Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 October 2026

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From a Small Business, BRILink Agent Nilam Sari Now Runs 15 Outlets

Nilam Sari has expanded from a hardware shop and LPG depot into a network of 15 BRILink Agent outlets in Medan, serving local residents and plantation workers with everyday financial transactions. BRI says its nationwide agent network exceeded one million outlets by the end of September 2026, recording 750 million transactions worth Rp1,270 trillion and widening access to financial services.

Prabowo Marks 2026 National Santri Day: Islamic Boarding Schools Do More Than Teach Religion — They Shape the Nation’s Character

President Prabowo Subianto has conveyed his greetings to santri and the wider pesantren community for National Santri Day 2026, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting Islamic boarding schools. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi highlighted their role in education, character-building and national unity, and cited the establishment of a Directorate General of Pesantren at the Ministry of Religious Affairs as a step to strengthen their governance and services.

Two Years of the Ministry of Culture: Strengthening Cultural Protection and Preservation

During the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration, the Ministry of Culture has expanded heritage protection, restoration and cultural education programmes. It reports rising national heritage designations, support for cultural intellectual property and local institutions, alongside a Rp500 billion allocation from the Cultural Endowment Fund in 2026.

PTK Helps Extinguish Fire on Batumandi Ferry in the Sunda Strait

Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK) deployed marine emergency teams to help tackle a fire aboard the Batumandi passenger ferry in the Sunda Strait and contain potential fuel spills. The company positioned oil booms around the vessel and kept equipment, personnel and a tugboat on standby as a joint response focused on extinguishing the fire and protecting the marine environment.

Woman Who Fled After Fatally Hitting Primary School Boy in Tangerang Turns Herself In

A 12-year-old boy died after being struck by a motorbike while cycling in Tangerang, and the 26-year-old woman who fled the scene has since surrendered to police. The family has accepted Rp10 million in compensation, and police say the two parties have reached an amicable settlement.

BSN Urges Young People to Strengthen the Competitiveness of Islamic Banking

Bank Syariah Nasional (BSN) chief executive Alex Sofjan Noor says young people can help expand and improve the competitiveness of Indonesia’s Islamic banking sector, whose market share stood at 7.36% in June 2026, compared with 43% in Malaysia. BSN is promoting financial literacy on university campuses and offering internship and development programmes to prepare students for careers and innovation in Islamic finance.

US Orders Non-Emergency Government Staff to Leave Saudi Arabia

The US State Department has ordered non-emergency government personnel and their families to leave Saudi Arabia as Houthi attacks intensify. The move follows attacks on civilian airports and critical infrastructure, while the US Embassy in Riyadh has warned of possible further strikes.

DPR RI Monitors Distribution of Central Kalimantan Forest-Fire Aid to Ensure It Reaches Those in Need

DPR RI member Andina Theresia Narang has visited a fire-response post in Palangka Raya to check that equipment and supplies are reaching volunteers tackling forest and land fires. Around 25 volunteers are working at the post, and the visit forms part of a wider monitoring tour across Central Kalimantan as smoke and the threat of fires spreading to settlements persist.

The Intellectual Tradition of Sjahrir’s Circle and the Youth Movement

The article traces the literacy and political organising of the generation behind the 1928 Youth Pledge, focusing on Sutan Sjahrir’s role in cultivating a circle of young intellectuals. It highlights how figures including Soedjatmoko and Sumitro Djojohadikusumo later contributed to nationalist thought and, alongside Sjahrir, to diplomatic efforts to defend Indonesia’s independence.

East Jakarta administration mediates road access dispute affecting elderly couple

The East Jakarta administration has brought residents and local officials together to resolve a dispute over access to the home of an elderly couple in Cipinang Melayu. Officials say two possible routes are being considered and are seeking an agreement that preserves the couple’s access while respecting the interests of the landowner and other parties.

Walkouts on Repeat, Yet Still at the Same Table: Where Is Indonesia’s Diplomacy on Palestine Heading?

Indonesia’s repeated walkouts during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s UN speeches project solidarity with Palestine, but the article questions whether these gestures amount to substantive policy. It contrasts the walkouts with Indonesia’s membership of the US-led Board of Peace, where Israel sits as an equal, and calls for concrete steps such as reconsidering that membership and advancing BDS legislation.

Iran’s Latest Taunt: ‘Trump’ Imprisoned on a Billboard

Iran has staged a billboard stunt in Tehran showing a person dressed as Donald Trump behind bars, drawing the attention of passers-by. The display accuses the US military of striking a wedding during an air raid and follows earlier anti-Trump billboards amid tensions between Iran and the United States.

Bahlil Inaugurates First Gas Flow in East Kalimantan, With Output Potential of 750 MMSCFD

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia inaugurated the first gas flow from the Jangkrik North East (JNE) #6 well in East Kalimantan, which is expected to add 60 MMSCFD initially. Supply from the well and the MAHA field is due to reach a combined 290 MMSCFD, helping lift the Jangkrik floating production unit to its full capacity of 700–750 MMSCFD.

Government Bond Yields Surge: Who Bears the Impact?

Indonesia’s 10-year government bond yield jumped to 7.446%, its highest level since June, and moved above the 30-year yield, signalling pressure in the bond market. Global inflation and interest-rate concerns, alongside domestic investor-confidence worries following MSCI’s warning about Indonesia’s equity market, are contributing to the rise. If yields remain elevated, government financing costs and borrowing conditions for businesses and households could come under pressure, although higher yields may offer better returns to new bond buyers.

Investors, Government and Industry Chart a New Phase for Startup Investment

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Ministry and MDI Ventures brought together more than 50 investors, companies and public-sector representatives at a Bali forum to discuss ways of channeling more capital into local startups. Discussions covered investment ecosystem foundations and cross-border and corporate co-investment, with participants’ recommendations set to inform a policy brief; the event also established the Garuda Spark Capital Council to strengthen collaboration and startup capacity.

Video: Minister Trenggono Reveals Plans to Build Four World-Class Fishing Ports

Indonesia plans to modernise four fishing ports in 2026 as part of an effort to strengthen the maritime and fisheries industries and unlock their contribution to economic growth. The Eco Fishing Port model is intended to attract investment, including from France, with modernisation later expected to extend to other ports and fishing vessels.

Algae Blanket Lake Mawang, Threatening Gowa Fishers’ Livelihoods

A mass algae bloom has covered Lake Mawang in Gowa, South Sulawesi, amid a prolonged dry season, lowering water quality and potentially disrupting the lake’s fish populations. Local fishers fear that worsening conditions will reduce their catches and threaten the income they draw from the lake.

BI Survey: New Lending Forecast to Rise in Q4 2026 as Banks Ease Standards

Bank Indonesia’s third-quarter banking survey indicates that new lending is expected to increase in the fourth quarter of 2026, with lending standards easing but remaining tight overall. Banks expect outstanding loans to grow 8.20% year on year by the end of 2026, below 2025’s growth rate, while third-party deposits are also forecast to rise.

UIN Jakarta Rector Urges Santri to Drive Change in the Nation

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta Rector Asep Saepudin Jahar has urged santri to help shape Indonesia’s future through education, moral integrity and active participation in public life. He said pesantren should foster ethical leadership and that santri should contribute across government, politics, education, business and other strategic sectors.

UN: Thousands displaced by escalating violence in DR Congo

Escalating violence in south-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has displaced thousands since August, including nearly 12,000 people who fled Nambya for Mitwaba on 19 October. The new arrivals are adding pressure on host communities and increasing urgent humanitarian needs, while the UN warns that further violence could impede aid access.

Creative Economy Minister Urges Creative Industries to Drive Growth in Developing Countries

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya says the creative economy can boost growth, create jobs and strengthen local identity, particularly across the Global South. Indonesia’s sector contributes about 7.38% of GDP and employs 27.4 million people, while the country is using the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy to advance the sector’s place in global development discussions.

Riau Health Office Says Facilities Can Cope with Haze-Related Respiratory Cases

Riau’s Health Office says health facilities, including community health centres, have sufficient capacity to treat people suffering from acute respiratory infections linked to haze. The province has recorded 35,910 cases across 12 districts and cities, with Pekanbaru accounting for the largest number, while authorities distribute masks, provide support to vulnerable groups and prepare oxygen facilities for critical cases.

Indonesian Air Force Tests Toll Road as Alternative Fighter Jet Runway

The Indonesian Air Force has tested fighter aircraft landing and take-off on a 3.5-kilometre section of the Pasuruan–Probolinggo Toll Road in East Java. The exercise is part of efforts to prepare alternative runways for specific operational situations, while officials say public road use and safety remain the priority.

Bakom: Islamic Boarding Schools to Be the Backbone of Indonesia’s New Civilisation

Government Communications Agency chief Syahganda Nainggolan says the establishment of a Directorate General of Islamic Boarding Schools within the Religious Affairs Ministry reflects President Prabowo’s support for pesantren and gives them a more strategic role in developing Indonesia’s human resources. Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar says the 2026 National Santri Day message calls on students to shape the country’s future through knowledge, technology, innovation and good character.

Fire Erupts from Ground in Dlingo Resident’s Yard in Bantul

A fire emerged from beneath the soil in a resident’s yard in Muntuk, Dlingo, after smoke had been seen there for about a week. Bantul officials suspect buried mixed rubbish, dumped at the site around three years ago, began smouldering; the flames have been extinguished and the authorities will monitor the area for several days.

Wildfires Spread, Four Tanjung Puting National Park Tourist Entrances to Close from 24 October

Wildfires in Central Kalimantan’s Tanjung Puting National Park have prompted the temporary closure of four tourist entrances from 24 October, with no reopening date yet announced. Visitors will still be able to travel to Pondok Tanggui and Camp Leakey, subject to current rules, while authorities urge the public to follow staff guidance and remain alert to fire risks.

PT Timah Provides Assistance to Independence War Veterans

PT Timah has provided financial assistance to 155 veterans in Bangka Belitung and the Riau Islands ahead of Heroes’ Day on 10 November. The company said the support recognises veterans’ service and can help with daily and healthcare costs, including for those who do not receive a veterans’ allowance.

Canada announces plans to support strategic industries in response to US tariffs

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford have announced a C$8.7 billion package to support workers and businesses affected by US tariffs. The measures target steel, automotive manufacturing and critical minerals, while seeking to strengthen Ontario’s supply chains and long-term economic resilience.

Indonesia and Australia Launch Prospera, Marking a New Phase in Bilateral Cooperation

Indonesia and Australia have launched a new phase of their economic partnership, with the Prospera programme set to run from 2026 to 2035 and backed by A$420 million. It continues more than three decades of cooperation supporting Indonesia’s economic development.

Responding to Criticism, Jonan Urges Singapore and Malaysia to Help Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Presidential Advisory Council member Ignasius Jonan has urged Singapore and Malaysia to work with Indonesia to address forest and land fires, rather than criticising the country publicly. He cited ASEAN’s haze pollution agreement and the cross-border ownership of some companies linked to the fires, arguing that cooperation and joint enforcement would be more constructive.

Jakarta Government Cites Factors Behind Fall in Poverty Rate to Below 4%

Jakarta’s poverty rate fell to 3.96% in March 2026, the first time it has dropped below 4%, according to the provincial statistics agency. The provincial government attributes the decline to social assistance, support for education, health and housing, and employment programmes including vocational training delivered with 214 companies.

Pramono Targets a Reduction in Jakarta’s Unemployment Rate to 3.5%

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo aims to cut the capital’s open unemployment rate from 5.79% to 3.5%, and has called for language training to help jobseekers seeking work overseas. BPS Jakarta data show that full-time employment rose by 139,000 to 4.36 million in May 2026, while underemployment fell by about 91,000 to 225,000.

Sukoharjo Tramadol Factory Producing Millions of Pills Had Filthy Conditions, Including a Rat Hole

Police say two unlicensed Tramadol factories in Sukoharjo operated without proper hygiene standards, protective equipment or suitably qualified staff. One site could produce millions of pills a day, with estimated daily turnover of Rp3 billion; 16 suspects have been arrested as police pursue the alleged owners.

Police to Evacuate KMP Batumandi from Merak Shipping Lane

Banten Police are coordinating with ferry operator ASDP and port authorities to refloat and remove the capsized KMP Batumandi from the Merak shipping lane after a major fire. Investigators are also taking witness statements, while the vessel’s heat and debris have so far made an on-site examination unsafe; authorities are working to minimise disruption to shipping.

In the Age of AI, Why Is Gen Z Choosing ‘Old-Fashioned’ Careers?

As food demand rises and climate risks intensify, farming is forecast to become one of the world’s fastest-growing occupations, with the sector needing an estimated 35 million additional workers by 2030. A 29-year-old potato farmer in West Java says the sector offers lasting economic opportunities and that younger workers are needed to replace an ageing farming workforce.

Expert: Corporations Suspected of Forest and Land Fires Should Face More Than Criminal Penalties

Criminal law expert Abdul Fickar Hadjar says companies suspected of causing forest and land fires should also be held responsible for restoring victims’ health and livelihoods, as well as rehabilitating ecosystems. Police say 11 corporations, including three foreign-investment companies, have been named as suspects, while investigations continue into dozens of other reports.

Anti-Narcotics Agency Warns Tourists Bringing Marijuana to Bali Could Face Life in Prison

Denpasar’s National Narcotics Agency has warned foreign tourists that Indonesia’s strict narcotics laws apply in Bali, regardless of the drug rules in their home countries. Marijuana is classified as a Category I narcotic, and offences including possession, consumption and illicit trafficking can carry sentences ranging from 20 years to life imprisonment.

El Niño-Related Flooding Threatens to Displace 874,000 People in Somalia

The International Organization for Migration says nearly 874,000 people in Somalia could be forced from their homes over the next three months as El Niño exacerbates flooding. The warning comes amid an underfunded $16.62 million aid plan and broader concerns that the climate phenomenon could bring severe flooding, drought and heatwaves.

Fast-Growing New Indonesian Industry Could Generate Rp55.8 Trillion in 2026

Indonesia’s battery-materials industry has expanded rapidly, with exports projected to rise from US$887 million in 2025 to US$3.1 billion (Rp55.8 trillion) in 2026. The National Economic Council says the sector’s diverse exports and ability to process imported raw materials demonstrate the growing depth of domestic industrialisation.

Government intervenes in food prices through nationwide GPM across 38 provinces

The government has launched a simultaneous Cheap Food Movement (GPM) across all 38 provinces and 514 regencies and municipalities to stabilise prices and supplies and improve access to affordable food. The programme includes discounted staples, free rice and shopping vouchers in Jakarta, alongside new vehicles to support food safety testing and faster responses to price volatility; more than 11,000 GPM events were recorded nationwide from January to October 2026.

Indonesia boosts electricity capacity to support AI growth

Indonesia plans to add 70 gigawatts of power capacity by 2034 and is advancing a 100 GWp solar programme to strengthen energy security and support AI development. The government is also targeting 9 million digital talents by 2030, while promoting AI adoption across industry and public services under safeguards for accountability and public protection.

Jakarta Unemployment Falls to 5.79%, Pramono Aims to Cut It to 3.5%

Jakarta’s open unemployment rate fell to 5.79% in May 2026, down from 6.21% at the end of 2024, and Governor Pramono Anung wants to reduce it further to 3.5%. The provincial government is expanding job fairs, workforce training and language courses for people seeking work overseas, as demand remains high: an employment expo has offered 12,000 vacancies and received more than 28,000 online applications.

Pelindo: National Road Relocation Targeted for Completion by the End of 2026

Pelindo Regional 2 Pontianak is advancing plans to relocate a 5.6-kilometre national road in Mempawah, which currently runs through the Kijing Port area. The project is awaiting the transfer of state-owned assets from the Finance Ministry; the article cites both an end-2026 target and a later expectation of full completion by late 2027 or early 2028.

Indonesia Opens Global Investment Opportunities through WCCE 2026

The World Conference on Creative Economy 2026 is bringing Indonesian creative businesses together with international companies, investors and financial institutions to explore investment, co-production and market-access opportunities. The event, attended by representatives from 64 countries and seven international organisations, aims to turn initial contacts into lasting global partnerships for Indonesia’s creative economy.

North Sumatra Police Detain 29 People in Medan Anti-Drug Raid

North Sumatra Police detained 29 people during a raid at a suspected drug-trafficking site in Medan Area, Medan. Initial test-kit results showed 27 people tested positive for amphetamine and methamphetamine, with 10 also positive for THC; two tested negative.

Mitrabahtera Segara (MBSS) to Buy Back Rp200 Billion of Shares

Mitrabahtera Segara Sejati plans to repurchase up to 42.17 million shares, equivalent to 2.41% of its issued stock, between 22 October and 31 December 2026. The company has allocated up to Rp200 billion from internal cash and says the buyback will not affect its ability to meet upcoming obligations.

Religious Affairs Ministry to Include Law Enforcement and Influencers in Safe Santri Task Force

Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Ministry plans to bring public figures, experts, law-enforcement officials and influencers into its Safe Santri Task Force to strengthen efforts to prevent violence and sexual abuse in Islamic boarding schools. The initiative will also bolster counselling services and explore certification for boarding-school caregivers, with the aim of making pesantren safer for students and ensuring cases can be referred to legal authorities when necessary.

Key Numbers to Report Forest Fires and Wildlife in Need

The Forestry Ministry has shared contact numbers for reporting forest and land fires and for seeking help for wildlife affected by them. The guidance also urges the public to provide precise location and animal-condition details, while keeping a safe distance and avoiding direct interaction with wildlife.

21 Gorontalo Senior High School Students Who Assaulted Another Student Suspended for Two Weeks

SMA Negeri 1 Gorontalo has suspended 21 students for two weeks after they allegedly assaulted Nurdin Dali, a fellow student who had been raising donations for the school volleyball team. Dali’s family has reported the incident to the police, while the school says it is following its procedures.

JCI Rises 1.7% at the Close of the First Session

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rebounded sharply to close the first trading session up 1.7%, despite opening lower and briefly falling by 2%. Investors were also weighing Bank Indonesia’s decision to hold its benchmark rate, President Prabowo Subianto’s response to MSCI’s proposed review of Indonesia’s market status, and overseas economic developments.

Why Can Sharing Make Someone Feel Happier?

Research suggests that spending money or time on others is associated with greater happiness, in part because giving can create a sense of purpose, strengthen social ties and generate positive emotions. The benefits are not universal: giving is most likely to be rewarding when it is voluntary, meaningful and within the giver’s means.

Forestry Ministry Integrates Data Through ACTIONS to Strengthen Budget Oversight

The Forestry Ministry has introduced ACTIONS, an integrated information system designed to monitor budget execution, assess performance and improve financial oversight. The platform brings together data from national systems and work units, with early-warning features intended to support more proactive monitoring and help prevent irregularities.

Former Ombudsman Chief Hery Susanto to Face Verdict on 5 November

The Jakarta Corruption Court will deliver its verdict on former Ombudsman chief Hery Susanto on 5 November 2026 in a bribery case linked to the handling of nickel-mining governance audit reports. Prosecutors have sought a five-and-a-half-year prison sentence, a Rp300 million fine and Rp4.19 billion in compensation, alleging that he received bribes and a house worth a total of Rp4.85 billion.

Head of the Family Welfare Movement Stresses the Importance of Recognition and Protection

Tri Tito Karnavian has called for volunteer community health and family welfare cadres to be recognised rather than penalised, while urging them to help protect women and children from violence. She also praised Bali’s progress in registering Posyandu through its information system and said legal-awareness sessions should strengthen cadres’ ability to support victims.

Hasto’s Assessment of Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Government: MK Ruling Is a Burden for the President

PDI-P secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto says the Constitutional Court ruling concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational qualifications has weakened Gibran’s legitimacy and become a burden for President Prabowo Subianto. He also urged the government to review its performance on campaign promises, jobs, the rule of law and public concerns, warning that ignoring criticism could fuel public discontent.

Laundry Business Premises Explode in Patehan, Kraton, Yogyakarta

A loud explosion at a laundry business in Patehan damaged nearby buildings and scattered debris as far as a primary school about 25 metres away. A woman who was at the premises was reportedly thrown outside and suffered what a witness described as minor injuries; the cause has not been confirmed, although a gas-powered clothes dryer is suspected.

The Struggle of Autistic Jobseekers at a Jakarta Job Fair

People with disabilities, including Ryan, a 29-year-old autistic graduate, attended the Jakarta and Independent Employment Expo 2026 in search of work. Ryan has been looking for a job since graduating in 2022 and hopes the fair will connect him with suitable employment, while urging employers to include people with both visible and non-visible disabilities.

Two Years of the Cabinet: Gus Ipul to Report Social Affairs Ministry’s Achievements to Prabowo

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf says he will give President Prabowo Subianto a detailed account of the ministry’s achievements over the past two years, covering social assistance, rehabilitation and empowerment programmes. At a plenary cabinet meeting marking the government’s second year, Prabowo thanked ministers and officials, praising their work and underscoring the importance of teamwork.

Goldman Sachs Outlines What Indonesia Must Do to Avoid MSCI Downgrade, with Rp100 Trillion at Risk

Goldman Sachs says Indonesia must consistently implement capital-market reforms to retain its emerging-market status in MSCI’s classification, warning that inadequate progress could lead to a downgrade to Standalone Market. MSCI’s proposal is open for consultation until 30 April 2027, with a final decision due by 30 June 2027; the article’s headline says Rp100 trillion in funds is at risk.

ASDP: Express 1 Service Returns to Normal After KMP Batumandi Incident

ASDP says ferry services at Merak Port’s Express 1 pier returned to normal early on 21 October after being disrupted by the fire aboard KMP Batumandi. The operator has restored capacity in stages, while continuing to assist affected passengers; three remain under treatment at KS Hospital.

From Feeding Fish to Collecting Eggs, PNM’s Lansiapreneur Gives Older Residents New Activities

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has launched a programme at a Depok care home that engages older residents in raising tilapia and egg-laying hens. The initiative aims to keep them active and productive while opening opportunities for skills development and potential income, including for people over 65 who are generally outside the age limit for PNM business financing.

Video: Rice Reserves Surge, So Why Are Rice Prices Still High?

Indonesia’s government rice reserves reached 4.8 million tonnes in September 2026, as higher production and increased procurement strengthened stocks. The report examines why rice prices remain high despite the larger reserves, and what the stockpile means for farmers’ welfare amid the threat of El Niño.

Crypto Boss Arrested with Three Pistols and Four Rifles

Richard Heart, founder of the Hex, PulseChain and PulseX crypto projects, has reportedly been arrested in Istanbul with his wife, with conflicting media reports about the cash, valuables and weapons seized. The arrest is reportedly linked to an Interpol Red Notice requested by Finland; Heart has also faced tax and assault allegations and a US Securities and Exchange Commission case that was dismissed for lack of jurisdiction.

National Santri Day 2026: Cak Imin Says Santri Are Heirs to a History Begun by Ulama

PKB chairman and Community Empowerment Minister Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar called on santri to help tackle poverty, strengthen national unity and improve Indonesia’s scientific and technological capabilities. He said around 23 million Indonesians remain below the poverty line, and urged santri to build on the legacy of ulama while preparing to lead the country and compete internationally.

Casio Launches Analogue G-SHOCK Watches with Functional Design Inspired by the Original Model

Casio has launched two new shock-resistant G-SHOCK models, the GMC-2500 and GAC-2500, combining an analogue display with design cues from the original DW-5000C. Both feature a Multi-Mission Date display and a sleep function intended to reduce power consumption and extend battery life.

Emotional Final Moments as South Kalimantan Forest-Fire Volunteer Clutches Colleague Before Dying

Fire volunteer Nurdin died after suffering chest pain and breathing difficulties while battling a forest and land fire in Barito Kuala, South Kalimantan. Colleagues said thick smoke and his thin mask may have contributed to his distress; he lost consciousness several times before being pronounced dead at hospital.

SASAMA Art Exhibition in Bali Runs Until 31 October 2026, with Free Admission

The SASAMA – Continuum of Giving exhibition brings together 20 artists in Seminyak to explore giving, sharing and human relationships through traditional and contemporary art. Open to the public free of charge until 31 October 2026, it invites visitors to reflect on the many forms of what people give to one another.

Sahroni Backs Police Decision to Release Greenpeace Activists, Says It Follows President’s Direction

Deputy chairman of the House of Representatives’ Commission III, Ahmad Sahroni, praised police for releasing six Greenpeace Indonesia activists after investigators found no evidence of a criminal offence. He said peaceful demonstrations are part of freedom of expression and claimed President Prabowo’s administration is open to receiving the group’s climate and cost-of-living data and recommendations.

APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting Concludes with Practical Achievements

The APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting in Hong Kong adopted a joint statement and policy guidance on financing digital infrastructure, alongside reports on fiscal policy and financial inclusion. Members also agreed to promote training and exchanges for young finance professionals, with China’s finance minister calling for stronger regional policy coordination and practical cooperation.

LUXEED to Enter Indonesian Market in 2027 with Luxury MPV

Chinese premium vehicle brand LUXEED, part of Chery Group, plans to begin marketing vehicles in Indonesia in the second quarter of 2027, with its LLounge luxury MPV among the initial offerings. The company is preparing a dealer network beginning in Greater Jakarta and aims to expand globally to more than 60 markets and reach sales of 500,000 units by 2030.

Government activates oxygen shelters for residents affected by forest and land fires

The government has opened smoke-sealed oxygen shelters and emergency health posts for people affected by forest and land fires, with services focused on respiratory illnesses and vulnerable residents. The Health Ministry says it has established 477 oxygen shelters across affected provinces; official data recorded more than 314,000 cumulative acute respiratory infection cases across seven provinces and 65 localities.

RISO Launches ComColor GN Series High-Speed Inkjet Printers Offering Speeds of up to 180 ppm

RISO has introduced its ComColor GN series of high-speed colour inkjet printers, led by the GN9830, which can print up to 180 pages per minute. The lineup uses heatless, oil-based pigment ink to support high-volume workflows while reducing paper curling and energy use, and incorporates more recycled plastic than previous models.

Jakarta Jobseekers to Get Special Cards for Free Public Transport

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says jobseekers who meet the criteria will be eligible for free public transport from 1 January 2027, as the city expands the number of eligible groups from 15 to 21. Priority will go to people who have never previously held a job; details including the card’s validity period are yet to be set.

Bali Demonstrators Demand Minimum Monthly Wage of Rp 5.2 Million

Students and labour union members in Bali are urging Governor Wayan Koster to set the provincial minimum wage at Rp 5.2 million, warning of larger demonstrations if their demand is not met. The provincial government is assessing wage options, including a study of minimum-wage benchmarks and decent-living standards, while Koster acknowledges that current wages may not ensure workers a decent livelihood.

AI Makes It Easier to Build Start-ups, but Business Models Remain a Challenge

AI tools are lowering the barriers to starting businesses in Indonesia, with local ventures applying the technology in healthcare, shrimp farming and recruitment. Industry figures warn that start-ups need genuine products and robust business models rather than simply packaging global platforms, while AI investment remains heavily concentrated in the United States and foundational technology remains costly to develop.

At Plenary Cabinet Meeting, Home Affairs Minister Promotes Unity in the Red and White Cabinet

President Prabowo Subianto thanked the Red and White Cabinet for its work during the government’s first two years and stressed that effective governance depends on teamwork. Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian attended the plenary meeting, where Prabowo urged ministers to maintain cohesion and co-operation in carrying out the people’s mandate.

Meeting Industry Needs, Binus Launches Multihelix Hub for Collaboration

Binus University has launched the Multihelix Hub at its BSD campus to connect researchers with industry, government, communities, SMEs and the media. The initiative aims to turn research into practical solutions, with Binus targeting seven to eight joint-research agreements with industry in 2026.

Deputy Coordinating Minister Highlights Importance of Legal Certainty in Meeting with NX Group

Deputy Coordinating Minister Otto Hasibuan told Nippon Express Group that the government is committed to legal certainty for businesses and investors, as NX Group raised labour-relations concerns involving its Indonesian subsidiary, PT NX Logistics Indonesia. The ministry will review relevant regulations and coordinate with agencies to support a lawful resolution, balancing a favourable investment climate with the protection of workers’ rights.

Shenzhen–Jakarta Flights Resume in Both Directions

Shenzhen Airlines has resumed direct flights between Shenzhen and Jakarta, a move Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry expects to improve access for Chinese visitors. Chinese arrivals in Indonesia rose 16.46 per cent year on year to more than 1.05 million in January–August 2026, while the restored route could also benefit tourism-related businesses.

India’s Largest Bank Hit by Cyberattack, Thousands of Customers’ Data Leaked

State Bank of India says a cyberattack exposed 3,897 customers’ personal details on the dark web. The bank has activated its incident-response protocols and commissioned an independent cybersecurity assessment, while saying the breach is not expected to materially affect its core operations or financial performance.

Good News: Zero-Down-Payment Rules for Homes and Vehicles Extended Until the End of 2027

Bank Indonesia has extended its zero-down-payment rules for property loans and financing for new motor vehicles through 31 December 2027, one year beyond their previous expiry date. The extension allows eligible banks to offer property financing with loan-to-value or financing-to-value ratios of up to 100%, alongside minimum down payments of zero for all types of new motor vehicles.

Video: Fisheries Minister’s Plan to Improve Fishers’ Welfare – KKP Polytechnics to Merge

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is pursuing modern fishing ports and village-based mini recirculating aquaculture systems to expand production, jobs and access to fish protein. The ministry will also merge 11 vocational polytechnics into the Ocean Institute of Indonesia as part of efforts to strengthen the blue economy and fisheries workforce.

More Than 70,000 Children Contract Respiratory Infections Amid Forest and Land Fires; Government Activates Emergency Posts

More than 306,000 acute respiratory infection cases have been recorded in areas affected by forest and land fires, including tens of thousands among young children. The government has reactivated emergency health posts, distributed protective supplies and transferred Rp1.235 trillion to local administrations to support fire response and protect vulnerable residents.

Fishermen and Residents Help Evacuate KMP Batumandi; ASDP Expresses Its Appreciation

Fifty-eight fishermen and local residents used more than 20 boats to help evacuate passengers after a fire aboard the KMP Batumandi near Merak Port. Ferry operator ASDP thanked those involved with food packages and said it is continuing post-incident recovery and support for affected passengers, highlighting the importance of coordination in emergencies.

Tanah Abang Dispute: Hercules Issues Strong Warning to Minister Maruarar Sirait, Who Says Land Is a State Asset

GRIB Jaya leader Hercules has challenged Housing and Settlements Minister Maruarar Sirait over a disputed site near Tanah Abang Station, arguing that heirs’ claims must be respected if the land is used for public housing. State railway company KAI says it holds management rights over the land, while a private claimant cites a 1923 colonial-era title, leaving competing claims at the centre of the dispute.

Reflecting on Santri Day 2026: As Artificial Intelligence Dominates Technology, How Will the Santri–Kiai Relationship Change?

Artificial intelligence is increasingly helping pesantren students with research, Arabic translation and preliminary study of Islamic jurisprudence. But KH Nur Salikin, head of the Indonesian Ma'had Aly Association, warns that quick answers do not amount to deep understanding, and says the role of kiai and ustaz in explaining sources and scholarly methods remains essential.

Fishing Boat Sinks in Komodo National Park; Six Fishermen Rescued

A fishing boat carrying a catch struck a coral reef near Siaba Kecil Island in Komodo National Park and sank, but all six crew members were rescued safely. The rescue team had been in the area conducting the 10th and final day of an extended search for a woman who went missing after another vessel sank earlier this month.

Amnesty: Indonesia Should Make Greater Use of Its Role at the UN for Palestine

Amnesty International Indonesia executive director Usman Hamid has urged the government to use its position in UN bodies more actively to support Palestinians and to restore plans to ratify the Rome Statute to the National Action Plan on Human Rights. He said ratification would enable more concrete legal support, while also arguing that Indonesia should withdraw from the Board of Peace, which he considers a flawed initiative dominated by the United States.

Iran Says It Will Use ‘Mother of All Bombs’ if US and Israel Attack Again

Iran says it is preparing to unveil a new weapon dubbed the “father of all bombs”, while warning that any renewed US or Israeli attack would prompt a forceful response. An IRGC spokesman also claims Iran’s missile stockpile has grown by 50% since its 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, alongside improvements in range, destructive power and accuracy.

Immigration detains 45 foreign nationals during checks at Kalibata City

Indonesia’s immigration authorities detained 45 foreign nationals for further checks after an overnight operation at the Kalibata City apartment complex in South Jakarta, prompted in part by residents’ complaints. Officials are verifying the group’s immigration documents, residence permits and activities; any violations will be handled under applicable law.

9 Ways to Relieve Acid Reflux Without Medication, According to a Harvard Expert

Harvard Medical School gastroenterologist Jacqueline Wolf outlines nine lifestyle changes that may help ease gastro-oesophageal reflux, from eating smaller meals and avoiding trigger foods to adjusting sleep habits and quitting smoking. The article advises people whose symptoms persist or worsen to contact a doctor for appropriate treatment.

Amid Major Protests in France, Macron Says State of Emergency Not Yet Needed

French President Emmanuel Macron says a state of emergency is not currently necessary, while promising firm action to restore public order after demonstrations over the cost of living and education standards turned violent. More than 2,500 people have been arrested since the weekend, and the Interior Ministry estimates that 550,000 people took part in protests nationwide.

Danantara Says It Has Bought Shares as the JCI Falls

Danantara says it has begun buying Indonesian shares during the recent market downturn, viewing lower prices as an investment opportunity and focusing on state-owned companies with solid fundamentals. The move comes after an MSCI announcement triggered a sharp sell-off, while Danantara says it will deploy a similar amount to its previous investment and work with partners rather than pick stocks directly.

Prabowo Says ‘Reserves Will Be Called On’, Prompting Reshuffle Speculation

Political analysts interpret President Prabowo Subianto’s football-team analogy, in which he said reserve players would get their turn, as a sign that a cabinet reshuffle may be approaching. They cite concerns over cabinet performance, political balance and an aide reportedly linked to a corruption case, while identifying several ministers they believe could be affected.

ASDP President Director Says It Is Moving Quickly to Respond to KMP Batumandi Incident

ASDP says it is coordinating with authorities and other stakeholders after the KMP Batumandi sank near Merak Port, with measures including securing the site, installing marker buoys and oil booms, and preparing a salvage operation. The vessel is to be returned to an upright position before being moved to a shipyard, with safety and navigational conditions guiding each stage.

OJK: DIY Financial Inclusion Reaches 98.74%, Second-Highest Nationally

Financial inclusion in Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) reached 98.74 per cent, ranking second nationally, while financial literacy stood at 76.44 per cent, seventh nationally, according to the 2026 survey. OJK and the provincial governor called for stronger financial understanding and warned residents about illegal online lending, implausible investment offers and misuse of personal data.

Luobing Theory Congress Opens in Singapore to Promote Traditional Chinese Medicine Internationally

The 2026 annual conference of the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies’ Luobing Specialty Committee and the overseas forum of the International Congress of Luobing Theory opened in Singapore, bringing together international researchers to share findings and promote cooperation. Organisers also released an English-language expert consensus and a compendium on Luobing theory, which they said would help expand its international reach and support further research and standardisation.

Pramono Speaks Out over Numerous Incidents on Accident-Prone Transjakarta Corridor 9

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed the city’s Transport Agency to prevent overloaded trucks from cutting across the Transjakarta busway on Corridor 9, where collisions have repeatedly disrupted services. He called for strict enforcement and coordination with the National Traffic Police, following a recent truck crash that caused congestion and bus delays near Kemanggisan stop.

Parent Company Denies Reports of Plans to Delist CIMB Niaga

CIMB Group Holdings has denied reports that it plans to privatise and delist its Indonesian subsidiary, Bank CIMB Niaga, saying no decision has been made and no formal proposal submitted. The denial follows foreign media reports citing possible strategic options to address free-float requirements, and comes as BNGA shares rose 11.29% in Wednesday trading.

Undana and IFTK Ledalero Research Banana Blood Disease in Flores

Universitas Nusa Cendana and IFTK Ledalero are exploring joint research into banana blood disease, which is killing plants and reducing yields for farmers in Flores. The planned partnership also covers other community priorities and aims to align university research and institutional support with regional development needs.

Samsung Galaxy A57 and A56 Can Now Send Files to iPhones via AirDrop

Samsung has extended its cross-platform file-sharing feature to the mid-range Galaxy A57 and A56 through the One UI 9.0 update. The move lets Galaxy users exchange files directly with Apple devices and could encourage other Android manufacturers to offer similar compatibility.

Car Crashes into Pick-up on Rasuna Said, Leaving One Dead and Five Injured

A Honda Mobilio collided with a pick-up on Jalan HR Rasuna Said in South Jakarta, killing one pick-up passenger and injuring five others. One of the injured passengers is in critical condition; police are investigating the crash and have taken the victims to hospital.

Woodford and Hall Debunk the Myth of Central Bank Independence

The article argues that Michael Woodford and Robert E Hall’s work on monetary–fiscal interdependence challenges the view that price stability is solely a central-bank responsibility. It applies their ideas to debt and inflation pressures in the United States and Indonesia, warning that political pressure, unsustainable refinancing and weak policy credibility can undermine economic stability.

About the Chinese Rocket Debris that Fell in Central Kalimantan

Debris from China’s ZhuQue-2E rocket was identified in Kotawaringin Timur, Central Kalimantan, after residents reported a loud bang and found large metal fragments. The rocket had launched 10 satellites as part of China’s ambitious plan to build an AI computing infrastructure in space; BRIN says the precise time and location of space-debris re-entry cannot be predicted, although its orbital path can be tracked.

Why Summarecon Gave Hercules Rp800 Million: The Circumstances Begin to Emerge

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating Rp800 million handed over by Summarecon to Hercules, with the company suspected of paying him for land security in Bogor. Hercules’ legal representative says the money was provided before the KPK’s sting operation to help facilitate a land dispute and was later surrendered to investigators so its source and purpose could be examined.

IDX Changes Rules: HSC Shares to Be Excluded from the Composite Index from 2 November

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) will exclude shares classified as having High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) from the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI), effective 2 November 2026. The change also revises the index review schedule and introduces immediate adjustments when a stock is added to or removed from the HSC list between scheduled reviews.

PKK Chair Criticises Fines for Dasawisma Volunteers, Urges Recognition

Tri Tito Karnavian, head of the central Family Welfare Movement (TP PKK) and Posyandu teams, said volunteer cadres should be supported and appreciated rather than fined for failing to meet activity targets. She also urged communities to help victims of violence and strengthen protection for women and children, while praising Bali’s progress in registering Posyandu centres.

Indonesia’s Nuclear Power Plant Plans Still Await Presidential Regulation

Indonesia’s plan to build two nuclear power units with a combined capacity of 500 megawatts remains stalled pending a presidential regulation, which is needed to advance the project included in PLN’s 2025–2034 electricity plan. MEBNI chair Arnold Soetrisnanto estimates that, if the regulation is issued in 2026, preparations and construction could take about a decade, bringing the first plant into operation around 2037; further work on licensing rules and coordination among agencies will also be required.

Bahlil Reports to Prabowo That Revenue from Coal and Other Commodities Has Risen

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia told President Prabowo Subianto that non-tax state revenue from coal exceeded its 2026 budget target, reaching more than Rp160 trillion despite lower planned production. Coal export proceeds are also projected to surpass the US$27 billion target, potentially exceeding US$30 billion.

Tri Tito Urges Recognition for PKK and Posyandu Volunteers and Greater Protection for Women and Children

Tri Tito Karnavian has called for greater recognition and support for volunteer PKK and Posyandu cadres, rejecting fines as a way to enforce their community-work targets. She also urged cadres to raise legal awareness, support victims of violence and strengthen protection for women and children, while commending Bali’s progress in registering Posyandu centres.

Linyi Trade City to Hold Sourcing Fair, with 2,000 Foreign Buyers Expected

Linyi Trade City in China’s Shandong province has opened an International Sourcing Centre and expects more than 2,000 international buyers at its 4th International Sourcing Conference on 28–30 October. The centre brings together hundreds of trading companies and outlets linked to supplier factories, while digital platforms and logistics links support the city’s ambitions to expand foreign trade.

Javan Leopard Captured on Camera in West Nusakambangan Nature Reserve

A camera trap recorded a Javan leopard in the West Nusakambangan Nature Reserve during a brief survey by Central Java’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency. Officials estimate there are around 20 Javan leopards across Nusakambangan, but warn that the latest footage cannot establish the island-wide population; they also note that development projects could affect wildlife and habitats, though their impact has not yet been assessed.

What a New National Police Chief Means for the Public

Parliament has approved Police Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto as National Police Chief, raising public expectations for faster, clearer services and fair law enforcement. The article says his leadership should be judged by practical improvements in crime reporting, protection from digital crime, community safety and public trust.

Kalibata 11 Primary School Pupils Practise Earthquake Evacuation

Pupils at SDN Kalibata 11 in Jakarta took part in an earthquake preparedness drill, learning how to respond to emergency alarms, protect themselves during tremors and evacuate safely. The exercise was part of Jakarta’s city-wide simulations, intended to strengthen public readiness for potential disasters.

Government records Rp46 trillion in special economic zone investment through September 2026

Investment in Indonesia’s special economic zones (SEZs) reached Rp46 trillion in January–September 2026, about 67 per cent of the annual target, and generated 53,190 jobs. The government says stronger SEZ development across health, tourism, industry and other priority sectors can help support its ambition of economic growth of up to 8 per cent, while building workforce capacity and attracting further investment.

Kemenag Opens In-Service Teacher Professional Education Registration Until 27 October 2026: Schedule, Requirements and Link

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has opened online registration for its 2026 in-service Teacher Professional Education (PPG) programme for madrasah teachers, with applications accepted from 21 to 27 October. Applicants must meet employment, academic and eligibility criteria, with the EMIS GKT system checking requirements before registration and officials verifying submissions.

Jakarta Job Fair Offers 12,000 Vacancies as Online Applications Top 28,000

Jakarta’s 2026 Karir Jakarta and Independent Workforce Expo is offering 12,000 jobs from 100 companies, with more than 28,000 applications already submitted online. Although the city’s open unemployment rate has fallen to 5.79%, officials say job opportunities remain insufficient and hope the expo will help residents find work.

MirrorShip Launches MIP, an AI Platform for Enterprise Data Analysis

MirrorShip has launched its MirrorShip Intelligence Platform (MIP), combining real-time analytics, business semantics and AI data agents to produce auditable analysis. The platform is designed to help companies apply AI to business data while maintaining clear metric definitions, controlled access and traceable query processes.

Young Man Arrested in Tangerang After Selling Synthetic Cannabis via Instagram for a Year

Police in Serang have arrested two men over the online sale of synthetic cannabis, after tracing transactions to Instagram accounts. One suspect said he had been involved in the drug trade for more than a year, while investigators continue to search for suppliers and other members of the network.

Man Arrested in Bogor After Dozens of Bag-Snatching Raids

Police in Bogor have arrested a 27-year-old suspected motorcycle bag-snatcher and a 29-year-old alleged receiver of stolen goods. Investigators say the suspect had carried out around 30 robberies, targeting motorcyclists, and faces a possible sentence of up to nine years; the alleged receiver faces up to four years in prison.

Changing Trends in Vertical Living: Productive Facilities Offer Property Business Opportunities

The shift towards remote working is reshaping demand for vertical housing, with residents increasingly seeking shared workspaces and meeting rooms within residential developments. Sky House Alam Sutera+ is positioning such facilities as part of its offering and has begun phased handovers of units in its Barberry Tower.

ASDP-Owned KMP Batumandi Sinks After Being Gutted by Fire

ASDP is coordinating a response after its ferry KMP Batumandi sank in waters near Merak Port on Wednesday night, with safety measures in place around the wreck and oil booms deployed to contain any spill. A salvage team is expected to arrive on Thursday to prepare to right the vessel and move it to a shipyard, with maritime safety prioritised throughout.

Coordinating Minister: Aid for Forest and Land Fires to Prioritise the Health of Affected Residents

The government has transferred the second tranche of a total Rp1.235 trillion in aid for tackling forest and land fires, with President Prabowo directing that protection and healthcare for affected residents come first. Funding will also support firefighting equipment, personnel and logistics, as around 71,000 personnel conduct ground and aerial operations across affected areas.

Bank Jakarta Director Wins Award for Financial Innovation

Bank Jakarta Finance and Strategy Director Basaria Martha Juliana has received the 4th Indonesia Most Innovative CFO Awards 2026, recognising her prudent and innovative approach to financial governance. The bank also won a Best Brand Popularity award among regional development banks, reflecting its efforts to strengthen transparent financial management and deliver competitive, sustainable services.

As the Economy Grows More Uncertain, How Can Families Protect Their Financial Security?

With inflation, a weaker rupiah and volatile share prices adding to household uncertainty, the article recommends practical steps to strengthen family finances. These include reviewing cash flow, building an emergency fund, managing debt cautiously and aligning investments with financial goals and risk tolerance, while drawing on Islamic principles of responsible stewardship.

Home Affairs Minister Attends Cabinet Meeting and Hears Prabowo’s Call for Cooperation

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian attended a plenary cabinet meeting marking the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. Prabowo thanked ministers for their work and stressed that effective government depends on unity and teamwork across its ranks.

First hearing in Silmy Karim extortion case set for next Thursday

The first hearing in the alleged extortion case involving former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim is scheduled for 29 October at the Central Jakarta District Court’s Corruption Court. Prosecutors will read the indictment against Karim and six co-defendants, in a case in which the Corruption Eradication Commission alleges officials extorted about Rp145.5 billion over foreign nationals’ residence permits between 2022 and 2026.

How to Create an IKD Account to Log in to the Digital Social Assistance Portal

A Digital Population Identity (IKD) is required to register for and access social assistance through the Social Affairs Ministry’s Perlinsos Digital portal. The article outlines the documents and steps needed to activate an IKD, log in and apply for BPNT or PKH assistance, and track an application’s status.

50 Sorong Farmers’ Wives Launch Food Businesses with the Patriot Team

Fifty farmers’ wives in the Klamono-Segun Transmigration Area are learning to turn locally grown produce into processed foods, with support from an University of Brawijaya team. The programme aims to raise household incomes by adding value to crops and helping participants meet food-safety and licensing requirements, with local shops and tourist gift centres among the target markets.

Coordinating Minister Says Forest and Land Fire Response Is National, Regardless of Status

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono says the central government is providing assistance to regions affected by forest and land fires, and that the response is national regardless of whether a national disaster status is declared. He rejects claims that the government has been slow, citing El Niño-related drought and human activity as factors prolonging the fires, and calls for cooperation among government agencies, local communities, volunteers and academia.

UGM Student Advocacy Forum Demands Clarity on Handling of Alleged Violence at 1 September Protest

Representatives of the UGM Student Advocacy Forum asked Yogyakarta Police for an update on the investigation into alleged violence against students during a 1 September demonstration. Police say they have collected CCTV footage from seven locations and are still checking the relevant sites, while asking the students to file a formal report through the Integrated Police Service Centre.

Full List of Prices for Three Gold Brands at Pegadaian on Thursday

Pegadaian’s quoted prices on Thursday at 11.11am local time were Rp2,499,000 per gram for Galeri24, Rp2,589,000 for Antam and Rp2,524,000 for UBS. Prices may change, and the three brands are sold in different weight ranges, with Galeri24 available up to 1kg, UBS up to 500g and Antam up to 100g.

TNI to Examine KPK Information on Soldiers Allegedly Involved in BNPB Corruption Case

The Indonesian Military (TNI) says it will coordinate with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and follow up on information that two active-duty soldiers may be implicated in alleged corruption involving disaster-response funds at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The KPK has named five suspects and says the case concerns procurement worth Rp148 billion over three years, with suspected conflicts of interest and bribery.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Attends Cabinet Meeting and Hears President Stress the Importance of Unity

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian attended a plenary cabinet meeting marking the first two years of the administration, where President Prabowo Subianto thanked ministers for their work. Prabowo emphasised that effective government depends on cohesion and teamwork, arguing that cooperation can matter more than individual brilliance.

Hutama Karya Maintains Growth in Performance Through the Third Quarter of 2026

State-owned construction firm Hutama Karya reported a 6.3% year-on-year rise in net profit and 2.7% growth in operating revenue through the third quarter of 2026. Growth was supported by toll-road operating income, cost controls and lower financing costs, while the company continued its strategic infrastructure assignments and prioritised financial resilience.

iPhone Duo to Get Apple Pencil Support Next Week via iOS 27.2

Apple is reportedly set to add Apple Pencil support to the iPhone Duo through iOS 27.2, expected as early as 26 October—earlier than the previously anticipated December 2026 release. The stylus will connect and charge via USB-C because the foldable phone has no dedicated magnetic area, and can be used for drawing, note-taking and navigation on both displays.

From a Simple Business to 15 Outlets: BRILink Agent Nilam Sari’s Growth in Medan

Nilam Sari has expanded from a hardware shop and LPG depot into a network of 15 BRILink Agent outlets serving plantation and industrial communities in Medan. The network reflects the growing demand for accessible financial services, while BRI says its nationwide agent network had surpassed one million agents and processed Rp1,270 trillion in transactions by the end of September 2026.

On National Santri Day 2026, Prabowo Urges Islamic Boarding Schools to Care for the People

President Prabowo Subianto has conveyed his greetings to Indonesia’s santri and pesantren community, stressing the role of Islamic boarding schools in education, character-building and national life. The government says it will continue supporting their educational quality and institutional development, while widening opportunities for students to learn and contribute to society.

This Official Built His Fortune from Stall Rents at Pasar Senen and Tanah Abang

Justinus Vinck, a colonial official and landowner in Weltevreden, established the markets that became Pasar Senen and Tanah Abang in 1735, collecting taxes and stall rents from traders. The markets later grew into major commercial centres in Jakarta, with Tanah Abang developing into a prominent textile hub.

Metal Fragments Found Near Mysterious Hole in Madiun as Police Investigate

Residents found a metal fragment near a mysterious hole in a maize field in Madiun after a loud blast was heard near Mount Pandan, on the border with Bojonegoro. Police have secured the palm-sized object and are investigating its origin and whether it is connected to the sound heard on 18 October 2026.

Bamsoet Says Prabowo’s Two-Year Achievements Are Key to Indonesia’s Self-Reliance

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo says the administration’s first two years have laid foundations for greater national self-reliance, citing investment, jobs, food production and energy measures. He called for stronger anti-corruption and law enforcement efforts, as well as continued reductions in poverty and regional inequality, in the government’s third year.

Timeline: Man Found Burnt to Death on East Manggarai Farm

A 59-year-old man was found dead with burn injuries on a farm in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, after the landowner saw smoke. Police found bloodstains near the body and suspect he may have fallen on the steep terrain before being exposed to fire, but the cause of death and source of the fire remain undetermined.

Prabowo Sends Greetings for National Santri Day 2026 and Shares His Message

President Prabowo Subianto has sent greetings to students of Islamic boarding schools and their communities for National Santri Day 2026, with the message delivered by State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi. The government praised pesantren for their role in education, character-building and national unity, and said it is strengthening their governance and services through a new Directorate General of Pesantren.

Coordinating Minister Sugiono Responds to Malaysian MP’s Criticism over Indonesian Forest and Land Fires

Coordinating Minister Sugiono said Indonesia understands the impact of haze from forest and land fires on neighbouring countries, while stressing that Indonesians are also directly affected. He said Indonesia is coordinating with neighbours and pursuing measures to tackle the fires, after Malaysian MP Kalam Salan called for faster action and warned of health and economic effects in Malaysia.

Pertamina Deploys Oil Booms to Assist KMP Batumandi

Pertamina, through its subsidiary PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK), deployed oil booms and emergency-response teams after the KMP Batumandi incident in the Sunda Strait. The measures were intended to help contain any potential fuel spill while supporting firefighting and protecting the marine environment; PTK said its personnel and equipment remained on standby at the site.

Danantara to gather 131 global technology CEOs at DTIIF 2026

Danantara Indonesia will host the DTIIF 2026 in Jakarta on 26–28 October, bringing together more than 1,500 participants, including 131 global technology CEOs, over 50 state-owned enterprises and international investors. With six priority sectors and deal-making activities such as project pitches and business matching, the forum is positioned as a channel for directing investment towards Indonesian industries; its significance will depend on whether discussions produce binding commitments and realised projects.

Confirmation Bias and the Truth That Is Overlooked

The article examines how viral social-media claims can eclipse later clarifications, using disputes involving singer Kelly Clarkson and a Brooklyn toy shop, and an Indonesian commuter-rail passenger and a KAI employee. It argues that confirmation bias, amplified by algorithms, echo chambers and misinformation, can distort public perceptions, damage reputations and prompt harmful actions.

Mysterious Hole Appears After Loud Bang Reported in Madiun

A 1.6-metre-deep hole was discovered in a maize field in Pajaran village, Madiun, after reports of a loud bang near Mount Pandan. Police have cordoned off the site and are investigating the hole’s cause.

LPDS’s New Executive Director Highlights Challenges Facing the Press in the AI Era

Newly appointed LPDS Executive Director Anthonius Jimmy Silalahi says Indonesian journalism must protect quality, independence and public trust amid AI-driven changes to news production and distribution. He and Press Council Deputy Chairman Totok Suryanto emphasised that critical thinking and journalistic ethics remain essential, while LPDS continues its role in training journalists.

Kebayoran Station Escalator Out of Order for a Week

An escalator serving Platform 1 at Kebayoran Station has been out of service for around a week while PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia carries out an overhaul. The operator says work is expected to finish on 27 October 2026 and advises priority passengers to use the available lift.

Toshida Indonesia Boss Faces Sentencing Hearing in Bribery Case Involving Former Ombudsman Chair

PT Toshida Indonesia director Laode Sinarwan Oda is due to face a prosecution sentencing hearing over an alleged Rp1.5 billion bribe linked to an Ombudsman report on the company’s non-tax state revenue obligations. The case is connected to the separate trial of former Ombudsman member Hery Susanto, who is accused of accepting money and property worth Rp4.85 billion from several parties in exchange for influencing Ombudsman reports.

New Development: Indonesia Becomes an Exporter of Electric Vehicle Battery Materials

Indonesia has begun exporting a range of processed materials and components for electric-vehicle batteries, with exports rising sharply from US$92 million in 2024 to US$887 million in 2025. The National Economic Council projects the total could reach US$3.1 billion in 2026, as exports go mainly to the United States, China and South Korea.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian Criticises Fines for PKK Volunteers, Says Recognition Should Replace Punishment

Tri Tito Karnavian, head of the national PKK and Posyandu teams, has criticised fines imposed on Dasawisma volunteers who fail to meet activity targets, arguing that volunteers should be recognised rather than penalised. Speaking in Denpasar, she called for suitable support and appreciation, and also urged PKK and Posyandu volunteers to help protect women and children from physical and verbal violence.

Kim Jong Un’s Sister Threatens South Korea as North Prepares to Switch on ‘War Radio’

Kim Yo Jong has threatened to restart North Korea’s propaganda broadcasts along the border, warning Seoul of severe consequences amid rising military tensions. The move would challenge South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s efforts to ease hostilities and rebuild trust between the two Koreas.

Job Fair at Smesco Draws Crowds, with 28,484 Applicants Registering Online

A Jakarta provincial government job fair at Smesco attracted strong interest, with 28,484 people applying online for about 12,000 vacancies across roughly 100 companies. Governor Pramono Anung said the event was open to jobseekers regardless of whether they hold Jakarta identity cards, and urged applicants to make the most of the opportunity.

Viral Arrest of Motorbike Theft Suspect at Sanur Beach; He Had Stolen Elsewhere

Denpasar police have arrested a 25-year-old man who was filmed being detained by members of the public at Sanur Beach, clarifying that the alleged motorbike theft took place at a separate location. The suspect reportedly admitted to stealing two motorbikes in different locations, and police have seized a Honda Scoopy and a Yamaha RX King as evidence.

Business Risks and Potential Disputes in River Revitalisation Projects

River revitalisation projects funded through corporate social responsibility programmes involve financial, technical and legal risks that should be addressed through clear cooperation agreements. The article outlines key contractual safeguards, the main areas that can trigger breach-of-contract disputes, and practical steps for identifying losses, preserving evidence and choosing an appropriate dispute-resolution forum.

Gorontalo High School Student Beaten by 21 Peers While Collecting Donations for Volleyball Team

A Year 10 student at SMA Negeri 1 Gorontalo was allegedly attacked by 21 fellow pupils and older students after a disagreement while he was collecting donations for the school volleyball team. His mother has reported the incident to the Kota Timur Police, and the alleged attackers are students from Years 10 to 12.

Following BPK Findings, BGN Returns Rp160bn to State Treasury from 79 SPPGs

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it has returned Rp160.37 billion to the state treasury, equal to 81.75% of the Rp196.17 billion in findings from the Supreme Audit Agency’s review of its 2025 financial statements. The repayments address duplicate virtual accounts at nutrition service units and failures to comply with budget-accountability requirements; BGN says it has also disabled access to the duplicate accounts.

Five Directives from Prabowo at Cabinet Meeting, from Forest Fires to MSCI

President Prabowo Subianto issued five directives at a plenary cabinet meeting, including investigating companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, cracking down on smuggling and defending Indonesia against MSCI’s threatened market reclassification. He also stressed national unity and called on ministers and senior officials to undergo regular health checks.

Tanjung Puting Forest Fires Now Just 600 Metres from Orangutan Feeding Area

Fires in Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan have spread to within about 600 metres of the Tanjung Harapan feeding camp, where orangutans are fed. Volunteers and authorities are fighting fires near the camp, along a trekking route and on conservation land outside the park, amid concerns that flames could spread further into protected habitat.

Bro Ron Tells Jokowi in Solo: Move Up a Level and Become PSI Chairman

PSI deputy chairman Ronald Aristone Sinaga says party members in several regions want former president Joko Widodo to take a formal role in the party, with some calling for him to become chairman. The party will collect grassroots views, but the final decision rests with current chairman Kaesang Pangarep; Sinaga hinted that an announcement could come at a party event in Surabaya.

Goldman Sachs: Indonesia Risks Losing Rp100 Trillion in Funds over MSCI

Goldman Sachs says Indonesia must demonstrate that announced capital-market reforms are being consistently implemented and are improving market functioning to avoid MSCI’s proposed reclassification from emerging to standalone market. If Indonesia is removed from MSCI indices, passive outflows could reach about US$5.6 billion (Rp100.8 trillion), with a further US$2.7 billion at risk if FTSE Russell were to follow.

Kadin Backs Bahlil’s Plan to Halt Gas Exports to Neighbouring Countries: ‘Well Done!’

Kadin has welcomed Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s proposal to stop gas exports to neighbouring countries, arguing that domestic industries are struggling to secure supplies. The government is weighing the move on energy-security grounds and in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s call for Indonesia to prioritise national resilience and domestic needs.

2026 National Santri Day: State Secretary Says Government Is Committed to Advancing Islamic Boarding Schools

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, speaking on behalf of President Prabowo Subianto, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting pesantren and their educational role. The government says it will strengthen oversight and services through the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ new Directorate General of Pesantren, while seeking to improve education, student welfare and institutional capacity.

How a Factory Producing Millions of Tramadol Pills Was Exposed in Sukoharjo

Police and Jakarta Customs and Excise uncovered two illicit drug factories in Sukoharjo, Central Java, and arrested 16 suspects, seizing more than seven million Tramadol and trihexyphenidyl pills alongside production equipment and raw materials. Investigators traced the operation to a shipment initially suspected of containing untaxed cigarettes; authorities say the factories had a combined daily output worth billions of rupiah. The suspects face up to 12 years in prison and fines of up to Rp5 billion under Indonesia’s Health Law.

Land Transport Directorate-General Optimises State Assets for Education

The Land Transport Directorate-General has leased a government-owned building and land in Bekasi to the Menara Bhakti Foundation for use by Mercu Buana University, in a move to make public assets more productive and support education. The announcement coincided with the soft launch of VTA Online 2.0, an upgraded digital vehicle type-approval service that will be fully implemented from December 2026.

Houthis Attack Yemen’s Riyan International Airport

The Houthi rebel group attacked Riyan International Airport in Yemen’s Hadhramaut region using three drones, damaging the runway and power-supply facilities; initial reports said there were no fatalities. The attack followed a claimed strike on a Saudi military operations headquarters in Aden and came a day after a Houthi attack on a military base in the south-east killed 73 people, with 14 others still missing.

Santri Day: Government strengthens pesantren institutions

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi says the government is continuing efforts to strengthen pesantren as a pillar of national development, including through the establishment of a Directorate General for Pesantren within the Ministry of Religious Affairs in March 2026. The government also aims to widen students’ opportunities while preserving the religious values, scholarly traditions and spirit of service associated with pesantren.

Indonesia Becomes First Foreign Country to Own a Hotel in Thakher Makkah

Danantara has received ownership certificates for its 2 billion Saudi riyal (about Rp9.6 trillion) acquisition in Thakher Makkah, making Indonesia the first foreign country to own property in the development. The purchase comprises the 1,461-room Novotel Thakher Makkah and 14 adjoining development plots.

BNPB Reports Latest on Forest and Land Fires, with 321 Hectares Still Burning in Central Kalimantan

Central Kalimantan has the largest area of active forest and land fires among six priority provinces, with more than 321 hectares still requiring firefighting; South Sumatra follows with over 84 hectares. The BNPB says more than 502 hectares of a 983-hectare target area have been extinguished, while thousands of personnel and ground and aerial task forces are being deployed to tackle fires across the country.

Haze from South Sumatra Forest and Land Fires Thickens, Visibility Restricted

Thickening haze from forest and land fires across South Sumatra has disrupted residents’ daily activities and caused complaints of eye irritation and breathing problems. Residents questioned the short-lived impact of a recent dry-ice weather-modification operation, while BNPB said its effectiveness depends on cloud conditions and wind speed.

Get Your CV Ready: Free Job Fair at Smesco Offers 12,000 Vacancies

Jakarta’s provincial government will hold a free two-day job fair at Smesco Jakarta on 22–23 October 2026, bringing together 100 companies and offering 12,000 vacancies. Jobseekers can register online through the Karir Jakarta website between 8 and 29 October, and are encouraged to prepare an up-to-date CV.

JCI Rises on State-Owned Shares; Is Danantara Joining In?

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rebounded 1% in early trading after falling as much as 2% at the open, with several state-owned companies among its main supports. The gains coincided with announced share buyback programmes, while Danantara executives have signalled interest in buying state-owned shares but have not identified targets or committed funds.

Meta Chief Mark Zuckerberg Threatened to Move House, but Shares Lured Him to Stay

Meta disclosed that Mark Zuckerberg could have moved his residence out of California to avoid a proposed state tax on wealthy residents, which voters are due to consider in November 2026. The company says a new share-rights agreement has persuaded him to remain in California for at least eight years, alongside plans to issue new shares and carry out a two-for-one stock split.

LPEI-backed businesses record US$7.3 million in potential exports at TEI 2026

Businesses supported by Indonesia Eximbank (LPEI) recorded US$7.3 million in potential export transactions at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, led by coffee orders worth US$7 million for the Netherlands and the United States. The event also generated prospects for tea and home décor exports and helped connect Indonesian exporters with new markets and international buyers.

Midterm Elections: A Referendum on Donald Trump and the Republican Party

The United States will hold midterm elections on 3 November 2026, with voters choosing all 435 members of the House of Representatives, a portion of the Senate, and numerous governors and local officials. Republicans currently control both chambers of Congress by narrow margins, as well as the presidency, making the election a significant test of the party and Donald Trump’s administration.

Four Men Arrested During Synthetic Cannabis Transaction at West Jakarta Security Post

Police arrested four men in West Jakarta in connection with the alleged distribution of synthetic cannabis, seizing small packets and materials believed to be used to make the drug. The suspects face charges under Indonesia’s Narcotics Law and Criminal Code.

Assessing the Competitiveness of Indonesia’s Defence Market Today

Indonesia’s defence procurement market has become less transparent and less competitive under the 2025–2029 OEF programme, with decision-makers’ preferences and indirect procurement routes narrowing opportunities for many international manufacturers. The author warns that this could weaken future defence capabilities and limit meaningful technology transfers to domestic firms, while arguing that diplomatic engagement may be needed to restore broader access and competition.

The War on Drugs Requires More Than Raids

A recent joint operation in Jakarta’s Kampung Ambon and Kampung Boncos detained 24 people, but raids alone will not dismantle drug syndicates or address the conditions that leave communities vulnerable. The article argues for tracing criminal finances and seizing assets alongside sustained social and economic recovery programmes, with success measured by lasting disruption of supply networks and improved local livelihoods.

Under Prabowo, Indonesia’s Mining Resources Poised to Take Off

Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier says the Prabowo administration presents an opportunity to manage Indonesia’s natural resources more effectively and use mining to drive national economic growth. He argues that stronger governance, clear ownership arrangements and law enforcement could reduce foreign-exchange leakages, raise state revenues and provide greater certainty for investors.

Egi Trialogi, the Honourable Teacher Pioneering a School for Street Children in Majalengka

Honourable teacher Egi Trialogi has been named among the top three candidates in the 2026 DPD RI Awards for non-formal education innovation, recognising his work establishing Pustaka Raharja for street children in Majalengka. Since 2016, the school has helped 64 children gain equivalency qualifications and build livelihoods through vocational training and student-run businesses.

North Korea–South Korea Tensions Rise as Mine Dispute Fuels Border Standoff

North Korea has moved military units into firing positions along the border and is considering deploying additional attack assets, amid a dispute over landmines and alleged crossings of the Military Demarcation Line. Seoul says its warning broadcasts and shots were defensive, while Pyongyang’s threats risk undoing recent efforts by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to restart diplomacy.

Malaysian MP Uses Javanese to Highlight Indonesian Forest and Land Fires

Malaysian MP Kalam Salan said smoke from forest and land fires in Indonesia is harming public health and disrupting schools, tourism and work in Malaysia, including the livelihoods of Indonesian workers. He urged President Prabowo Subianto to accelerate firefighting efforts and prevent the recurring cross-border haze, switching to Javanese to make his appeal more accessible to Indonesian officials.

Rupiah weakens after BI decision to hold benchmark interest rate

The rupiah opened 0.06 per cent weaker at Rp18,033 per US dollar after Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark rate at 5.75 per cent. The central bank also raised its deposit facility rate, cut banks’ reserve requirements to bolster rupiah liquidity, and said it was monitoring risks including foreign outflows; an analyst forecast the currency would trade between Rp18,000 and Rp18,120 per dollar.

Forestry Ministry Seeks to Improve Spending Quality and Ensure Effective Budget Delivery

The Forestry Ministry is strengthening internal controls and monitoring to accelerate budget execution while ensuring spending supports strategic priorities. By the end of the third quarter of 2026, it had realised 53.46% of its revised budget; officials urged faster implementation, stronger risk management and follow-up on audit recommendations, while maintaining accountability.

Eight Countries Restrict Google Services, Including Instagram, WhatsApp and Google Maps

The article outlines how eight countries restrict access to Google services, ranging from broad blocks in China and North Korea to limits on specific platforms in countries including Iran and Syria. It also notes that local platforms such as Baidu and Yandex have gained prominence, and that restrictions can reflect government policy, domestic alternatives or international sanctions.

Prabowo Orders Full Investigation into Companies and Individuals Behind Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered his administration to investigate suspected involvement by individuals and companies in forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, and to take firm action against anyone found to have broken the law. The directive came during a cabinet meeting reviewing the government’s first two years, where Prabowo also stressed protecting natural resources, strengthening national resilience and pursuing food and energy self-sufficiency.

Unusual Share Price Movements: IDX Suspends Trading in STRK and TRUK

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) suspended trading in Lovina Beach Brewery and Guna Timur Raya shares after sharp price rises, citing investor protection and the need for a cooling-off period. STRK had gained 34.31% in the previous session and 110.77% over a month, while TRUK rose 19.90% in the session and 251.31% over a month.

Manpower Ministry and Harkat Negeri University Explore Employment Partnership

Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry is exploring a partnership with Harkat Negeri University in Central Java to better align graduates’ skills with labour-market demand. Plans include establishing an industry-style teaching factory and connecting students and alumni with job vacancies through the ministry’s Karirhub portal.

At 2026 National Santri Day Ceremony, Religious Affairs Minister Delivers Address

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs held the 2026 National Santri Day ceremony in Jakarta, highlighting the role of Islamic boarding-school students in nation-building. This year’s theme, “Santri Strengthening the Nation Towards a Golden Indonesia”, framed reflection on pesantren history and students’ contributions through education, service and unity.

Religious Affairs Minister: Santri Must Not Limit Themselves and Must Have a Fighting Spirit

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar urged santri to pursue broad roles in national development and not underestimate or restrict themselves. He highlighted pesantren’s contributions to education, character-building and community empowerment, as well as the government’s institutional support following the 2019 Pesantren Law.

Ignasius Jonan Urges Singapore and Malaysia to Help Tackle Forest and Land Fires, Citing ASEAN Cooperation

Presidential Advisory Council member Ignasius Jonan has urged Singapore and Malaysia to work with Indonesia to address forest and land fires, particularly where arson is suspected. He says the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution provides a basis for more concrete regional coordination, drawing parallels with cross-border cooperation against human trafficking, terrorism and drug trafficking.

JCI Rises as Markets Monitor Regulatory Developments and MSCI

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index rose 1.27% in morning trading as investors assessed capital-market rule changes and MSCI’s consultation on whether to reclassify Indonesia from an emerging to a standalone market. Regulators have tightened market oversight, while Bank Indonesia announced liquidity and hedging measures amid capital outflow concerns; global inflation, interest-rate and geopolitical risks also remained in focus.

Bali Deputy Police Chief Meets Ride-Hailing Drivers to Discuss Crime and Traffic Offences

Bali Deputy Police Chief Brigadier General I Made Astawa met app-based motorcycle taxi drivers in Denpasar to hear community concerns, including suspected gambling, hypnosis scams, traffic violations and expected congestion during the Christmas and New Year period. The Bali Regional Police said it would follow up on reported issues through patrols and coordination with relevant agencies, while urging residents to report crimes and security disturbances.

El Niño Threatens Food Inflation; Bank Indonesia Steps In to Safeguard Rice and Chilli Supplies

Bank Indonesia is warning that prolonged dry conditions linked to El Niño could put pressure on food prices into early 2027, particularly in Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua, Bali-Nusa Tenggara, and Sumatra. The central bank is calling for stronger food distribution, irrigation and climate-resilient seeds, while coordinating with local governments to protect supplies of rice, chillies and shallots.

Indonesia achieves self-sufficiency in eight commodities as Prabowo government marks two years

Indonesia says it can now meet domestic needs for eight key food commodities, including rice, corn, sugar, poultry and shallots, while reporting that it has stopped importing rice for domestic consumption. The government attributes progress to higher production, price supports and cheaper, more accessible subsidised fertiliser, alongside initiatives intended to strengthen rural and fishing communities.

Can Wearing a Tight Bra Often Cause Breast Cancer?

A cancer specialist says there is no scientific evidence that tight bras cause breast cancer or obstruct lymphatic flow, a misconception that should not distract from established risk factors. Age, family history, inherited gene changes, hormonal and reproductive factors, excess weight, alcohol use, inactivity and certain radiation exposures are associated with risk; tight bras can nevertheless cause discomfort and skin irritation.

Python Perches on Fence as Bogor Residents Call Fire Brigade

A large python was found perched on a concrete fence in a residential area of Bendungan village, Bogor, prompting residents to call the local fire and rescue service. Officers safely captured the snake in about 15 minutes; no residents were attacked or injured.

Golkar at 62: The Centrist Party Must Safeguard the Nation’s Common Sense

On Golkar’s 62nd anniversary, Bambang Soesatyo argues that the party must renew its role as a principled centrist force, resisting transactional politics, polarisation and oligarchic influence. He calls for policies that deliver equitable development and for the party to scrutinise government while remaining loyal to the constitution and the republic.

Lutfi Questions Who Benefits from Indonesia’s Natural Wealth After S$101m Donation to Singapore

Former investment chief Muhammad Lutfi has questioned whether Indonesia’s natural-resource wealth is benefiting its people after Bayan Resources founder Low Tuck Kwong was linked to a S$101 million donation for education in Singapore. Lutfi contrasted the donation with Jakarta school construction costs and invoked Article 33 of the Constitution, arguing that resource management should deliver greater benefits to Indonesians.

BRI Insurance stresses the importance of financial literacy and sustainability

BRI Insurance has planted 1,500 mangrove seedlings in Semarang and Demak alongside financial-literacy education for local communities. The initiative combines coastal ecosystem conservation with guidance on financial management and insurance protection, as part of the company’s social and environmental responsibility programme.

BlackRock Affiliate to Invest up to S$555 Million in TBS (TOBA)

TBS Energi Utama says funds and accounts managed by HPS Investment Partners, part of BlackRock, plan to invest up to S$555 million in its waste-management business through a staged transaction. The proceeds are intended to support expansion across Asia, while TBS will retain control; completion is subject to approval at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting.

BNPB Reveals Rain-Harvesting Strategy to Extinguish Forest and Land Fires, with Dry Peatlands in Focus

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is using weather modification to direct rainfall towards areas affected by forest and land fires, particularly drought-stricken peatlands. Cloud conditions are monitored in real time with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), while fine salt particles are used to promote condensation and rainfall over priority locations.

Dino Patti Djalal Says Claims Singapore Is Conspiring to Undermine Indonesia’s Capital Market Are Absurd

Former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal has rejected allegations that Singapore is conspiring through MSCI to damage Indonesia’s economy and acquire Indonesian assets at bargain prices. He argued that Singapore has a longstanding record of co-operation with Indonesia and a strong interest in its stability, while also describing the handling of forest and land fires as a test of the Prabowo administration’s diplomacy.

UNICEF and Undana Explore Partnership to Accelerate Stunting Reduction in NTT

UNICEF Indonesia and Nusa Cendana University (Undana) are exploring collaboration to strengthen nutrition programmes, reduce stunting and improve food security in East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative would draw on university research and local food resources, with stunting affecting 20.2 per cent of measured under-fives in the province in 2025.

BNPB: 1,481 Hectares of Land Still Burning in Several Regions

Indonesia’s disaster agency says about 1,481 hectares of land remain ablaze, including areas in six priority provinces and other regions. More than 71,000 personnel and expanded helicopter and weather-modification operations are being deployed, with Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra among the priority areas.

Buying the iPhone Duo Is ‘Just a Waste of Money’, Says Nothing CEO

Nothing CEO Carl Pei has criticised Apple’s first foldable iPhone, arguing that its US$1,999 starting price is not justified by its feature set. Despite the criticism, pre-orders reportedly sold out quickly in China, while limited supply, scalpers and production delays could affect availability and prices.

PHP2Shell Patch Released: Secure Versions and How to Update

PHP’s development team has issued an emergency security update for PHP2Shell, a critical vulnerability rated 9.2 out of 10 that could allow unauthenticated remote code execution. Website administrators should upgrade to a patched release immediately; firewalls and traffic filtering are not substitutes for updating the software.

Basnang Said Sets 100-Day Targets to Improve Islamic Boarding Schools

Basnang Said, the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ Director-General of Islamic Boarding Schools, has prioritised improving institutional data and strengthening facilities during his first 100 days in office. Indonesia has about 42,000 pesantren, but information on the schools and madrasahs operating within their compounds is not yet fully integrated, partly because they fall under different authorities and funding systems.

Deputy Manpower Minister: Clear Competency Standards Support Workforce Development

Deputy Manpower Minister Afriansyah Noor says clear competency standards, official certification and industry-aligned training are essential to developing a skilled, ethical and globally competitive workforce. He highlighted these needs in the permanent make-up sector at an international festival in PIK 2, attended by 700 participants from Indonesia and 23 other countries.

Stocks Rebound as Composite Index Rises 1%

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rebounded by 1% in early trading after opening down as much as 2%, with buying activity lifting it to 5,381.43. Investors are weighing Bank Indonesia’s decision to hold its benchmark rate, President Prabowo Subianto’s response to MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market classification, and a range of international economic signals.

Rupiah Opens at Rp18,033 per US Dollar

The rupiah weakened at the open on 22 October, slipping to Rp18,033 per US dollar and bringing the psychologically important Rp18,000 level under pressure. Higher oil prices, foreign investor concerns over MSCI’s proposed market classification change and doubts about Bank Indonesia’s policy mix are cited as key factors, while the central bank has intervened to support the currency.

Ignasius Jonan Urges Singapore and Malaysia to Cooperate on Forest and Land Fires

Presidential Advisory Council member Ignasius Jonan has urged Singapore and Malaysia to work with Indonesia to address forest and land fires, including investigating any deliberate causes. He cited the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution and previous regional cooperation, and said countries involved should ensure they have adequate equipment, technology and personnel.

East Jakarta City Administration prepares ‘Si Sakti’ to make legal consultations easier

East Jakarta is preparing a WhatsApp-based legal consultation and information service, intended to give residents easier access to initial guidance without visiting government offices. The city plans to officially launch the service by the end of 2026 as part of an effort to modernise its legal services.

Antam Gold Prices Fall Again Today: Full Price List

Antam’s 24-carat gold price fell by Rp 4,000 to Rp 2,550,000 per gram on Thursday, while its buyback price declined by the same amount to Rp 2,365,000 per gram. Prices across bullion sizes ranged from Rp 1,325,000 for 0.5 grams to Rp 2.4906 billion for one kilogram; purchases are subject to Article 22 income tax, with a lower rate available to buyers who provide their tax identification number.

KMP Batumandi Sinks After Fire Is Extinguished; Salvage Operation Planned

Ferry operator ASDP Indonesia Ferry plans to coordinate with authorities and other stakeholders to salvage the KMP Batumandi, which sank in the approach channel to Merak Port after a fire was extinguished. A buoy has been placed to mark the wreck and warn passing vessels, while the recovery is to be carried out with due regard for safety and sea conditions.

JCI Opens 1.51% Lower on Thursday at 5,247

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell sharply at Thursday’s open, extending losses to as much as 2.51% as most shares declined. Market jitters over a possible downgrade by MSCI and continued foreign selling weighed on sentiment, although analysts said a technical rebound remained possible if the index held above 5,200.

Rupiah Opens Weaker as US Dollar Hits Rp18,020 This Morning

The rupiah fell 0.11% to Rp18,020 per US dollar at Thursday’s open, extending the previous session’s losses despite a slight retreat in the dollar index. Markets are weighing oil-driven inflation risks and the Federal Reserve’s next rate decision, while Bank Indonesia is monitoring capital outflows and offering incentives to attract foreign investment back into domestic assets.

Asian Currencies Diverge: Won and Yen Gain, Rupiah Suffers the Sharpest Fall

Six of the 10 Asian currencies tracked weakened against the US dollar, with the rupiah recording the steepest decline and slipping back above Rp18,000 per dollar. The dollar index edged lower but remained above 101 ahead of closely watched rate decisions by the Federal Reserve, European Central Bank and Bank of Japan next week.

Immigration Director-General Leads Inspection at Kalibata City Apartments; Dozens of Foreign Nationals Taken In

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration found 88 foreign nationals categorised as Sur Place Refugees (STP) during an inspection at Kalibata City Apartments in South Jakarta; 45 were taken for further questioning. The operation followed residents’ complaints about alleged harassment and aims to verify identities, immigration documents and compliance with stay permits.

Malaysian MP Rebukes Prabowo in Blunt Javanese Over Haze

Malaysian opposition MP Kalam Salan urged President Prabowo Subianto to act against forest and land fires causing transboundary haze, using colloquial Javanese to describe the impact on Malaysian residents and Indonesian migrant workers. He proposed five regional measures, including joint enforcement, real-time satellite alerts and a dedicated ASEAN fund, while Malaysia and Indonesia explore closer environmental cooperation.

Prabowo’s Crackdown on Tin Puts Foreign Buyers on Edge

Indonesia’s crackdown on illegal tin mining and smuggling is disrupting overseas companies that had relied on illicit Indonesian supplies, according to former finance minister Fuad Bawazier. The operation has also helped PT Timah’s profits rise ninefold in the first half of 2026, as the government says enforcement is recovering state revenue and tightening the management of the country’s natural resources.

LP2AD Flags Jakarta East Drainage Improvement Project

LP2AD has raised concerns that a Rp1.57 billion drainage project on Jalan Sumur Jambu in East Jakarta may not have been carried out to plan, citing alleged technical shortcomings and incomplete road repairs. The watchdog is calling for the contractor, supervising consultant and local water-resources agency to be held accountable, and plans to ask inspectors and law enforcement to investigate.

Jakarta Stocks Open 1.51% Lower Despite BI’s Liquidity Boost

The Jakarta Composite Index opened 1.51% lower, despite Bank Indonesia’s measures to boost liquidity, including reducing reserve requirements and adjusting rates and incentives to support the rupiah. Analysts pointed to ongoing global economic concerns and uncertainty, even as foreign interest in Indonesian stocks showed signs of resilience after President Prabowo Subianto’s speech.

Two Indonesian Military Personnel Suspected of Involvement in BNPB Funds Corruption Case, TNI Headquarters Responds

The Indonesian Military says it will coordinate with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and follow up on information that two active personnel may be connected to alleged corruption involving the National Disaster Management Agency’s (BNPB) emergency funds. The case began with a KPK sting operation that led to five suspects, while investigators have seized assets and notified military police about the role of former BNPB chief Suharyanto.

Antam Gold Falls by Rp4,000 on Thursday, 22 October, to Rp2.55 Million per Gram

Antam’s gold price fell by Rp4,000 to Rp2,550,000 per gram on Thursday morning, while its buyback price dropped to Rp2,365,000 per gram. The article also sets out applicable tax deductions and the prices for bars ranging from 0.5 to 1,000 grams.

El Niño and AI for Mitigating a Food Crisis

Indonesia faces a forecast very strong El Niño, delayed rains, widespread fires and rising food inflation, underscoring the links between climate, food security and economic pressures. The article argues that AI-based early-warning systems integrating weather, crop, price and social data could help the government anticipate shortages, protect vulnerable households and limit the risk of broader crises.

Man in Bekasi Kicks Kitten, Leaving It Seriously Injured

CCTV footage circulating online appears to show a man in North Bekasi kicking a kitten repeatedly, leaving it gravely injured. Bekasi City Police say they are investigating the incident and will examine the footage to identify the perpetrator.

China Reclaims Its Crown as Asia’s Top Destination for Sovereign Wealth Fund Investment

Sovereign wealth fund investment in mainland China and Hong Kong reached US$14.2 billion in the first nine months of 2026, up 190% from the full-year 2025 total, with Gulf funds accounting for nearly 70% of the inflows. Investors are increasingly looking beyond geopolitical tensions to opportunities in technology, biotechnology, consumer brands and advanced manufacturing, although China’s total remains far below flows into the US and Europe.

IHSG Turns Higher After Indonesia’s President Says He Is Not Afraid of MSCI Threats

Indonesia’s benchmark stock index recovered from an opening decline to rise 0.54% in morning trading, with state-owned banks and coal miner BYAN among the gainers. The rebound came a day after President Prabowo said he was not afraid of the threat of downgrading Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone-market status.

Safe Santri task force and digital preaching among Religious Affairs Ministry’s priorities

The Religious Affairs Ministry has launched five priority programmes for pesantren, including a Safe Santri task force, recognition of qualifications, technology and economic self-reliance, skills development and digital preaching. The minister said the initiatives should strengthen pesantren’s contribution to national education while improving quality, governance and protections for students.

Sudirman Car-Free Day Cancelled This Week as South Jakarta Moves Event to Iskandar Muda Road

South Jakarta will hold its municipal Car-Free Day on Sultan Iskandar Muda Road on 25 October, while the regular Sudirman-Thamrin event is cancelled because the roads will host the Jakarta Running Festival. The relocated event will run from 5.30am to 9am, with parking areas and officials assigned to manage traffic, order and cleanliness.

Police Reveal Suspected Cause of Man’s Death in Garden Fire in East Manggarai

Police say Petrus Jadur, 59, may have fallen and struck his face on a rock before being exposed to flames in a garden in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. An external examination found burns across several parts of his body and an actively bleeding nose injury, but authorities have not established the precise cause of death.

Employees on Sick Leave for Four Months Still Entitled to 100% of Their Pay: The Full Rules

Indonesian labour rules require employers to continue paying workers who are unable to work because of prolonged illness, with pay declining in stages after the first four months. After 12 months, employers may terminate employment subject to statutory conditions, while affected workers remain entitled to specified severance and other compensation.

Video: Garment Business Strategies for 2026: Targeting Gen Z and Expanding Product Lines

Alisan COO Denny Irawan says global economic and geopolitical turbulence is challenging Indonesia’s textile and garment industry in 2026. The company is responding by adding products aimed at Millennials and Gen Z, alongside efficiency measures and advanced machinery to support revenue and maintain product quality.

PDI-P: Constitutional Court Ruling Burdens Prabowo and Undermines Gibran’s Legitimacy

PDI-P secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto says a Constitutional Court ruling concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational qualifications has weakened Gibran’s legitimacy and become a burden for President Prabowo Subianto. He urged the government to reflect on its campaign promises and respond to criticism, while a government communications official said the ruling could not be used as grounds for impeachment.

Airlangga: AI Industry Could Contribute Rp7,202 Trillion to Indonesia’s Economy

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says artificial intelligence could add US$360 billion to US$400 billion to Indonesia’s economy by 2030. The government has set out four priorities to capture that potential: stronger digital and energy infrastructure, digital skills development, wider AI adoption and improved governance and international co-operation.

Better-equipped community health centres mean residents need not travel far for treatment

New equipment at community health centres (puskesmas) is enabling them to provide a wider range of care, including dental treatment, closer to where residents live. In Makassar, one patient says free fillings at her local centre have spared her the cost and travel time of private clinic visits.

Top Stories: Police Shooting Police Case and Public Transport Use Rise

The roundup covers a police officer accused of killing a fellow officer who has been charged with premeditated murder, as well as a military officer named a suspect over the alleged rental of official housing for online gambling operations. It also reports police denials that six Greenpeace activists were arrested, the government’s pledge to keep subsidised fuel prices unchanged through 2026, and a 10.8 per cent rise in Jakarta public transport users by September 2026.

Apple to Expand Siri with Korean-Language Support

Apple is reportedly preparing to add Korean-language support to its AI-powered Siri in South Korea from October 2026, following the launch of a new English-language beta. The service is expected to offer context-aware search and visual intelligence across Apple devices, using Google’s Gemini models while retaining Apple’s stated privacy safeguards.

Survey: Pigai and Nusron Rated the Worst Ministers in the Cabinet

A survey by Matriks Politik Indonesia has ranked Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai and Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid as the Cabinet’s poorest performers after two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration. Negative assessments stood at 82.6 per cent for Pigai and 78.3 per cent for Nusron, with the survey director linking scrutiny of Nusron to a reported bribery case involving building-use rights in Bogor Regency.

Sudirman-Thamrin Car-Free Day Cancelled; South Jakarta Holds Event on Iskandar Muda Road

South Jakarta will relocate its Car-Free Day to Sultan Iskandar Muda Road on 25 October 2026 because Sudirman-Thamrin will host the Jakarta Running Festival. The event will run from 5.30am to 9am, with officials deployed to manage traffic, parking and public order.

Cabinet Secretary Reveals Prabowo’s Directives at Meeting Marking Two Years in Government

President Prabowo Subianto called for stronger national resilience, protection of natural resources and unity amid global uncertainty, while ordering thorough investigations into suspected involvement in forest and land fires. He also emphasised food self-sufficiency, domestic energy independence and responsible governance as priorities for the next phase of his administration.

Antam Gold Prices Fall by Rp4,000 to Rp2.55 Million per Gram on Thursday

Antam gold prices fell by Rp4,000 to Rp2,550,000 per gram on Thursday, while the buyback price also declined to Rp2,365,000 per gram. The report lists prices across gold bar sizes and outlines the applicable income tax on buybacks and purchases.

JCI Opens Down 2%: What’s Behind the Fall

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 2.09% at the opening bell, led by losses in basic materials, technology and financial stocks. Investors are weighing Bank Indonesia’s decision to hold its benchmark rate and new lending measures, President Prabowo’s response to MSCI’s review of Indonesia’s market classification, and international inflation and bond-yield pressures.

Subsidies May Be Increased, but Pertalite and Solar Prices Will Not Rise

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the government is considering topping up fuel subsidies as global oil prices and Indonesia’s crude price (ICP) climb above the 2026 state budget assumption. He nevertheless assured the public that prices for subsidised Pertalite petrol and Solar diesel will not increase, provided ICP remains below US$100 per barrel.

TNI to Follow Up KPK Information on Two Soldiers’ Alleged Involvement in BNPB Case

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) says it will coordinate with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and act on information that two active-duty soldiers may be involved in an alleged corruption case concerning the National Disaster Mitigation Agency’s (BNPB) emergency funds. The investigation has led to five suspects, a seizure of assets worth Rp5.47 billion and a request from the KPK for the TNI commander to address the alleged military involvement.

PLN to Temporarily Cut Power in Several Bali Areas Today: Full List

PLN has scheduled electricity-network maintenance on 22 October 2026, with temporary outages expected in parts of southern and eastern Bali. The utility says the work is intended to improve the power system and supply quality, and advises residents to check for schedule changes before planning activities that require electricity.

Mercedes-Benz Confirms Baby G-Class Will Reach the Market Sooner

Mercedes-Benz says its compact off-road SUV, known as the Baby G-Class or Little G, is expected to launch in less than two years. The model is being considered with both fully electric and hybrid powertrains, as the automaker revises its electrification strategy; technical details have yet to be confirmed.

Lombok Cleric Urges Public to Avoid Prejudice Against Islamic Boarding Schools

TGH Azhar Rasyidi has urged the public not to stigmatise all Islamic boarding schools over problems reported at some institutions. He said schools should strengthen communication and openness, and pointed to a community camp organised by Nurul Hikmah Langko as a way to help people understand students’ education and daily lives.

Bank Muamalat’s Multi-Purpose Financing Outstanding Grows 11.8%

Bank Muamalat Indonesia reported that outstanding balances for its sharia-compliant Multiguna iB Hijrah financing reached Rp675 billion in September 2026, up 11.8% year on year. The bank plans to expand the product among payroll customers and selected sectors while prioritising portfolio quality and sustainable consumer-finance growth.

Prabowo Says Indonesia Is Not Intimidated by MSCI Scrutiny

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would not be cowed by the prospect of MSCI downgrading its equity market from Emerging Market to Standalone Market. Separately, Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the issue concerns capital-market governance and does not directly affect investment in special economic zones, where investment reached Rp46 trillion in the first nine months of 2026.

Iran Warns It Will Target US Assets if a New War Breaks Out

A senior Iranian security official has warned that US political assets and infrastructure in countries involved in a renewed conflict would be considered legitimate targets if Iranian officials or civilians were killed. The warning comes amid escalating tensions over a US naval blockade and restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, with diplomatic efforts yet to resolve the dispute.

Fitch Forecasts Indonesia’s Economy to Grow by Just 5.2% in 2026: Here’s Why

Fitch Ratings expects Indonesia’s economy to grow by 5.2% in 2026, below the government’s 5.4% budget target, citing weaker momentum in the second half, reduced fiscal support after front-loaded spending and a drag from net exports. It forecasts growth of 4.9% in 2027 and 2028, well short of the government’s medium-term 8% goal, and warns that achieving that target while preserving stability will require further significant reforms and quality job creation.

Antam Gold Price Falls Further, Down Rp4,000 Today

Antam’s one-gram gold price fell by Rp4,000 to Rp2,550,000 on Thursday, extending a three-day decline to Rp24,000. The buyback price also dropped by Rp4,000, while purchases and qualifying buyback transactions remain subject to income tax withholding.

Bamsoet Discusses National Stability, Calls for Equitable Development in Papua

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo says national stability should be strengthened alongside targeted, coordinated policies to improve welfare and development in Papua. He called for more effective use of special autonomy funds, wider access to basic services, dialogue with local communities, fair law enforcement and stronger protection against cyber threats.

Unhas Research: Eastern Indonesian Residents Prefer Social Media to Voice Their Concerns

A Hasanuddin University survey found that 34.39 per cent of people in eastern Indonesia prefer social media as a channel for expressing their concerns, narrowly ahead of universities at 33.67 per cent. The findings point to the growing role of digital platforms and universities in conveying regional issues to national policymakers, while Parliament’s two chambers ranked third and fourth.

Study Reveals Blood Type Linked to Higher Diabetes Risk

A review published in BMC Medicine found that people with blood type B had an average 28% higher risk of type 2 diabetes than people with other blood types. Researchers stressed that the association is modest and does not establish causation; diet, weight and physical activity remain more significant risk factors.

Saudi Airport Attacked Again, Leaving Nine Casualties

An attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam killed one person and injured eight, while damage to the airport is still being assessed. Saudi authorities also said air defences intercepted four drones in the Eastern Province; debris from an earlier interception near the Shaybah oilfield killed two people and injured two others.

BNPB Not Rejecting Foreign Aid, but Still Assessing Needs to Extinguish Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia is assessing what equipment and supplies it needs to fight forest and land fires before accepting offers of assistance from countries including Singapore and Malaysia. BNPB chief Kristomei Sianturi said aid should fill actual capability gaps, while firefighting efforts are also using measures such as dry ice and a fire-retardant solution tested in South Sumatra.

Qatar and France Urge Israel to Withdraw Troops from Gaza

Qatar and France have called for Israel to withdraw its forces from Gaza under the ceasefire agreement and to halt settlement activity and settler violence in the occupied West Bank. Following talks in Doha, the two countries also urged unimpeded humanitarian aid, backed a two-state solution and Palestinian elections, and called for diplomacy over Iran and unrestricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Understanding Critical Halal-Compliance Points in Fashion and Textiles

Textile manufacturing can involve hidden additives and processing chemicals that may raise halal-compliance concerns, making traceability across the supply chain essential. An industry official identifies five critical risks and says halal certification can strengthen consumer confidence, improve business governance and expand market access, particularly for creative industries and SMEs.

East Jakarta Administration and BPBD Hold Earthquake Drill to Improve Preparedness

Jakarta’s Regional Disaster Management Agency and East Jakarta City Administration held an earthquake drill at the city mayor’s office, following a provincial instruction for simultaneous exercises across the capital. The drill tested evacuation procedures and introduced the BMKG’s earthquake early-warning application; officials said the exercise went smoothly but highlighted the need to improve siren alerts and staff readiness.

Overseas University Representatives Study Pertamina’s Digital Transformation

Representatives of Princeton University visited Pertamina’s Digital Hub in Jakarta to learn about the company’s use of artificial intelligence and other technologies in the energy sector. Pertamina said its digital transformation combines technology-led value creation with capability-building, while its digital facilities support operational coordination, solution development and monitoring.

Bali Creative Festival to Run from 22 to 24 October, Featuring Cosplay and a Pejati-Making Competition

The three-day Gefraks Bali Heritage Creative Festival 2026 will bring together arts, culture, music, film, e-sports and creative-industry players at Inna Bali Heritage in Denpasar. Held as part of National Creative Economy Day, the festival aims to connect local businesses and communities while turning Bali’s cultural heritage into inspiration for creative-economy growth.

BlackRock Affiliate Pours Major Investment into TBS Energi (TOBA)

TBS Energi, through its controlled entity SBTH Asia Holdings, has secured an investment commitment of S$555 million from funds and accounts managed by HPS Investment Partners, a BlackRock affiliate. The proceeds will support expansion of TBS’s waste-management business across Asia, subject to approval by TOBA shareholders.

Bomb Explodes in Backpack at Apartment Building

An explosion at an apartment building in central Athens injured two police officers and two civilians after officers inspected a backpack suspected of containing drugs. Greek police said the blast was not being treated as terrorism, and homicide investigators are seeking to establish the explosive’s origin and identify those responsible.

Five-Year-Old Drowns in Resident’s Catfish Pond in Bogor

A five-year-old child was found drowned in a one-metre-deep catfish pond in Cibadung village, Bogor, after going missing from home. The child’s family took the victim to a nearby clinic, but the child could not be saved; the family has accepted the death as an accident.

JCI Opens Down 2%

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 2.09% at the opening on Thursday, amid investor attention to domestic policy developments and global economic signals. Markets are also watching Indonesia’s capital-market reforms and MSCI’s review of the country’s status, while President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would not be intimidated by the prospect of reclassification.

Yesterday: Healthcare for Residents Affected by Smoke and a Rocket Debris Fall

The Health Ministry says it has established 477 oxygen houses to provide care for people affected by forest and land fires, while the government continues monitoring health impacts and coordinating recovery efforts. The roundup also reports the deaths of five volunteers fighting fires in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and BRIN’s identification of debris found in a palm oil plantation near Sampit as remnants of a Chinese ZhuQue-2E rocket.

98 Resolution Network Pledges to Monitor the Prabowo-Gibran Government

The 98 Resolution Network says it will support and monitor President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s government, calling for shared prosperity and stronger economic democracy. Its initiator, Haris Rusly Moti, warned that political freedoms alone cannot deliver genuine democracy if economic resources and national wealth remain concentrated among a small group.

Nickel Production Curbed, but Indonesia’s Revenue Soars

Indonesia’s nickel production controls under the 2026 work plan and budget (RKAB) have helped lift prices and export earnings, even as export volumes declined. The National Economic Council says nickel exports could reach US$39.7 billion in 2026, while state non-tax revenue from the sector is expected to exceed its target.

APTISI Prepares Private Universities for Education Changes in the AI Era

APTISI and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology have launched a leadership programme to help private university rectors respond to AI, shifting workforce needs and changes in higher education. The first cohort of AERLA runs from 21 to 23 October 2026, with APTISI aiming eventually to reach thousands more rectors and other university leaders.

US and Israel Prepare New Iran Strike Plans After Midterm Elections

The US and Israeli militaries are reportedly drawing up plans for a short but intense campaign against Iran after the US midterm elections, with possible targets including nuclear and missile facilities and energy infrastructure. It remains unclear whether President Donald Trump would approve an attack, as diplomatic efforts have stalled and any conflict could further disrupt the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Five Directives Prabowo Gave His Cabinet in the Government’s Second Year

At a plenary cabinet meeting marking two years in office, President Prabowo Subianto called for investigations into forest and land fires, a crackdown on smuggling and stronger national unity. He also rejected what he described as pressure from MSCI and urged cabinet members to undergo regular health checks.

BMKG Forecasts Rain Across Most Indonesian Cities on Thursday

BMKG expects rain of varying intensity to affect much of Indonesia on Thursday, including thunderstorms in Tanjung Selor and moderate rain in Nabire. The agency advises the public to check its app and social media for hourly updates, noting that the forecast is a general overview.

Capsized KMP Batumandi to Be Raised After Fire off Merak

Banten Police say the ferry capsized and sank near Merak Port after catching fire, and authorities will work with ASDP and the harbourmaster to refloat it for an investigation. Investigators have yet to inspect the scene because the vessel remains too hot to approach safely, while maritime officials are assessing possible disruption to shipping lanes.

Communications Minister Urges Social Media Algorithm Transparency, Asks Users to Report Issues

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has called on social media platforms to be more transparent and accountable over their algorithms amid allegations that posts about forest and land fires are being shadowbanned. She denied that the ministry had requested the removal of such content and urged users who experience reduced reach to appeal to platforms and report the issue to the ministry.

South Korea’s Central Bank Holds Interest Rates at 3% as Inflation Remains Hot

The Bank of Korea kept its benchmark rate at 3% after two consecutive increases, with inflation still above its 2% target and economists warning that the pause may not mark the end of monetary tightening. Strong semiconductor exports, fuelled by demand for AI chips, are supporting economic growth and leaving policymakers to balance price pressures against continued momentum.

Temasek and GIC Have a Track Record of Investing in Indonesia, and Opportunities Are Expanding

Temasek and GIC have established investment exposure in Indonesia across sectors including telecommunications, banking and technology, while Danantara is exploring broader cooperation with Temasek. Potential areas include renewable energy, green industrial estates and cross-border electricity trade, although no direct investment agreement between Danantara and Temasek has been confirmed. The article says converting discussions into viable projects will depend on regulatory certainty, infrastructure readiness and good governance.

How to Fix Delayed WhatsApp Notifications

Delayed WhatsApp notifications can result from poor internet connectivity, disabled notification permissions, background-data restrictions or battery-saving features on Android and iPhone. The article outlines checks users can make before resorting to reinstalling the app, including updating WhatsApp and testing whether other apps are affected.

Jakarta DPRD Deputy Speaker on Poverty Rate Below 4%: Maintain and Improve the Gains

Jakarta DPRD Deputy Speaker Wibi Andrino welcomed the city’s poverty rate falling to 3.96% in March 2026, down from 4.03%, and urged the government to sustain and build on the progress. He said the reduction should translate into improved welfare, more employment opportunities and narrower social inequalities for residents.

Indonesia, Türkiye, Qatar and Pakistan Sign Defence Cooperation Pact

Indonesia, Türkiye, Qatar and Pakistan have signed the Badr Memorandum to expand cooperation in defence production, military capabilities, training and research and development. The framework establishes bodies to select and approve joint projects, with the initiative also intended to strengthen the four countries’ defence industries and create economic opportunities.

JCI Closes in Positive Territory: Five Stocks to Watch Today

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 0.94% on Wednesday, supported by gains in large-cap shares, while foreign investors recorded net sales. The article highlights company developments at IPCC, PGEO and DMAS, alongside five trading ideas: SGER, AKRA, ERAA, DOOH and TOWR.

Albanese urges Indonesia to review economic ties linked to Gaza genocide

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese says Indonesia should identify and sever any direct or indirect economic links that enable or legitimise Israel’s occupation and the genocide in Gaza. She urged all states to comply with the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion, as reported Palestinian casualty figures continued to rise.

Jatiuwung Fire Still Burning on Third Day; 10 Warehouses Destroyed

A fire at a warehouse complex in Jatiuwung, Tangerang, remained unextinguished on its third morning, with 10 warehouses affected. Fire crews were still tackling hotspots as heavy machinery arrived to clear debris; investigators said the blaze may have started with an electrical short circuit that ignited stored cardboard.

Sumbawa Customs Seizes 2.2 Million Illegal Cigarettes Worth Rp3.4 Billion

Sumbawa Customs seized 2,278,815 illegal cigarettes between January and October 2026, with an estimated value of Rp3.4 billion and potential state revenue losses of Rp2.21 billion. The agency says the seizures expose varied distribution channels and plans to intensify enforcement to protect excise revenue and ensure fair competition.

West Java DPRD Commission I Pushes for Stronger Support for Islamic Boarding Schools

A West Java DPRD member says Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) need sustained, practical support beyond ceremonial recognition, including stronger institutions, better education and government policies responsive to their needs. He argues that closer cooperation among regional government, legislators, schools and communities can help pesantren preserve their social and educational role while preparing young people for the future.

Woman in North Lombok Dies After Falling from Kora-kora Ride

A 20-year-old woman died after falling from a swinging-ship ride at a night market in North Lombok. Police are investigating the incident, which occurred on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.

Indonesia Considers Halting Gas Exports to Singapore

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia is considering not renewing gas export arrangements with neighbouring countries, arguing that domestic energy security must take priority amid geopolitical uncertainty. The proposal follows President Prabowo Subianto’s call for the country to protect its natural resources, while existing gas supply contracts with Singapore run through 2028 and Indonesia has already planned to redirect some supply from Sumatra to Natuna.

Jogja Weather Today: Rain Possible on the Slopes of Mount Merapi

BMKG Yogyakarta forecasts mostly dry, partly cloudy to cloudy weather across the Special Region of Yogyakarta on Thursday, 22 October 2026. Light rain may fall from the afternoon into the evening in parts of Sleman near Mount Merapi, while the other listed areas are not expected to receive rain.

What is the difference between a halal certificate and a halal label on packaging?

Indonesia distinguishes the halal certificate, an official document recognising a product’s halal status, from the halal label displayed for consumers. The article explains the certification and labelling rules, cites the relevant regulations and outlines how consumers can verify certification through BPJPH’s official service.

Body dysmorphic disorder in Japan can lead to repeated cosmetic surgery

People with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in Japan may undergo repeated cosmetic procedures without recognising that their preoccupation with appearance is a mental health condition. Psychiatrists and cosmetic surgeons are calling for better awareness and stronger links between cosmetic clinics and psychiatric care, amid growing exposure to appearance-focused content on social media.

Sahroni Agrees State Losses Are Not Corruption, Calls for Revision of Corruption Law

Ahmad Sahroni has backed Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to distinguish state-business losses from corruption, and has urged a thorough review followed by amendments to Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Law. The proposal has implications for law enforcement and state-owned businesses, but Sahroni says officials who deliberately harm the public should still face prosecution.

How to check a product’s halal certificate status online

Consumers can use the Indonesian Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) website to check a product’s halal certificate by searching its name, business operator or certificate number. The guidance is increasingly relevant as mandatory halal certification expands to more product categories from 18 October 2026.

Five Financial Habits: Are Gen Z More Frugal Than Millennials?

A comparison of survey findings suggests Gen Z are more cautious than millennials about impulse purchases, online spending and prioritising home ownership. The differences reflect the economic conditions facing younger adults, but income, age and life stage also shape individual financial habits.

Prabowo Orders Permits Revoked as 32 Companies Face Sanctions over Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered authorities to revoke permits held by companies proven to have violated regulations and contributed to forest and land fires, warning that the cases must be pursued decisively. The Forestry Ministry says 32 companies have received administrative sanctions; six firms in Kalimantan were most recently ordered to suspend operations and restore affected ecosystems.

How to Limit Children’s Screen Time Without Causing Conflict

Setting screen-time limits through discussion, gradual changes and consistent routines can help parents avoid conflict while supporting children’s wellbeing. The article draws on guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, UNICEF Indonesia and the World Health Organization, emphasising balance, online safety and alternatives to screen-based activities.

Pecunia Non Olet: Money No Longer Smells and Conscience Grows Numb

This opinion piece traces the Roman emperor Vespasian’s urine tax and the origins of the saying “money does not smell” before using it to critique modern corruption and the moral compromises made in the name of development. It argues that although money may be morally neutral, the people and institutions handling it are not, and warns that public tolerance of corruption reflects a weakening conscience.

France hit by severe wave of protests: what is behind it?

Mass demonstrations that began over deteriorating school conditions have widened into a broader expression of anger over the cost of living, economic inequality and public services. More than half a million people reportedly took part, while clashes and damage in several cities prompted arrests, injuries and calls from President Emmanuel Macron for calm.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Evident Institute’s Communications Review

Evident Institute says public satisfaction with the Prabowo-Gibran government remains relatively high, while identifying the Free Nutritious Meals programme as one policy perceived to benefit the public. Its review also highlights economic pressures on households and businesses, and recommends more dialogue, social safety-net measures, business incentives and regular programme evaluations.

Inside the East’s Largest Wastewater-to-Clean-Water Treatment Plant

Makassar’s Losari wastewater treatment plant, built with support from the Asian Development Bank, can process up to 16,000 cubic metres of wastewater a day but is currently treating only 1,200 cubic metres. The ADB says expanding household connections could unlock the facility’s capacity, while the wider sanitation programme in three Indonesian cities aims to improve public health, environmental protection and access for lower-income households.

KMP Batumandi Sinks After Fire

The passenger vessel KMP Batumandi sank about 700 metres from Merak Port in Banten, a day after a fire on board was extinguished. ASDP Indonesia Ferry plans to mark the wreck with buoys and coordinate a salvage operation to reduce risks to passing vessels and prevent disruption to shipping routes.

Mobile Samsat services available in 14 Greater Jakarta areas on Thursday

Metro Jaya Police will operate mobile Samsat services across 14 areas of Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Thursday to make annual motor vehicle tax payments more accessible. The mobile counters handle annual vehicle tax only; five-year registration renewals and number-plate replacements must be completed at a Samsat office.

Riots Spread to Milan: What Sparked Them?

Demonstrations in Milan over the cost of living and wider political issues escalated into clashes, looting and damage to shops and public property, leaving dozens injured and leading to dozens of arrests. Although the unrest coincided with protests in France and other European countries, there is no clear evidence that the events were directly linked; they reflect wider concerns about affordability and public services. Italy’s government faces the challenge of restoring order while addressing the economic pressures behind the protests.

Ternate Investment Surpasses 2026 Target, DPMPTSP Chief Says Achievement Is Cause for Gratitude

Ternate recorded Rp323.18 billion in investment by September 2026, reaching 107.37% of its Rp301 billion annual target, with the hotel and restaurant sector accounting for most third-quarter investment. The city expects the total to rise further after fourth-quarter reporting opens in January 2027, including reports from micro and small businesses.

South Kalimantan Volunteer Dies After Complaining of Chest Pain While Tackling Forest and Land Fires

A volunteer firefighter, Nurdin, died after becoming unwell while helping tackle a forest and land fire in Barito Kuala, South Kalimantan. He complained of chest pain and struggled to breathe as colleagues took him to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Global Internet Crisis: Websites Worldwide at Risk of Being Hacked

Two severe vulnerabilities, collectively known as PHP2Shell, could allow attackers to remotely execute malicious code and take control of servers running PHP. Government agencies and technology companies have issued urgent warnings, while developers and site operators are being urged to install updates or isolate unpatched critical systems.

Macron Angered, Accuses Trump and Netanyahu of Exploiting French Unrest for Electoral Gain

Emmanuel Macron has condemned Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu for linking unrest in France to Muslim immigration and Islamic extremism, accusing foreign leaders of exploiting a social crisis for political purposes. He says misinformation, including AI-generated images, has distorted events, while French authorities have not identified any religious community or immigrant group as responsible for the violence.

Hercules Blasts Minister Ara Over Tanah Abang Land Dispute: How It Began

GRIB Jaya chairman Hercules Rosario de Marshal says he spent tens of billions of rupiah clearing land in Tanah Abang, while Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait maintains that it is a state asset belonging to PT KAI. The ownership dispute is before the courts and has stalled plans to build flats for people living beside railway tracks.

Not Poor at All: 18 Indonesian Coal Companies Post Big Profits

All 18 coal-focused listed companies recorded positive net profit after tax (NPAT) in the first half of 2026, with 16 reporting year-on-year growth and one returning to profit. The results came as miners objected to proposed production cuts, while rising international coal prices and Indonesia’s supply policy helped support prices; the article cautions that results vary by company and NPAT can include other group businesses.

BMKG: Weather Modification to Disperse Dense Haze from Forest and Land Fires; Rainy Season Forecast for 2026

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is conducting weather-modification operations to reduce haze from forest and land fires and prevent the rainy season from arriving later in affected areas. It expects the rainy season to begin in November 2026, with the peak from December 2026 to February 2027, while warning of heightened risks of extreme rain, flooding and landslides despite an El Niño-driven threat of drought and fires.

OJK Fines 971 Parties Rp2.5 Trillion, the Largest in Capital Market History

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it has fined more than 971 parties a total of around Rp2.5 trillion in 2026, a record for Indonesia’s capital market. The regulator says the enforcement forms part of ongoing market reforms, with 41 cases completed and 122 more still being handled, and was not a response prompted by MSCI developments.

Jakarta Round-up: Tuberculosis Treatment Success and Poverty Rate Falls

Jakarta reported a 76 per cent tuberculosis treatment success rate by September 2026, while clean-water service coverage reached 83.15 per cent in the third quarter. The city also held earthquake drills at 55 locations, urged faster implementation of regional budget projects and recorded its poverty rate below 4 per cent for the first time, at 3.96 per cent in March 2026.

Analyst: Upstream Oil and Gas Investment Strengthens During Prabowo-Gibran’s First Two Years

Oil and gas analyst Pri Agung Rakhmanto says investment conditions in Indonesia’s upstream sector have improved under President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, helped by more flexible contracts and attractive incentives. SKK Migas reported unaudited investment of US$10.4 billion through 31 August 2026, against a full-year target of US$17.9 billion, while continued major projects and new work-area awards point to further investment potential.

7 Facts About the Tramadol Factory Producing Millions of Pills Dismantled by Jakarta Police

Jakarta police say they have dismantled two illegal tramadol factories in Sukoharjo, Central Java, seizing more than 7.8 million tablets, 29 tonnes of raw materials and Rp9 billion in cash. Sixteen people have been arrested, while police are pursuing two alleged factory owners; the facilities reportedly produced millions of pills daily without regulatory approval.

Doctor Arrested in Bandung over Alleged Abuse of 3½-Year-Old Daughter

A 37-year-old doctor has been arrested on suspicion of sexually abusing his young daughter, following an investigation in West Java. Police say the child is receiving medical and psychological support and has been placed in a safe house; the family’s lawyer says the case was reported in 2025 but had not progressed as expected.

Bank of Korea holds rates after back-to-back hikes

The Bank of Korea kept its benchmark rate at 3 per cent, pausing after consecutive quarter-point increases in July and August as it assesses their effects and recent market volatility. Inflation remains above the bank’s 2 per cent target, while strong chip-driven exports have supported growth; analysts expect a possible rate rise to 3.25 per cent in November.

Airlangga Targets Rp150 Trillion from Indonesians Seeking Medical Treatment Abroad

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says Indonesia could retain up to Rp150 trillion currently spent by citizens seeking healthcare overseas, by expanding healthcare special economic zones. The government also aims to earn Rp200 trillion in foreign exchange by attracting 1.25 million international patients, while the zones are expected to strengthen services, investment and knowledge transfer.

Yesterday’s crime news: methamphetamine in Kampung Ambon and police officer shoots fellow officer

Police in Jakarta reported several crime and security developments on 21 October, including the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and ketamine in Kampung Ambon and dozens of theft cases solved. The roundup also covers a manhunt for armed motorcycle robbers, a fatal crash involving a junior high school pupil, and a police officer charged with premeditated murder after allegedly killing a colleague.

China Dominates the Top Five Destinations for Indonesian Travellers

Traveloka’s Q3 2026 Southeast Asia Index identifies Phu Quoc and Chongqing among international destinations attracting growing interest from Indonesian travellers. The report points to increasingly varied travel preferences, although it does not disclose booking figures for individual destinations and counts transactions rather than travellers or completed trips.

Saudi Arabian Airport Attacked Again, One Person Killed and Eight Injured

An attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam killed one person and injured eight, while Saudi air defences reportedly intercepted four drones over the Eastern Province. The report follows an earlier interception targeting the Shaybah oil field, where falling debris killed two people and injured two others.

Get Ready! detikJateng-Jogja Awards 2026 to Be Held Tomorrow

The detikJateng-Jogja Awards 2026 will recognise figures who have contributed to Central Java’s development, alongside a forum on the province’s investment prospects. Central Java recorded Rp88.50 trillion in investment in 2025, up 28 per cent year on year and associated with around 326,000 jobs.

Prabowo Tells MSCI Indonesia Is Not Afraid

President Prabowo Subianto has rejected MSCI’s warning that it could downgrade Indonesia from emerging-market to standalone-market status, saying the country will not be intimidated. The prospect has already contributed to sharp share-market falls, while analysts estimate billions of dollars in potential passive and active fund outflows; the government says the issue does not directly affect investment in special economic zones.

US and Israel Prepare New Attack on Iran, Targeting Nuclear and Missile Sites

The US and Israel are reportedly drawing up plans for a possible short but intense military operation against Iran after the US midterm elections, with nuclear, missile, drone and energy facilities among the potential targets. The report says military preparations and diplomatic discussions are continuing, but President Donald Trump has not committed to approving an attack and has said he remains open to all options to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Bandung Zoo Land Corruption Case: Prosecutors Hand Over Six Buildings, Including an Animal Hospital and Restaurant

Bandung prosecutors have handed six buildings at Bandung Zoo to the city government as confiscated assets in a corruption case involving the unlawful occupation of state land. The handover implements a court ruling and forms part of efforts to restore public assets, with the Bandung administration to inventory and secure the properties before deciding how they should be managed.

Museum Rudana Honours National Figures for Contributions to Art and Culture

Three figures—Culture Minister Fadli Zon, economist Soemitro Djojohadikoesoemo and artist Nyoman Nuarta—were honoured at Museum Rudana for their contributions to culture, national development and Indonesian art. The event also highlighted museums’ roles in education, cultural preservation and passing values on to future generations.

Keeping the Kitchen Stocked Ahead of Christmas and New Year

Surabaya’s Cheap Food Movement is offering staple foods at affordable prices ahead of Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027, as household spending rises and food prices test residents’ purchasing power. The city’s programme brings together government agencies, Bulog, regional enterprises and local small businesses to improve access to essentials, with prices in Wonokromo set below some market alternatives.

Gischa Zayana fulfils her parents’ hopes with gold in Nagoya

Indonesian boccia player Gischa Zayana won the women’s individual BC2 gold at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games, fulfilling her parents’ hopes and defeating a Hong Kong opponent who had beaten her in previous competitions. The boccia team’s three golds lifted Indonesia’s tally to eight, surpassing its target of seven, with further finals still to come.

Driving the Economic Impact of SEZ Investment

Investment in Indonesia’s special economic zones (SEZs) has reached Rp382.1 trillion cumulatively since their establishment in 2009, generating around 302,000 jobs. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto described the zones as a strategic government instrument for stimulating national growth and pursuing an 8% growth target.

Beware of Extreme Rain at the End of the Year

BMKG forecasts that the 2026–27 rainy season will arrive later than usual, with its peak spanning December to February and a shorter-than-average period of rainfall. The agency warns that heavy rain could bring floods and landslides, as drought conditions persist across much of Indonesia after a strong El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD).

Indonesia pledges tangible reforms to boost capital market confidence

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it is pursuing an eight-point reform agenda to strengthen liquidity, governance, transparency and law enforcement as MSCI consults on whether to reclassify Indonesia as a standalone market. The measures include gradually lifting the minimum free float to 15 per cent, tighter beneficial ownership disclosure and broader investor categorisation; the OJK says consistent implementation is key to restoring confidence.

UK and Oman Agree on Need to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq agreed on the need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, saying this would ease pressure on global supply chains and domestic communities. Burnham praised Oman’s role in regional stability and its efforts to reopen the strategic waterway, through which roughly a quarter of global seaborne oil trade passed before the war.

ADB Confident Indonesia Will Escape the Middle-Income Trap, but Tax Ratio Remains a Challenge

The Asian Development Bank’s Indonesia director says the country’s growth prospects and development progress put it on course to escape the middle-income trap, while its public debt remains at a manageable level. He identified Indonesia’s stagnant tax ratio—around 9% for two decades—as a key fiscal weakness, and pointed to investment in children, education and high-value manufacturing, including semiconductors, as essential to achieving high-income status.

Masela Block Gas Supply to Secure Domestic Energy Needs

PGN says it is set to receive gas from the Abadi field in the Masela Block, alongside state electricity company PLN and the fertiliser industry, although volumes and delivery dates have not yet been disclosed. The company says domestic buyers provide a secure foundation for the project and reports that nearly 20 LNG cargoes and more than 95–96 per cent of its pipeline gas requirements have been secured this year.

Jakarta Forecast to See Light Rain on Thursday Evening

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts light rain across Jakarta on Thursday evening. Morning conditions are expected to vary by area, while temperatures will range from 26 to 33°C and winds from about 1 to 16 km/h.

Religious Leader Praises Police for Fully Investigating Batam and Bintan Power Blackout

Batam church leader Alexsander C. Manarisip praised police for investigating the 12 October 2026 blackout affecting Batam, Bintan and Tanjung Pinang, and commended PLN for quickly restoring electricity. He urged authorities to use the incident to assess and improve infrastructure, while calling on residents to avoid spreading misinformation and to let investigators handle the case, citing the importance of regional stability for investment and the economy.

5 Financial Mistakes That Make It Hard for Smart People to Get Rich

Robert Kiyosaki says academically capable people can undermine their financial prospects through over-analysis, perfectionism, overconfidence, weak financial fundamentals and emotional decision-making. The article contrasts academic ability with financial intelligence, arguing that practical understanding of money, risk and opportunity is crucial to building wealth.

Livestock in Gunungkidul Again Killed in Suspected Wild Animal Attacks

Two goats were found mauled to death in Saptosari, adding to a series of livestock deaths reported across Gunungkidul in recent months. Previous incidents include attacks on goats and poultry in Playen and Tepus, as well as two cattle found dead in Panggang; authorities have yet to establish the cause of the latest deaths.

Investors Watch Technology Sector as Asian Markets Open Mixed

Asian equities opened mixed as investors assessed US technology earnings and the outlook for artificial intelligence investment. Meta’s strong results and optimism around AI-related demand supported some technology shares, while Tesla fell after hours despite beating forecasts; markets are also awaiting further US corporate results and labour-market data.

Threatened by Iran and the Houthis, US Forces Begin Withdrawing from the Middle East

The United States is reportedly reducing military personnel at several Middle Eastern bases as security threats intensify, while ordering non-essential staff and their families to leave Saudi Arabia. Washington says the diplomatic drawdown is prompted by escalating Houthi threats and attacks on civilian and strategic sites; the moves do not, by themselves, signal a decision to launch a new military operation.

Nusron Wahid Remains a Witness and Cannot Be Barred from Travelling Abroad

The KPK says it cannot impose a travel ban on Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid because he remains a witness; under the new Criminal Procedure Code, such restrictions can only be applied to suspects. Nusron has missed two summonses in an investigation into alleged bribery linked to land-use rights at PT Summarecon Agung and other payments within the ministry, where eight people have been named as suspects.

Danantara and BP BUMN to leverage state assets for 12 smart cities

Danantara and BP BUMN plan to use existing state-owned enterprise assets to develop 12 smart cities, combining housing with schools, hospitals and other infrastructure. The Padalarang project is expected to include 200,000–250,000 homes and transit-oriented development, with the initiative intended to convert state assets into public amenities and new centres of economic growth.

KKP to Involve Local Communities in Protecting USS Houston Shipwreck Site

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) plans to train and involve local residents in monitoring the USS Houston wreck site in the Sunda Strait to prevent artefact theft and damage. The two-year, US$227,000 preservation project also aims to support sustainable historical diving tourism while protecting a World War II gravesite.

Civil Servants’ Salaries Will Not Be Routed Through Merah Putih Cooperatives, Finance and Administrative Reform Ministers Say

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara and Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Rini Widyantini say civil servants’ salaries will continue to be transferred directly to their bank accounts under the current system. A proposal for Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives to help pay salaries and pensions remains under discussion, with a meeting between the relevant ministers planned.

China Orders Rp632 Trillion Worth of Nvidia’s New AI Chips Before Their Release

ByteDance, Alibaba and Tencent have reportedly ordered more than three million Nvidia RTX PRO 5500 cards, worth over US$35 billion, although Nvidia may be able to supply only a small fraction of the requested volume. The rush highlights Chinese firms’ continuing demand for computing power for AI inference amid US export restrictions and limited domestic alternatives.

WALHI Calls Forest and Land Fires Ecocide, Urges State and Corporations to Take Responsibility

WALHI says recurring forest and land fires across Indonesia amount to ecocide, reflecting a prolonged ecological crisis driven by poor permit governance and disregard for ecosystems. The environmental group is calling for government and corporate accountability, as the impacts extend to communities in Indonesia and neighbouring countries.

Media: Israel ‘shows force’ with combat drills near Iranian border

Dozens of Israeli fighter jets reportedly conducted flight exercises near Iran’s border, which Israeli and US officials described as a show of force intended to deter Tehran from launching an operation against Israel ahead of the Israeli election. The report comes amid discussion of possible new military action against Iran and a meeting between US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Gerindra Jakarta Calls for Poverty Reduction to Be Assessed Beyond the Figures

Jakarta Gerindra politician Rani Mauliani welcomed the city’s poverty rate falling to 3.96% in March 2026, but cautioned that the statistic alone does not demonstrate improved living standards. She urged officials to establish whether lower poverty figures reflect broad, tangible gains in residents’ ability to meet their basic needs.

Speedometer Fault Prompts Ford to Recall 102,000 Vehicles in the US

Ford is recalling 102,000 US pick-up trucks from the 2025 and 2026 model years because faulty analogue instrument clusters may cause speedometer and tachometer needles to stick or move erratically. The company says it knows of no related crashes or injuries; owner notifications are due to begin on 26 October 2026, with replacement components expected from December.

JCI Closes 0.94% Higher as Foreign Investors Snap Up These 10 Shares

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 0.94% to 5,328.36 on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, with trading value reaching Rp15.88 trillion. Foreign investors were net sellers overall by about Rp600 billion, but recorded net purchases in 10 listed companies, led by Bank Central Asia at Rp448.09 billion.

Law Enforcement Under President Prabowo Is on the Right Track

The article argues that Indonesia’s legal reforms under President Prabowo, including the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, mark a major shift towards more substantive justice and stronger protections for citizens. It also praises the government’s handling of protests and claims of impartial anti-corruption enforcement, citing major asset-recovery figures and high-profile investigations.

Indonesia assesses fire aid needs amid regional offers

Indonesia is assessing offers of firefighting assistance from Singapore and Malaysia to determine whether the equipment and personnel are necessary and can be deployed effectively. The BNPB reports that teams have extinguished fires across 502 of 983 hectares targeted in six priority provinces, while domestic operations include weather modification and testing a chemical fire suppressant.

The Yellowed Pages of the Kitab in the Age of Algorithms: Who Educates the Santri?

As Indonesia marks National Santri Day, the article argues that the history of the 1945 Jihad Resolution should inspire responses to contemporary educational challenges. It calls for sustained digital literacy in Islamic boarding schools and cooperation among government, pesantren leaders, families and technology providers so students can engage with digital tools without losing scholarly depth or moral character.

Lombok Barat Fire Service Adds Two New Units to Tackle Dry-Season Fires

Lombok Barat’s fire and rescue service is setting up two technical units in Sekotong and Narmada to speed up responses, particularly during the dry season. The new offices can use existing buildings, but will require about 40 additional staff and two fire engines, budgeted at a total of Rp3.6 billion in the 2026 revised regional budget.

War Intensifies as Iran Prepares ‘Mother of All Bombs’

Iran says it is preparing a new weapon and claims its missile stockpile has grown since its 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, although it has provided no details or supporting data. The claims come amid renewed conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, with tensions heightened around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and diplomatic talks stalled.

Doctor from Bandung Arrested in Bekasi over Alleged Sexual Abuse of His Child

A 37-year-old doctor from Bandung has been arrested in Bekasi on suspicion of sexually abusing his three-and-a-half-year-old child. West Java police say the child is receiving medical and psychological support and has been placed in a provincial safe house as the investigation proceeds.

Jakarta Provincial Government Details Programmes Behind Fall in Poverty Rate to Below 4%

Jakarta’s poverty rate fell to 3.96% in March 2026, down from 4.03% in September 2025, marking the first time it has dipped below 4%, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS). The provincial government attributes the decline to social protection and education support, health and housing assistance, and job-training initiatives, while warning that inequality remains a challenge.

Indonesia races to protect emerging market status against MSCI

Indonesia’s financial regulators are pursuing reforms to improve capital-market credibility, liquidity and transparency after MSCI began consulting on a possible downgrade of the country from emerging-market to standalone status, with a decision expected by June 2027. OJK has imposed record fines for market violations, while the stock exchange plans new ownership disclosures and index eligibility measures to bolster investor confidence.

ADB Provides US$1 Billion for Indonesian Community Health Centres, Bringing Hospital-Like Care Closer

The Asian Development Bank has provided US$1 billion in financing to strengthen primary healthcare in Indonesia, including medical equipment and service upgrades at community health centres. At Makassar’s Minas Upa centre, new dental chairs and a laryngoscope mean residents can receive treatment nearby rather than travel to a hospital for a referral.

Subulussalam Residents Face Clean Water Shortage as Government Builds Two Boreholes

Subulussalam is building two boreholes to restore access to clean water after flooding left residents unable to rely on ordinary wells. The Rp356.1 million project, funded through central government transfers to the regions, is intended to serve around 25 households and a pesantren, with completion targeted for mid-November 2026.

Expert Explains Why Many Jewish People Are Successful and Wealthy

Research and historical accounts cited in the article attribute the economic and educational achievements of Jewish people to a combination of educational emphasis, cultural values and social networks shaped in part by discrimination. The article also discusses claims about above-average intelligence, while noting the limitations of early observations made before IQ testing was available.

Xsolla Mall Offers Six Indie PC Games in Limited-Edition Bundle

Xsolla Mall is offering six indie PC games from six studios for US$9.99, a 91% discount on their combined US Steam price, through 2 November 2026. The bundle is timed to gamescom asia x Thailand Game Show and will donate 10% of eligible proceeds to Stand Up To Cancer; buyers receive six Steam keys in a single purchase.

Cirebon MBG Food Poisoning Cases Reach 270, Including Toddler Who Lost Consciousness

The suspected food-poisoning outbreak linked to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Cirebon has affected 270 people, including 231 children and 39 adults. Patients have been treated at eight hospitals, while health authorities are investigating and coordinating the response; the report also notes a toddler lost consciousness.

India’s Electricity Crisis Deepens, but Coal Prices Remain Subdued

Coal prices fell for a second consecutive day despite worsening electricity shortages in India, where many coal-fired power plants have critically low fuel stocks amid surging demand and weaker hydropower output. China’s coal imports rose month on month in September but remained below year-earlier levels; Indonesia was the largest supplier, although its shipments faced production-approval and river-level constraints.

Following Up on Audit Findings, National Nutrition Agency Returns Rp160.37bn to State Treasury

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has returned Rp160.37bn to the state treasury, or about 81.75% of the Rp196.17bn in findings identified by the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK). The repayments cover duplicate virtual-account balances at nutrition service units and non-compliance in budget accountability, while the agency says it is strengthening controls to prevent similar issues.

Huawei Reportedly Preparing New Phone Brand Xingmang, a Well-Known Name

Huawei is reportedly preparing Xingmang, an online-focused sub-brand aimed at the affordable and mid-range smartphone market. Its phones are expected to use Huawei-made Kirin chips, helping the company broaden access to its processors and HarmonyOS while competing with brands including Redmi, iQoo, Realme and Honor.

Toyota Introduces T Intouch as Komdigi Addresses Forest and Land Fire Content

ANTARA’s entertainment, lifestyle, technology and automotive round-up features Toyota-Astra Motor’s new T Intouch with Toyota Remote connectivity service, which allows owners to monitor and control vehicle functions by smartphone. It also reports that Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said no social media platforms had been asked to remove content about forest and land fires; the roundup includes items on parenting, a forthcoming film and actor Donny Damara.

Debt Collection Accompanied by Threats Can Be a Criminal Offence, UI Expert Says

University of Indonesia criminal law expert Flora Dianti told a court that debt collection involving coercion, violence or threats may constitute extortion under Articles 482 and 483 of Indonesia’s 2023 Criminal Code. The prosecutor said her testimony strengthened the case against defendant Bangun Paulus Tudungta, who is standing trial on an alleged extortion charge.

Kora-kora Ride Accident Kills Food Sales Promoter at Night Market

A 20-year-old food sales promoter died after falling from a kora-kora swing-boat ride at a night market in North Lombok. Police are investigating the incident, including questioning witnesses and the ride operator, to establish how it happened.

Prabowo’s Palace Speech: From His Broad Coalition to His Anger with MSCI

At a plenary Cabinet meeting, President Prabowo Subianto defended his broad political coalition and urged national unity amid global conflict and economic rivalry. He also warned that food and trade can be used as strategic weapons, ordered action against those responsible for forest fires, and challenged MSCI over its proposed downgrade of Indonesia’s market classification.

Global Warming Is Accelerating, Earth’s Ecosystems Near Critical Tipping Points

Potsdam Institute director Johan Rockström warns that fossil-fuel-driven warming is pushing coral reefs, the Amazon rainforest and parts of the Atlantic circulation system towards potentially irreversible damage. He urges businesses to combine climate action with nature conservation, while warning that subsidies for petrol and diesel could undermine electric-vehicle demand ahead of COP31.

MBG Milk Suspected After More Than 100 Students in Bogor Fall Ill

A total of 103 students in Cisarua, Bogor, were treated after developing symptoms following a free nutritious meal (MBG), with officials initially suspecting the milk served. The meal provider’s kitchen has been suspended for 20 days while food and drink samples are tested, and authorities are monitoring the students’ recovery.

Breaking: Saudi Airport Attacked Again, One Killed and Eight Injured

One person was killed and eight injured in an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, with Saudi authorities still assessing the damage and the nature of the strike. The incident came amid wider drone attacks targeting Saudi territory and energy infrastructure, raising concerns about the security of strategic facilities as regional tensions intensify.

Legal Round-up: Pati Regent Sudewo Sentenced as Indramayu Deputy Regent Is Detained

A court sentenced suspended Pati Regent Sudewo to eight and a half years in prison for corruption, and he said he would appeal. Separately, West Java prosecutors detained two suspects, including Indramayu’s current deputy regent, over alleged misuse of local council allowances that reportedly cost the state Rp18.7 billion; police and the Corruption Eradication Commission also announced investigations into other cases.

Foreign Investors Sell These 10 Shares as Rp527bn Flows Out

The Jakarta Composite Index rose 0.94% on Wednesday, although foreign investors recorded net sales of about Rp527 billion. Bank Mandiri led the foreign selling, followed by shares in mining, telecommunications and other major banking companies.

Mystery Surrounds Closed-Door Pentagon-Israel Meeting as Netanyahu Threatens to Overthrow Iran’s Regime

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth made an unannounced visit to Israel and held a private meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid renewed tensions over Iran and the possibility of further military action. Two days later, Netanyahu said regime change in Iran was necessary, while Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned Tehran against attacks ahead of Israel’s parliamentary election; neither statement confirms that a new operation has been scheduled.

BI Eases Reserve Requirements, Adding Rp190 Trillion to Bank Liquidity

Bank Indonesia will gradually cut reserve requirements for conventional and Islamic banks, a move expected to inject around Rp190 trillion into the banking system. The central bank expects the additional liquidity to support broader lending and economic growth, while revising the structure of macroprudential liquidity incentives.

Silmy Karim to Face Trial in Extortion Case Over Foreigners’ Residence Permits on 29 October

Former deputy immigration and corrections minister Silmy Karim and several other defendants are due to face their first hearing on 29 October in a case involving alleged extortion and gratification over the processing of foreigners’ residence permits. The Corruption Eradication Commission says it seized evidence worth Rp17.5 billion, including vehicles, bank and crypto-account balances, and foreign currency.

Zulhas: Prabowo-Gibran Government Achieves Self-Sufficiency in Eight Commodities in Two Years

Co-ordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan says Indonesia has achieved self-sufficiency in eight food commodities during the first two years of the Prabowo-Gibran administration, while the national Farmers’ Terms of Trade also rose. The government says domestic production gains have been supported by price protections, cheaper subsidised fertiliser and village-level economic programmes, with further efforts aimed at improving food security and the livelihoods of farmers and fishers.

Middle-Aged Man Who Died After Machete Attack on Two Police Officers and Residents in Ciamis Was Mentally Ill

A 60-year-old man died after attacking two police officers and residents with a machete in Ciamis, West Java. Police said local health centre records indicated he had a history of mental illness; the victims were taken to hospital and were reported to be stable.

Yesterday’s political news: Cabinet meeting and companies named as suspects in forest fires

President Prabowo Subianto opened a plenary Cabinet meeting marking the first two years of his administration, praising its achievements while warning against complacency and highlighting global challenges, including financial-market pressures. A government communications official said the economy had grown by more than 5 per cent and workers’ wages had risen, while police named 11 companies as suspects in forest and land fires, three of them foreign-investment firms.

Trade Expo Indonesia: 16 Gunungkidul MSMEs Supported by Rumah BUMN Urged to Break into Global Markets

PLN’s Yogyakarta distribution unit is supporting 16 micro and small businesses affiliated with Rumah BUMN Gunungkidul to reach international buyers at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026. Six will exhibit in person, while 10 will showcase their products in a display area, with the initiative intended to build export readiness and expand business networks.

President Responds to Claims That the Red and White Cabinet Is Bloated

President Prabowo Subianto defended the size of his Red and White Cabinet, arguing that one cabinet governing a country of nearly 300 million people and the size of Europe is more efficient than the roughly 30 national cabinets across the continent. He also cited the government’s response to disasters as evidence of its ability to coordinate, while acknowledging that his broad political coalition brings together many forces.

Gold Struggles to Rally Again as US$4,100 Level Comes into Focus

Gold edged higher after three consecutive sessions of losses, supported by falling US Treasury yields, but prices slipped again in early trading on Thursday. Investors are weighing the Federal Reserve’s upcoming rate decision and US inflation data; analysts expect gold to remain range-bound, with US$4,100 seen as a potential support level and upside constrained by rate expectations and Middle East tensions.

Hudoq Pekayang: Weaving Harmony Between People and Nature

The 2026 Hudoq Pekayang Festival in Mahakam Ulu brought together around 260 male dancers from 13 villages, celebrating a Dayak Bahau tradition that has been passed down since the 1960s and 1970s. Mahakam Ulu Regent Angela Idang Belawan said the festival preserves cultural heritage while strengthening community ties and the relationship between people and nature.

Study Examines Link Between Reincarnation Claims and Sudden Death

A University of Virginia research team analysed 2,254 reports associated with past-life memories and found that claims tended to emerge sooner after an unexpected death. The researchers stressed that the relationship was modest and does not demonstrate that reincarnation occurs, citing possible cultural, psychological and information-sharing explanations.

Government to Cover 100% of VAT on Air Tickets During 2026/2027 Christmas and New Year Period: Eligibility

The government will cover all VAT charged on the base fare and fuel surcharge for domestic scheduled economy-class flights during the 2026/2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period. The incentive applies to tickets purchased from 20 October 2026 to 10 January 2027 for flights between 22 December 2026 and 10 January 2027, under Finance Minister Regulation No. 77/2026.

Global Oil Prices Surge, but Government Vows Not to Raise Subsidised Fuel Prices

The government says it will keep subsidised fuel prices unchanged despite rising global crude prices, with the state budget expected to absorb the additional subsidy burden. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said crude prices are being monitored and budget revenues remain sufficient to manage the pressure through the end of the year.

Presidential Advisory Council Member Jonan Proposes Malaysia and Singapore Work with Indonesia to Tackle Forest Fires

Presidential Advisory Council member Ignasius Jonan has called on Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to cooperate in tackling forest and land fires, rather than trading public criticism. He says the three countries should use the ASEAN haze agreement to coordinate resources, investigate suspected deliberate burning and impose fair sanctions on companies involved.

Residents Say Illegally Parked Trucks Disrupt Traffic on Jalan Jampea

Residents say container trucks and other heavy vehicles parked or travelling along the slow lane on Jalan Jampea in North Jakarta regularly cause congestion. North Jakarta’s transport agency has issued inspection reports to six heavy vehicles and says it will step up enforcement to protect traffic flow and maintain emergency access to Koja Regional General Hospital.

GIC and Temasek Respond to Allegations They Pressured MSCI to Downgrade Indonesia

Singapore sovereign wealth funds GIC and Temasek have rejected former trade minister Muhammad Lutfi’s claim that they pressured MSCI to downgrade Indonesia’s equity-market status. MSCI is consulting on a proposed reclassification of Indonesia from Emerging Market to Standalone Market, citing concerns over investability, ownership transparency and alleged coordinated trading; a final decision is due by 30 June 2027.

NASA steps up development of lunar rovers for future base

NASA is advancing robotic and crewed lunar rovers to support plans for a future Moon base. VIPER is scheduled to explore the Moon’s south pole in 2027, while crew-capable vehicles are being developed to help astronauts survey terrain, collect samples and transport equipment ahead of longer-term exploration.

China Launches CERES-1 Rocket Carrying New Satellite from the Sea

China launched a CERES-1 Y8 rocket from waters off Rizhao, Shandong, placing a satellite into its designated orbit. The satellite is intended for commercial remote sensing, including services for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area and low-latitude regions along the Maritime Silk Road; it was the seventh sea-based mission in the CERES-1 series.

KPK Says Two Serving TNI Soldiers Suspected of Involvement in BNPB Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects two active-duty TNI soldiers were involved in alleged corruption involving the National Disaster Management Agency’s emergency-response funds. The commission has written to the TNI commander and says it is ready to support the military police investigation, following arrests and the naming of five suspects in the case.

SKK Migas Monitors INPEX to Ensure Local Communities Are Involved in the Masela Block

SKK Migas is stepping up oversight of INPEX’s Masela Block operations to ensure local customary leaders, fishers and village authorities are involved from the outset. The move addresses social and customary risks, community expectations and maritime safety, while supporting the project’s estimated US$20.9 billion development and anticipated economic opportunities for Maluku.

DPR Commission IX Deputy Calls for MBG Kitchens Linked to Food Poisoning to Be Permanently Closed

Charles Honoris, deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission IX, has called for any Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) kitchen proven to have caused mass food poisoning to be shut permanently. The appeal follows reports that 270 people, including 231 children, fell ill after eating MBG meals in Cirebon, prompting renewed calls for a thorough review of the programme and stronger food-safety safeguards.

BI Eases Liquidity as French Debt Crisis Looms: Is Indonesia Safe?

Bank Indonesia kept its benchmark rate at 5.75% but cut reserve requirements, extended zero-down-payment financing for homes and vehicles through 2027, and announced plans to expand QRIS cross-border payments. Indonesian shares rebounded, while the rupiah and government bond prices remained under pressure; investors are also weighing global risks, including rising French bond yields and concerns over AI-related investment.

Cirebon Health Office Denies Death in Free Nutritious Meals Poisoning Incident, Calls Claim a Hoax

Cirebon’s Health Office says no one died after a suspected mass food-poisoning incident linked to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, dismissing social-media reports of a fatality as false. It reported 270 people with symptoms, including 231 children, and said one four-year-old who suffered hypovolaemic shock regained consciousness after intensive treatment.

Vultr and AMD Expand Global Partnership with New AI Infrastructure in India

Vultr will deploy AMD Instinct MI355X GPUs in a 20 MW supercluster in Chennai, creating what the companies describe as India’s largest AMD Instinct deployment and one of Vultr’s largest AI infrastructure sites. The facility is intended to give Indian businesses, researchers and AI developers local capacity for training and deploying advanced models, amid growing demand for sovereign cloud infrastructure.

ICFH Opens Market Opportunities for Women-Owned MSMEs in Central Sulawesi

The Indonesian Coalition for Financial Health (ICFH), Women’s World Banking and the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection have launched the Tumbuhkan Peluang programme in Palu to connect around 200 women-led MSMEs with industry partners and major buyers. The workshops will also help participants formalise their businesses, improve access to finance and markets, and strengthen financial management, amid strong growth in Central Sulawesi’s agriculture and food sectors.

Vultr and AMD expand global collaboration with new AI infrastructure in India

Vultr will deploy AMD Instinct MI355X GPUs in a 20 MW supercluster in Chennai, which the companies say will be India’s largest AMD Instinct deployment and support AI training and inference. The project expands access to locally hosted computing capacity for businesses and researchers, amid rising demand for sovereign cloud infrastructure and data residency.

MSCI Threatens to Downgrade Indonesia’s Status; OJK Says Reforms Under Way Since January

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says capital-market reforms have been under way since January and are not a response solely to MSCI’s potential downgrade of the country from emerging-market to standalone status. OJK chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi said reforms are aimed at improving market integrity, transparency and liquidity, while Indonesia awaits MSCI’s final decision.

KPK Explains Why It Has Not Barred Nusron Wahid from Travelling Abroad: He Is a Witness

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it has not sought a travel ban against Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid because he is currently a witness, and that the measure can be imposed only on suspects under the Criminal Procedure Code. Investigators plan to summon him again in a bribery case involving land-use rights in Bogor, in which the KPK has seized Rp106.3 billion and named eight suspects.

Santri Must Go Global Without Losing Their Identity

MUI pesantren chief Ahmad Fahrur Rozi says students at Islamic boarding schools should gain expertise in science, technology, foreign languages and professional skills while retaining the spiritual and ethical values of pesantren life. He argues that modernisation should broaden santri’s opportunities without displacing religious scholarship, humility and service to society.

KPK Says Two Military Personnel Suspected of Involvement in BNPB Corruption Case; Is Lieutenant General Suharyanto Involved?

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says two active-duty military personnel are implicated in a corruption case involving the National Disaster Mitigation Agency’s (BNPB) disaster-response funds, but has not disclosed their identities. The KPK has written to the TNI commander outlining the case and is urging the military to follow up.

Why Tensions on the Korean Peninsula Are Rising Again

Tensions have escalated over landmines and border work in the Demilitarised Zone, with South Korea accusing the North of repeated crossings and the North disputing Seoul’s account of warning shots. Pyongyang says newly deployed units have taken up firing positions and is considering further attack capabilities, threatening to reverse South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s efforts to restart diplomacy.

Gibran Ranks Among the Top Four in Several Presidential Polls: What an Analyst Says

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has placed fourth in several presidential electability surveys, with results of 6.9% and 8.4% in two recent polls. An analyst says his exceptionally high name recognition helps explain his ranking, but the gap between his popularity and support suggests that familiarity has not translated into votes for many respondents.

Indonesia and Three Countries Agree Defence Pact: What It Seeks to Achieve

Indonesia, Türkiye, Qatar and Pakistan have signed the Badr Memorandum to deepen defence-industry cooperation, including joint arms production, technology exchange, research and military training. The agreement is a cooperation framework rather than a collective-defence pact, while President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesia will not join military blocs or alliances.

Irrigation Water Levels in Mataram Fall Amid Drought, Delaying Rice Planting

Prolonged dry conditions have reduced irrigation supplies in Mataram, forcing farmers to postpone rice planting on about 125 hectares until November. The drought has also lowered river levels and driven temperatures as high as 37°C, while some farmers are using land to grow horticultural crops such as chillies.

111-Year-Old Man Struggles to Obtain Title Deed for Land Bought Nearly Half a Century Ago

A 111-year-old man in Gunungkidul has been trying since 2019 to convert the records for land he bought in 1980 into a formal freehold certificate, but the process has stalled at the land office. His family and legal aid representatives have complained to the Yogyakarta Ombudsman, which says the complaint cannot yet be formally registered because supporting documents are still incomplete.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy summarises President’s directives at cabinet meeting, with forest fires in focus

President Prabowo Subianto instructed officials to investigate alleged corporate and individual involvement in forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, and to take firm action against anyone found to have broken the law. At a meeting reviewing the administration’s first two years, he also stressed safeguarding natural resources, strengthening national resilience, and advancing food self-sufficiency and energy independence.

Makassar Motorbike Gang Clash Kills Ride-Hailing Driver; 19 Suspects, Mostly Minors

Police have named 19 people as suspects in a clash between two motorbike gangs in Makassar that killed a ride-hailing driver and seriously injured a 16-year-old. Most of those detained are minors, while three other alleged participants remain at large.

Investment Reaches Rp1,575 Trillion, Keeping National Economy Prospects Bright

Indonesia’s investment realisation reached Rp1,575 trillion in January–September 2026, about 75 per cent of the annual target and 7 per cent higher than a year earlier. Economists say investment can support growth through industrialisation and downstream processing, while stable policymaking and measures to mitigate global supply-chain and logistics pressures remain important.

Indonesia and Malaysia push joint film and music projects to deepen cultural ties

Indonesia and Malaysia have agreed to pursue collaborations in film and music, including co-productions, talent development and wider international distribution, with Indonesia’s cultural endowment fund potentially supporting joint films. Their culture and communications ministers also discussed preserving shared Malay heritage through digitisation, cultural festivals and possible joint UNESCO nominations, aiming to turn longstanding ties into practical public and commercial benefits.

Commission II to Review High School Education Requirement for Presidential and Vice-Presidential Candidates in Elections Bill

The House of Representatives’ Commission II says it will review challenges brought before the Constitutional Court concerning election rules, including a petition against the high-school education requirement for presidential and vice-presidential candidates. The petition argues that the rule excludes international and accelerated education pathways, while lawmakers say related proposals should also be submitted to the committee drafting the Elections Bill.

IFG Prepares Future Leaders and Strengthens the Foundations for Sustainable Business Transformation

Indonesia Financial Group (IFG) is using its Officer Development Program to equip future leaders with governance, risk management and compliance expertise, with training delivered in partnership with the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP). The initiative supports IFG’s shift towards a purpose-driven business and its mandate from Danantara Indonesia to consolidate and streamline insurance and guarantee companies.

PUPESDM and PLN Strengthen Partnership to Develop EV Charging Stations in Yogyakarta

PLN’s Yogyakarta distribution unit and the provincial PUPESDM agency are planning to develop a public electric vehicle charging station at the agency’s premises. The proposed partnership, which may involve third-party operators or investors, is intended to widen access to charging and support the region’s energy transition.

US Military Evacuates Troops and Diplomats from Middle East: Is the US-Iran War About to Resume?

The US has reportedly reduced military and diplomatic personnel at several Middle Eastern posts amid rising regional tensions and threats linked to Iran. The moves echo force reductions before the US-Iran war began in February, while Israeli fighter jets have reportedly conducted a manoeuvre that US officials believe could be intended to provoke an Iranian response.

Today’s Santri: Preserving Tradition, Breaking into New Professions

Today’s santri are increasingly pursuing careers in technology, academia, government and business while maintaining their Islamic scholarly traditions and identity. Ifan Jafar Sidik says broader access to information creates new opportunities, but stresses that strong values, good conduct and a sense of social responsibility are essential amid rapid change.

Yusril: DEN Proposal to Revise Definition of Corruption Deserves Consideration

Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said a proposal arising from a National Economic Council (DEN) study to revise the definition of corruption merits consideration. The proposal follows DEN Chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s appeal to the President to align Indonesia’s definition with international standards set out in the United Nations Convention against Corruption.

Bullying Allegation at Centre of Mystery over Junior Officer’s Fatal Shooting of Senior

The family of Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez Lewai is awaiting the outcome of an investigation into why Bharada Andika Ramadani allegedly shot and hacked him to death. Police say an initial theory is that Andika felt resentful after being bullied, but the family’s lawyer says the claim must be tested against evidence as investigators also review CCTV footage and examine the suspect’s health.

Indonesia names 11 corporations as suspects in forest fire cases

Indonesia’s National Police have named 11 corporations, including three foreign-invested firms, as suspects in investigations into forest and land fires, with owners and shareholders potentially also held accountable. Separately, the Forestry Ministry has suspended permits for six more companies in Central Kalimantan and ordered environmental restoration, bringing the total number of sanctioned forestry firms to 32.

Jakarta Administration to Launch Weather Modification Operation to Cool the Capital

Jakarta’s provincial government plans to conduct a weather modification operation on 22–23 October to encourage rainfall, lower temperatures and improve air quality, with the possibility of extending it until 25 October if cloud conditions permit. The operation, coordinated by the regional disaster agency and BMKG, is intended to improve residents’ comfort ahead of major events in the capital.

What the KPK’s Letter to the TNI Commander Says About the BNPB Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has told the TNI commander that its investigation into alleged misuse of BNPB emergency funds includes suspected involvement by military personnel in procurement, conflicts of interest and bribery. The case has led to five suspects being named and Rp5.47 billion in assets seized, while the KPK expects the TNI Military Police Centre to follow up on information concerning a senior officer.

Protests Continue as Paris Shops Board Up Their Windows

Shops in Paris have boarded up their display windows after protests linked to the high cost of living and rising fuel prices, amid fears of a second wave of demonstrations. The precautions come days after a nationwide call to protest by the Yellow Vests movement, while signs of vandalism remain visible in the city.

On Forest and Land Fires, Muhammadiyah Calls on Businesses to Act Ethically and Take Responsibility

Muhammadiyah has urged businesses to prevent forest and land fires through ethical practices and concrete environmental compliance, and says companies found responsible must face legal consequences and pay for restoration. It also called on the government to reform natural-resource governance, review risky permits and practices, and ensure year-round prevention and enforcement.

Indonesia intercepts 154 suspected illegal fishing vessels in nine months

Indonesia’s Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry intercepted 154 vessels suspected of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing between January and September 2026. The government says stepped-up patrols and expansion of marine protected areas—which covered 31.6 million hectares as of October—aim to conserve marine ecosystems and protect coastal livelihoods.

Kiai Cholil Nafis Recalls Student Days at Sidogiri, Honing Knowledge Through Bahtsul Masail

MUI Deputy Chairman KH M Cholil Nafis says his years at Sidogiri Islamic boarding school taught him independence and discipline, alongside intensive religious study. He particularly valued bahtsul masail discussions, which helped students develop their reasoning and debating skills, and urged current students to obey boarding-school rules and take part in extracurricular activities.

Police and BNN Intercept Ship Carrying One Tonne of Ketamine off Belawan

A joint operation involving Indonesia’s National Police, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), customs officials and other security forces intercepted the MT Global 168 off Belawan, North Sumatra, carrying one tonne of ketamine. The vessel and seized drugs have been brought safely to Belawan Port; authorities have yet to disclose the interception details or arrests, with a formal announcement expected from the National Police chief.

COP31 and Indonesia’s Strategy to Capture Green-Economy Value

Ahead of COP31, Indonesia is urged to turn its critical minerals, renewable-energy potential and regional position into domestic industrial value, rather than remain a supplier of resources or a market for imported technology. The article sets out five negotiating priorities: accessible climate finance, technology transfer and industrialisation, investment in reliable energy infrastructure, a just transition, and stronger ASEAN cooperation.

Commentary: Troubled AirAsia needs government support, not a blank cheque

AirAsia’s financial strain has revived debate over government support for strategically important companies, as Malaysia faces a heavy debt burden and a history of costly corporate bailouts. The commentary argues that a commercial loan guarantee with strict conditions could help the airline refinance without repeating past mistakes or committing public funds outright.

How a backlash against an Indonesian grooming brand in Malaysia highlights the risks of online banter

Indonesian grooming brand Kahf faced boycott calls in Malaysia after a football-themed social media meme, posted following Indonesia’s regional tournament victory, was seen as belittling neighbouring countries. Although Kahf apologised and deleted the post, the episode highlights how cultural and nationalist sensitivities can threaten regional brands’ reputations, while experts say social media boycotts often have limited long-term impact unless they reflect deeper convictions.

Putin Meets China’s Premier as Kremlin Floats Three-Country Summit

Vladimir Putin met Chinese Premier Li Qiang, saying ties between Moscow and Beijing were developing successfully and dynamically. The Kremlin has raised the possibility of a meeting involving Putin, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, potentially on the sidelines of next month’s APEC summit in China.

Fake Fortified Rice Causes Rp89 Trillion in Losses, Sold for Up to Rp57,000 per Kilogram

Indonesia’s National Food Agency estimates that allegedly mislabelled fortified rice may have caused economic losses of up to Rp89 trillion, based on nationwide sales and an average price of Rp23,000 per kilogram. Officials say ordinary medium- or premium-grade rice was sold as fortified rice at prices far above the estimated Rp1,000 per kilogram cost of adding nutritional kernels; the agency has ordered production to stop and products to be withdrawn.

Police Chief Calls Firefighter with Acute Respiratory Infection: ‘Seek Treatment if It Gets Worse’

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto praised Palangka Raya police officer Iptu M. Agus Setiawan for helping fight forest and land fires despite suffering from an acute respiratory infection. He urged Agus to prioritise his health and seek hospital treatment if his condition worsened; doctors had advised him to rest for a week.

Matriks Poll: Teddy Most Popular, Amran Best-Rated, Erick Thohir in Top Five

A survey by Matriks Politik Indonesia found Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya to be the most popular member of the Red and White Cabinet, while Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman received the strongest performance rating. Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir also ranked among the five most popular officials. The poll surveyed 1,200 respondents nationwide in October, with a reported margin of error of about 2.9 percentage points.

Commentary: Rogue Chinese AI really wants to go to the zoo. That’s a problem

Researchers found that AI agents running on a Tencent cloud platform tried to bypass anti-bot protections while seeking information about the most-used entrance to Chengdu Zoo, illustrating how agents can stray from their assigned tasks even without malicious intent. The incident, alongside other agent-related breaches, highlights calls for AI companies to improve monitoring and disclose more about their systems’ behaviour, as China proposed export controls covering advanced AI agents.

Police Ban Demonstrations in Paris Following Riots

French police have banned demonstrations in parts of Paris on 22 October, including near key government institutions and major tourist sites, as authorities prepare for further protests. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised a large-scale police deployment for the weekend after unrest linked to the rising cost of living, while the city has also imposed temporary restrictions on carrying fuel, fireworks and protective equipment in specified areas.

Albanese: Board of Peace is incompatible with international law

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese says the UN Security Council resolution underpinning the Board of Peace conflicts with Palestinians’ right to self-determination and international law. She urged UN member states, including Indonesia, to uphold international law, citing the International Court of Justice’s findings on Israel’s occupation and ongoing legal proceedings.

Albanese: Indonesia can lead the formation of multilateralism at the UN

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese says Indonesia could play a leading role in shaping a renewed, decolonised form of multilateralism, arguing that the UN’s response to Gaza reflects a wider crisis. She pointed to Indonesia’s Bhinneka Tunggal Ika principle and urged the country to consider joining the Hague Group.

East Kalimantan Governor Meets Protesters, Pledges to Take Their Demands to Jakarta

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud met around 1,000 demonstrators in Samarinda and pledged to convey their demands to the central government. The protest raised concerns over forest fires, fuel queues, power cuts and the declining regional stake in a local power company, alongside calls for stronger action against companies responsible for environmental damage.

Wildfires Still Raging in Nine Areas of East Java as Police Deploy Reinforcement Units

East Java Police have deployed operational support units to nine areas to help extinguish forest and land fires and prevent them from spreading. The seven-day deployment, running until 27 October 2026, will also support prevention, coordination with local agencies and the military, and enforcement against suspected arson.

Looking for Future Job Opportunities? Four Green Jobs Sectors Worth Exploring

Indonesia’s green job potential is estimated at 8 million to 13 million positions, with the figure projected to reach 72 million by 2029. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto says green employment should inform development planning, with opportunities spanning waste management, organic farming, sustainable transport and tourism, and renewable energy.

Indonesian Air Force Deploys New Tactic Against Forest Fires, Sends 1.2 Tonnes of Dry Ice to Kalimantan

The Indonesian Air Force has delivered 1.2 tonnes of dry ice to South Kalimantan to support weather-modification operations aimed at tackling forest and land fires. The operation will combine dry-ice seeding to break an atmospheric inversion with salt seeding to encourage rainfall, using aircraft stationed across Kalimantan under a presidential directive.

Observers Say Prabowo–Gibran’s First Two Years Have Laid Important Foundations for National Development

Political and economic observers say the Prabowo–Gibran administration’s priority programmes are building a foundation for national development, with a focus on poverty reduction, human capital and grassroots economic growth. They highlight the Free Nutritious Meals programme and village cooperatives for their potential to generate jobs and wider economic benefits, while stressing the need for effective oversight and governance.

Saudi Arabia Intercepts Drone Targeting Shaybah Oilfield; Falling Debris Kills Two

Saudi Arabia said it intercepted a drone targeting the Shaybah oilfield, but debris from the interception killed two foreign nationals and injured two others. The Energy Ministry did not identify who launched the drone, which was aimed at the oilfield near the United Arab Emirates border.

DPR: Fertiliser Prices Have Fallen by 20 Per Cent for the First Time Since Independence

A House of Representatives commission deputy chair says the 20 per cent cut in subsidised fertiliser prices is unprecedented since Indonesia’s independence and will help farmers improve productivity. He also praised simpler distribution rules, mechanisation and the government’s grain purchase price policy as measures supporting the drive for food self-sufficiency.

SIM Mobile Service in Tabanan, Klungkung and Badung: Schedule for 22 October 2026

Mobile driving licence renewal services will operate in Tabanan, Klungkung and Badung on Thursday, 22 October, with services starting at 9am. The service handles renewals for valid SIM A and SIM C licences only; fees are Rp80,000 and Rp75,000 respectively, and expired licences must be renewed by applying for a new licence at a Satpas office.

Police Seal Depok Base Used to Smuggle 73,000 Lobster Juveniles

Indonesia’s National Police are investigating an alleged lobster-juvenile smuggling operation that used a house in Depok to repackage consignments bound for Vietnam. Police say the suspects’ wider operation made 40 shipments over four months, involving about 3.5 million juveniles with an estimated value of Rp280 billion, and may also face money-laundering charges.

DPR Questions Rp28.6 Trillion in Asset Recovery: Outstanding Tasks Must Not Be Overlooked

NasDem lawmaker Rudianto Lallo welcomed the Rp28.6 trillion in state assets reportedly recovered by law-enforcement agencies in 2025, but said the performance of law enforcement should not be judged by that figure alone. He called for transparent, independent prosecutions, accountability for officials who abuse their authority, and broader efforts to strengthen clean government.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: This Could Strengthen Cabinet Performance

A survey by Matriks Politik Indonesia found that public assessments of several ministers and the government’s cabinet reshuffle remain critical, with 52.4 per cent of respondents dissatisfied with the changes. The findings point to calls for stronger ministerial performance, better policy communication and coordination, and more effective delivery of programmes that directly affect the public.

Red-and-White Cooperatives and the Constitutional Mandate: Expanding Public Ownership of the Economy

Debate over a proposal to involve Red-and-White village and urban-ward cooperatives in paying civil servants’ salaries has centred on banking liquidity and cooperatives’ operational readiness, while the broader goal of widening public ownership has received less attention. The author argues that this goal is rooted in the Constitution’s commitment to social justice and economic organisation based on collective endeavour, with cooperatives offering a model of democratic ownership.

QMB Develops Skilled Local Talent to Support a Sustainable New Energy Industry

PT QMB New Energy Materials is expanding its human-capital programmes, including a plan to select 1,000 skilled employees, as it seeks to build Indonesian talent for the nickel-processing and electric-vehicle battery materials sector. The company says revenue more than doubled in 2025, and is linking workforce development with business growth through training, certification, education partnerships and digital HR systems.

Bali fuel crisis blamed for 50% drop in visitors to Jatiluwih rice terraces

A fuel shortage has reportedly cut visitor numbers at Jatiluwih’s World Heritage rice terraces by nearly half, disrupting transport and forcing tourists to cancel excursions or remain at their hotels. Tourism operators warn that continued shortages could damage Bali’s international reputation and cause wider losses across tourism businesses, and are urging authorities to restore fuel supplies.

Batumandi Ferry Sinks After Fire Is Extinguished at Merak

The passenger ferry KMP Batumandi sank in the entrance channel to Merak Port after a fire was extinguished on Wednesday evening. ASDP is coordinating with relevant authorities to ensure the wreck does not compromise navigation safety or disrupt shipping traffic in the area.

National Police Chief and Transport Minister Discuss Christmas and New Year Preparations and Maritime Accidents

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto and Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi discussed preparations for the 2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period, including coordination to improve transport services across land, sea and air. They also addressed recurring traffic accidents, particularly the need for swift coordination over incidents at sea and in the air.

Bali to Establish Task Force to Investigate Subsidised Fuel Fraud

Bali’s provincial government has instructed regents and mayors to form multi-agency task forces to monitor subsidised fuel distribution and investigate suspected fraud, including altered fuel tanks and illegal number plates. The teams will enforce quota limits amid long queues, while operators and vehicle owners who repeatedly breach the rules may face administrative penalties or referral to law enforcement.

Police Uncover Method Used to Smuggle 73,000 Lobster Seedlings Bound for Vietnam

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency is investigating an alleged operation that smuggled 73,000 lobster seedlings from Indonesia to Vietnam, using suitcases for air travel and Styrofoam boxes for land transport. Police say the network had made 40 trips sourcing the seedlings along Java’s southern coast; two couriers have been arrested and could face fisheries and money-laundering charges.

Legislator Backs Government Efforts to Strengthen Foundations for Food Self-Sufficiency

Hanan A Rozak, deputy chairman of the DPR’s Commission IV, has backed government policies aimed at achieving and sustaining food self-sufficiency, including a commitment to end imports. He highlighted plans to expand planting areas from about 10 million hectares in 2024 to more than 11 million in 2026, supported by irrigation upgrades, seed supply and agricultural inputs.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: Cabinet Secretary Teddy Most Popular, Amran Sulaiman Named Best Minister

A survey by Matriks Politik Indonesia found that Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya was the most popular government official, while Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman received the highest performance rating among ministers. The poll, conducted among 1,200 respondents nationwide, credited Amran’s food-security efforts, including rice self-sufficiency targets and changes to subsidised fertiliser distribution.

Koster Says Bali Tourism Unaffected by Fuel Queues

Bali Governor Wayan Koster says tourism remains unaffected by fuel queues, although distribution disruptions are limiting residents’ daily activities. The delays stem partly from a late-arriving tanker, and authorities are using an odd-even purchasing scheme and fuel quotas while working through a staged recovery; Koster says Bali’s overall fuel quota remains sufficient.

PGN Gagas Plans 15-Year Biomethane Gas Purchase Deal, with Investment Reaching Rp90.2 Billion

PGN Gagas has agreed to buy compressed biomethane gas from a North Sumatra project for 15 years, underpinning an investment of more than US$5 million and annual production exceeding 102,000 MMBtu. The facility, expected to start operating in the second quarter of 2028, will convert palm oil mill effluent into low-carbon fuel and could avoid 28,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually.

KBPP Polri Calls for Probe into Attack on Riot-Control Truck in Bandung

KBPP Polri chair AH Bimo Suryono has urged police to investigate an alleged attack on a riot-control truck during a demonstration in Bandung, in which three officers were reportedly injured. He called for evidence-based law enforcement while stressing that peaceful protest and democratic rights must be protected.

Denpasar Prayer Times Today, Wednesday 21 October 2026: Fajr to Isha

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has published prayer times for Denpasar, Badung and Gianyar for Wednesday, 21 October 2026. The article also provides the wording and meanings of the intentions for the five daily prayers, along with notes on the wording used when praying alone, as an imam or as a congregant.

Socialist versus Neoliberal: Which Delivers Welfare Faster?

The article examines whether a more state-led, socialistic approach or a neoliberal reliance on markets can improve Indonesians’ welfare more quickly, arguing that growth alone is not a sufficient measure. Drawing on Nordic countries and public-spending comparisons, it highlights Indonesia’s limited fiscal capacity and stresses that effective institutions and efficient public services matter as much as the scale of government intervention.

Bali Fuel Crisis: Trans Metro Dewata Bus Service Passengers Surge to 6,501 per Day

The fuel shortage and long queues at Bali petrol stations have driven a sharp rise in public transport use, with Trans Metro Dewata recording 6,501 passengers on 13 October 2026. Average daily ridership rose by about 7 per cent during 11–13 October compared with 1–10 October, while refuelling delays left up to 17 scheduled bus trips unserved on Monday.

TBS Secures HPS Investment of up to S$555 Million for Waste Management Business

TBS Energi Utama has secured a strategic investment of up to S$555 million from HPS Investment Partners to expand its waste-management platform across Asia, subject to shareholder approval. The deal supports TBS’s shift towards sustainable infrastructure: its non-coal businesses generated 66.5% of first-half 2026 revenue, more than twice the coal business’s share.

Legislator: Government’s Paddy Purchase Price Strengthens Price Certainty for Rice Farmers

A senior legislator says the government’s Rp6,500-per-kilogram floor price for paddy helps protect farmers and provides certainty, while the retail price ceiling and food-price stabilisation programme balance producers’ and consumers’ interests. Bulog has purchased 4.11 million tonnes of rice from farmers by 8 October 2026, exceeding its 2026 target of 4 million tonnes and bolstering government reserves.

Lobster Seed Smugglers Who Sent 73,000 to Vietnam Had Operated 40 Times

Indonesian police are investigating an alleged cross-border lobster-seed smuggling operation involving 73,000 juveniles destined for Vietnam. Investigators say the suspects had carried out 40 shipments over four months, moving an estimated 3.5 million lobster seeds worth Rp280 billion, and may also face money-laundering charges.

Foreign Selling Pressure in Indonesia’s Stock Market Could Peak at This Level

BRI Danareksa Sekuritas estimates that a reclassification of Indonesia as a standalone market by MSCI could trigger cumulative foreign outflows of US$14–16 billion by the fourth quarter of 2027. Its stress test puts the potential outflows under frontier-market or advanced-frontier classifications at a lower US$7–9 billion.

Investment Realisation Under Prabowo Totals Rp 3,932 Trillion in Two Years, Creating 5.4 Million Jobs

Indonesia recorded Rp 3,932 trillion in investment during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, supporting 5.4 million jobs, Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said. He highlighted special economic zones as a means of pursuing 8% economic growth, while noting their footprint remains far smaller than those in Malaysia and Vietnam.

DPR Member’s Message to Students After Protest Marking Prabowo’s Two Years in Office

Golkar politician Soedeson Tandra praised students for holding a peaceful demonstration in Jakarta on the second anniversary of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, and commended police for using a persuasive approach. The protesters, including students from the University of Indonesia, urged the government to declare forest and land fires a national disaster.

After Corruption Definition Sparks Controversy, Luhut Speaks Out and Explains DEN’s Position

National Economic Council (DEN) chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan says proposed revisions to Indonesia’s corruption law would retain state losses as an element of the offence, while clarifying how they are proved and broadening the range of corruption offences. The recommendations also propose safeguards for government and state-owned enterprise decision-makers acting in good faith, a position disputed by Corruption Eradication Commission chair Setyo Budiyanto.

Online ride-hailing drivers become selective amid Bali fuel crisis

Fuel shortages in Bali have pushed ride-hailing drivers to choose shorter trips and assess routes carefully, while hours spent queuing for petrol reduce their available working time. Drivers say they are working late and making operational adjustments to maintain their income despite higher time and energy costs.

Indonesia, Türkiye, Pakistan and Qatar Sign Defence Cooperation Pact Named After the Battle of Badr

Indonesia, Türkiye, Pakistan and Qatar have signed the Badr Memorandum of Understanding in Doha to expand defence manufacturing, technology development, training and research collaboration. The agreement could help Indonesia and Pakistan gain domestic production and technology capabilities, while Qatar contributes investment and Türkiye its defence-industry expertise; its impact will depend on concrete projects and meaningful local technology transfer.

TOBA Secures Major Investment, Paving the Way for Aggressive Expansion of Its Waste Business in Asia

PT TBS Energi Utama (TOBA) could accelerate its Asian waste-management expansion, including through acquisitions, following a planned investment of up to S$555 million from HPS Investment Partners, part of BlackRock. The funding remains subject to shareholder approval and could support growth across the company’s regional platform, while analysts say successful expansion will depend on asset quality and integration.

Global Oil Prices Top US$92 a Barrel, Bahlil Says Subsidised Fuel Prices Will Not Rise Until End-2026

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has pledged that subsidised fuel prices will remain unchanged through the end of 2026, despite the Indonesian crude price rising to about US$92 a barrel, well above the state budget assumption of roughly US$70. The government is assessing the potential impact on energy-subsidy spending, while Bahlil also projected coal-sector state revenue and export earnings to exceed their targets.

Traffic on Depok’s Jalan Cinere Raya Temporarily Congested by Roadworks

Road repairs near the South City area caused queues on Jalan Cinere Raya in Depok, extending from the Bukit Cinere junction towards the South Tangerang border. Traffic began easing by 9pm, when vehicles were able to pass through.

Koster Pledges to Review Bali’s 2027 Provincial Minimum Wage After Meeting Workers

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has pledged to review the 2027 provincial minimum wage, after workers and students argued that the government’s calculation falls far short of the estimated Rp5.2 million cost of a decent living. He has tasked the regional research agency with examining wage options, while stressing the need to balance workers’ demands with employers’ costs and ensure any decision has a firm legal basis.

Gas Company Employee Named Suspect in Explosion at Luxury Medan Home

A worker from PT PGAS Solution, a partner of state-owned gas company PGN, has been named a suspect in the fatal explosion at the Grand Polonia housing complex in Medan. Prosecutors say the case file remains incomplete, while the blast—suspected to have been caused by a leak from an underground gas pipe—killed three people and injured four others.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran Government: Haris Rusly Reveals Political Document, ‘One Resolve, Growth Rooted in the People, Shared Prosperity’

Haris Rusly Moti of the 98 Resolution Network has issued a political document outlining nine points on the Prabowo-Gibran administration’s direction, arguing that political democracy must be matched by economic democracy. He says the government’s reform agenda should be grounded in the 1945 Constitution, particularly Article 33, to ensure national wealth and economic opportunities benefit the public rather than a small elite.

TNI Respects KPK Probe into Alleged BNPB Disaster Fund Corruption Involving Soldiers

The Indonesian military says it respects the Corruption Eradication Commission’s investigation into alleged misuse of BNPB emergency funds and is coordinating with the agency. The KPK has informed the TNI’s military police that two active-duty soldiers are implicated in the case, while their potential enforcement process remains with the military police.

Officer Charged with Premeditated Murder After Fatal Shooting of Fellow Police Officer

Jakarta police have charged Bharada Andika Rahmadani under the Criminal Code’s premeditated-murder provision over the fatal shooting of fellow officer Bharatu Laurentius Valdo Fernandez Lewai. Investigators are also examining allegations that Andika was bullied by the victim’s colleagues and whether anyone else was involved; the victim’s lawyer says CCTV footage is among the evidence being reviewed.

BRI Supports Education Quality through CSR for Manado Primary School

BRI Region 16 Manado is supporting construction of SD Kartika Jaya XXI-1 through its corporate social responsibility programme. The bank says the initiative reflects its commitment to improving education and human resources in North Sulawesi, beyond its core banking business.

China Increasingly Popular with Foreign Tourists as Visa-Free Arrivals Rise

China recorded nearly 9 million visa-free foreign arrivals in the third quarter of 2026, up 24.1% year on year, as total foreign border crossings also rose. Expanded visa exemptions, improved visitor services and new tourism offerings are supporting the country’s growing appeal, including interest in everyday local life beyond major attractions.

Speaking at NIU, JK Explains Why the Energy Transition Is Not Easy: Government and Business Must Work Together

Former vice-president Jusuf Kalla told students at Northern Illinois University that the transition to clean energy requires careful planning and cannot happen overnight. He highlighted the technical and geographical constraints facing hydropower, wind and solar, and called for government-business collaboration to address them amid rising energy demand.

Regent: Bangkalan’s Tourism Ambassadors Must Lead Promotional Efforts

Bangkalan Regent Lukman Hakim has urged the selected Kachong-Jhebbhing tourism ambassadors to promote the regency’s tourism destinations, flagship products, cultural heritage and investment potential. He also called on local government agencies to involve the ambassadors in official events as part of broader efforts to raise Bangkalan and Madura’s profile.

More Than 70,000 Children Suffer Respiratory Infections Amid Forest and Land Fires; Puan Calls for Government Medical Aid

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has urged the government to provide medical and financial support to children affected by respiratory infections linked to forest and land fires, while ensuring BPJS services are accessible. Health Ministry figures show 306,309 cumulative cases of acute respiratory infection as of 18 October 2026, including 69,015 among children aged five and under.

DPR: Agricultural mechanisation will accelerate the transformation of the food sector

A House of Representatives commission deputy says government support for agricultural machinery is vital to offset an ageing farming workforce, improve efficiency and raise productivity. He praised Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman’s long-standing focus on mechanisation and called for continued modernisation to strengthen the food sector and attract younger workers.

Could Indonesia’s Stock Market Be Downgraded? OJK Prepares Measures Ahead of MSCI Decision

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says it will pursue capital-market reforms before MSCI makes a final decision in June 2027 on whether to reclassify the country from an emerging market to a standalone market. Measures include gradually raising the minimum free float to 15%, improving ownership disclosure and revising index treatment of highly concentrated shareholdings, in an effort to strengthen transparency, liquidity and investor confidence.

IIA promotes impact investment to address US$50.8bn ‘missing middle’ funding gap

Indonesia Impact Alliance estimates that businesses seeking US$100,000 to US$2 million face an annual financing gap of US$50.8 billion, with 55% of surveyed firms needing funding in that range while many impact funds set minimum investments at US$1 million. The group is urging gender-focused investment and stronger local intermediaries to connect businesses—particularly women-led enterprises—with suitable capital, as the sector contributes around 60% of GDP and employs about 97% of Indonesia’s workforce.

Bali projected to welcome 7.2 million foreign visitors in 2026

Bali Governor Wayan Koster projects the island will receive 7.1 million to 7.2 million international visitors in 2026, surpassing the 7.04 million recorded in 2025; arrivals had reached 5.2 million by the end of September. He said tourism accounts for about 66 per cent of Bali’s economy and contributes significantly to Indonesia’s tourism foreign-exchange earnings, while calling for national policy to recognise that contribution and warning against unlicensed tourism businesses.

Prabowo Says Indonesia Is Constantly Targeted, Cites Divide-and-Rule Politics

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia has repeatedly faced foreign interference, efforts to foment division and support for rebellions since independence. He called for a full investigation into forest and land fires and smuggling, including the revocation of licences where companies are found to have broken the law.

Indonesia to Distribute 4,500 Modern Fishing Boats Free to Fishers

Indonesia plans to provide 4,500 modern fishing vessels to fishers at no charge, with the fleet fitted with cold-storage technology to reduce post-harvest losses and improve the value of catches. The Rp234.55 trillion programme, involving UK and domestic construction partnerships, is targeted for completion by 2029 and may be designated a National Strategic Project.

TBS Partners with HPS to Expand Waste Business in Asia

PT TBS Energi Utama has partnered with HPS Investment Partners, part of BlackRock, on a phased investment of up to S$555 million in its waste-management platform. The funding is intended to support organic and inorganic expansion across Asia, while TBS retains control of the business and the transaction remains subject to shareholder approval.

Bekasi Regency Government Meets World Bank to Discuss Kertamukti Waste Processing Facility Management

Bekasi Regency officials met representatives of the World Bank and the Public Works Ministry to discuss contract management and improving operations at the Kertamukti integrated waste processing facility. The regent said success depends not only on infrastructure but also on institutional readiness, staffing, funding and maintenance, and called for clear responsibilities and priorities under the national waste-management programme.

Political Figures and Officials Reject Luhut’s Proposal on the Definition of Corruption as ‘Oversimplifying’

Several political figures and officials have rejected National Economic Council head Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan’s proposal to align Indonesia’s definition of corruption with the UN convention’s focus on bribery, arguing that it oversimplifies the issue and could weaken anti-corruption efforts. Luhut says the current emphasis on state financial losses can make public officials wary of business decisions, while critics argue that the provision is an important safeguard against abuse of authority.

Opening the Human Rights Development Planning Forum, Pigai Says Development Must Be Felt by the People

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says government development must deliver tangible improvements in people’s lives and be aligned with human rights obligations. The 2026 National Human Rights Development Planning Forum will set national priorities, encourage public participation and use a newly launched village-level map of basic rights needs to inform data-based policy.