyed institutions’ expectations of a 25-basis-point hike. BI raised the Deposit Facility rate to 5.00% and cited external pressures, while reporting that its measures had attracted US$9.9 billion in capital inflows since June.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:07 WIB
Police: All KMP Batumandi Passengers Rescued Safely
Banten Police said everyone aboard the KMP Batumandi was safely evacuated after the ferry caught fire near Merak Port, with injured passengers taken to nearby medical facilities. ASDP Indonesia Ferry is arranging onward transport, while police have set up a service post to assist passengers who lost valuables or important documents; the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:07 WIB
BGN Digitises Local Supply Chains to Supply Free Nutritious Meals Programme
Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is digitally integrating local supply chains to improve the speed and efficiency of supplies for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The agency says the MBG 2.0 expansion will also strengthen local staffing and oversight, particularly in remote areas and regions with high stunting prevalence; the programme currently serves more than 57.4 million beneficiaries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:07 WIB
On Haze, Malaysia Respects Indonesia’s Sovereignty, but…
Malaysia’s Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability says the country respects Indonesia’s sovereignty while insisting it must defend Malaysians’ rights in response to transboundary pollution. Malaysia says it will address the haze through regional diplomacy, operational coordination and long-term strategic cooperation, including continued work with Indonesia under the ASEAN haze pollution agreement.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:05 WIB
Airlangga Targets 17.6 Million Foreign Tourists by Leveraging Tourism Special Economic Zones
Indonesia is targeting 16–17.6 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2026, generating about US$24 billion in foreign-exchange earnings, with six tourism special economic zones expected to help deliver the goal. The government is also seeking stronger promotion and transport links; cumulative investment across all 25 special economic zones has reached Rp382.1 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:05 WIB
MSCI Puts Pressure on Indonesia’s Stock Market: BI Governor’s Plan to Bring Back Foreign Capital
Bank Indonesia is monitoring capital outflows following MSCI’s assessment of Indonesia’s capital market, while judging the rupiah’s pressure to remain relatively normal amid weak regional conditions. The central bank plans targeted incentives—including cheaper hedging and liquidity measures—to attract foreign inflows and support financial stability and economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:05 WIB
GoTo Launches Local 27-Billion-Parameter LLM to Strengthen AI Ecosystem
GoTo has released an open-source, 27-billion-parameter language model built to understand Indonesian and several regional languages, with free access for businesses, universities, researchers and public institutions. Supported by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, the initiative aims to make AI more responsive to local needs and broaden domestic capacity to develop the technology.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:04 WIB
Super Typhoon Champi Detected Near Indonesia, BMKG Issues Warning
BMKG says Category 5 Typhoon Champi, east of the Philippines, could affect Indonesian waters despite being forecast to weaken and move away from the country. It expects moderate to high waves in waters around Maluku, Talaud and Papua, while Japanese authorities are also preparing for the storm’s potential approach.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:03 WIB
Permits of Six More Companies Suspended over Forest and Land Fires, Bringing Total to 32
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the government has suspended the permits of six more companies over forest and land fires, taking the total sanctioned to 32. The affected concessions cover 1.93 million hectares, and the government has ordered ecosystem restoration while warning that companies could also face criminal proceedings.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:02 WIB
Youth Ministry to Create Four Creative Spaces at Indonesia Youth Summit
The Ministry of Youth and Sports will organise four activity areas at the Indonesia Youth Summit 2026 in Jakarta on 29–30 October. The programme will bring young people together with policymakers, showcase youth innovation and enterprise, explore technology and mental health, and offer platforms for creative expression and networking.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:02 WIB
Two Years of Prabowo’s Government: Rocky Gerung Gives It a Finger Heart
As President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka mark two years in office, presidential advisory council member Rocky Gerung said the milestone made an evaluation necessary, then offered a finger-heart gesture instead of a verbal score. A cabinet meeting was scheduled at the Presidential Palace to coordinate, integrate and monitor government programmes across ministries and agencies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:02 WIB
Laut Bercerita: Loss, Young Voices and Memory Meet on the Big Screen
The film Laut Bercerita revisits young people’s activism during Indonesia’s political climate in the 1990s, while foregrounding the families and loved ones affected by disappearance and uncertainty. Its producers say the story is also a collective effort to preserve memory, with the experiences of Biru Laut’s family carrying significance beyond the historical events depicted.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:02 WIB
JCI Rebounds as Investors Welcome BI’s Decision to Hold Its Policy Rate
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rebounded after investors welcomed Bank Indonesia’s decision to keep its policy rate at 5.75 per cent, alongside bargain-hunting and market reforms. Analysts cautioned that the recovery remains fragile amid concerns over MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market classification, rupiah stability and the need for sustained foreign buying and improved market transparency.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:01 WIB
Data Centres Flood Indonesia’s Industrial Parks, with Microsoft the Biggest Buyer
Data-centre companies accounted for 85.35% of PT Puradelta Lestari’s (DMAS) major-buyer land sales through September 2026, led by Microsoft Operations Indonesia at Rp795.96 billion. The company said data-centre demand drove industrial land sales and helped lift its nine-month operating revenue to Rp2.65 trillion, nearly 3.4 times the year-earlier level.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 15:00 WIB
Customs Destroys 11 Million Illegal Cigarettes Worth Rp23.1 Billion in East Nusa Tenggara
Customs officials and prosecutors have destroyed 11 million cigarettes bearing counterfeit excise stamps, seized from a warehouse in North Central Timor in December 2025. Three Chinese nationals were each sentenced to three years in prison in connection with the case; the seized goods were valued at Rp23.1 billion, with excise duties amounting to Rp8.734 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:59 WIB
Prabowo to Hold Plenary Cabinet Meeting This Afternoon
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to chair a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta, with ministers and agency heads arriving from around 2pm. The meeting, set for 3pm, is expected to review the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration; the industry minister said he had prepared a report for the President.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:58 WIB
Police Shooting Police Case: Metro Police Apply Premeditated Murder Charge
Jakarta Metro Police have charged Bharada Andika Rahmadani with premeditated murder over the fatal shooting of his junior colleague, Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez Lawai. Investigators say they are still examining the motive, possible bullying and any involvement by others, while a separate police professional-standards process is also under way.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:58 WIB
Jakarta MRT to Serve Passengers from 3am to Support JRF 2026
Jakarta MRT will extend its operating hours on 24–25 October 2026, opening from 3am to support travel to the myBCA Jakarta Running Festival. It also plans free rides for festival participants and projects that about 32,608 of the event’s roughly 37,000 participants will use the service.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:58 WIB
After KMP Batumandi Fire, Crews Cool the Vessel Before Investigating the Cause
Eight vessels from the joint search-and-rescue team continued cooling the passenger ship KMP Batumandi with water cannons in the waters off Merak Port after a fire on Tuesday. Authorities have yet to establish the cause and are investigating.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:58 WIB
Prabowo Agrees to Luhut’s Proposal to Change the Definition of Corruption; Here Is the Law Minister’s Response
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas said a proposal to redefine corruption would be discussed later and that the government was awaiting President Prabowo Subianto’s instructions. National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said Prabowo had agreed with the council’s study, which would shift the focus from state losses to bribery, citing the UN Convention against Corruption.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:56 WIB
IGIP Enables 19 Young People from Sambalagi and Werea to Learn Mandarin in China
International Green Industrial Park (IGIP) has sent 19 young people from two villages in Morowali, Central Sulawesi, to China for a two-month training programme that includes Mandarin lessons and visits to industrial facilities. The initiative aims to build local skills and broaden career prospects, while introducing participants to circular-economy practices and new-energy materials industries.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:56 WIB
PSIS Supporters Banned from Six Laskar Mahesa Jenar Away Matches after Ciamis Incident
PSSI’s Disciplinary Committee has banned PSIS Semarang from bringing away supporters to six matches and fined the club Rp15 million following disturbances around its match against PSGC Ciamis. The sanctions also include a Rp20 million fine for PSGC, while I.League says repeat offences could lead to harsher penalties, including points deductions or lifetime stadium bans for individual supporters.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:56 WIB
DDMF: Strategic investment must encompass long-term economic resilience
Danantara Development Management Fund (DDMF) says strategic investment should be assessed by its lasting development impact, including productive capacity, quality jobs, industrial innovation and regional equity—not solely financial returns. The fund is developing a modelling framework to trace these effects over time and says catalytic capital can help reduce risk and attract private and institutional investment while safeguarding macroeconomic sustainability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:54 WIB
Ministers Arrive at Palace for Plenary Cabinet Meeting
President Prabowo Subianto is holding a plenary cabinet meeting, with ministers and members of the Presidential Advisory Council arriving at the palace. The meeting comes one day after the Prabowo-Gibran administration marked two years in office, although officials said they did not yet know whether it would include a performance review.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:54 WIB
French Fighter Jet Crashes During Training Exercise, Killing One Crew Member
A French Mirage 2000D crashed during a training flight near Nancy, killing at least one crew member while another remains missing. The cause is unknown, and the incident renews attention on the aircraft’s safety record as France plans to keep the fleet in service into the 2030s.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:53 WIB
Kenya Confirms Ninth Ebola Case, All Linked to One Cluster
Kenya has confirmed a ninth Ebola case, bringing the country’s total to nine, including one death; all cases remain linked to a single cluster, with no evidence of wider transmission. Authorities have expanded contact tracing and medical preparedness, but have not imposed restrictions on travel, trade or public activities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:53 WIB
Syarikat Islam Ready to Challenge Capitalism with a Constitutional Economy
Syarikat Islam has elected Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono as its president for 2026–2031 and says it will pursue an economic model grounded in Indonesia’s Constitution to counter liberal capitalism. Its priorities include economic outreach through mosque cooperatives and alignment with the government’s Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives programme.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:52 WIB
Wildfire Spreads to Three Villages on the Slopes of Mount Merbabu
A forest and land fire spread across 2.55 hectares on the slopes of Mount Merbabu, affecting three villages and urban wards in Boyolali Regency, Central Java. Local disaster officials, volunteers and residents are working to extinguish the blaze, while the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is coordinating and monitoring the response.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:52 WIB
Metro Jaya Police Hunt Owners of Tramadol Factories in Sukoharjo
Metro Jaya Police have arrested 16 people accused of operating two illegal factories producing Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl in Sukoharjo, Central Java, and are searching for two alleged owners and controllers. The case followed a customs alert about a shipment of Tramadol in North Jakarta; those arrested face penalties of up to 12 years in prison and a fine of Rp5 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:51 WIB
Ministers and Rocky Gerung Arrive at Palace for Cabinet Meeting
Government ministers, deputy ministers, agency chiefs and Presidential Advisory Council members arrived at the Jakarta Presidential Palace for a plenary cabinet meeting led by President Prabowo Subianto. The meeting is expected to review the administration’s first two years and discuss strategic issues and government programmes, as the Red and White Cabinet marks its second anniversary.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:50 WIB
Deputy Education Minister stresses the importance of mental preparedness in competitions
Deputy Minister for Primary and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq has urged students to approach competitions with mental resilience and honesty, saying success should be measured by personal growth as well as medals. He said competitions can build confidence, communication and critical-thinking skills, and benefit participants regardless of whether they win an award.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:50 WIB
Breaking: Fighter Jet Crashes During Training, Pilot Killed and Navigator Missing
A French Air Force Mirage 2000D crashed during a training flight in north-eastern France, killing at least one crew member while another remains missing. The accident occurred near Nancy; the crash comes as France has completed a modernisation programme for the aircraft and plans to keep them in service into the 2030s.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:50 WIB
Zelensky Accuses Trump of Pressuring Ukraine to Surrender as Patriot Missiles Are Held Up
Ukraine says its stock of Patriot interceptors is critically low as Russia intensifies attacks on cities and energy infrastructure, while Washington has yet to approve a proposed transfer from allied countries. President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Donald Trump’s administration of pressuring Kyiv towards an unfavourable settlement, although US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any deliberate political effort to harm Ukraine and cited competing defence needs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:48 WIB
Government Freezes Permits of Six Companies Blamed for Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan
The Forestry Ministry has frozen the permits of six companies in Central Kalimantan and ordered ecosystem-restoration measures over fires affecting their concessions. The action brings the number of corporations facing administrative sanctions and restoration orders to 32, while the ministry says criminal proceedings remain possible if evidence warrants them.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:48 WIB
To Boost Lending, Bank Indonesia Injects Rp458.5 Trillion in Liquidity into Banks
Banks had received Rp458.5 trillion in incentives under Bank Indonesia’s Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive (KLM) policy by the first week of October 2026, with most allocated to financing aimed at supporting the real economy. From 1 December, BI will raise the maximum incentive to 5% of third-party funds, including support for job-creating sectors and deeper money-market liquidity redistribution.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:47 WIB
Local Food Foodpreneur School Brings Transmigration Transformation to Life
A programme in the Klamono-Segun Transmigration Area is helping 50 farmers’ wives turn locally grown produce into processed foods, in line with the government’s aim to create lasting economic benefits in transmigration regions. The University of Brawijaya team is providing production, food-safety, business licensing and marketing guidance, with participants hoping to supply local supermarkets and souvenir shops in Raja Ampat.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:47 WIB
BGN transforms programme governance through MBG 2.0 revolution
Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it is reshaping the Free Nutritious Meals programme, shifting its focus beyond reach to food safety, nutritional standards and accurate targeting. Measures include requiring hygiene and sanitation certificates for service units, updating cooperation agreements and beneficiary data, and piloting buffet-style meals at 66 units across 10 provinces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:45 WIB
Sompo Syariah Begins Operations as the First Sharia Entity in Sompo Group’s History
Sompo Indonesia has launched Sompo Syariah as a standalone Islamic general insurer, the first such entity in Sompo Group’s operations worldwide. The company aims to expand access to Sharia-compliant protection, as industry assets reached Rp10.8 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, up 13.77 per cent year on year.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:45 WIB
Danantara: Technology roadmaps must translate into impactful investment
Danantara Indonesia says the country must turn its existing technology roadmaps into commercially viable, scalable investments with real users and lasting national benefits. It sees government and state-owned enterprises as potential first buyers of domestic technology, while a new partnership aims to train up to 15,000 Indonesians in chip design.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:45 WIB
Hermanto Tanoko’s Son Buys Another 1 Million AVIA Shares
Robert Christian Tanoko, a director of Avia Avian, bought 1,034,900 shares in the company in two transactions totalling about Rp322.8 million. The purchases lifted his voting stake from 2.3205% to 2.3221%, and were recorded as an investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:44 WIB
Police Name Driver Who Fatally Hit Junior High School Student in South Jakarta as Suspect
Jakarta police have named the driver of a Mitsubishi Pajero involved in a fatal collision in Mampang Prapatan as a suspect. Police said a urine test found no evidence of drug use; the crash also involved two other cars and killed a pedestrian at the scene.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:44 WIB
NVIDIA and ITB encourage students to develop AI skills
NVIDIA Indonesia and the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) are working to help students build AI skills and develop solutions, with industry support providing access to technology and computing resources. ITB is also preparing campus rules for AI use and adapting teaching and assessment to ensure the technology supports learning while preserving critical thinking.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:44 WIB
SAPPE showcases product innovations at SIAL Paris 2026
Thai beverage company SAPPE is presenting new Mogu Mogu products, including zero-sugar drinks, jelly, gummies, candy and iced tea, alongside offerings from its other brands at SIAL Paris 2026. The exhibition brings together global manufacturers and buyers, giving SAPPE an opportunity to promote its portfolio and pursue international business partnerships.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:42 WIB
North Sumatra Once Again Blanketed by Smoke from Fires Elsewhere
Smoke from forest and land fires in Kalimantan and South Sumatra has spread across North Sumatra, although satellite monitoring found no moderate-category hotspots in the province. Air quality was moderate in several areas, while visibility fell to 1–5 kilometres and could remain reduced for up to three days, prompting safety advice for residents and coordination among local authorities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:42 WIB
AI Answers Name Different Banks First in 43% of Comparisons, Study Finds
A PRecious Communications study of 2,740 AI and search responses across six Southeast Asian markets found that the first bank named changed in 43% of comparable answers, while business-banking responses cited 34% more banks than consumer-banking answers. The findings highlight why banks and communications teams cannot rely on one AI platform or a single visibility score to assess brand presence, with results varying by market, query and language.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:41 WIB
Indonesian Minister Seeks Ecosystem Recovery Through Legal Action
Environment Minister Jumhur said environmental justice requires scientific evidence and recovery-focused enforcement, not court rulings alone. The government has sued six companies over alleged environmental damage affecting more than 2,500 hectares in North Sumatra, seeking Rp4.8 trillion in compensation, while senior judicial officials called for restoration and stronger safeguards for affected communities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:41 WIB
CIMB Niaga (BNGA) Reportedly Weighing Delisting from the IDX: Here’s Why
CIMB Group is reportedly exploring delisting its Indonesian subsidiary, CIMB Niaga, on the view that its shares are undervalued and as part of a strategic review that includes privatisation. Analysts estimate a buyout at current prices would cost Rp2.95 trillion, rising to Rp3.84 trillion with a 30% premium, while CIMB has not confirmed the reports and previously reiterated its long-term commitment to Indonesia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:40 WIB
Beyond 200MP: Galaxy S26 Ultra Offers Two Optical Zoom Options for Different Perspectives
Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra combines a 200MP main camera with 3x and 5x optical zoom telephoto lenses, offering users a wider choice of perspectives alongside ultra-wide photography. The promotional article also highlights Quick Share compatibility and a Galaxy Upgrade Festival running until 31 October 2026, with trade-in prices starting at around Rp11 million and benefits of up to Rp3.5 million.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:40 WIB
WCCE 2026 to boost inclusive creative economy collaboration, says minister
Indonesia’s Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya says WCCE 2026 will promote international collaboration and more equitable access to opportunities in the creative economy. The conference will focus on technology and AI, sustainable practices and intellectual property protection, with discussions aimed at turning shared commitments into action.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:40 WIB
Former Indonesian Finance Minister Reveals Transfer Pricing and Under-invoicing in Mining
Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier says transfer pricing, under-invoicing and the manipulation of export volumes and commodity prices are causing foreign-exchange outflows and reducing state revenue from mining. He also alleges widespread unlicensed mining, estimating that there may be around 25,000 illegal mining sites, and calls for consistent law enforcement and stronger state control over the sector.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:39 WIB
TransNusa Marks Milestone with Launch of Maiden Melbourne–Bali Flight
TransNusa has launched a daily Melbourne–Bali service, positioning Bali as a transit hub for Australian travellers and connecting them to Indonesian destinations and regional Asian cities. The airline says the route builds on its rapid growth in Australia, including a 20 per cent market share in Perth, and is offering introductory fares from AUD299.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:39 WIB
PP Infrastruktur Reviews Water Uptake at Pekanbaru Water Supply System
PT PP Infrastruktur is reviewing operations at the Pekanbaru drinking-water system as the volume absorbed by PDAM Tirta Siak remains below PT PP Tirta Madani’s production capacity. The shareholder says it will pursue better coordination, lower water losses and operational efficiencies while maintaining service quality, as the company prepares for a stated termination phase amid wider state-owned enterprise transformation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:38 WIB
Mineral Downstreaming Becomes a Key Pillar of Indonesia’s Economic Strategy
Mineral downstreaming is a major driver of investment, potentially accounting for 30% of Indonesia’s total investment, according to Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani. The strategy aims to build integrated domestic value chains—from mining and processing to batteries, electric vehicles and recycling—reducing reliance on raw-material exports and strengthening the national industrial base.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:38 WIB
Persija Fans Banned from Away Matches for Half a Season After Disorder
PSSI’s Disciplinary Committee has barred Persija Jakarta from taking away supporters to six matches and fined the club Rp30 million following disorder during its match against Persita Tangerang. The sanctions also include penalties for Persita and The Jakmania, with I.League warning that repeat incidents could prompt tougher measures, including wider restrictions on supporters.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:38 WIB
Manpower Ministry: 2027 Minimum Wage to Take Inflation and Economic Growth into Account
The Manpower Ministry says regional minimum wages for 2027 must reflect inflation, economic growth, living costs, local labour conditions and businesses’ ability to pay, rather than follow a uniform national increase. The Indonesian Trade Union Confederation has proposed a 7.5–9.5 per cent rise, while the ministry says the final amount must follow the applicable formula and official regional data.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:37 WIB
BRIN and TNI prepare artificial rain equipment for wildfire response
BRIN and the Indonesian Air Force are checking artificial rain consoles before arranging repairs in Bandung, with the aim of restoring them for weather-modification operations. The equipment is expected to support responses to forest and land fires, highlighting efforts to maintain and reuse existing technology for disaster management.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:37 WIB
KPK Sends Letter to Military Chief, Confirms Alleged TNI Involvement in BNPB Corruption Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has written to the TNI commander about allegations that an active-duty soldier was involved in corruption linked to disaster-response funds at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The commission says the alleged conduct concerns procurement contracts and possible conflicts of interest or bribery, while withholding the soldier’s identity and expecting the TNI Military Police to follow up.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:37 WIB
BI Steps Up Measures to Defend the Rupiah Against the US Dollar, Expanding Hedging Incentives
Bank Indonesia is strengthening foreign-exchange interventions and raising incentives for hedging transactions as the rupiah faces pressure from global conditions and a stronger US dollar. It is also extending incentives for local-currency transactions with partner countries to diversify international trade and investment away from reliance on the dollar.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:37 WIB
BI Unveils Measures to Boost Bank Lending
Bank Indonesia will raise its Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive (KLM) to 5% to encourage lending and financing, particularly to businesses that support job creation. The strengthened incentives take effect on 1 December 2026, while other macroprudential requirements—including the intermediation ratio and liquidity buffers—will remain in place.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:37 WIB
CropLife Asia welcomes new BASF, Corteva and FMC representatives to board
CropLife Asia has appointed Sergi Vizoso-Sansano of BASF, Subroto Geed of Corteva and Sebastià Pons of FMC to its board, replacing their respective predecessors. The changes coincide with Paul Luxton of Syngenta becoming the association’s president, as it continues to represent the plant science industry and promote agricultural innovation across Asia.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:36 WIB
Cabinet Meeting: Ministers and Agency Heads Begin Arriving at the Palace
President Prabowo Subianto is due to chair a plenary cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta, with ministers and agency heads arriving ahead of the session. Deputy Coordinating Minister Viva Yoga Mauladi said the meeting will coordinate, integrate and monitor government programmes across ministries and agencies.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:35 WIB
Warning: These LQ45 Giants Have Low Valuations
Indonesian shares have fallen sharply amid uncertainty over MSCI’s market-classification review, but several large-cap LQ45 constituents still trade at low price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios. Bank Tabungan Negara and Indah Kiat Pulp & Paper have the lowest PER and PBV respectively, while Alamtri Resources and Bank Negara Indonesia offer the highest dividend yields in the group; low ratios alone, however, do not prove that a share is undervalued.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:34 WIB
Sukoharjo Tramadol Factory Had Been Operating Since 2025, Turnover Reached Rp3 Billion
Police say two illegal factories in Sukoharjo producing Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl had been operating since 2025 and July 2026, respectively. Sixteen people were arrested and 7.8 million tablets seized; one factory was reported to generate daily turnover of Rp2 billion to Rp3 billion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:34 WIB
Worker in Jimbaran Killed by Sheets of Glass Falling from Pickup Truck
A worker identified as SE died after eight sheets of glass fell on him while he was helping transfer the load between vehicles in Jimbaran, Bali. Police believe the glass toppled because the pickup was unbalanced, with the sheets stacked on its right side.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:32 WIB
BI: Global Economic Outlook Remains Weak, Uncertainty Still High
Bank Indonesia expects global growth to remain weak at around 3 per cent in 2026, with inflation at about 4.6 per cent and financial-market uncertainty elevated amid intensifying Middle East tensions. Indonesia’s economy is expected to remain resilient, supported by government stimulus, improving business and consumer confidence, investment and exports, with growth forecast at 4.9–5.7 per cent in 2026.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:31 WIB
Banyuwangi Holds Santri Forum to Gather Aspirations of Pesantren Students
Banyuwangi Regency has held its first Rembug Santri forum, bringing together 50 students from 15 Islamic boarding schools to share concerns and proposals with local officials. Their recommendations include digital skills training, clearer rules for sound-system events, and stronger prevention of bullying and violence in pesantren, which the regency says will inform future policies and programmes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:31 WIB
Jakarta to Conduct Weather Modification Ahead of Running Festival and Ye Concert
Jakarta’s provincial government plans weather-modification operations on 22–23 October to improve air quality and support the Jakarta Running Festival and a Ye concert on 24–25 October. Governor Pramono Anung said the events are expected to boost the capital’s economy, so the city will seek to ensure conditions are safe and comfortable for participants and concertgoers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:30 WIB
Bahlil Notes That No Golkar Chairman Has Ever Become President of Indonesia
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia highlighted that no leader of the party has gone on to become president, although Sudharmono served as vice-president from 1988 to 1993 after leading Golkar. He said the party’s purpose is to advance social welfare and expand its parliamentary representation, rather than simply to secure the presidency for its chairman.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:30 WIB
No-Promotion Policy for Primary to Senior High School Students to Return; House Commission X Raises Concerns
Commission X of Indonesia’s House of Representatives supports reinstating the policy requiring students who do not meet minimum learning standards to repeat a year, planned for the 2027/2028 academic year. Lawmaker MY Esti Wijayanti says it could strengthen learning motivation and basic literacy, but urges attention to students’ psychological wellbeing, targeted enrichment and suitable textbooks; implementing rules are still being prepared.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:30 WIB
Asset Tokenisation Could Broaden Access to Investment
Asset tokenisation could widen access to digital investment by allowing investors to buy fractional exposure to assets, but it does not remove the underlying risks. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is preparing rules covering governance, offerings and consumer protection, while investors are urged to scrutinise each product’s legal rights, transparency and liquidity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:29 WIB
NVIDIA and ITB Encourage Students to Develop AI Talent
NVIDIA and the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) are working together to help students build AI skills and develop solutions for industry and society. ITB says universities must adapt teaching and assessment to AI while preserving critical thinking, and is drafting campus rules to guide responsible use of the technology.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:29 WIB
Human Rights Minister Says Development Must Be Felt by the People
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai said development should be judged by tangible improvements in people’s lives, including access to education, healthcare, worker protections and public services. At the 2026 National Human Rights Development Planning Conference, he called for human rights priorities to shape policy, budgets and services, and for progress to be measured by concrete outcomes, particularly for vulnerable and underserved communities.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:29 WIB
Bamsoet Urges Universities to Produce Graduates Who Create Jobs
Wantimpres member Bambang Soesatyo says universities should equip students with technological skills, entrepreneurial ability and adaptability to AI so they can create jobs rather than merely seek them. He also highlighted Unperba’s new degree programmes and scholarship scheme for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, arguing that higher education should support local economic development and social mobility.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:28 WIB
North Korea tells border troops to take ‘resolute action’ if South threatens their safety
North Korea has instructed troops stationed at its border with South Korea to take “prompt and resolute action” if they believe their safety is threatened, as tensions between the two sides intensify. The warning follows Seoul’s pledge to respond firmly to further provocations and comes amid Pyongyang’s ongoing fortification of the border.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:28 WIB
Forestry Minister Says Six Companies Involved in Forest Fires Have Been Suspended
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni says the ministry has suspended six companies over forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan, ordering them to restore the affected forest ecosystem. The listed concessions include burned areas ranging from 193 to 4,803 hectares; Antoni said enforcement should apply to corporations as well as small farmers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:27 WIB
Kodam Jaya Denies Abandoned Electric Motorbikes in Bekasi Belong to the Military
Kodam Jaya has denied that electric motorbikes seen parked in an open lot in Bekasi belong to the Indonesian military, saying checks found no matching vehicles in its units. The National Nutrition Agency and the Attorney General’s Office have also said the bikes are not theirs and are unrelated to the agency’s 2025 procurement or the associated corruption case evidence.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:26 WIB
Singapore travellers can now use DBS PayLah! in Taiwan
DBS PayLah! users can now make QR-code payments at more than 250,000 participating merchants in Taiwan, with the app displaying the exchange rate and Singapore-dollar amount before payment. The launch extends DBS’s cross-border QR payment links and is part of a wider Singapore–Taiwan initiative, with broader merchant coverage and reciprocal payments planned for 2027.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Zero-Down-Payment Home and Vehicle Loans Extended Until 2027
Bank Indonesia has extended its 100% loan-to-value and financing-to-value facility for property lending, and a minimum zero down-payment requirement for new motor vehicles, through 31 December 2027. The measures apply from 1 January 2027 and are subject to eligibility criteria for banks providing property loans.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Malaysia Respects Other Countries’ Dignity and Sovereignty Amid Haze Issue
Malaysia says it will respect Indonesia’s sovereignty while defending Malaysians’ rights in response to transboundary haze pollution. Its response combines regional diplomacy, offers of operational assistance to Indonesia, and plans for longer-term cooperation on fire prevention and climate issues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Bali lawmaker calls for greater protection for tourism workers
Bali lawmaker I Nyoman Parta has called for stronger legal protections for tourism workers employed as casual daily labourers for extended periods, noting that regulations require their status to convert to permanent employment after specified work patterns. He also urged policymakers to consider Bali’s high living costs when setting the 2027 provincial minimum wage, arguing that tourism growth should be matched by improved worker welfare and protection of local culture.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
Major General Putra Widiastawa: The Man from Singaraja Now Leading Udayana Regional Military Command
Major General Putra Widiastawa Dwi Agung Susilo has formally taken up the post of commander of the IX/Udayana Regional Military Command, replacing Major General Piek Budyakto, who will lead the V/Brawijaya command. The Bali-born officer has served in a range of command and staff roles, including deployments in several operational areas; officials say his appointment is expected to ensure leadership continuity and strengthen the command’s work.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:25 WIB
PDI-P Expels Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo After He Is Named a KPK Suspect
The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) says it has expelled Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) named him a suspect in an alleged bribery and gratification case. The party says it had previously summoned and warned him; the KPK has also named two other people as suspects and detained all three for an initial 20 days.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:24 WIB
Jakarta Public Transport Users Reach 368 Million by September 2026, Up 10.8%
Jakarta recorded 368.4 million passenger trips on Transjakarta, MRT Jakarta and LRT Jakarta through September 2026, an increase of 10.8% on the previous period. Governor Pramono Anung attributed the growth to improved connectivity and expanding Transjabodetabek services, and said the city would consider adding routes to link Jakarta with surrounding areas.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:24 WIB
ITS Expert Warns of Health Risks from Heatwaves
Health experts at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) warn that heatwaves can cause severe dehydration, skin damage and mental-health effects, with older people and those with pre-existing conditions particularly vulnerable. They recommend limiting heat exposure, staying hydrated, maintaining skin and body hygiene, and using sunscreen as extreme weather becomes more common amid climate change.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:24 WIB
Bandung Mayor Introduces CAFEO 44 Delegates to the City’s History and Technology
Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan outlined the city’s development through infrastructure, technical education and industry to engineering delegates attending the 44th Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations. He stressed that engineers and innovation will be vital in applying science and technology to meet future challenges amid increasingly complex, borderless digital competition.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:23 WIB
Bank Indonesia Holds Benchmark Interest Rate at 5.75 Per Cent
Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 per cent, while raising the Deposit Facility rate to 5 per cent, as it seeks to stabilise the rupiah amid persistent external pressures. The central bank will also strengthen incentives for foreign-exchange hedging and maintain accommodative macroprudential and payment-system policies to support lending and sustainable economic growth.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:23 WIB
Pramono Flags DKI Jakarta’s 54.39% Budget Spending: ‘Don’t Leave It Until Year-End’
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has urged regional agencies to speed up budgeted activities after spending reached only 54.39% of the 2026 regional budget allocation by 30 September. He called for earlier preparation to prevent year-end spending bunching, while stressing that budget transparency and effectiveness should be judged by their impact on public services and the city’s development.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:23 WIB
Boxing ring beneath Kampung Melayu flyover in East Jakarta nearly complete
East Jakarta’s municipal administration says a boxing facility beneath the Kampung Melayu flyover is nearly ready, with two rings and eight punching bags already installed. The city plans to offer free, scheduled training and work with boxing organisations to provide coaching, turning underused space into a community sports and youth development hub.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:20 WIB
Lebanon Denies Israeli Allegations Over Hezbollah Disarmament
Lebanon’s army has rejected Israeli accusations that it failed to disarm Hezbollah and dismantle its military infrastructure south of the Litani River, saying its operations were documented by the ceasefire monitoring committee. The dispute comes amid continued Israeli attacks and occupation in Lebanon, despite agreements that provide for Israeli withdrawal and the deployment of Lebanese forces.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:19 WIB
62 Couples at Central Java Mass Wedding Receive Business Capital and Honeymoon
A mass wedding in Central Java brought together 62 couples and offered support extending beyond the ceremony, including business start-up capital and a honeymoon. Organisers and provincial officials said the initiative aims to ease access to legally recognised marriage, strengthen families and encourage their economic independence, with plans to take the programme to Maluku for 500 couples.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:19 WIB
Indonesia’s QRIS to Expand to Timor-Leste and Hong Kong, with Trials Starting in Q4 2026
Bank Indonesia plans to begin sandbox trials for cross-border QRIS payment links with Timor-Leste and Hong Kong in the fourth quarter of 2026. The initiative supports the central bank’s digital payments blueprint and is intended to make cross-border transactions easier for consumers and businesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:18 WIB
Government to Discount Train, Plane and Ship Fares During Christmas and New Year Holidays
The government plans to repeat transport fare discounts for the 2026/2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period, modelled on incentives offered during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. It also expects to provide food aid and wage subsidies in the fourth quarter of 2026, with overall budget-funded stimulus of about Rp31 trillion, while some transport discounts will be covered by state-owned enterprises.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
RoboParty launches RP1 in Southeast Asia, expanding open robotics for education and research
RoboParty has launched RP1, a full-stack open-source humanoid platform, in Southeast Asia to support advanced robotics and embodied AI research, complementing its DIY RPO kit for education and early-stage development. The two platforms offer universities and researchers adaptable options, with RP1 providing integrated tools and established motion capabilities intended to help teams focus on more complex research.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Airlangga Targets 17.6 Million Tourist Visits Through Tourism Special Economic Zones
Indonesia is targeting 16–17.6 million international tourist arrivals in 2026, supported by six tourism Special Economic Zones (SEZs), with foreign-exchange earnings projected at US$24 billion. Airlangga Hartarto said achieving the goal will require stronger promotion, tourism skills and transport links; cumulative investment across all 25 SEZs has reached Rp382.1 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Silent on Gibran’s Diploma Controversy, PDI-P Politician Slams Parliament: ‘The Oath Is to God, Not to Humans’
PDI-P lawmaker Komarudin Watubun criticised Parliament for remaining silent over questions about Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma and urged MPs to consider an inquiry. He said scrutiny of possible constitutional or legal breaches was a duty of all lawmakers, while stressing that he was speaking individually and that any formal move by his party would require careful political consideration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Fire-Damaged KMP Batumandi in Sunda Strait to Be Towed to Bojonegara
KMP Batumandi, which caught fire near Merak Port in Banten, remains in the process of being cooled before it is towed to a shipyard in Bojonegara for further handling. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although 11 people required further medical treatment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Prosecutors Ask Court to Reject Nurman Herin’s Objection in Former Jampidsus Money-Laundering Case
Prosecutors have urged the Central Jakarta Corruption Court to reject Nurman Herin’s objection to the indictment and proceed to the evidentiary stage. They say the indictment clearly sets out his alleged role alongside former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah and two others, and that the objections raised do not provide grounds to invalidate it. Nurman is accused of money laundering involving Rp346.7 billion and US$440,990.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:17 WIB
Unhas and Nine Universities from Five Countries Join Forces to Improve Education
Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has signed nine memoranda of understanding with universities in Türkiye, the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia and Australia to strengthen education and academic cooperation. The agreements could lead to student exchanges, further study and double-degree programmes, as well as joint research and publications, but their implementation will depend on follow-up by faculties and study programmes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:16 WIB
Pramono: Jakarta’s Poverty Rate Falls Below 4% for the First Time
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the capital’s poverty rate fell to 3.96% in March 2026, the first time it has dipped below 4%. He also reported improvements in unemployment and labour-force participation, and highlighted provincial vocational training programmes linking trainees with 214 companies and preparing workers for overseas jobs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:16 WIB
Israeli Minister Boasts of Gaza’s Destruction and Mocks Palestinians
Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has faced renewed criticism after posting an AI-generated campaign video depicting Gaza as a ruined city in 2030 and mocking Palestinians who remain there. The video comes ahead of Israel’s 27 October legislative election, with polls showing neither Netanyahu’s coalition nor the opposition bloc close to the 61 seats needed for a parliamentary majority.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:15 WIB
BI Forecasts Current Account Deficit of 1.6–2.4% in 2026
Bank Indonesia expects Indonesia’s current account deficit to remain between 1.6% and 2.4% of GDP in 2026, while warning that external resilience needs strengthening. The current account deficit widened to US$12.5 billion in the second quarter of 2026, or 3.3% of GDP, even as the overall balance of payments deficit narrowed sharply from the previous quarter.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:13 WIB
92 Cisarua Students Taken to Hospital in Suspected Food Poisoning Case
Ninety-two students at a state junior high school in Cisarua, Bogor Regency, were taken to hospital after suspected food poisoning following a Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) meal. The cause has not been confirmed, and officials said they were awaiting the hospital doctors’ assessment while prioritising the students’ safety.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:13 WIB
Batam Transport Agency to Procure 10 Electric Minibuses for Feeder Services in 2027
Batam’s transport agency plans to procure 10 electric minibuses for Trans Batam feeder services on four routes in Sekupang and Batu Aji, with operations targeted to begin in May 2027, subject to budget approval. The programme will use a buy-the-service model and is part of a broader expansion that also includes five additional buses and charging infrastructure.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:10 WIB
Police investigate case of domestic worker accused of molesting employer’s child with special needs in East Jakarta
Jakarta police are investigating allegations that a domestic worker sexually abused her employer’s five-year-old son, who has special needs, in East Jakarta. The child’s mother first reported the case to East Jakarta Police, withdrew the complaint the following day and then reported it to Metro Jaya Police, which is now examining evidence and witnesses.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:10 WIB
Government Ramps Up Special Economic Zone Projects; Manpower Minister Outlines Benefits for Indonesia’s Workforce
Manpower Minister Yassierli hopes special economic zones (SEZs) will become hubs for vocational training and broader recruitment, helping develop a skilled Indonesian workforce. The government is proposing to integrate national apprenticeships and vocational training with education, start-up and MSME support into an ecosystem that can serve as a “talent engine” for future industry-specific skills and experience.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:10 WIB
East Kalimantan Governor’s Aide Apologises After Viral Video Shows Him Blocking Student Protesters
East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud’s aide, Asky Rizal Toding, has apologised after a video showed him confronting students during a protest in Samarinda. Toding acknowledged his conduct was wrong, said he acted spontaneously without instructions, and pledged not to repeat it.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:09 WIB
BI Cuts Reserve Requirements to 7% for Conventional Banks and 5.5% for Islamic Banks
Bank Indonesia will cut reserve requirements in two stages from November 2026, lowering the rate for conventional banks to 7% and for Islamic banks and Islamic business units to 5.5%. The move is intended to improve monetary policy effectiveness, keep inflation in check and strengthen liquidity, alongside a reduction in the KLM incentive rate.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:09 WIB
Food & Hospitality Asia 2027 to Showcase New Industry Platforms and Competitions
Informa Markets says FHA 2027 will expand its exhibition with new zones for food manufacturing, travel catering and private-label products, building on the launch of IndusFood Asia at the 2026 event. The programme will also feature culinary festivals, ingredient and pizza-and-pasta competitions, and beverage experiences, aiming to promote industry collaboration, innovation and business opportunities across the global food and hospitality sectors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:07 WIB
BI-Rate Holds at 5.75%, Deposit Facility Rate Rises to 5%
Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark BI-Rate at 5.75 per cent while raising the deposit facility rate by 25 basis points to 5 per cent; the lending facility rate remains at 6.5 per cent. Governor Destry Damayanti said the move, alongside stronger incentives for DNDF hedging instruments, is intended to attract foreign capital, stabilise the rupiah and support money- and foreign-exchange-market development amid stronger external pressures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:07 WIB
Airlangga Says Special Economic Zone Development Could Help Achieve 8% Growth
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says expanding special economic zones (SEZs) could help Indonesia reach its 8 per cent economic growth target, citing their lower investment inefficiency ratio than the national average. Indonesia has far less SEZ land than Vietnam and Malaysia, while investment in the zones has reached Rp382.1 trillion since 2012.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:07 WIB
Metro Jakarta Police Deny Arresting Six Greenpeace Activists
Metro Jakarta Police say six Greenpeace Indonesia activists were taken to the force’s headquarters for medical treatment after becoming weak and dizzy while climbing down from the Welcome Statue, not arrested. The activists were evacuated after displaying a banner at Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, with police saying their priority was safeguarding their physical and mental wellbeing.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:06 WIB
Why Destry Kept BI Rate at 5.75% in October 2026
Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% while raising the deposit facility rate to 5%, citing the need to stabilise the rupiah amid external pressures and keep inflation under control. The central bank is also strengthening incentives and hedging instruments to attract foreign capital and deepen domestic money and foreign-exchange markets.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
KPK Probes Links Between ATR/BPN Corruption Case and Alleged Vote-Buying at NU Congress
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating whether Rp250 million returned by the Nias branch of Nahdlatul Ulama is connected to the organisation’s 35th Congress and a bribery case involving the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). The money has been seized while investigators assess its relevance as evidence; separately, the KPK has seized Rp106.3 billion and named eight suspects in the land-rights bribery case.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and His Partner Expect a Child Through Surrogacy
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and his partner, Nicolás Keenan, say they are expecting a child through surrogacy, with the baby due in 2027. They thanked the egg donor and surrogate, noting that the arrangement is non-commercial and that both women are acquaintances of the couple.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
Transport Minister Orders Swift Response to KMP Batumandi Fire
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has ordered a rapid, co-ordinated response after passenger ferry KMP Batumandi caught fire in the Merak approach channel, with all passengers and crew evacuated safely. The cause is being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Committee and police, while the ministry says the findings will inform safety improvements and efforts to prevent similar incidents.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:05 WIB
France Extends Curfews in Several Cities Following Demonstrations
Authorities in Paris, Lyon and Marseille have extended or introduced curfews after violence during demonstrations at the weekend, with Toulouse set to impose restrictions later this week. The measures come after around 550,000 people took part in 110 demonstrations across France, in which about 400 people were arrested; a Ligue 2 match has also been postponed amid plans for further protests.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:04 WIB
DSN MUI Calls for Formation of Danantara Syariah: Latest Progress
The National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN MUI) says discussions are under way to establish Danantara Syariah as a holding company for Sharia-compliant businesses under state investment agency Danantara. The proposal still needs to be finalised and approved, potentially through a presidential decree, with DSN MUI hoping it could be implemented next year.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:04 WIB
On Forest and Land Fires, Minister Pigai Says Environmental Damage Is Caused by Human Activity
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says environmental damage, including forest and land fires, results from human actions and stresses the need to respect nature and protect ecosystems. He called for greater public awareness of the link between human rights and the environment, noting that people ultimately bear the consequences when nature is neglected.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:03 WIB
Minister targets Rp150tn in foreign-exchange savings through health SEZs
Indonesia aims to save Rp150 trillion in foreign exchange by encouraging patients to seek treatment in domestic health special economic zones, instead of travelling overseas. About two million Indonesians go abroad for medical care each year, contributing to estimated outflows of Rp200 trillion; the government is supporting health SEZs through licensing reforms, knowledge transfer and new regulations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:02 WIB
Gianyar Police Hold Community Dialogue Under National Police Chief’s Quick Wins Programme
Gianyar Police held a dialogue with residents as part of the National Police Chief’s Quick Wins programme, inviting local people to share concerns about public security and order. The discussion also highlighted responsible social media use and community cooperation to prevent drug trafficking, with police pledging to improve responsive, people-centred services.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:02 WIB
Women’s and Children’s Ministry backs 10-year prison sentence sought for Little Aresha daycare head
The Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry has welcomed prosecutors’ demand for a 10-year prison term for the head of Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta, alongside an Rp800 million fine and restitution for 83 child victims. The ministry says the case must deliver justice, protect children’s rights and deter similar abuses, and supports legal measures to secure restitution payments.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:01 WIB
Advan Admits X1 Neo Box Design Does Not Match the Phone Sold
Advan Indonesia has acknowledged that an illustration on the back of the Advan X1 Neo’s packaging shows a punch-hole camera, while the phone sold uses a waterdrop notch. The company apologised for any confusion and says the packaging artwork has been corrected for future box production; the phone is priced at Rp1.799 million.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Government Says 5,800 Hectares of Fish Ponds Affected by Sumatra Disasters Have Recovered
The Fisheries Ministry says about 5,800 hectares of fish ponds and aquaculture ponds damaged by floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra have resumed operations. Recovery is being phased in, with a 2026 budget of Rp371.8 billion and a target to restore 15,446 hectares by year-end; rehabilitation of ponds, fishing facilities and ports will continue through 2028.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Bekasi City Government clears overhead cables along Jalan Raya Pondok Gede
Bekasi City Government is removing disorderly overhead cables along Jalan Raya Pondok Gede as part of a broader, phased plan to move utility networks underground through ducting. Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono said the work is intended to improve the city’s appearance, safety and comfort, and will require cooperation from telecommunications providers and other stakeholders.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Video: Bank Aladin Syariah Partners with Three Islamic Banks to Strengthen Liquidity
Bank Aladin Syariah is strengthening liquidity management through an interbank Islamic fund management certificate (SIPA) transaction partnership with BSI, OCBC Syariah and Maybank Syariah. The collaboration is intended to broaden fund-management options in rupiah and US dollars, amid a positive assessment by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) of the Islamic finance industry’s resilience and sustainability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
WCCE 2026 Provides a Platform for Creative Businesses to Explore Partnerships and Investment
Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy is using the World Conference on Creative Economy (WCCE) 2026 to connect local creative businesses with international partners, investors and financial institutions from 65 countries. Business-matching sessions and a Creative Village in Jakarta are intended to open new markets and spur collaborations, although investment and commercial deals will depend on follow-up after the forum.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 14:00 WIB
Customs Seize Hundreds of Thousands of Illegal Cigarettes in Land Patrol in Malang Regency
Malang Customs seized 217,600 untaxed cigarettes after stopping a bus during a routine patrol in Singosari and Lawang. The cigarettes were valued at Rp323.77 million, with potential lost state revenue estimated at Rp162.71 million; the agency says it will continue enforcement along transport and distribution routes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:59 WIB
The Battle of Narratives in the 2026 US Midterm Campaign
The article examines how unverified claims, AI-generated political adverts, the Iran war and debate over Israel are shaping the 2026 US midterm campaign. It argues that campaign spending and online reach can influence which issues dominate, but do not necessarily persuade voters, amid declining confidence in political information and election integrity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:59 WIB
BI Raises Deposit Facility Rate to 5%
Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark BI Rate at 5.75% but raised the Deposit Facility rate to 5%, while leaving the Lending Facility rate at 6.50%. Governor Destry Damayanti said the move is intended to support rupiah stability amid external pressures; most financial institutions surveyed had expected a 25-basis-point increase in the benchmark rate instead.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:58 WIB
Pramono urges Jakarta to become an events hub to boost the economy
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says major concerts and events have generated significant economic activity, with some contributing up to Rp250 billion in revenue. The city is improving infrastructure and transport links to support future events, including a running festival and a Kanye West concert, which are expected to draw visitors and fill hotels.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:57 WIB
Nety: Environmental Approval Process Can Be Monitored Through Amdalnet
The Environment Ministry is promoting digital processing of environmental approvals through Amdalnet, while stressing that faster decisions must comply with statutory timelines and preserve environmental and community safeguards. Only 16 of 200 monitored districts and cities in Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua have registered DPMPTSP administrators, and the ministry is urging more local governments to activate the system to improve transparency and prevent approval delays from hindering investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:57 WIB
PP No. 28/2025 Provides Certainty in the Licensing Process
Indonesia’s Government Regulation No. 28/2025 replaces the 2021 rules on risk-based business licensing, setting service time standards and clarifying the stages for environmental and other basic approvals. The government says the changes are intended to simplify applications, curb repeated document revisions and give businesses greater certainty.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:57 WIB
Police Say Bharada Andika Admitted to Shooting Bharatu Valdo
Bharada Andika Ramadani, a police officer accused of fatally shooting his colleague Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez, has reportedly admitted to the act after surrendering. Investigators are continuing to examine the motive, possible bullying and whether anyone else was involved; Andika has been named a suspect and detained.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:56 WIB
Lamongan Resident Raises Israeli Flags at Home, Causing Concern
A resident of Made village in Lamongan, East Java, reportedly displayed handmade Israeli flags and painted symbols associated with the Illuminati on his house. Village officials and a local military officer removed the flags and cleaned the graffiti after the display attracted public attention; officials said the move was intended to restore calm.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:56 WIB
Thirty-Two Protesters Detained at DIY Regional Council Released
Police say all 32 people detained after unrest outside the Yogyakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD DIY) were released and returned home early on Wednesday. The force said the detentions were a discretionary measure intended to protect protesters and prevent further clashes; the previous night’s protest saw stone and firecracker throwing, with minor injuries reported among protesters and officers.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:55 WIB
Prosecutors to Name Suspect in Kotaraja Village Funds Corruption Case Soon
Prosecutors in East Lombok say they will announce a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving Kotaraja village finances once the final calculation of state losses is ready. Investigators have questioned 43 witnesses and are seeking expert testimony; the alleged misuse may have included spending on online gambling.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:55 WIB
Forestry Ministry Enlists Forest Farmer Groups to Fight Fires
The Forestry Ministry is working with community groups, indigenous communities and volunteers to strengthen patrols, early reporting and firefighting, with 14,040 fire-prevention personnel active across 34 provinces. Its programme aims to establish 500 sustainable community fire-prevention groups by 2026; the ministry has also sanctioned 32 companies and reports legal proceedings against 125 entities over fire-related obligations.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:55 WIB
Indonesia’s ‘People’s Car’ LCGC Is Losing Appeal: What’s Behind the Shift?
Indonesia’s automotive industry association says the rise of electric vehicles is putting pressure on sales of low-cost green cars (LCGC) and conventional vehicles. Gaikindo is considering hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology as ways to keep first-time cars affordable, while remaining optimistic about reaching its 2026 sales target of 850,000 vehicles.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:54 WIB
US$9.9 Billion in Foreign Capital Flows In as BI Confident Rupiah Can Stabilise
Bank Indonesia says foreign capital inflows reached US$9.9 billion from June to 20 October 2026, following incentives aimed at reducing hedging costs and deepening domestic money and foreign-exchange markets. Despite global pressures that weakened the rupiah by 0.61% against the US dollar from the end of September, BI expects the currency to remain stable, supported by attractive rupiah yields, controlled inflation and a positive economic outlook.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:54 WIB
KPK Reveals Contents of Letter to TNI Commander on BNPB Corruption Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has detailed to the TNI commander alleged military involvement, conflicts of interest and bribery in procurement linked to BNPB disaster-response funds. The case has led to five suspects, seizures worth Rp5.47 billion and coordination with the TNI Military Police Centre.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
GoTo’s Regional-Language AI: What Is Actually New?
GoTo has released a 27-billion-parameter language model adapted from Google’s Gemma3 and tailored to Indonesian and four regional languages. The article argues that the release is an extension of existing work, rather than a new AI architecture or Indonesia’s first regional-language AI, while highlighting the value of making the model available to developers and public institutions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
Breaking News: BI Keeps Its Rate at 5.75%
Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% at its 20–21 October 2026 Board of Governors Meeting, contrary to most analysts’ expectations of a 25-basis-point increase. The central bank had raised rates by a cumulative 100 basis points in May and June to support the rupiah and contain inflationary pressures.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
Banten Governor Urges Public to Await Official Information on KMP Batumandi Accident
Banten Governor Andra Soni has urged the public not to speculate about the cause of the KMP Batumandi fire at Merak Port, saying the investigation should be left to Indonesia’s National Transportation Safety Committee and other authorities. Sixteen passengers received medical treatment, while agencies coordinated response efforts and support for those affected.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:53 WIB
Culture Ministry seeks to preserve oral and written traditions
The Culture Ministry is promoting digital access to traditional Nusantara scripts and oral traditions, describing digitalisation as a practical way to safeguard cultural elements at risk of disappearing. At ICANN87 in Bali, Culture Minister Fadli Zon welcomed the launch of internationalised domain names using Balinese, Javanese and Pegon scripts, while calling for sustained documentation, research, education and cross-sector cooperation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:52 WIB
BRIN traces Sampit space object to Chinese satellite-launch rocket
BRIN astrophysicist Thomas Djamaluddin said orbital tracking indicates that debris from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket passed over Kalimantan before re-entering the atmosphere on 18 October, shortly before an object was found in Sampit. The timing and residents’ reports of a rumbling sound support the identification, but physical examination is still needed to confirm the recovered material’s origin.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:52 WIB
In This Economy, Jakarta Public Transport Use Surges
Jakarta recorded 368.45 million passenger trips on Transjakarta, MRT and LRT services in the third quarter of 2026, up 10.8% year on year. Governor Pramono Anung attributed the rise partly to improved transport connectivity, as more residents switch from private vehicles amid mounting living costs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:52 WIB
Bahlil Speaks Out as Nusron Wahid Misses KPK Summons for Second Time
Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia said the party respects the legal process after ATR/BPN Minister Nusron Wahid failed to attend two KPK summonses as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving PT Summarecon’s land-use rights. The anti-corruption agency says Nusron’s testimony is important because several suspects are described as his confidants, and it plans to reschedule his examination.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:51 WIB
Central Jakarta Municipality Holds Earthquake Preparedness Drill at Mayor’s Office
Central Jakarta Municipality, the regional disaster management agency and local health officials held an earthquake preparedness drill at the mayor’s office in Gambir. The exercise refreshed staff knowledge of emergency procedures and evacuation roles, with floor wardens responsible for relaying alerts and coordinating action on each floor.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:50 WIB
Ride-Hailing Drivers and Apps Must Sign Partnership Agreements: What They Must Include
Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 requires digital platform operators and online motorcycle taxi drivers to formalise their relationship through a platform partnership agreement containing 14 specified provisions. These include service fees, operating costs, incentives, social security protection and access to transaction data, while further rules and amendment procedures will be set by the Ministry of MSMEs.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:49 WIB
PT SMI President Director Calls for Stronger Development Finance Institutions in Asia-Pacific
PT SMI President Director Reynaldi says Asia-Pacific’s infrastructure funding needs are too large for any one government or institution, and calls for stronger cooperation among development finance institutions (DFIs). He highlights PT SMI’s project-preparation and blended-finance work, while arguing that sound governance, transparency and accountability are essential for DFIs and regional associations to build trust and attract investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:49 WIB
Rubio: US-Russia-China Trilateral Summit Could Have a Positive Impact
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a summit between the leaders of the United States, Russia and China could benefit global security, particularly through discussions on arms control. The proposal comes amid reports of a possible November meeting, although the Kremlin says no agenda has yet been agreed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:48 WIB
Indonesia taps voice-over industry to drive creative economy growth
Indonesia’s Wonder Voice of Indonesia programme has generated more than Rp2.5 billion in economic value through graduates’ collaborations with over 300 brands, as the government promotes voice-over work as a creative-economy subsector. The 2026 programme, run with industry and education partners, aims to develop talent and expand jobs and professional networks for Indonesian voice actors.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:46 WIB
BI Expects Indonesia’s Economy to Grow by 4.9–5.7% This Year
Bank Indonesia forecasts Indonesia’s economy to expand by 4.9–5.7% in 2026, supported by government stimulus and improving expectations among economic actors. Governor Destry Damayanti said the outlook was positive despite a weaker global economy and heightened uncertainty, while noting the need to boost household consumption.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:46 WIB
Central Java Holds 1,724 Affordable Food Market Events, Generating Rp31 Billion in Sales
Central Java Province has held 1,724 Affordable Food Movement events across 35 regencies and municipalities as of October 2026, with sales reaching Rp31 billion. The programme offers locally tailored access to cheaper staple foods and is intended to support farmers and livestock businesses while helping contain inflation; provincial inflation was reported at 3.18%, below the national rate of 3.28%.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:46 WIB
BI Governor Warns of Gloomy Global Economic Outlook as Inflation Reaches 4.6%
Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says global growth is expected to hover around 3%, while inflationary pressures reach 4.6%, amid heightened Middle East tensions and persistently high oil prices. She warns that tighter-for-longer US monetary policy, elevated Treasury yields and a strong dollar could constrain emerging-market investment, underscoring the need for coordinated fiscal and monetary responses to protect Indonesia’s stability.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:45 WIB
Weather modification prepared to ease water deficits at Java’s dams: Ministry
Indonesia’s Public Works Ministry is preparing weather modification operations to boost rainfall and shore up water reserves at dams affected by an El Niño-driven dry season. It is also identifying unfinished dam projects for the 2028 budget, as 36 per cent of Java’s dams and 62 of the island’s 119 districts and cities have faced drought-related water shortages.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:45 WIB
Buying Fuel in Jerricans Is Restricted: Here Are the Requirements
Pertamina Patra Niaga’s North Sumatra regional office says purchases of subsidised diesel and assigned Pertalite in jerricans are permitted only for eligible groups holding recommendation letters. The rules, set out in a 2023 BPH Migas regulation, are intended to ensure subsidised fuel reaches its designated users.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:44 WIB
Housing Ministry and Bappenas Refine Housing Roadmap
The Ministry of Housing and Settlements and Bappenas are refining the 2025–2029 housing roadmap, with focus on making housing programmes better coordinated and aligned with national targets. Officials highlighted the need for joint planning across government, lenders and developers, and identified regulation, financing, land availability and inter-agency coordination as key issues.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:43 WIB
UMY Professional Certification Body Tests 831 Candidates, Targets International Certification
Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta’s professional certification body assessed 831 candidates across 34 certification schemes in October 2026, as part of efforts to equip students with work-ready skills. It also plans to broaden partnerships with national and international certification bodies, giving students more options for recognised credentials.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:43 WIB
TNI Officer Arman Named Suspect over Online Gambling Den at Military Residence
Military police have named Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Arman a suspect and detained him over the rental of an official military residence in East Jakarta that was used as an online gambling base. Eleven civilians were previously detained at the site, where officers seized computers, mobile phones and identity cards; investigators are still examining whether the officer knew about the gambling operation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:43 WIB
KPK Writes to Military Commander over Suspected TNI Involvement in BNPB Case
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has written to TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, outlining alleged military involvement in corruption linked to disaster-response funds at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The case concerns alleged conflicts of interest and bribery in procurement, including contracts worth about Rp148 billion allegedly connected to a suspect who is the brother of a former BNPB chief.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:42 WIB
Researcher: Updating JKN PBI Membership Requires Multiple Layers of Verification
A researcher at The Indonesian Institute says updates to membership in the National Health Insurance’s Contribution Assistance Recipient scheme need layered checks to improve targeting and prevent patients from losing care through administrative errors. She also calls for special safeguards for patients with chronic or catastrophic illnesses, clear rules on funding care for inactive members, and stronger public oversight of social policy.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:42 WIB
Lieutenant Colonel Arman Named Suspect After TNI Official Residence Allegedly Used as Online Gambling Headquarters
An Indonesian Army lieutenant colonel has been detained and named a suspect over the alleged unauthorised rental of an official residence in Cijantung, which investigators say was used to operate online gambling. The case began after a public tip-off led to the discovery of computers and other equipment at the property, with 11 civilians taken in for questioning.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:40 WIB
Industry Minister Sarmuji Plans Car That Can Travel 65km on One Litre of Fuel
Industry Minister M Sarmuji says range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) can achieve fuel efficiency of up to 65km per litre and a range of 1,600km on a full charge. The Industry Ministry plans to seek fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for REEVs and hybrid vehicles, arguing they could reduce fuel use and emissions while supporting investment in Indonesia’s automotive industry.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:39 WIB
Super Tucano and F-16 Fighter Jets Fly Low over the Paspro Toll Road
The Indonesian Air Force carried out a rehearsal using a 3.5-kilometre stretch of the Pasuruan–Probolinggo toll road to assess its potential as an emergency military aircraft runway. Two Super Tucanos and two F-16s took part in low-level manoeuvres ahead of a scheduled landing test, highlighting the military’s efforts to assess road infrastructure for defence purposes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:36 WIB
Global Lenders Take Note of Companies’ Human Rights Risks
Human rights violations can disrupt mining operations, damage cash flow and undermine a company’s ability to repay loans, making them a credit risk for global lenders. Merdeka Copper Gold says it applies UN guiding principles and conducts impact assessments, while stressing that human rights safeguards must extend across workers, contractors, communities and supply chains.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:34 WIB
Wapres’ Special Adviser Says Kamojang Geothermal Plant Does Not Use Residents’ Groundwater; Professor Explains the Science
Vice-President’s special adviser Tina Talisa said the Kamojang geothermal power plant does not draw on groundwater used by local households, after a site visit and briefing by Pertamina Geothermal Energy and ITB hydrogeologist Professor Lambok M. Hutasoit. Hutasoit also rejected a direct link between geothermal drilling and landslides, while the article ends before reporting his response to questions about water shortages.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:34 WIB
Jakarta’s Revenue Reaches Rp39.33 Trillion in Third Quarter of 2026
Jakarta’s own-source revenue reached Rp39.33 trillion by the end of the third quarter of 2026, equal to 68.20 per cent of its annual target and up 1.29 per cent year on year. Total regional revenue stood at Rp44.98 trillion, while transfers from the central government reached Rp5.64 trillion, or 50.57 per cent of the budgeted amount.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:34 WIB
Elon Musk Said to Have Restricted Starlink in Ukraine: Can a Billionaire Determine the Course of a War?
Reports say Elon Musk ordered restrictions on SpaceX satellite communications used by Ukrainian forces, disrupting drone operations, while officials in the US and Ukraine offer conflicting accounts of who made the decision. The dispute highlights the strategic influence private technology companies can exert over military operations and national security.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:33 WIB
iPhone Duo Has No Visible Crease, but the Screen Feels Soft in the Middle
Apple’s rumoured first foldable phone reportedly has no visible crease, but an early user says the display feels soft where it bends and may develop wrinkles under prolonged pressure. The report has raised questions about the screen’s long-term durability, although Apple has not confirmed whether it uses Corning’s variable-thickness glass technology.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:33 WIB
Latest Hint on 2027 Minimum Wage from Manpower Minister: Could It Rise by 9.5%?
Manpower Minister Yassierli says the 2027 provincial minimum wage increase has not yet been determined and will be discussed under the new labour-protection law through national and provincial wage councils. Labour groups have proposed a rise of 7.5% to 9.5%, using inflation and economic growth figures to support their calculation.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
Korea and Australia Work-Visa Scams on Social Media: Two Bali Fraudsters Swindle Rp313 Million
Bali police have arrested two suspects accused of using social media to defraud Indonesians seeking work visas or overseas jobs, causing total losses of Rp313 million. One allegedly promised to change workers’ South Korean visa status, while the other offered a bogus tattoo-artist job in Australia; both face charges carrying a maximum six-year prison term and a Rp1 billion fine.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
Environment Minister: Law Enforcement Must Be Accompanied by Environmental Restoration
Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat says environmental enforcement must deliver ecosystem restoration, not merely judicial penalties, with scientific evidence playing a vital role in court proceedings. He cited a government lawsuit filed in early 2026 against six companies over alleged damage to more than 2,500 hectares in North Sumatra, seeking around Rp4.8 trillion.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
JCI Falls 0.84% in First Session as Foreign Investors Sell Rp581.59 Billion
Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 0.84% to 5,234.36 by the end of the first trading session, while foreign investors recorded net sales of Rp581.59 billion. Major banks Mandiri and BRI were among the most heavily sold shares, although BCA led foreign net purchases.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:32 WIB
Indonesia and China Seek Broader Cooperation as Bilateral Trade Jumps from $8bn to $154bn
Indonesia-China bilateral trade has climbed from about $8 billion during former ambassador Sudrajat’s posting to $154 billion, while the countries look to deepen cooperation beyond commerce. Forum speakers highlighted opportunities in investment, digital and green development, disaster management, renewable energy, agriculture and advanced manufacturing, amid closer regional integration and shared engagement in the Global South.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:31 WIB
PDI-P Invites Young People to Party School, Says Becoming President or Vice-President Takes Time
PDI-P has invited young people to attend its party school, where they are taught about Pancasila and the Constitution. Party official Komarudin Watubun said the programme aims to pass on the political values of Sukarno and Megawati Soekarnoputri, stressing that public office—including the presidency—requires preparation and cannot be rushed.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:28 WIB
KPK Uncovers New Findings in BNPB Disaster-Funds Corruption Case; Tents and Inflatable Boats Suspected of Being Embezzled
Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating suspected irregularities in BNPB procurement beyond communications equipment, including refugee tents, blankets, water pumps and inflatable boats. The probe follows an October 2026 sting operation in which five people were named suspects, with evidence worth Rp5.47 billion seized; investigators are also examining the role of BNPB chief Suharyanto.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:28 WIB
Bandung Doctor Accused of Abusing His Child, Who Saw Explicit Content on Father’s Phone
A 37-year-old doctor in Bandung has been arrested on suspicion of sexually abusing his three-and-a-half-year-old daughter. The case came to light after the child imitated sexual behaviour and complained of pain; police say the suspect is being questioned.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:28 WIB
Independent Waste Management Promoted Through Draft Regional Regulation
West Java’s DPRD is drafting a regional regulation to provide legal certainty and support for community-led, household waste management. The proposal aims to address barriers including limited funding and product licensing, while expanding initiatives such as converting organic waste into valuable maggot-based products.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:27 WIB
Yemen’s Central Bank Orders Freeze on 135 Houthi-Linked Accounts
Yemen’s central bank has directed banks and currency-exchange firms to freeze the accounts and assets of 135 individuals, entities and vessels listed as linked to the Houthi movement. The order also prohibits financial and commercial dealings with those listed, as Yemen’s internationally recognised government advances legislation to designate the group a terrorist organisation amid renewed tensions.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:27 WIB
MUI’s IsDF stresses the importance of partnerships to strengthen solidarity with Palestine
The Islamic Dakwah Fund of the Indonesian Ulema Council says partnerships and shared commitments are essential to sustaining humanitarian solidarity efforts for Palestine. At a forum in Jakarta, MUI leaders also called for women to have a stronger role in peacebuilding and decision-making, including a proposed minimum 30 per cent quota in global peace processes.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:26 WIB
Can France’s Socialist Camp Win Over Young Voters?
Raphaël Glucksmann has won the French Socialist Party’s presidential primary decisively, but faces a difficult path to the 2027 election amid weak polling and competition from Jean-Luc Mélenchon for left-wing support. His challenge is to attract younger and more moderate left-wing voters while drawing a clear distinction from the radical left on issues including Europe and Ukraine.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:26 WIB
Several Officials Reassigned at Dompu Police Headquarters
Dompu Police Chief AKBP Sodikin Fahrojin Nur has overseen a reshuffle of several posts at the Dompu Police headquarters in West Nusa Tenggara. He said the changes were intended to refresh the organisation, support career development and improve police performance and public services, while urging the officials to act with professionalism and integrity.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:25 WIB
ICDX: Gen Z and Millennials Dominate Digital Gold Trading
Indonesia Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (ICDX) says Gen Z and Millennials accounted for 68 per cent of 19.2 million digital physical-gold market users recorded through September 2026. The exchange sees the digitally oriented generations, many of whom have their own jobs and income, as a significant potential market for digital gold as a long-term investment.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:25 WIB
92 Cisarua Junior High School Pupils Taken to Hospital over Suspected Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning
Ninety-two pupils at a state junior high school in Cisarua, Bogor, were taken to hospital after reportedly falling ill following a Free Nutritious Meal (MBG). Authorities said evacuations and data collection were ongoing, and the cause had not yet been established as health officials treated the students.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026, 13:25 WIB
France on Edge as Military Deploys to Quell Mass Unrest
France will deploy military personnel alongside police for a large-scale security operation following deadly urban unrest and looting, with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu acknowledging failures in the state’s response. The turmoil has unsettled markets and businesses, while further protests are planned in France and unrest is also reported in Italy and Albania.