Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 October 2026

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Silmy Karim Accused of Extorting Rp168.92 Billion from Agencies Sponsoring Foreigners’ Residence Permits

Prosecutors have accused Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim and six other defendants of extorting a total of Rp168.92 billion from agencies and companies sponsoring foreign nationals’ residence permits between 2021 and 2026. The alleged method involved delaying, obstructing or refusing to issue immigration documents, with prosecutors saying the defendants received differing sums.

Bali police arrest two Saudis over stabbing of three people

Bali police have arrested two Saudi Arabian nationals suspected of involvement in a stabbing that injured three Indonesians after an altercation outside a nightclub. Investigators are examining the suspects’ alleged roles and reconstructing the events.

Ambassador Praises Baznas for Providing Scholarships to Indonesian Students in the Middle East

Indonesia’s ambassador to Egypt, Kuncoro Giri Waseso, praised the National Board of Zakat (Baznas) for supporting Indonesian students in the Middle East through its Baznas Scholars Scholarship programme. For 2026, Baznas plans to award scholarships to 300 students from across Indonesia, with Rp8.16 billion allocated for a two-year programme.

APBN After Two Years of Prabowo’s Leadership: Boosting the Economy While Keeping It Sound

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says the state budget has been used to support growth, maintain fiscal stability and improve public welfare through priority spending on education, health and social protection. For 2027, the government targets 6% economic growth while projecting a budget deficit of 2.4% of GDP, with fiscal discipline and private-sector investment both expected to play a role.

Andre Rosiade Visits Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Padang: ‘Thank Goodness, the Children Are Happy and Want It to Continue’

DPR Commission VI Deputy Chairman Andre Rosiade visited a school in Padang to review the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, saying pupils welcomed the daily meals and wanted the initiative to continue. The school says the programme reaches 263 pupils, while Rosiade urged the public to assess its implementation by hearing directly from schools, teachers and parents across Indonesia.

Testing Pro Control on the iPhone 18 Pro: Here Are the Results

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro introduces Pro Control, giving users manual adjustment of camera settings including aperture, shutter speed and exposure. The controls enable creative effects such as starburst lighting and detailed concert photography, although the interface can be awkward to operate quickly or one-handed; automatic mode remains the simpler option for everyday users.

Co-operatives Ministry and Pertamina Launch Used Cooking Oil Collection Model through KDKMP

Indonesia’s Co-operatives Ministry and Pertamina Patra Niaga have launched a pilot scheme in Banyumas to collect used cooking oil through village and urban-ward co-operatives, with the oil to be processed into aviation fuel and other fuels. The initiative aims to turn household waste into income and cooperative capital, and officials hope the Banyumas model can be replicated nationwide.

PNM Wins First Place at Grand Genba Champion with Service-System Innovation

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) won first place at the BRI Group’s Q3 2026 Subsidiaries Forum for Diary AO, an application designed to organise field officers’ daily work. The system is intended to improve efficiency and help Account Officers support more ultra-micro businesses run by women from low-income communities.

Students as Drivers of the Local Economy

Universitas Halu Oleo’s student population supports a broad local business ecosystem in Kendari, sustaining demand for boarding houses, food outlets, laundry services, shops and transport. The opinion piece illustrates the potential scale with an estimate that 40,000 students spending just Rp5,000 daily could generate Rp200 million in transactions per day, while stressing this is a simplified calculation and calling for better planning of the campus area.

House and Cars Seized, DPRD Member Vinna Ledy Declines to Comment After KPK Questioning

Bengkulu City DPRD member Vinna Ledy Anggraheni declined to comment after being questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) about assets seized in an investigation linked to alleged project bribery. The KPK has seized several vehicles, a luxury house and an apartment, which it suspects were provided by businessman Eno Bowo Susilo; no suspect has yet been named in the expanded investigation.

Coordinating Minister Praises Recovery Task Force as Post-Disaster Recovery in Sumatra Makes Significant Progress

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono said recovery efforts in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra had made significant progress after about 11 months, with 2026-budgeted activities 96–98 per cent complete. Officials said recovery must continue alongside disaster mitigation, as heavy rain and river sedimentation have triggered renewed flooding and affected repaired infrastructure.

Co-operatives Ministry and Pertamina Launch Used-Cooking-Oil Collection Pilot at KDKMP Co-operatives

The Co-operatives Ministry and Pertamina have launched a pilot scheme in four village co-operatives in Banyumas to collect used cooking oil for conversion into sustainable aviation fuel. The initiative is intended to create new income for co-operative members, reduce pollution and support domestic energy security, with the model potentially expanded nationwide.

Indonesia targets 60% domestic content for EV sector in 2027

Indonesia plans to raise the minimum domestic content requirement for electric vehicles from 40% in 2026 to 60% during 2027–2029, reaching 80% in 2030. Sarmuji said compliance should be manageable for manufacturers producing in Indonesia, while the government will promote technology transfer and monitor adherence; he also urged companies to prepare for the uneven effects of rupiah depreciation.

SMU launches master’s programme to address digital governance and sustainability challenges

Singapore Management University is launching a Master of Public Governance and Leadership in 2027, with specialisations in digital transformation and sustainability governance. The programme aims to strengthen public leaders’ capacity to manage technology responsibly and tackle complex policy challenges across Asia, combining academic study with practical training and regional learning.

Bappenas: Electric Vehicle Ecosystem Must Be Developed Sustainably

National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy said Indonesia must build its electric vehicle ecosystem continuously, linking clean mobility with economic growth, energy security and industrial competitiveness. He highlighted the shortage of public charging stations, the need to develop components and batteries, and the opportunity presented by projected global EV sales of 23 million in 2026.

Seeking to Resume Peace Talks, US Vice-President Contacts Iranian Official

US Vice-President JD Vance has reportedly written to Iran’s top security official in an effort to revive stalled peace negotiations, acting at President Donald Trump’s direction. The diplomatic push comes amid a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, major disruption to global energy supplies and reports that Washington is weighing a further military operation against Iran.

Grandmother Burns Granddaughter in Depok, Leaving Her with 80% Burns

A 64-year-old woman in Depok allegedly doused her 17-year-old granddaughter with kerosene and set her alight after becoming angry that the teenager had not collected her. The victim suffered burns to 80 per cent of her body and remains in hospital; the suspect faces charges under domestic violence and child protection laws, carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years.

Heavy Rain Triggers Flooding as Overflowing River Turns Land into a ‘Sea’

Heavy rain caused the San Juan River to burst its banks in New Mexico, inundating homes and neighbourhoods in Shiprock and reaching its highest level since 1935. The flooding has raised the risk of flash floods across parts of Texas and western Kansas, while New Mexico officials warn that infrastructure damage could cost hundreds of millions of US dollars; the federal government has partially approved the state’s emergency declaration request.

Spain’s High-Speed Rail Network Under Scrutiny After Fatal Collision

A collision in central Spain killed at least 68 people and injured dozens, prompting questions about rail safety procedures and the sequence of events. Leaked audio suggests an Adif controller instructed a driver to disconnect a malfunctioning LZB safety system, while reports dispute whether the Iryo train had permission to move; the Madrid–Seville line still relies on the older system.

Denny Indrayana: Education Ministry Unable to Produce Evidence of Gibran’s High School Diploma

Former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana says the Education Ministry failed to produce evidence of Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high school diploma, despite a request from the court. His side withdrew its administrative court challenge to the equivalency certificate, arguing that the ministry had provided only regulations rather than documents underpinning the certificate.

19 People Detained by Police During Jakarta Demonstration Released

Police have released 19 people detained during demonstrations in Jakarta on 28 October 2026 after questioning them about their involvement. The force said they were handed over to family members or legal representatives and that preventive and educational measures remain its preferred approach, with enforcement as a last resort.

West Java Governor Warns of Disaster Risk from Tea Plantation Conversion

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi warned that replacing tea plantations with commercial vegetable crops in the Bandung Selatan area could trigger severe landslides and wider ecological damage. His comments followed the destruction of at least 5,000 tea plants on PTPN I Regional 2 land in Pangalengan, prompting him to call for protection of vegetation that helps conserve soil on steep slopes.

Protesters Voice Their Demands Near the Horse Statue

Students from Trisakti University staged a demonstration near Jakarta’s Horse Statue monument, closing Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan to traffic. Their three main demands call for the restoration of the economy and public services, an end to public officials’ incompetence and multiple office-holding, and the upholding of civilian supremacy.

Business Leaders Develop Plans to Tackle Uncertainty and Build Crisis Buffers

Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has outlined three priorities for strengthening businesses against global economic uncertainty: crisis buffers, access to raw materials for domestic production, and greater certainty for businesses. At its 2026 national leadership meeting, Kadin also stressed resilience in food, water and energy, cited positive economic indicators, and announced eight working groups to monitor its programmes.

Experts Call for Climate Crisis to Be Declared a Global Health Emergency

Nearly 150 researchers from more than 30 countries are urging the World Health Organization and UN member states to establish a global health emergency framework for climate change, as heat-related deaths, economic losses and food insecurity rise sharply. The Lancet Countdown report also warns that fossil-fuel dependence and inadequate adaptation funding are undermining progress, despite evidence that early-warning systems and renewable energy can protect health.

Nearly Extinct, Gamelan Resounds Again in Madurejo

Gamelan and karawitan groups in Madurejo, Sleman, are being revived after years of declining participation and neglect left the tradition at risk of disappearing. A cultural village initiative launched training in 2024 for participants ranging from young children to adults, aiming to pass the heritage on to a new generation.

Pattimura Military Command Temporarily Halts Construction on the Waitomu River

Kodam XV/Pattimura has temporarily suspended construction of a bridge in Ambon’s Waitomu River area until all required permits are secured. Officials say the project will be reviewed in coordination with relevant authorities, focusing on legal compliance, river function, safety and environmental considerations, while the proposed area development includes parking and facilities for small businesses.

Elderly Resident Panics During Cikini Fire, Tries to Douse Flames with a Dipper

A fire that engulfed four homes in Cikini, Central Jakarta, left residents fleeing with little time to save their belongings. A 64-year-old resident said he tried to fight the blaze with a dipper but was unable to stop it; displaced residents are sheltering at a prayer room and have been promised assistance for three days.

Communications Ministry Reveals Digital Social Protection System Test Results Ahead of National Launch

Indonesia’s digital social protection portal currently supports access by 600,000 households in a day, according to the Communications and Digital Ministry, which is continuing to test and fine-tune the system ahead of a national rollout. A pilot had registered 15.7 million households by 28 October 2026, while the government says reliability and security are priorities for a service expected to be accessed simultaneously by around 50 million people.

Village Ministry Directs Village Fund Use According to Stunting Levels

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions says villages with high stunting rates should prioritise village funds for tackling the problem, while areas with lower rates can direct funding to other needs. The ministry also plans to work with health and local authorities and promote rural economic development, citing higher poverty and stunting rates in disadvantaged areas.

Jakarta police release 19 people detained over protests

Jakarta police have released 19 people detained over protests after examining their involvement, returning them to their families or legal representatives. The police said they provided guidance and would use coercive measures only as a last resort, as part of a stated humane approach to maintaining public order.

RI government records 88% HPV vaccination coverage among fifth-grade boys

Indonesia’s Health Ministry reported that HPV vaccination coverage among fifth-grade boys reached 88%, with Bali recording the highest rate at 97.7%. The programme also covers girls and is planned to expand to three more provinces in 2027, while officials say it helps prevent HPV-related cancers despite misinformation and other implementation challenges.

Hashim Asked by President to Handle MSCI Issue as Indonesians Express Dissatisfaction

Hashim Djojohadikusumo says President Prabowo has asked him to help the government address MSCI’s concerns over Indonesia’s stock market classification and market practices. He warns that failure to resolve the issue could deter foreign investment, weaken the rupiah and further strain the economy.

MUI and DPR’s BKSAP Discuss Plans for Andrea Bocelli Concerts in Indonesia

Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) and members of the House of Representatives’ Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Body (BKSAP) held a discussion in Jakarta on responses to planned Andrea Bocelli concerts at Borobudur Temple and in Jakarta. The forum brought together philanthropic groups, Islamic organisations and public figures supportive of Palestine, alongside representatives of the Asia-Pacific Coalition for Quds.

Minister “RAMA” Named in Silmy Karim Indictment, Allegedly Received Rp40 Million a Week

Prosecutors allege that unofficial payments collected for immigration-document services were distributed among senior officials, including a minister identified by the code name “RAMA”, who was allocated Rp40 million a week. Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto denies receiving any such payments, while former deputy minister Silmy Karim is charged with extorting Rp168.9 billion through the handling of foreigners’ residence permits.

Pramono to Rebuild Abandoned SDN Baru 05 in East Jakarta After Three Years

Jakarta’s Education Agency plans to begin rebuilding SDN Baru 05 in Pasar Rebo in November 2026, after the school building was demolished in 2023. Its pupils have been studying at a neighbouring school while the project was delayed; the agency says 22 schools have technical recommendations for full rehabilitation, with seven funded in Jakarta’s 2026–27 regional budget.

Gibran’s Lawyer Shows Scanned Copies of His School and University Certificates at Administrative Court

At a Jakarta Administrative Court hearing over the education-equivalency decree issued by the education ministry, Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s lawyer presented scanned copies of certificates covering his education from primary school to university. The claimant, PT Mercy Toga Kirana, is seeking to have the 2019 decree annulled, alleging substantive and procedural defects and asking the ministry to revoke and remove it from the state register.

Denny Indrayana Reveals Why He Withdrew Gibran Diploma Lawsuit

Former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana and his legal team withdrew their lawsuit over the education-equivalency certificate used for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and walked out of a Jakarta administrative court hearing. Indrayana said the Education Ministry had repeatedly failed to produce evidence supporting the certificate, while the ministry objected to the withdrawal.

Expert Calls for Algorithmic Transparency to Ensure Fair Content Reach

Cyberlaw expert Ahmad Ramli has urged digital platforms to make content-distribution systems more transparent, so users and regulators can assess whether reach restrictions or shadowbanning are being applied fairly. He recommends independent audits, public reporting and human review of automated moderation, alongside stronger Indonesian rules requiring platforms to provide data for oversight.

Online Taxi Driver Robbed in Tangerang; Car Stolen and Head Hacked

An online taxi driver was attacked with a machete during a pre-dawn journey in Tangerang, and the assailant allegedly fled with his car, wallet and mobile phone. Police arrested a suspect in Bogor and recovered the vehicle; the suspect has been charged and detained as the investigation continues.

Andre Rosiade: Prabowo Is Committed to Improving Clean Water Services in Padang

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged central government support for improving clean water services in Padang, with an estimated Rp 1.116 trillion allocated for emergency works, multi-year projects and rehabilitation during 2026–2028. A key project is a new Rp 400 billion water supply system at Gunung Pangilun, which depends on the Padang city government completing land matters; officials say recent repairs have already reduced water turbidity at the site.

Indonesia says haze and gas issues will not derail Singapore investment

Indonesia says cooperation and investment commitments with Singapore will continue despite concerns over transboundary haze and adjusted natural gas supplies. Singapore was Indonesia’s largest source of realised foreign investment from January to September 2024, contributing US$14 billion, or 29.6 per cent of the total.

Mojokerto City Records East Java’s Highest Free Health Check-up Programme Uptake

Mojokerto City’s free health check-up programme had reached 97.84 per cent by 23 October 2026, the highest rate among East Java’s 38 regencies and cities. Deputy Mayor Rachman Sidharta Arisandi said the checks should lead to follow-up care and healthier habits, and could help shape more responsive local development policies.

BGN Changes Under Sudaryono as Anti-Corruption Drive Reaches MBG Kitchens

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono has launched “MBG 2.0”, promising to root out corruption and improve food safety in the free nutritious meals programme. He cited alleged brokered kitchen locations, procurement mark-ups and weak oversight, and reported dismissals, investigations and kitchen closures alongside new monitoring and hygiene requirements.

Jakarta’s Main Challenge: Pramono Outlines Strategy to Tackle Poverty

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says poverty and inequality remain among the capital’s biggest challenges, and that expanding educational scholarships is central to improving social mobility. He also outlined plans to improve government transparency, manage waste through three waste-to-energy plants, tackle flooding and ease congestion by strengthening public transport.

Dollar Holds Above Rp18,100: Will Bank Indonesia Raise Its Rate? BI Governor Weighs In

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti said the central bank’s policy rate will remain data-dependent and that a Federal Reserve decision does not automatically dictate BI’s next move. She said BI can also respond to rupiah weakness through other monetary tools, as the currency closed at Rp18,125 per US dollar on 29 October after setting a record closing low the previous day.

Mecca’s Third Ring Road Opens, Cutting Access Times to the Grand Mosque by up to 90 per cent

Saudi Arabia has opened a new section of Mecca’s Third Ring Road, which is expected to reduce journey times to the Grand Mosque and the Jamarat facilities in Mina by around 90 per cent. With capacity for up to 170,000 vehicles a day in both directions, the road is intended to ease congestion and improve transport access, particularly during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.

Women Must Have Wider Economic Opportunities, Minister Says

Women need broader economic opportunities, while men must share childcare responsibilities, Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi said. An ILO survey cited by business leaders found that caregiving remains a major career barrier for women, with implications for talent, productivity and business sustainability.

Iran: International Markets Could Be Devastated if Israel Attacks Again

Iran has warned that a renewed Israeli attack could have devastating consequences for international markets, as the war has disrupted energy shipments through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Tehran says it is discussing a ceasefire and reopening plan with mediators, while reports say the United States has asked Gulf states to prepare for a possible further military operation.

As Electric Vehicles Surge in Jakarta, Provincial Government Prepares Battery Waste Management

Jakarta’s provincial government is working with the University of Indonesia to develop a policy framework for managing end-of-life electric vehicle batteries, as the capital accounts for a large share of the country’s battery-powered vehicles. The plans aim to prevent pollution while encouraging the recovery of valuable materials and the batteries’ reuse in second-life applications.

Normalisation of Kemayoran Drainage Channel Targeted for Completion by December 2026

Jakarta’s Kemayoran Water Resources Sub-District Office aims to complete the 675-metre normalisation of a drainage channel on Jalan Kepu Barat by December 2026. The project, requested by local residents to help address flooding during heavy rain, will use box culverts and U-ditch channels, with work on the opposite side of the road planned for 2027.

New iPhone Fold Users Complain of Cracked Screens

Dozens of customers have reported cracks appearing on the screen of Apple’s new iPhone Duo, priced at around Rp45 million, with some faults emerging shortly after purchase. Reports from users in Australia, the US and India point to damage around the hinge, but Apple has not provided a detailed explanation of the technical cause.

Bandung Police Uncover Misuse of Subsidised LPG to Produce Portable Gas

Bandung Police have arrested a 25-year-old man accused of transferring subsidised three-kilogram LPG into portable gas canisters for illegal sale. Police say the practice both diverts fuel intended for eligible households and poses safety risks, and the suspect faces charges carrying prison terms and substantial fines.

Indonesian Air Force Vows to Continue Monitoring Forest and Land Fire Response

The Indonesian Air Force is tracking forest and land fires across Central Kalimantan, South Sumatra and South Kalimantan, with 76 of 164 initial hotspots still being dealt with as of 27 October. It has deployed 11 transport aircraft and five helicopters, and says it will continue weather-modification, water-bombing and ground operations until all fires are extinguished.

Constitutional Court Clarifies Rules on Suspending Regional Heads Who Are Defendants, Exempting Political Crimes

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has clarified that regional heads and deputy regional heads facing charges carrying a potential prison sentence of five years or more may be suspended, but charges involving negligence or political offences are exempt. The ruling defines political offences as acts criminalised under positive law solely because the accused holds political views that differ from those of the incumbent regime.

Nine Transjakarta Routes Affected by Road Closures Near City Hall

Nine Transjakarta routes were shortened or diverted on Thursday afternoon because of traffic conditions and road closures near Jakarta’s City Hall, where around 500 students held a protest. Passengers were advised to avoid the area, allow extra travel time and follow directions from officers on the ground.

West Kalimantan Police Lead in Handling Forest and Land Fire Cases

West Kalimantan Police have handled 33 reports involving companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, the highest number among Indonesian police regions. Nationally, police have recorded 104 corporate-related reports, named 20 companies as suspects and proposed revoking the permits of 23 firms, alongside separate cases involving individuals.

Thailand Revokes Israeli Woman’s Visa After Reports of ‘Arrogant’ Behaviour

Thailand has revoked the visa of Israeli national Ensav Ashual following reports that she threatened and verbally abused officials and residents on Koh Samui, and refused to pay accommodation and a national park entrance fee. The case comes amid tighter procedures for deporting foreigners deemed to threaten public order or behave immorally, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urging local authorities to deport misbehaving foreign nationals rather than penalise them in Thailand.

Singapore clinician-scientist elected to US National Academy of Medicine

Professor Marcus Ong has become the first Singaporean emergency medicine physician elected to the US National Academy of Medicine, recognising his contributions to emergency care research and policy. His work on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest—including volunteer-alert technology, public CPR and defibrillator training, and regional research collaboration—has helped improve survival outcomes and strengthen emergency care systems.

Video: Trade Ministry’s Strategy to Boost 26,000 Villages and Turn 25 Universities into Exporters

Trade Minister Budi Santoso outlined programmes to strengthen domestic commerce and help local producers reach overseas markets, including a Campuspreneur initiative involving more than 25 universities and support for village businesses. The ministry says 20 universities generated US$24.5 million in transactions at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, while its village programme focuses on production quality, packaging and matching producers with foreign buyers.

19 Demonstrators Detained on 28 October in Jakarta Released

All 19 people detained during a demonstration near Jakarta’s Bundaran HI on 28 October have been released after police questioning. Rights advocates allege the arrests lacked a clear legal basis, while police say the detainees were released after their roles were examined and received preventive guidance; officers had said items including firecrackers, knives and paint were seized.

Jambi Provincial Government Pledges to Make Local Crafts an Economic Driver

Jambi’s provincial government and Dekranasda are aiming to use local crafts to support economic growth, preserve cultural heritage and improve the livelihoods of artisans and small businesses. The initiative includes targeted assistance for craft and culinary MSMEs in every district and city, alongside efforts to link local crafts with tourism promotion.

KRI Keris-624 sharpens combat capability with live-fire naval gun exercise

KRI Keris-624 conducted a live-fire exercise in the Bali Sea to hone its crew’s combat skills and check that its weapons systems were operating properly. The training followed a security-monitoring assignment involving Australian warship HMAS Choules, which was transiting Indonesian waters.

Shoemaker Live Rebuts Immigration Chief: Andrea Bocelli and His Entire Entourage Have Been Issued Visas

Shoemaker Live says visas and travel documents have been issued for Andrea Bocelli and his entire entourage, contradicting an earlier statement from Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration that his visa had not yet been issued. The concert promoter also says the tour will promote peace and humanitarian causes, including fundraising and a donation of 100,000 pairs of shoes for children affected by conflict.

OCHA: 33.7 Million People in Sudan Need Humanitarian Aid

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says 33.7 million people in Sudan need humanitarian assistance amid a worsening crisis it describes as among the world’s most severe. OCHA is seeking US$2.9 billion to assist 20.4 million people; despite reaching 17.1 million by September 2026, only about three million people in need had received multi-sector support.

Hashim Warns the Dollar Could Reach Rp21,000 as BI Governor Responds

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti says the central bank will prioritise rupiah stability, while acknowledging that the currency faces pressure despite Indonesia’s relatively strong economic fundamentals. Her remarks follow Hashim Djojohadikusumo’s warning that investment outflows linked to concerns over Indonesia’s stock-market status could push the rupiah to Rp20,000–Rp21,000 per US dollar, with some projections as high as Rp22,000.

Depok Grandmother Sets Granddaughter on Fire After Becoming Angry That She Was Not Picked Up

A 64-year-old woman in Depok has been arrested after allegedly dousing her 17-year-old granddaughter with kerosene and setting her alight because the teenager failed to pick her up. The victim suffered burns to 80 per cent of her body and remains in intensive care; the suspect faces charges carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Rupiah Falls Past Rp18,000 per US Dollar; Airlangga Says There Is No Need to Panic

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto urged the public not to panic as the rupiah weakened beyond Rp18,000 per US dollar, saying Indonesia’s economic fundamentals remain relatively solid. He warned that market sentiment, rising interest rates and the risk of capital outflows require close attention, while praising Bank Indonesia for holding rates steady to support access to financing and economic activity.

Rupiah Under Growing Pressure as Economist Warns Dollar Could Reach Rp18,800

The rupiah has weakened towards Rp18,200 per US dollar, with economists warning it could fall to Rp18,500–Rp18,800 if global turmoil deepens and foreign capital outflows intensify. They cite US monetary policy, geopolitical risks, high oil prices and investor concerns over Indonesia, while warning that further depreciation could raise import costs, inflation and pressure on household purchasing power and government finances.

Hashim Urges Free Bank Accounts for Citizens, Highlighting Potential Impact on Regional Economies

Hashim Djojohadikusumo says the government has decided to provide free bank accounts to citizens aged 17 and over, a measure intended to extend access to formal financial services. He argues that digital accounts could enable more targeted social assistance payments and stimulate local spending, while digital tax monitoring could strengthen state revenues; implementation details remain unclear.

Maman Admits MSME Involvement in Free Nutritious Meals Programme Is Still Limited

UMKM Minister Maman Abdurrahman says around 69,000 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises have joined the supply chain for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, but he is not satisfied with the level of participation. The government is seeking both to expand the number of participating businesses and to develop local supply ecosystems, including poultry and fish farms and vegetable gardens, while the National Nutrition Agency focuses on internal reforms.

West Kotawaringin Regency partners with distributors to secure chilli supplies ahead of Christmas

West Kotawaringin Regency has asked eight distributors to prioritise local red bird’s eye chilli demand before supplying neighbouring areas, aiming to prevent price spikes ahead of Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027. Prices in Pangkalan Bun have fallen to Rp70,000 per kilogram from a peak of Rp120,000, after drought-related shortages in Java pushed up costs.

BRIN Reveals Hydrogel’s Potential for Developing Adaptive Electronics

Researchers at Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) say hydrogels could be engineered into flexible sensors and adaptive electronic devices. Using locally sourced, environmentally friendly materials, the technology could support applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, robotics and human–machine interfaces, while creating opportunities to link materials science with electronics engineering.

New Batutulis Road in Bogor Opens for Trial, Operating Until 7pm

A replacement route for a landslide-damaged road in Batutulis, South Bogor, has begun a limited trial, allowing traffic from 7am to 7pm. Construction crews are continuing improvements, including work at the junction between the existing road and the new route, while traffic may be opened and closed as conditions require; construction is due to finish on 30 October.

Two Suspects in Subsidised Rice Misuse Case in NTB Face Up to Five Years in Prison

Two rice mill operators in West and Central Lombok are suspected of repackaging subsidised Bulog rice for resale, and face charges carrying prison terms of up to five years and fines of up to Rp5 billion. Police say the investigation is continuing and have not detained the suspects, citing the maximum sentence and their cooperation.

Action Near Monas Disrupts Nine Transjakarta Routes

Transjakarta adjusted nine routes on Thursday afternoon because of an action near the National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta. Four routes were shortened and five diverted, temporarily leaving some stops and stopping points unserved; passengers were advised to check the latest updates before travelling.

Komdigi Urges Social Media Users Who Suspect Shadowbanning to Complain to Platforms

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Ministry says social media feeds are shaped by algorithms and do not necessarily reflect the full picture of events in society. It is urging platforms to be more transparent about recommendations and moderation, while advising users who believe their content has been shadowbanned to file complaints or appeals directly with the platforms.

IHSG closes lower, tracking Asian markets as investors turn risk-off

Indonesia’s benchmark IHSG fell 3.49 per cent to 5,098.06, in line with losses across most Asian markets, as investors reduced exposure to riskier assets. Political concerns following student demonstrations, oil prices above US$100 a barrel, foreign outflows and a weaker rupiah added pressure, while markets also awaited domestic inflation data and central-bank signals.

CIPS: Trade Agreements Offer Opportunities to Expand Clean Energy Investment

CIPS says Indonesia can use existing trade agreements to deepen clean-energy technology cooperation and investment, while helping domestic industries meet low-carbon production standards. Agreements with Australia, the EU and Canada offer potential avenues, but realising them will require aligned policies and support for businesses, including small and medium-sized industries.

Israel’s Election Is About More Than Benjamin Netanyahu

The opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot won 48 seats in Israel’s 120-member Knesset, while Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing bloc secured 53, leaving both short of a majority. Arab parties hold the remaining 19 seats but are shunned by both camps, meaning their votes are not an automatic route to a new government and any coalition deal would face intense political opposition.

Hong Kong Housing Minister Resigns a Year After Apartment Fire Killed 168

Hong Kong leader John Lee apologised and announced Housing Minister Winnie Ho’s resignation following a fire that killed 168 people at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. A judge-led inquiry found systemic failures in building regulation and oversight, prompting plans to replace the housing inspection unit and strengthen fire prevention, while criminal charges have been brought against the contractor, project consultant and seven individuals.

Indonesia eyes hosting global Year of Creativity in 2027

Indonesia is assessing a bid to host the World Creativity Organization’s Year of Creativity in 2027, following discussions on the event’s selection process and the country’s readiness. The government plans to evaluate infrastructure, partnerships and alignment with economic priorities, with the event offering a potential platform to promote creative industries and attract international collaboration and investment.

Mining Downstreaming Alone Is Not Enough: Indonesia Must Build an Industrial Ecosystem

Indonesia’s National Economic Council says the country must build an integrated ecosystem around mineral processing, including supplies of key inputs such as sulphuric acid and stronger domestic demand for finished products. The call comes as reliance on Middle Eastern sulphur imports exposes nickel HPAL plants to supply-chain risks, despite projected mineral downstreaming exports of US$50 billion by the end of 2026.

Bank Indonesia Strengthens Access for Coffee and Cocoa Exports to Japan through IHoB Osaka

Bank Indonesia is using its Indonesia House of Beans (IHoB) in Osaka to connect Indonesian coffee and cocoa producers with Japanese buyers, following promotional activities at SCAJ 2026 that included four Letters of Intent. The initiative combines market promotion, business networking and product feedback to support export readiness, while also promoting cross-border QRIS payments in Japan.

Jakarta stocks retreat after early gains as market concerns persist

Indonesia’s benchmark index opened higher, supported by blue-chip shares, but continued to face pressure from oil prices, rupiah weakness and uncertainty over MSCI’s upcoming rebalancing. The article also details IDX governance reforms, reduced IPO targets and proposed demutualisation as efforts to restore investor confidence, against a backdrop of mixed global market signals and unchanged US interest rates.

Singapore’s Top Envoy and Indonesia’s Finance Minister Meet Amid Financial Intelligence Plan

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan met Indonesia’s Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara as the two countries prepare a joint task force to share financial intelligence and cross-border evidence on companies linked to transboundary haze. The discussions come amid wider bilateral tensions over haze, gas exports and other issues, even as trade and Singaporean investment in Indonesia remain substantial.

Culture minister highlights UNESCO standards for Maros Geopark

Culture Minister Fadli Miftah, during a visit to Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park, stressed that Maros Geopark must meet UNESCO requirements for conservation, education and periodic reporting to retain its Global Geopark status. He also highlighted the area's biodiversity, karst landscape and historical significance, including Alfred Russel Wallace's research, urging sustained protection of its natural and cultural heritage.

Five Governments Urge Residents to Prepare for Emergencies by Stocking Food and Water

Japan, Germany, the UK, Taiwan and the United States are urging households to keep emergency supplies, including food, water and essential medicines, and to plan for power or communications outages. The advice reflects preparations for hazards ranging from natural disasters to cyberattacks and security threats, with recommended supply periods varying by country; the EU is also promoting readiness for at least 72 hours.

Government Finalises Rules to Accelerate Toll Road Integration

The government is finalising a ministerial regulation to enable toll road integration, with harmonisation expected to conclude soon before it is signed by the Minister of Public Works. The plan aims to distribute traffic more evenly and align tariffs on the Cibitung–Cilincing, Jakarta–Cikampek and Tanjung Priok Access corridors, improving freight access to the port; an FKBI survey found 74.1 per cent of respondents backed toll tariff integration.

Metro Jaya Police Release 19 People Detained During Protest

Metro Jaya Police have released 19 people detained in connection with a series of demonstrations on Wednesday, 28 October, after questioning them about their involvement. Police said the individuals were returned to their families or legal representatives after receiving preventive guidance, while law enforcement would be used only as a last resort.

If Jokowi Appears at Degree Hearing, Dr Tifa Wants to Question Gibran’s Father Using 712 Documents

Defendant Dr Tifa says she intends to cross-examine former president Joko Widodo if he attends the next hearing in a defamation and alleged fake-degree case, using 712 documents linked to his education. She says the questioning may continue late into the night and stresses that Jokowi’s appearance would not conclude the proceedings, which still include testimony from about 84 other witnesses and experts.

Unila Senate Selects Three Candidates for 2027–2031 Rector

The University of Lampung Senate has selected three candidates to contest the 2027–2031 rector’s post, with law academic Budiyono receiving the most votes in the initial ballot. In the final round, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology will hold 35 per cent of the vote, while Senate members retain the remaining 65 per cent.

Silmy Karim accused of extorting Rp168.92 billion from foreign-national guarantor agencies

Prosecutors allege that former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim and several co-defendants extorted a total of Rp168.92 billion from agencies and companies sponsoring foreign nationals between 2021 and 2026 by delaying or withholding immigration documents. Karim is also charged with accepting Rp33.94 billion in gratification, including cash and shares; the case is being heard at the Jakarta Corruption Court.

Global Turmoil: Anindya Bakrie Offers Advice to the Government

Kadin Indonesia chairman Anindya Novyan Bakrie urged the government to strengthen food, water and energy resilience amid global uncertainty, pointing to emergency stockpiling measures adopted by the United States and the United Kingdom. He said Indonesia’s economic fundamentals remain resilient despite market pressures, citing positive growth, investment, foreign-exchange reserves and credit indicators.

Banyumas Regent: Used Cooking Oil Collection Opens Up New Business Opportunities

Banyumas Regent Sadewo Tri Lastiono says an organised used cooking oil collection scheme through village cooperatives can create local business opportunities while supporting renewable energy and environmental protection. Banyumas has been selected to pilot the programme with four cooperatives, and the regency hopes it will develop into a sustainable cooperative business beyond the trial stage.

Has China’s AI bubble burst? What this means for the global tech boom

China’s STAR 50 Index has fallen more than 40 per cent in four months, wiping out about US$480 billion in market value and intensifying concerns about AI valuations, monetisation and profitability. Analysts say the downturn may make fundraising harder and expose weaker firms, but it is not necessarily a setback for China’s broader AI ambitions or evidence that a similar correction is imminent elsewhere; access to advanced chips remains a more fundamental constraint.

CIPS: Industry Prioritises Regulatory Certainty for Low-Carbon Production

A CIPS study finds that Indonesian industries value stable, predictable rules more than financial incentives when investing in low-carbon production, while fragmented environmental reporting and limited access to clean energy remain obstacles. The study ranks Indonesia last among six ASEAN countries for carbon competitiveness, prompting calls for regulatory streamlining, better access to renewable energy and aligned emissions reporting.

After Meeting Denny Indrayana, PKS Says It Is Serious About Following Up on MK Ruling Concerning Gibran

PKS says it will seriously consider follow-up to the Constitutional Court’s ruling concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, framing the issue as one of national integrity rather than political winners and losers. The petitioners’ representative, Denny Indrayana, urged the party to initiate impeachment proceedings in parliament, while the court had rejected the petition but referred an evidentiary finding about Gibran’s educational credentials to other institutions for follow-up.

Video: Trade Minister Busan’s Three Programmes to Advance Trade under Prabowo

Trade Minister Budi Santoso outlined three priorities aligned with President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita: safeguarding the domestic market, expanding export markets and helping local products reach global buyers. The ministry says its local-to-global programme generated US$360 million in transactions between January and September 2026, while it is expanding support for exporters, including MSMEs, villages and university students.

Hashim Reveals Rp1,500 Trillion in Potential Revenue for State Coffers: Where Has It Gone?

Hashim Djojohadikusumo says Indonesia could raise an additional Rp1,500 trillion a year if state revenue rose from 12 per cent to 18 per cent of GDP, citing unrecorded economic activity and gaps in tax collection. He said the government plans to use electronic systems, information technology and AI to improve monitoring and collection.

Indonesia boosts salt production and quality to achieve self-sufficiency

Indonesia produces 1–2 million metric tons of salt annually against demand of 4.5–5 million tons, leaving the country reliant on imports, particularly for industrial-grade salt. The Fisheries Ministry is developing the National Salt Industry Hub in Rote Ndao to raise output and quality, with initial trial salt reaching the industrial benchmark of 97 per cent sodium chloride.

Police Help Confused Grandmother from Brebes Return Home After She Runs Out of Money While Searching for Family

A grandmother from Brebes travelled to West Jakarta to look for a relative at a social care home but became lost and ran out of money. After officers were unable to locate the family member because she had no photograph or identifying details, West Jakarta traffic police paid for her ticket home.

Hashim Says Banks and GOTO to Start Collecting Tax from 9 November 2026

Hashim Djojohadikusumo says banks, fintech firms and e-commerce platforms will be required to collect and remit digital taxes from 9 November 2026, as the government seeks to broaden tax coverage and strengthen public finances. The announcement comes after the tax authority began applying income-tax withholding to transactions through four online marketplaces on 1 October 2026; officials say this is not a new tax or a change to VAT rates.

As Well as Extortion, Silmy Karim Is Accused of Accepting Rp33.8 Billion in Gratuities

Prosecutors have accused former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim of receiving gratuities worth about Rp33.9 billion, including cash and shares, while holding public office. He is also charged with extorting applicants for immigration documents, allegedly generating Rp168.9 billion in total proceeds, and faces charges under Indonesia’s anti-corruption law.

PGE Posts 21.45% Net Profit Growth Through the Third Quarter of 2026

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) reported net profit of US$126.62 million for January–September 2026, up 21.45% year on year, while revenue rose 10.46% to US$352.20 million. Higher geothermal power generation, improved cost discipline and a stronger net profit margin supported the results, alongside lower liabilities and cash holdings of US$713.68 million.

Police Name 245 Individuals as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Police say they have received 287 reports of forest and land fires across Kalimantan and Sumatra, with an estimated 5,859.12 hectares burned and 245 individuals named as suspects. The suspects are accused of deliberately or negligently clearing land by burning, and could face prison terms and fines under plantation, environmental and forestry laws.

One Person Injured in Fire at US Nuclear Complex; No Contamination Reported

A fire at the Savannah River National Laboratory in South Carolina left one employee with minor injuries, while officials reported no contamination. The incident triggered an on-site emergency status and temporary restrictions on air, rail, river and road access as responders dealt with the blaze.

Two Teenagers Arrested After Motorcyclist Is Pulled Off Bike and Killed in Denpasar

Police have arrested two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, over an incident in Denpasar in which a 23-year-old motorcyclist fell and later died. The teenagers are accused of pulling at the victim and kicking him during a dispute following a collision; they face up to 12 years in prison under Indonesia’s Criminal Code.

Pandu Sjahrir responds to reports of share ownership in Supra Sekuritas

Danantara Indonesia CIO Pandu Patria Sjahrir says his investments in several companies, including an indirect passive stake in PT Supra Sekuritas Indonesia, do not mean he is involved in their management or daily operations. His comments follow OJK sanctions against market participants over violations related to three listed companies, including action involving Supra Sekuritas, and he voiced support for sanctions against all parties found to have acted improperly.

PGN Strengthens Natural Gas Supply Through Seven Strategic Agreements

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN), Pertamina’s gas subholding, has signed seven commercial agreements with domestic suppliers to diversify and secure its pipeline gas and LNG portfolio. The deals include supply arrangements with several upstream producers and a planned 15-year LNG supply from the Abadi Masela project, supporting gas needs across industry, commerce and power generation.

Air Force vows to sustain full effort against forest and land fires despite challenges

Indonesia’s Air Force says it will continue deploying aircraft and ground personnel to tackle forest and land fires, despite operational constraints. Night-time flying restrictions, poor weather, limited water supplies and the cloud requirements for weather-modification operations complicate the response; 11 transport aircraft and five helicopters remain deployed.

Iran in Contact with Mediators to Ensure Implementation of Seven-Day Plan

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi says Tehran remains in touch with mediators over a proposed seven-day plan to halt hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar has confirmed that exchanges of messages and ideas between Iran and the United States are continuing, though the two sides have yet to make sufficient progress towards a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme and sanctions relief.

Indonesia and Switzerland Strengthen Higher Education Cooperation

Padjadjaran University and the University of Bern have signed an MoU to deepen cooperation in research, teaching and academic exchanges. The partnership is also intended to draw on both institutions’ expertise in international trade law to support implementation of the Indonesia–EFTA Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Andre Rosiade Oversees Post-Flood Recovery in Lubuk Minturun, Padang

MP Andre Rosiade has called for accelerated river works and post-flood recovery in Padang’s Lubuk Minturun area, including dredging, riverbank reinforcement and two planned check dams upstream. The Public Works Ministry has allocated about Rp782.54 billion for river management in Padang, while emergency works have reinforced all targeted riverbanks and completed 93 per cent of planned channel repairs, according to BWSS V.

KPK Searches Klaten Environmental Agency in Investigation into Inactive Regent Hamenang

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Klaten Environmental Agency as part of its investigation into alleged corruption involving suspended Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The case encompasses five alleged corruption schemes, including efforts to influence a state audit, procurement, mining permits and payments from local government agencies.

Amid Haze from Forest Fires, Rosan Says Singapore Remains Committed to Investing in Indonesia

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said Singapore’s investment commitment to Indonesia remains open despite bilateral concerns, including forest and land fires and transboundary haze. Singapore was Indonesia’s largest source of foreign investment in January–September 2026, contributing US$14 billion, or 29.6 per cent of total foreign investment.

Motorcyclist Dies After Being Hit by Lorry Following Collision in Batuceper, Tangerang

A 21-year-old motorcyclist died after colliding with another motorcycle and then falling into the path of a lorry on Jalan Daan Mogot in Tangerang. Police are investigating the cause, reviewing CCTV footage and questioning witnesses; the vehicles involved have been impounded.

PEVS Officially Opens, Highlighting Cost Efficiency and Energy Transition

The 2026 Periklindo Electric Vehicle Show has opened in Jakarta, with chairman Moeldoko arguing that electric vehicles can significantly reduce household transport-energy costs compared with conventional cars. He also said wider EV adoption could help ease Indonesia’s Rp264 trillion fuel-subsidy burden and support a cleaner environment.

Homebuilding in Highland Papua: Home Affairs Minister Urges Local Governments to Act

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged local governments in Highland Papua to deliver housing programmes for residents in accordance with regulations. Following requests from regional leaders for greater control of construction, ministries and oversight bodies are working on a compliant mechanism to ensure projects are completed properly.

Carney: Canada Not Yet Ready to Sign Trade Deal with US

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Ottawa is not yet in a position to finalise a trade agreement with the United States, stressing that any deal must serve Canada’s interests as well as align with those of the US. His comments come amid heightened trade tensions and questions over whether an agreement can be reached before the US midterm vote on 3 November.

Gas Leak at Karawang Factory Leaves Residents Short of Breath

Residents in Mekarmukti, Karawang, reported breathing difficulties after a suspected gas leak from a factory, with several people taken to hospital. Police investigators have visited the factory and hospital as they investigate the incident and document those affected.

Toddler in South Sulawesi Dies After Going 10 Days Without Eating Due to Illness

A one-year-old girl in Bulukumba, South Sulawesi, has died after nine days in intensive care, following an illness that left her unable to eat or drink milk for 10 days. Local officials said she had access to food and received medical-cost assistance from the National Zakat Agency, clarifying that her lack of intake was caused by her condition rather than food shortages.

DPR Member: School Revitalisation Shows President’s Commitment to Education

DPR member Andre Rosiade says around 70,000 schools have been revitalised nationwide, with a target of 80,000 by the end of the year. He argues the programme supports education and local economies because schools carry out the work themselves in cooperation with nearby communities, rather than hiring contractors.

KPK Hands Case File of Suspended Kuansing Regent to Prosecutors

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has handed over the case file, suspect and evidence in an alleged bribery case involving suspended Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby to public prosecutors. Prosecutors now have up to 14 working days to prepare an indictment; the investigation concerns alleged payments for local government positions and is also examining possible gratification linked to the release of forest areas.

Pramono Thanks All Parties for Protecting Public Facilities During 28 October Demonstration

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said no public facilities were damaged during the 28 October #IndonesiaSadar demonstration, and thanked demonstrators and security forces for helping protect the city. Police detained 19 people in connection with the protest, while an advocacy group said some detainees experienced violence and warned that the criminal-code provisions under investigation could restrict freedoms of assembly and expression.

PKS Legislator Backs Police in Naming 20 Companies Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

PKS legislator Johan Rosihan has backed the police decision to name 20 companies, including four foreign-invested firms, as suspects in forest and land fire cases. He called for thorough criminal investigations, accountability for company executives where evidence supports it, and environmental restoration, stressing that foreign investment does not confer immunity from Indonesian law.

Series of Earthquakes Hits Gunungkidul This Afternoon

BMKG recorded seven earthquakes south of Gunungkidul on 29 October, ranging in magnitude from 2.5 to 3.7 and occurring between 11.28am and 2.32pm local time. The agency said its preliminary data may change as more information becomes available; possible damage or casualties had not been established.

UK Announces an Additional £10 Billion for Ukraine

The UK says it will provide Ukraine with a further £10 billion in economic and military support, funded through loans, Export Finance guarantees and £500 million in urgent military assistance for the winter. The announcement brings the total amount allocated by Britain to Ukraine to £35 billion, including £16 billion in military support.

Building a Starlink Rival, Putin Seeks Elon Musk’s Input

Vladimir Putin says Russia is developing a low-Earth-orbit satellite internet system and is in contact with Elon Musk and other US partners, while acknowledging that Moscow remains far behind Starlink. The project’s development comes as Starlink’s role in the Russia-Ukraine war—and recent service restrictions reported by Ukraine—has drawn geopolitical attention.

Indonesian Fashion Products Generate Potential Transactions Worth Rp20.25 Billion in Saudi Arabia

Indonesian fashion and textile products generated potential transactions of US$1.12 million at the country’s first participation in Saudi Fashion & Tex Expo 2026. The Trade Ministry says Saudi Arabia offers significant room to expand exports, with Indonesia seeking to build a lasting presence and deepen its role as a supplier to the Middle East.

Police Uncover Subsidised Rice Blending and Repackaging Operation

Police in West Nusa Tenggara have uncovered two alleged schemes in which subsidised Bulog rice was opened, blended or repackaged in plain sacks and sold at a profit. Investigators say the operations in West Lombok and Central Lombok involved a combined 3.5 tonnes of rice, with some of the repackaged stock destined for Bali.

Indonesia plans to simplify oil and gas permits and offer exploration tax relief

Indonesia plans to streamline upstream oil and gas licensing through a one-stop system and defer tax payments for exploration-stage contractors until commercial results are achieved. The proposals, included in the draft Oil and Gas Bill, are intended to reduce administrative delays, attract investment and support faster development of approved projects to strengthen energy security.

Hashim Warns Rupiah Could Fall to Rp22,000, Citing Key Risk

Hashim Djojohadikusumo warned that the rupiah could weaken to between Rp20,000 and Rp22,000 per US dollar if foreign investors withdraw from Indonesian equities. He said concerns over market confidence, including the risk of MSCI downgrading Indonesia to stand-alone market status, must be addressed to prevent broader economic pressure.

Indonesian Air Force Puts Five Helicopters on Standby to Fight Forest and Land Fires

The Indonesian Air Force has put five helicopters on standby to support firefighting operations in several parts of the country, including the Nusantara capital, Mount Ciremai, Mount Lawu and Galuga landfill. The aircraft are being used for aerial water-bombing, patrols, hotspot monitoring and transporting personnel to areas inaccessible by road.

Rosan: Singapore Remains Open to Boosting Investment in Indonesia

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani says Singapore remains committed to investing in Indonesia despite bilateral concerns over forest and land fires and transboundary haze. Singapore was Indonesia’s largest foreign investor in January–September 2026, contributing US$14 billion, while the two countries are pursuing closer coordination and a joint task force to address fires and their effects.

Iran’s IRGC Claims It Destroyed MQ-1 Drone East of Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps says its air-defence systems intercepted and destroyed an MQ-1 drone east of the Strait of Hormuz, though it did not identify the operator. The reported incident comes amid renewed concerns about possible US and Israeli military action against Iran and tensions over the strategic waterway.

Hashim Warns MSCI Downgrade Could Dry Up Foreign Funds

Kadin advisory board chairman Hashim Sujono Djojohadikusumo has warned that a downgrade of Indonesia by MSCI from emerging-market to standalone-market status could trigger forced foreign outflows and leave the capital market short of funds. He said concerns over alleged stock manipulation and low free floats could undermine investor confidence, potentially weakening the rupiah and raising the cost of external borrowing.

Pertamina develops cooperative-based used cooking oil collection scheme

Pertamina and the Ministry of Cooperatives have launched a pilot scheme to collect used cooking oil through village and urban-ward cooperatives, starting in Banyumas. The oil can be processed into sustainable aviation fuel and other products, creating potential income for communities while supporting energy security and reducing pollution.

KPK Searches Klaten Environmental Agency Office in Hamenang Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Klaten Regency Environmental Agency as part of its investigation into alleged corruption involving suspended regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The case spans five alleged corruption schemes, including bribery to influence a state audit, procurement, mining permits and payments from local government agencies.

South Sumatra Forest and Land Fires: 53 Individuals and One Company Named as Suspects

Police in South Sumatra say the number of individual suspects in forest and land fire cases has risen to 53, alongside an increase in police reports from 62 to 63. One company remains under investigation as a corporate suspect, with the cases covering a recorded 134.31 hectares; police say investigations will continue to establish legal responsibility.

Government helps 50 Batam entrepreneurs secure Rp4.8 billion in Sharia financing

A government bootcamp has helped 50 entrepreneurs in Batam unlock Rp4.8 billion in potential Sharia financing by combining business training, mentorship and direct meetings with Islamic financial institutions. The initiative highlights the role of business preparedness and public-private collaboration in expanding funding access for regional creative-economy businesses; financing remains subject to lenders’ risk and eligibility assessments.

Prosecutors: Silmy Karim Received Rp1.2 Billion from Extortion over Foreigners’ Residence Permits

Prosecutors have accused former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim of taking Rp1.2 billion from an alleged Rp168.9 billion extortion scheme targeting applicants for immigration documents, including foreign nationals’ residence permits. The indictment says officials allegedly delayed, obstructed or withheld documents to force applicants to pay, with substantial sums also allegedly flowing to several former immigration officials.

Silmy Karim Also Accused of Receiving Shares Worth Rp31 Billion, Alongside Extortion Charge

Prosecutors have accused former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services Silmy Karim of accepting Rp2.56 billion in cash and shares valued at Rp31.38 billion as alleged gratuities. He also faces an extortion charge involving Rp168.9 billion linked to the processing of foreign nationals’ residence permits; the allegations were presented at the Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court.

KAI Jakarta Prunes Thousands of Trees to Prevent Rail Disruptions

KAI’s Jakarta operating area pruned 3,478 trees near railway lines and stations between January and October 2026, including 169 trees in October. The work is intended to prevent branches or falling trees from endangering tracks and overhead electrical equipment, helping maintain safe and reliable train services.

Indonesia Continues to Promote ASEAN Legal Cooperation to Tackle Cybercrime

Indonesia is urging closer cooperation among ASEAN law-enforcement agencies to combat cross-border cybercrime, including online gambling, scams and money laundering. The region is developing operational protocols and relies on mutual legal assistance and extradition frameworks, while Indonesia is also seeking closer coordination between its police and digital ministry.

Teh Botol Sosro Investigates Report of Product Allegedly Containing Soap

Teh Botol Sosro says it is conducting a thorough investigation after a video circulated online showing foam and a soap-like smell around the straw opening of a carton of its drink. The allegation has not been verified, and the company says it will provide further information once its review establishes the facts.

Industry Minister Reveals Plans for Investment in New Industrial Estates

Industry Minister M Sarmuji says Indonesia plans to expand industrial estates beyond Java, tailoring them to regional strengths to promote more balanced economic growth. Proposals include a bauxite-themed estate in Kalimantan and developing an island in Maluku as an industrial estate, potentially with special economic zone status.

Air Force deploys five helicopters to tackle wildfires in Nusantara and Java

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed five helicopters for aerial firefighting, patrols and hotspot monitoring in Nusantara and several locations in Java. The aircraft are conducting water-bombing operations, including at the Galuga landfill, as authorities continue efforts to contain forest and land fires.

Anwar Abbas Defends Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut in Court, Citing Benefits of Additional Hajj Quota Allocation

Anwar Abbas, a witness called by Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s defence team, described the 50-50 split of the 2024 additional Hajj quota between regular and special pilgrims as a prudent measure to protect pilgrims’ safety. He warned that adding regular pilgrims without adequate accommodation capacity could cause severe overcrowding and create difficulties for exhausted pilgrims.

Indonesia urged to accelerate industrial emissions verification

Indonesia’s National Energy Council says relying on EU default emissions values under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism could make carbon costs exceed selling prices for some exports, including hot-rolled coils and carbon steel wire rods. It is urging faster, internationally recognised emissions measurement, reporting and verification systems, with better coordination between the Industry and Environment ministries, to protect exporters’ competitiveness as CBAM takes effect.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Urges Papua Pegunungan Housing Programme to Comply with Regulations

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged local governments in Papua Pegunungan to take part in delivering housing for local residents, provided the programme follows applicable rules and can be completed as intended. The discussion followed requests from the province’s governor and regents for local authorities to be entrusted with the work, and involved the housing ministry, Finance Ministry and BPKP.

Broken Escalator at Bojonggede Skybridge Prompts Months of Complaints

Commuters have protested the months-long outage of the Bojonggede Skybridge escalator with flower arrangements and posters, saying it has made access to the bus terminal and KRL station more difficult. Repairs have begun and are expected to be completed between late November and mid-December 2026.

Badung Regency Postpones Gatsu Barat–Canggu Project, Cancels Rp1.67tn Loan for Now

Badung Regency has postponed plans to borrow Rp1.67 trillion for the Gatsu Barat–Canggu road corridor until 2028, as technical constraints mean construction cannot begin in 2027. The regency will use its own-source revenue to acquire land initially, and plans to use the loan for tunnel construction once work is ready to proceed.

Doctor Says Mood Swings Are Not Always Caused by the Lead-Up to Menopause

Mood swings in women may result from several factors, including hormonal fluctuations and certain medicines, rather than being attributable solely to the transition to menopause, an obstetrician and gynaecologist says. The article outlines the perimenopause and menopause age ranges and notes that support from those close to a woman can help her adapt to the changes.

Prosecutors Say Silmy Karim Is Also Charged with Accepting Rp33.9 Billion in Gratuities

Prosecutors told the Jakarta Corruption Court that former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim is accused of receiving Rp33.9 billion in gratuities, including cash described as operational funds and money used to buy shares. He is also charged with extorting Rp1.2 billion in connection with residence-permit applications for foreign nationals, allegedly by delaying or withholding immigration documents.

Forestry Ministry: Regional Public Service Agencies Can Unlock Local Carbon Economy Potential

The Forestry Ministry says regional Climate Action Public Service Agencies (BLUDs) can help realise the forestry sector’s carbon-economy potential, attract climate finance and strengthen local governments’ role in emissions mitigation. Their operations must comply with sectoral rules and secure clear carbon rights, while financing plans should account for monitoring, certification and market risks.

After Meeting Prabowo, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Visits Finance Minister Suahasil’s Office

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan met Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara in Jakarta during his visit to Indonesia, following meetings with President Prabowo Subianto and Investment Minister Rosan P. Roeslani. His discussions with Indonesian officials come amid an agreement to deepen bilateral ties, including economic cooperation, trade and investment.

Scenes of Homes Gutted by Fire in Cikini, Central Jakarta

A fire damaged four homes on Jalan Raden Saleh II in Cikini, Central Jakarta, with three houses suffering severe damage. No deaths were reported, but nine families—17 people in total—were displaced to a nearby prayer hall; 24 fire engines were deployed to extinguish the blaze.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: The Progress of Downstream Mining

Over the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming’s administration, officials and industry representatives say mineral downstreaming has advanced, attracted investment and supported job creation. They called for the effort to extend beyond intermediate products, backed by better supply-and-demand data, stronger domestic suppliers, research, recycling and fairer sharing of benefits across the mining value chain.

Jakarta’s 2026 Economic Census Enters the ‘Revisit’ Stage

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) in Jakarta says the 2026 Economic Census has entered its final week of follow-up visits, after the main data-collection phase was completed. It has recorded 1,431,051 businesses—108.84 per cent of its 1.2 million target—providing important economic data for a capital that contributes 16.67 per cent of Indonesia’s national economy.

Kadin National Leadership Meeting Discusses Economic Priorities for 2027, with SMEs and Jobs in Focus

Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) used its 2026 National Leadership Meeting to assess its performance and shape policy recommendations for 2027, highlighting the role of SMEs, job creation and national economic resilience. Kadin leaders cited Indonesia’s 5.1% growth in 2025 and called for stronger cooperation between business, government and entrepreneurs to support sustainable, quality growth.

West Kalimantan Governor Backs Police in Naming 20 Companies as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan supports police action against 20 corporations suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, saying companies that repeatedly fail to prevent fires or provide adequate firefighting equipment should face prosecution. He also urged residents who burn land for farming to follow precautions, including creating firebreaks and staying until the flames are fully extinguished.

Astra Recognises Nine Agents of Change at SATU Indonesia Awards 2026

Astra has honoured five individuals and four Desa Sejahtera Astra initiatives for their work in health, education, the environment, entrepreneurship, technology and community empowerment. The company also announced seven social-contribution programmes ahead of its 70th anniversary in February 2027, including projects targeting 700 villages, 7,000 students and 7,000 families.

Bareskrim Names 20 Corporations Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Four with Foreign Investment

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency says it has named 20 corporations suspects in connection with forest and land fires, out of 104 police reports covering nearly 29,169 hectares. Authorities have also recommended revoking the permits of 23 companies, while investigators say 22 of 97 corporations under investigation have foreign investment, including four with capital from China, Japan and South Korea.

KPK Summons Summarecon Finance Director and Six Witnesses in ATR/BPN Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Summarecon Agung’s finance director and six other witnesses in an alleged corruption case involving the Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ministry/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). The inquiry stems from a September 2026 sting operation over the processing of Summarecon’s building-use rights in Bogor, and has included searches at government offices and company premises.

MUI Urges Public to Fly Palestinian Flags at Half-Mast Ahead of Andrea Bocelli Concert

A senior Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) official has urged the public and community groups to fly Palestinian flags at half-mast in solidarity with Palestinians before Andrea Bocelli’s planned concert in Indonesia. MUI’s objection centres on reports that the Italian tenor took part in a 2010 fundraising event for Israel’s military, and the official has called on Bocelli to explain his involvement and on the government to consider the issue beyond its economic implications.

Kepri Police Uncover Three Cases of Irregular Migrant Worker Placement Involving 30 Victims

Kepri Police have uncovered three suspected human-trafficking and irregular migrant-worker placement cases in Batam, involving 30 victims and six suspects. The alleged schemes involved sending prospective workers to Singapore and Malaysia; the suspects face charges carrying prison terms of 10 to 15 years.

Madura ‘Imam Mahdi’ Accused of Extorting Congregants of Rp1.3 Billion; East Java MUI Urges Caution and Consultation with Scholars

East Java’s Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged the public to be cautious of people exploiting religion for personal gain after an alleged fraud and extortion case in Bangkalan, Madura, caused losses of Rp1.3 billion. The council says the suspect reportedly claimed to be the Imam Mahdi in late 2022, while it is still examining the allegations and advises people to consult qualified religious scholars.

Video: Investors Seek Global Assets as Valbury Strengthens Its Digital Platform

Valbury reported a 30% rise in transactions and a 70% increase in customer numbers amid market volatility in 2026. Its president director said global turbulence is drawing investors to futures commodities and overseas assets, prompting the company to enhance digital services with investor education and asset-protection features.

KAI Extends Ticket Discounts for LVRI Members Until 30 September 2029

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has extended its rail-fare discount scheme for members of the Indonesian Veterans Legion (LVRI) from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2029. Eligible members can receive discounts of 50% on Tuesdays to Thursdays and 30% on other days, subject to registration requirements and exclusions.

South Jakarta Flood Management Requires Long-Term Planning

A DKI Jakarta councillor says flood mitigation along the Mampang River in South Jakarta will require long-term planning because of the area’s low-lying terrain, dense riverside housing and limited access for heavy machinery. She called for upstream water-retention facilities and the provision of suitable homes for affected residents to make river normalisation possible, while officials have not set a completion date.

Home-Grown Technology Supports Pupils’ Learning at Sekolah Rakyat

At the one-year anniversary of the Sekolah Rakyat programme, officials highlighted the initiative’s role in widening educational access for children from low-income families and the value of digital learning tools. Soflogic Indonesia presented its locally developed Work X All-in-One PC as one example of technology that could support digital literacy, while stressing that devices need to be paired with teacher guidance and appropriate use.

SPHP Rice Scandal: Agriculture Minister Amran Removes Eight Bulog and Bapanas Officials

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Andi Amran Sulaiman has removed eight officials from Bulog and Bapanas and warned two others after subsidised SPHP rice was repackaged and resold at higher prices. Investigations are examining weak controls over bulk orders, including those placed through Bulog’s Klik SPHP app, while police and Bulog continue to establish whether any officials were involved.

Tito Urges Papua Pegunungan Regional Government to Implement Housing Programme in Line with Regulations

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged the Papua Pegunungan provincial government to take part in delivering a housing programme for local residents, while ensuring it complies with regulations and is completed properly. The proposal follows local leaders’ request for regional authorities to be entrusted with building homes, an approach being discussed with relevant ministries and oversight agencies.

MP Urges Police to Seize PT DSI Assets to the Fullest to Compensate Victims

A member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives has urged the National Police to pursue and seize more assets linked to PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, saying the Rp500 billion already confiscated falls far short of victims’ Rp1.07 trillion in restitution claims. He also called for closer coordination with prosecutors and the Witness and Victim Protection Agency, as the case has left thousands of lenders facing serious financial hardship and prompted calls for tighter oversight of digital Islamic finance.

DPR Commission IV Member Praises Police for Naming 20 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

DPR Commission IV member Daniel Johan praised the police for naming 20 corporations, including four foreign-investment companies, as suspects in alleged forest and land fires. He called for transparent investigations that reach corporate controllers and beneficial owners, effective penalties and environmental restoration, while urging stronger prevention and oversight.

Psychologist: Golden Indonesia Needs Mentally Resilient Young People

A clinical psychologist at Prof Dr R D Kandou Hospital in Manado says young people’s mental resilience is essential to achieving the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. She highlights social-media pressures, career uncertainty and burnout, and says emotional regulation, resilience and seeking professional help are important strengths.

Industrial Estates Still Struggling, Industry Minister Identifies the Causes

Indonesia’s industrial estates have an average occupancy rate of 57%, with development constrained by issues beyond the Industry Ministry’s authority, including land, permits, raw-material supply and infrastructure. Industry Minister Sarmuji says the ministry will map the obstacles and coordinate with relevant agencies, potentially through a task force, to develop more targeted solutions.

ASEAN Power Grid Project Will Require US$800 Billion by 2050

Developing the ASEAN Power Grid is expected to require up to US$800 billion by 2050, creating opportunities for foreign investors, technology providers and infrastructure contractors. ASEAN Centre for Energy executive director Razib Dawood says progress will also depend on cross-border regulatory alignment, commercial agreements and early demonstration projects.

Surabaya Wins 2026 TPAKD Award as Best City in Java-Bali with Seven Key Programmes

Surabaya has received the Financial Access Acceleration Regional Team (TPAKD) Award 2026 as the best city in Java-Bali, recognising initiatives to widen financial access, improve literacy and support local economic growth. Its seven programmes include digital services, worker protection, affordable financing for MSMEs and investment education; the city plans to expand digital payment systems in 2026.

Fuel Prices Soar, Luxury Cruise Passengers Stranded in Online Gambling Hub

The operator of the Villa Vie Odyssey has suspended the cruise ship’s operations in Cambodia after a sharp rise in fuel costs made the long-term voyage financially unsustainable. Around 200 passengers were told to disembark in Sihanoukville, where the company is arranging temporary accommodation as travellers consider their next steps.

JCI Closes Down 3.49% at 5,098 as BCA Shares Tumble 6.35%

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 3.49% to 5,098.06, with selling pressure weighing on major shares including Bank Central Asia, whose stock dropped 6.35%. Investors were also monitoring US inflation and labour-market data, central-bank decisions and rising government bond yields amid global economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

JCI Closes Down 3.49% at 5,098

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 3.49% to 5,098.06, reversing an early rise as sustained selling pressure pulled it close to its session low. The decline came amid investor attention to the Federal Reserve’s rate decision, US inflation and jobs data, the European Central Bank’s policy announcement, and rising Indonesian government bond yields.

KPK Searches Klaten Environmental Agency Office

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Klaten Environmental Agency as part of an investigation into alleged bribery involving suspended Klaten regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo. The search follows an earlier raid on the district’s Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, where investigators seized cash, procurement documents and electronic evidence.

Co-operatives Minister: Village Co-operatives to Collect Used Cooking Oil for SAF

Co-operatives Minister Ferry Juliantono is encouraging operational Merah Putih village and urban-ward co-operatives to collect used cooking oil for Pertamina Patra Niaga to process into sustainable aviation fuel. A pilot involving four co-operatives in Banyumas will pay residents Rp5,000–Rp6,000 per litre and sell the oil on to Pertamina at Rp6,500–Rp7,000, creating additional co-operative income while supporting circular-economy and energy-independence goals.

Industry Minister Confident EV Sector Can Meet 60% Local Content Requirement by 2027

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says Indonesia’s electric vehicle industry is on track to meet the 60% domestic component level (TKDN) requirement scheduled for 2027, citing local production and technology-transfer commitments. He also warned that rupiah weakness affects industries differently: exporters may benefit, while manufacturers reliant on imported raw materials face higher costs and should adjust production plans.

Indonesia shuts down more than 2,000 free-meal kitchens over hygiene concerns

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency has permanently closed more than 2,000 kitchens serving the free-meal programme over hygiene and sanitation violations, including unsafe food storage and handling. It is also tightening financial oversight, withholding further funding and suspending kitchens that fail to submit daily expenditure reports, as authorities address broader weaknesses in programme supervision.

Why Denny Indrayana Withdrew His Challenge to Gibran’s Education Certificate and Walked Out

Former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana says he withdrew a lawsuit challenging Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s education-equivalency certificate and walked out of a Jakarta administrative court hearing because the ministry had not produced evidence supporting its issuance. He also questioned why the ministry objected to the withdrawal; the case sought to invalidate the 2019 decision that formed part of the administrative basis for the election commission’s assessment of Gibran’s education qualifications.

MP: Prabowo–Singapore Foreign Minister Meeting Positive for Progress

A member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives has described President Prabowo Subianto’s meeting with Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan as a positive opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties. He said talks should help ensure Indonesia gains greater economic returns from natural-resource exports and trade, while upholding national sovereignty and the constitutional mandate to use resources for public prosperity.

Gayo Lues Flooding: Public Works Ministry Repairs Embankment and Clears River

The Public Works Ministry has carried out emergency works after flash flooding in Badak village, Gayo Lues, with floodwater receding and the Pining–Lokop road reopened. Permanent flood-control measures, including a raised embankment, river-mouth and channel dredging, and an upstream sabo dam, are scheduled to begin in October 2026 and be completed by the end of 2028.

Yeastar Announces Winners of the 2026 Yeahs Awards, Recognising AI Innovation and Partner Success

Yeastar has named its 2026 Yeahs Awards winners, recognising partners worldwide for business growth, technology innovation and customer success. Their projects use the company’s AI-enabled communications platform and APIs to automate migrations and customer-service processes, with reported gains including a 91% reduction in quality-assurance workload and more than 97 staff hours saved annually.

Constitutional Court Rejects Central Kalimantan Residents’ Challenge over Disaster Funding

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has rejected a challenge by four Palangka Raya residents who argued that the law’s requirement for adequate disaster-management funding lacks objective criteria. The Court said any shortfall in a particular budget year is a matter of implementation, while disaster funding is assessed through planning, risk, allocations and spending reports.

Government Issues Visa for Andrea Bocelli’s Concerts in Indonesia

Immigration Minister Agus Andrianto says visas have been issued to Andrea Bocelli and his team after police authorised the events, despite calls for the concerts to be cancelled. The performances are scheduled for Borobudur Temple and Jakarta, while opposition has centred on the singer’s alleged fundraising concert in the United States for Israel’s military, prompting the Indonesian Ulema Council to invoke Indonesia’s support for Palestinian independence.

Video: Doo Financial Futures and Trading Strategies in Times of High Volatility

Doo Financial Futures chief executive Ariston Tjendra says global geopolitical tensions and rising interest rates are key concerns for financial-market participants, including futures investors. He says volatility can create trading opportunities, while the company is strengthening its digital platforms, analysis tools and risk-management features to help customers trade with greater awareness of risk.

Calling the West ‘Colonisers’, Putin Makes Promises to African Leaders

At the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, Vladimir Putin portrayed Russia as Africa’s best partner and accused Western countries of exploiting the continent and burdening it with debt. He pledged Russian expertise, local production, infrastructure projects and increased supplies of fertiliser, as Moscow seeks to deepen its influence amid tensions over the war in Ukraine.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Backs Proposal to Name Journalist Udin a National Hero

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has backed a proposal to posthumously recognise journalist Fuad Muhammad Syafruddin, known as Udin, as a National Hero for his work defending press freedom. The proposal must follow statutory local and provincial review procedures, and officials say it should be prepared for next year’s honours after the 2026 process has concluded.

Fewer Than 50% of Indonesian Motorists Pay Vehicle Tax on Time

Jasa Raharja says only 49.25% of Indonesia’s 116 million registered motor-vehicle taxpayers had met their payment obligations by September 2026. The shortfall matters not only for regional tax revenue but also for SWDKLLJ contributions, which fund compensation for road-traffic accident victims and eligible surviving relatives.

Indonesian National Serving in Russian Army Shot Dead by Ukrainian Forces in Donetsk

An Indonesian national identified as Taufiq Muhammad was killed during his first battle with Russian forces in Donetsk, according to Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence. The agency says he had received only a week and a half of military training before signing a one-year contract after being promised easy money.

Train Collision Claims 68 Lives as Spanish Prime Minister Orders Full Investigation

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has ordered a thorough investigation into a high-speed train collision that killed at least 68 people, pledging action if negligence is found. Early statements from the transport minister point to a system malfunction and a decision to resume services before the fault was resolved, while the opposition is demanding an independent review of the rail network.

KPK Questions In-Law of Former BNPB Chief in Disaster Response Fund Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned the wife of a suspect and sister-in-law of former BNPB chief Suharyanto, along with several company executives, as witnesses in an alleged corruption case involving disaster-response funds. The investigation follows an October sting operation and has resulted in five suspects, seizures worth Rp5.47 billion, and inquiries into the possible involvement of active military personnel.

Casio Launches Lightweight Mechanical Watch with an Easy-to-Read Display

Casio has launched the CMK-100, a lightweight automatic mechanical watch designed for comfortable everyday wear and clear timekeeping. Its titanium case, low-glare dial and luminescent markers are intended to improve readability, while 10-bar water resistance makes it suitable for outdoor use as well.

Viral Video Claims Teh Botol Sosro Contains Soap

A video filmed during a demonstration in Central Jakarta alleges that a carton of Teh Botol Sosro produced soap-scented foam when its attached straw was removed and the package squeezed. PT Sinar Sosro says it is investigating the claim and has contacted the person who posted the video to trace the product and establish the facts.

Constitutional Court: Removing Regional Heads Opposed to the Regime Requires Regional Council Proposal

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that regional heads and deputy regional heads accused of political offences arising solely from opposition to the government cannot be suspended without a proposal from the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD). The ruling also clarifies the interpretation of the five-year prison threshold and sets the registration of a criminal case in court as the starting point for any interim suspension.

Are There Any Public Holidays in November 2026? Check the Three-Ministerial Decree

November 2026 will have no national public holidays or collective leave days, according to the three-ministerial decree setting the 2026 holiday calendar; its only days off will be weekends. The article also lists national and international observances falling during the month, while noting that the remaining public holidays in 2026 are in December.

BMKG Warns Jakarta Residents to Prepare for Heavy Rain in Late October

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts moderate to heavy rain across parts of Greater Jakarta on 29–30 October 2026, with some locations remaining at risk on Friday. Residents, particularly in flood-prone areas, are urged to monitor official weather updates and prepare for flooding, river overflow and landslides.

Kediri Residents Hit by Drought as Rumah Zakat Distributes Clean Water

Rumah Zakat has delivered 8,000 litres of clean water to residents of Ponggok village in Kediri district, where a prolonged drought has left households struggling to access water. The delivery is intended to ease the burden on residents who have had to ration supplies or pay for water deliveries to meet basic needs.

Peruri Provides TB Education and Free Health Checks in Karawang

State-owned Peruri held a tuberculosis prevention education session and offered free health checks to residents of Parungmulya village in Karawang, West Java. The initiative, delivered under its PERURI SEHATI corporate social and environmental responsibility programme, aims to promote early detection and improve access to health information and services around the company’s operating area.

Immigration and Corrections Minister Orders Health Checks and Serious Treatment for Staff Exposed to Forest Fire Haze

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto has instructed regional offices to ensure staff and family members affected by forest and land-fire haze receive appropriate medical care, including referral for advanced treatment where needed. Cases of acute respiratory infection have been reported among personnel and their families in Central and East Kalimantan, prompting plans for lung checks and coordination with health facilities.

Hashim: Rupiah Could Fall to Rp21,000 per US Dollar if Foreign Funds Keep Fleeing

Hashim Djojohadikusumo warns that continued foreign outflows from Indonesia’s stock market could push the rupiah to Rp20,000–Rp21,000 per US dollar, increasing the cost of the country’s foreign debt. He called for action against suspected share-price manipulation, which he said threatens millions of domestic investors and has drawn scrutiny from global index provider MSCI.

Bali Forms Team to Advance Green Energy Cooperation with Ningxia

Bali’s provincial government is forming a special team to develop concrete cooperation plans with China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region across areas including green energy, agriculture, trade and tourism. Governor Wayan Koster highlighted clean energy and battery electric vehicles as priorities, while the Ningxia delegation proposed building a long-term partnership, potentially through a sister-province arrangement.

Two Singaporeans arrested in Thailand over alleged vice syndicate involvement

Two Singaporean men have been arrested in Thailand in a joint operation over allegations that they ran a transnational syndicate recruiting Thai women for prostitution in Singapore. The investigation, which also involved arrests and questioning of Thai suspects and the seizure of assets, highlights cross-border police cooperation against organised crime.

Constitutional Court Clarifies Ambiguity in Regional Government Law on Removing Regional Heads

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has partially granted a petition challenging rules on the temporary suspension of regional heads and deputy regional heads facing criminal charges. It clarified that suspension applies to charges carrying a sentence of five years or more and specified exceptions for negligence offences and political offences, while also defining when suspension takes effect.

Senayan City Immigration Hub Offers Polycarbonate Passport Printing

Central Jakarta’s Class I Non-TPI Immigration Office has opened an Immigration Hub at Senayan City mall, currently the only place in Indonesia offering polycarbonate passport printing. Officials say applicants face the same document requirements as for standard passports, while laser printing offers stronger protection against forgery and duplication.

Social Affairs Ministry Offers Free Social Rehabilitation Services in Makassar

The Ministry of Social Affairs provided free health, physiotherapy and psychosocial support services at an event marking the first anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat in Makassar. The ministry also exhibited products made by ATENSI programme beneficiaries, aiming to promote their work and expand marketing opportunities that could support greater economic independence.

Government stresses need to verify information on social media

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has urged the public to verify social media and AI-generated information against credible sources, warning that platform algorithms shape what users see and that AI responses may be inaccurate. The ministry also called on electronic system operators to improve transparency around AI use and algorithm management, particularly to help people assess information related to government policies and allegations.

AI Data Centres Are ‘Thirsty’; Industry Minister Sarmuji Proposes Coastal Sites

Industry Minister Sarmuji says AI data centres should be developed in specially planned locations because they require substantial electricity and water, and could otherwise compete with nearby communities for resources. He suggested coastal sites where seawater could be desalinated, while the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association called for data centres to be located within managed industrial estates.

BGN Prepares Loka MBG App to Make SPPG Procurement Transactions More Transparent

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is preparing Loka MBG, a marketplace linking kitchens serving the Free Nutritious Meals programme with farmer and livestock-breeder cooperatives and associations. The platform will use government reference prices to improve transparency, give local producers better market access and prevent discrepancies between actual purchase prices and those reported to the agency; a phased rollout is planned from November 2026.

Indonesian Air Force deploys 11 aircraft to combat forest and land fires

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed 11 transport aircraft to support forest and land fire mitigation, carrying logistics and materials for weather-modification operations across several regions. Officials say the operations have brought rain to some affected areas, while maintenance teams and BRIN technicians are working to keep aircraft and equipment ready.

Hashim Warns Businesspeople to Stop Stock Manipulation

Hashim Sujono Djojohadikusumo has urged Kadin members to stop manipulating share prices, saying the government intends to crack down on the practice. He warned that stock manipulation undermines foreign investor confidence and disproportionately harms retail investors, amid concerns over falling share values among millions of Indonesians with brokerage accounts.

Video: Bappebti and the Futures Exchange Boom as Gold Transactions Reach Rp347 Trillion

Bappebti reported that commodity futures trading reached 11.82 million lots by September 2026, up 4.95% year on year, while gold transactions surged 488% to Rp347.65 trillion. The article also highlights the regulator’s discussion of market prospects, global volatility and the transfer of oversight for certain commodities to the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and Bank Indonesia.

Village Ministry Honours Nine Villages for Strong Performance in Stunting Prevention

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions has honoured nine villages for their efforts to prevent and reduce stunting in 2026. Minister Yandri Susanto said village funds, the Free Nutritious Meals programme and village-led economic development can help improve nutrition and tackle poverty, which he identified as a root cause of stunting.

Get Ready for 2027: One Payment for Three Hours of Transjakarta, MRT and Other Services

Jakarta plans to introduce an integrated public transport fare system in early 2027, allowing passengers to transfer between services for up to three hours after paying once. The scheme will initially cover Transjakarta, MRT and LRT, with integration with the Jabodetabek commuter rail network targeted as a subsequent stage; officials also plan monthly passes and say travel data will help guide subsidies and route improvements.

Bareskrim: Four Foreign-Funded Companies Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency says four foreign-funded companies are among 20 corporations named as suspects in forest and land-fire cases. It has recorded 104 corporate-related reports covering about 29,169 hectares and proposed revoking the permits of 23 companies, with final decisions resting with the relevant authorities.

Communications Ministry Says Digital Social Protection Can Kick-start Integration of Services Through DPI

The Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says digitalising social protection is an initial step towards integrating government services through Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Pilot data-sharing has reportedly cut processing times from as long as 200 days to as little as one minute, while reducing costs for applicants; the programme has registered 15.7 million households ahead of its planned national rollout on 10 November 2026.

Finance Ministry Responds to Debate Over Tax on Sanitary Pads

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says sanitary pads are subject to VAT under the general rules for taxable consumer goods, as they are not currently among items exempted by law. The agency says any proposal to change their tax treatment would need to consider the public impact and fiscal implications, amid social media comparisons with Scotland’s provision of free menstrual products.

Rupiah Exchange Rate Influenced by Statements on the Fed’s Policy Direction

The rupiah weakened against the US dollar at Thursday’s close, while the dollar remained sensitive to economic data and US Treasury yields amid uncertainty over the Federal Reserve’s next interest-rate moves. An ICDX analyst said currency movements will also depend on capital flows, domestic demand for dollars and forthcoming US inflation and growth data.

Top Criminal Investigation Chief Says Foreign Companies Accused of Forest Fires Will Be Prosecuted in Indonesia

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 corporations suspects in alleged forest and land fires, including four foreign-investment companies linked to Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. Police say the cases will be handled transparently under Indonesian law, with company directors identified as those responsible for the corporations’ legal representation.

South Jakarta Ride-Hailing Driver Injured in Crash: BPJS Employment Ensures His Entitlements Are Protected

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and Serang Regent Ratu Rachmatuzakiyah visited ride-hailing driver Hasan Syukur, who was seriously injured while working, and said they were overseeing his treatment and employment injury benefits. Hasan was already enrolled through Serang’s programme for vulnerable workers, highlighting how local-government-backed social insurance can protect informal workers and their families when an accident interrupts their income.

Didi Max Berjangka Wins Best Trading Education Award

PT Didi Max Berjangka received the Best Trading Education award at the Road to CNBC Indonesia Awards 2026, with Bappebti chief Tirta Karma Senjaya presenting the prize. The brokerage offers varied trading instruments and educational facilities, alongside features including low spreads, high leverage and a promotional car reward.

BPOLBF promotes Camino de Flores as a religious tourism icon in East Nusa Tenggara

The Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority is promoting Camino de Flores as a religious tourism attraction that combines pilgrimage with local culture, nature and community engagement. The 70-kilometre walk across Ngada, Nagekeo and Ende concluded with a visit to sites linked to Sukarno’s exile, while officials and participants said the event could raise Flores’s profile and support post-earthquake recovery.

Witness at Dr Tifa’s Trial Reveals Jokowi’s Remarks as Fake-Diploma Controversy Erupts

A witness in the trial of Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Dr Tifa, told the court that Joko Widodo expressed disappointment after his diploma was alleged to be fake. The witness said he had seen the diploma during a case review and considered it genuine; Tifa faces multiple charges under Indonesia’s Criminal Code and Electronic Information and Transactions Law.

Ahok Discusses Leadership at PDIP Youth Pledge Anniversary Event

PDIP executive and former Jakarta governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, known as Ahok, said leaders must listen to residents and engage in dialogue before making policy. He also called for transparent budgets and a fairer share of natural-resource revenue for regional governments, framing public office as a means of advancing social justice.

Fuel and LPG Imports to Be Routed Through Lemigas; Bahlil Says No State Budget Funds Will Be Used

Indonesia plans to route oil, fuel and LPG procurement currently handled by Pertamina through Lemigas, although the policy remains in a transition phase and requires consolidation with the state-owned company. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the arrangement will not use the state budget, while Indonesia continues to rely heavily on imports for oil and LPG.

Legislator Praises National Police Chief over 20 Corporations Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Calling It a Firm Step

Indonesian MP Rudianto Lallo has backed the National Police’s decision to name 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land fires, saying the public has long awaited decisive enforcement. Police say the companies include four foreign-investment firms linked to investors from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea, and hope prosecution will deter recurring fires.

Police Propose Revoking Licences of 23 Companies Suspected of Involvement in Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Agency has recommended revoking the permits of 23 companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, citing repeated fires, ignition sources within concessions, inadequate fire-control facilities and burned areas exceeding 500 hectares. Police have recorded 104 corporate-related reports covering about 29,168.78 hectares, with 20 companies named as suspects; separate investigations have named 245 individuals as suspects. Any licence revocations remain subject to the processes and authority of the relevant agencies.

Silmy Karim Accused of Extorting Rp168 Billion over Foreigners’ Residence Permits

Former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim and six other officials have been charged in an alleged extortion scheme involving immigration services for foreign nationals. Prosecutors say applicants paid fees under pressure to avoid delays, and that the group collected nearly Rp169 billion between 2021 and 2026, with proceeds distributed among the accused.

South Korea’s Former President Yoon Faces Renewed Death Penalty Demand

Special prosecutors have again sought the death penalty for former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol, appealing his life sentence for leading an insurrection through his failed martial law declaration in December 2024. The appeal hearing focused on the deployment of troops to the National Assembly, while Yoon maintains the declaration was intended as a warning to the opposition-controlled parliament.

PGN Signs Seven Commercial Agreements to Strengthen Natural Gas Supply

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) has signed seven commercial agreements with domestic gas suppliers, covering pipeline gas and LNG, to diversify and secure supply for customers. The deals include future supplies from the Abadi LNG project in the Masela Block, with a planned total of 775 trillion British thermal units over 15 years from the start of commercial operations.

Singapore Pledges to Strengthen Integration During Its 2027 ASEAN Chairmanship

Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan says the country will seek to deepen ASEAN integration and partnerships when it holds the chairmanship in 2027, with resilience in strategic supplies a priority. He also highlighted the need for regional cooperation on transboundary haze, praising coordination with Indonesia and efforts to protect communities affected by forest and land fires.

Minister Says Free Nutritious Meals and Village Funds Can Help Tackle Stunting

Village and Disadvantaged Regions Development Minister Yandri Susanto said the Free Nutritious Meals programme and village funds could support efforts to reduce stunting. He argued that the programme can also generate economic opportunities in villages, while stressing that progress depends on coordinated action by ministries, local authorities and village governments.

Germany and Japan to Discuss Cooperation on Next-Generation Fighter Jet Programme

Germany and Japan will hold defence-ministerial talks on possible German participation in Japan’s next-generation fighter programme, developed with the UK and Italy and targeted for completion by 2035. Berlin is assessing its options after a separate fighter project with France and other countries was abandoned amid disagreements over which company would lead it.

Video: Valbury’s Facilities Help Investors Access Forex and US Stock Markets

Valbury says its digital trading platform offers access to more than 650 assets, including forex, commodities and US shares, supported by market-monitoring tools, charting and artificial intelligence. The company also says it educates traders on disciplined trading and investment risks, as it received recognition at the CNBC Indonesia Awards 2026.

HPV Can Cause Cancer in Men, with 90% of Anal Cancer Cases Linked to the Virus

Persistent HPV infection is linked to several cancers in men, including anal cancer, around 90% of cases of which are associated with the virus. The Health Ministry is expanding HPV immunisation to boys as well as girls, aiming to provide equal protection against HPV-related disease.

Bulog Chief Reveals How RPK Operator Ordered SPHP Rice Before Alleged Adulteration

Bulog chief Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani says an operator of a Rumah Pangan Kita outlet in East Jakarta ordered government-subsidised SPHP rice through the company’s official system before allegedly repacking and mixing it. Bulog and police are tracing the supply chain, including the truck and official distribution channels used to obtain the rice.

Indonesia considers data centre clusters in industrial estates

Indonesia is considering dedicated data centre clusters within industrial estates to accommodate their high electricity and water demands and avoid competition with residential communities for water. The government also aims to raise industrial estate utilisation, now at 57.2 per cent, and promote themed estates outside Java that build on regional strengths.

North Korea Fires 10 Ballistic Missiles as Tensions Rise on Korean Peninsula

North Korea fired around 10 short-range ballistic missiles into waters off its east coast, prompting South Korea, Japan and the United States to heighten monitoring and share information. The launches come amid worsening inter-Korean border tensions and concern in Seoul that renewed US-North Korea nuclear talks could leave South Korea sidelined.

HPV Immunisation Coverage for Year Five Boys Reaches 88%

Routine data to 25 October 2026 show HPV immunisation coverage among Year Five boys at 88%, with Bali and Yogyakarta exceeding the 90% target. The Health Ministry plans to expand the programme to three more provinces, while officials cite vaccine misinformation and access disruptions as ongoing challenges amid Indonesia’s substantial cervical cancer burden.

Buleleng Fisherman Dies While Spearfishing

A 49-year-old fisherman was found dead off Kalibukbuk, Buleleng, after setting out to spearfish late on Wednesday night. His family said he had a history of heart disease and declined an autopsy; police have handled the evacuation and are following standard procedures.

Silmy Karim Accused of Extorting Rp168.9bn over Foreigners’ Residence Permits

Former Deputy Minister for Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim has been charged with extorting applicants for immigration documents, with prosecutors alleging payments totalling Rp168.9 billion. They say Karim received Rp1.2 billion, while other former immigration officials also benefited from the scheme involving residence permits for foreign nationals.

National Economic Council member proposes prioritising rooftop solar applicants ready to install

National Economic Council member Mochamad Firman Hidayat has proposed replacing the rooftop solar quota’s first-come, first-served system with a first-ready, first-served approach, arguing that this would prevent allocated capacity from going unused. He also called for clearer quota-setting, simpler applications and longer registration periods, while cautioning that any reform should account for costs, power-system readiness and other stakeholders.

DPR: Prabowo’s Meeting with Singapore’s Foreign Minister Was Part of Strategic Communications

A senior lawmaker said President Prabowo Subianto’s meeting with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan formed part of strategic communications between the two countries. He highlighted forest and land fires as a potential issue, stressing that tackling them requires cross-border cooperation, including information-sharing and financial investigations into companies involved.

Astra Recognises Five Young Innovators Through the 2026 SATU Indonesia Awards

Astra International recognised five young people and four Desa Sejahtera Astra communities for initiatives spanning health, education, the environment, entrepreneurship and technology. The company also announced seven social programmes ahead of its 70th anniversary, targeting support for 700 villages and communities across seven Indonesian islands.

One Person Named as Suspect in East Jakarta SPHP Rice Adulteration Case, Agriculture Minister Says

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says investigators have named one person as the main suspect in the alleged repackaging and sale of subsidised SPHP rice as premium rice in East Jakarta. Separately, eight officials at Bulog and the National Food Agency have been removed from their posts and two reprimanded, while their possible involvement remains under investigation.

Indonesia House of Beans Osaka: Gateway for Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Exports to Japan

Bank Indonesia and the Ministry of Trade are promoting Indonesia House of Beans Osaka to connect Indonesian coffee and cocoa producers with buyers in Japan. The initiative combines market access and business networking with promotion of 20 supported small and medium-sized enterprises, while also encouraging cross-border QRIS payments through participating coffee shops.

Under Scrutiny, Communications Ministry Sets Out Criteria for Content to Be Taken Down Within Four Hours

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry says a ministerial decree requiring platforms to remove certain content within four hours is aimed at addressing urgent, high-risk disinformation and hate speech, not silencing criticism. The decree also requires platforms to provide an appeals process for users affected by content moderation.

Axera’s ADAS chip reaches Europe with Leapmotor, advancing global expansion

Axera’s advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) chip is entering the European market through Leapmotor, following mass production in China and deployment at more than 50,000 vehicles a month. The expansion comes as Axera reports rising market share and automotive SoC shipments, positioning the chipmaker to pursue further international vehicle programmes.

Sahroni Praises National Police Chief’s Commitment to Naming Four Foreign Companies as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

DPR Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni praised the National Police for naming 20 corporations, including four foreign-investment companies, as suspects in alleged forest and land fires. He urged transparent, firm prosecution, saying the companies should not evade accountability because they are foreign entities; the fires affected 29,168.78 hectares.

Police Investigate 22 Foreign-Invested Companies over Forest and Land Fires, Most Linked to Singapore

Indonesia’s National Police are investigating 22 foreign-invested companies as part of a broader probe into 97 corporations suspected of involvement in forest and land fires. The police say 20 corporations have been named suspects, including four foreign-invested firms, while the fires covered by the police reports affected nearly 29,169 hectares.

Muhammadiyah Backs Police Chief’s Firm Action in Naming 20 Companies as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Muhammadiyah has backed the police’s decision to name 20 companies as suspects in suspected forest and land fires, calling for a zero-tolerance approach and prosecution of all parties responsible. Police say the cases involve 104 reports covering 29,168.78 hectares, with four of the companies being foreign-invested firms; Muhammadiyah has offered to work with police on systemic analysis and public discussions.

Telkom Strengthens ESG Efforts Through UN Global Compact Membership and Zero Waste to Landfill Programme

Telkom Indonesia has joined the United Nations Global Compact and launched a Zero Waste to Landfill programme at The Telkom Hub in Jakarta, working with Waste4Change. The initiatives are intended to embed sustainability in the company’s governance and operations, including waste sorting and processing that keeps recoverable waste out of landfill.

Depok Grandmother Arrested for Allegedly Setting Granddaughter Ablaze After Being Left to Walk 1km

Police in Depok have arrested a 64-year-old woman accused of dousing her 17-year-old granddaughter with kerosene and setting her alight after the teenager failed to collect her, leaving her to walk one kilometre. The victim suffered burns to 80 per cent of her body and remains in hospital; the suspect faces charges carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Video: Doo Financial Futures Has an Advanced App to Help with Trading Analysis

Doo Financial Futures says its digital platforms, including MetaTrader 5 and its own app, are designed to support commodity futures trading amid global volatility. The company says the app offers analysis and risk-control tools, while stressing that investors should understand transaction mechanisms and account for risk.

Fatal Collision Between Two High-Speed Trains in Spain Began with an Unusual Operator Instruction

Spain’s transport minister says an initial investigation has linked a collision between Renfe and Iryo high-speed trains to an unexplained instruction from rail traffic control. The Renfe train was travelling at about 200 kilometres per hour when it struck the Iryo train, which had stopped on the same track; 68 people were reported killed.

National Economic Council Plans Pilot of Direct Electricity Subsidy Transfers

The National Economic Council is preparing a one-region pilot that would replace electricity tariff subsidies with direct transfers to eligible households, while setting tariffs in the trial area at market levels. Details including the location, timing, transfer amounts and eligible customer groups have not been finalised; the government is also developing a digital social-protection system to improve targeting and allow people to challenge eligibility assessments.

Signs Indonesians Need Cash Are Showing Up in the Used-Car Market

Indonesia’s used-car market is seeing prices adjust as new-car promotions and more affordable battery electric vehicles intensify competition. A growing supply of used cars—including vehicles sold by owners needing cash—is also putting pressure on prices, while industry leaders say consumers are shifting towards used cars and away from new purchases.

BGN Permanently Closes 2,000 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Over Hygiene Failures

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has permanently shut more than 2,000 kitchens in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme for failing hygiene and sanitation requirements, including lacking a required certificate. The agency says it is tightening oversight and will also withhold operational funding from kitchens that fail to report daily spending; around 6,100 of 26,385 operating kitchens have yet to submit those reports.

OPML and Bengkulu Provincial Government to Use Solar Power for Downstream Processing in Enggano

Oxford Policy Management Limited (OPML) and the Bengkulu Provincial Government are developing a low-carbon pilot on Enggano Island that will use solar power for banana-flour processing and fish storage. The project is expected to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions, although it will not yet supply electricity to residents’ homes.

11 Indonesian Air Force Aircraft Deployed to Help Extinguish Forest Fires

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed 11 transport aircraft to support forest and land-fire response across the country, following President Prabowo Subianto’s order to use Hercules aircraft. The fleet is transporting supplies for weather-modification operations, which the Air Force says have already brought rain to some fire-affected areas.

Gibran discusses EV innovation and technology with Asian EV pioneer

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka discussed building an ecosystem for electric-vehicle research and innovation with Chan, an Indonesian-born Chinese engineer known as the “Father of Electric Vehicles in Asia”. The discussion highlighted government support for EV manufacturing, consumer incentives, skills development and Indonesian technological self-reliance, alongside closer Indonesia-China collaboration.

Indonesia Praises Malaysian Police over Abuse Case

Indonesia’s ambassador to Malaysia praised the Royal Malaysia Police for arresting at least four people allegedly implicated in the abuse of an Indonesian domestic worker, as well as an agent suspected of arranging her placement. The victim, identified as SR, is recovering and hopes to return to her family in Banten; the Indonesian Embassy is ready to facilitate her return and has coordinated with Malaysian authorities.

Countries of Origin of Companies Suspected in Indonesian Forest and Land Fires: Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 companies as suspects in forest and land fire cases, including four foreign-investment firms linked to Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. Investigations cover more than 29,000 hectares, and the police say further corporate suspects may be identified as inquiries continue.

Countries of Origin of Corporations Accused over Forest and Land Fires in Indonesia: Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 corporations as suspects in forest and land-fire cases, including four foreign-investment companies linked to Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. The cases cover nearly 29,169 hectares, and investigations may identify further corporate suspects; the companies face charges under environmental protection legislation.

KPK Summons Former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari Again in Money-Laundering Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has again summoned former Kutai Kartanegara regent Rita Widyasari as a suspect in an alleged money-laundering case. The investigation follows her conviction for receiving Rp110 billion in gratification linked to project permits, and a separate allegation that she received money from mining businesses.

Copyright Bill Must Protect the Economic Rights in Journalistic Works

Speakers at the Indonesia Digital Media Conference 2026 urged the Copyright Bill to clarify media companies’ economic rights, ensure fair compensation for journalists and creators, and set boundaries for AI and digital platforms’ use of journalistic content. Proposals included collective licensing, transparent usage data and clearer rules on human contributions to AI-assisted works, while preserving journalists’ rights as creators.

Indonesian Air Force Deploys Five Helicopters to Fight Fires from Mount Ciremai to Nusantara

The Indonesian Air Force has placed five helicopters on standby and deployed aircraft to fight forest and land fires in several regions, including Nusantara, Mount Ciremai, Mount Lawu and Galuga landfill. The helicopters are conducting aerial patrols, water-bombing and fire monitoring, with the largest reported operation at Galuga involving about 54,000 litres of water.

Computer Science Degrees Fall Out of Favour as Graduate Unemployment Rises

Enrolment in computer science programmes at US universities has fallen sharply, with undergraduate numbers down more than 12% this autumn and postgraduate enrolments also declining. The article links the slump to AI-driven cuts to entry-level coding jobs, a tougher job market for graduates and fewer international students, while community colleges have seen modest growth.

Deputy Minister Urges New Graduates to Strengthen Their Competencies

Deputy Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Fauzan urged graduates to look beyond their degrees by developing their skills, character and independence, and using their education to improve people’s lives. He also highlighted 200 KIP Kuliah scholarship places at UNP Kediri in 2026; the university’s three-day graduation ceremony is awarding degrees to 1,824 graduates.

Indonesia to Send 3,030 Vocational Graduates on Overseas Work Programmes

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing to send 3,030 vocational-school and training-institution graduates abroad for internships and employment, with destinations including Germany, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia. The initiative aims to expand job access, build international work experience and improve graduates’ skills and competitiveness; the ministry says more than 13,000 vocational graduates are now working overseas.

Indonesia boosts tourism promotion to attract British tourists

Indonesia is promoting its tourism offerings in the United Kingdom through sales missions in Glasgow and Manchester and its participation in WTM London 2026. The campaign will bring together tourism businesses and showcase cultural, culinary and other high-value experiences to expand commercial partnerships and attract British visitors.

Banten Police Question 49 Witnesses in Investigation into Batumandi Ferry Fire

Banten Police have questioned 49 people, including passengers and crew, as they investigate the cause of the Batumandi passenger ferry fire near Merak Port. Investigators have yet to inspect the overturned vessel; its salvage by state-owned ferry operator ASDP is needed before a technical examination can proceed. All 460 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, although some were injured.

Tianneng unveils multi-chemistry battery portfolio and advances localised new-energy ecosystem

Tianneng presented a portfolio spanning lead-acid, lithium-ion, sodium-ion and solid-state batteries for mobility and energy-storage applications, while partners from several countries, including Indonesia, discussed local production and market development. The company said it would deepen research, local manufacturing and partnerships to build a resilient global supply chain; industry representatives also called for standards recognition and cross-border cooperation.

KPK Summons Seven Witnesses in South Sumatra Railway Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned seven witnesses, including former officials and private-sector representatives, as it develops an investigation into alleged corruption involving railway construction and maintenance projects in South Sumatra. The inquiry is being pursued under an investigation warrant issued in May 2026.

Through BSA 2026, Jakarta Provincial Government Sharpens Mayors’ Communication Skills

Jakarta’s regional cooperation bureau is providing public-relations and public-communication training to the 10 finalists of the Benyamin S Award 2026. The initiative aims to help urban village heads explain government programmes more effectively, strengthen public trust and measure the impact of their communications.

Kim Jong-un Reportedly Discussed Dialogue with the US During China Visit

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service believes Kim Jong-un used his recent visit to China to convey Pyongyang’s position on the possibility of talks with the United States. The visit came ahead of the APEC summit in Shenzhen, where US President Donald Trump is due to attend and has said he wants to resume dialogue with Kim.

Pupuk Indonesia: Fertiliser Availability and Affordability Are Top Priorities

PT Pupuk Indonesia says maintaining the availability and affordability of fertiliser remains paramount as it pursues a gradual, measured energy transition. The state-owned company reported that its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions in 2025 were 17.47 per cent below the business-as-usual scenario, equivalent to 2.25 million tonnes of CO2e.

Social Affairs Ministry: South Sulawesi students at Sekolah Rakyat receive vocational training

The Social Affairs Ministry says students at Sekolah Rakyat in South Sulawesi are receiving vocational training to help them enter the workforce and become self-reliant after graduation. A recent programme with a local hair studio trained 35 students in make-up, haircuts and hairstyling, with vocational opportunities tailored to local and student potential.

Valbury Reveals Investors’ Favourite Assets in the Second Half of 2026

Valbury president director Nino Limantara says investor preferences shifted in the second half of 2026, with growing interest in US equities and crude oil after earlier activity focused on gold. He also highlighted the popularity of US share markets, ETFs and gold among Valbury clients, and outlined the firm’s online and in-person investor education programmes.

Jasa Marga Marks Youth Pledge Day by Promoting Leadership Renewal

State-owned toll-road operator Jasa Marga says it is creating opportunities for younger employees to develop leadership skills and contribute to innovation as part of its long-term business sustainability strategy. Millennials and Generation Z make up 35 per cent of its workforce, while 24 per cent of employees in leadership or strategic roles belong to these generations; the company is also promoting digital tools and staff-led innovation.

Man from Madura Arrested in Gianyar for Stockpiling Pertalite to Resell

Police in Gianyar have arrested a 31-year-old man accused of buying Pertalite at a petrol station and reselling it to local shops at a higher price. Officers seized 350 litres of fuel and the car used to transport it; he faces up to six years in prison under Indonesia’s Oil and Gas Law.

Merdeka Gold allocates US$11.4 million to explore Pani gold deposit

Merdeka Gold Resources has earmarked US$11.4 million for a 50,000-metre drilling programme at the Pani Gold Mine and nearby exploration targets in Gorontalo. Recent drilling found gold mineralisation in three areas, including below and beyond the current resource model, but further drilling and technical assessment are required before any new mineral resource or ore reserve can be declared.

More Than 2,000 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Permanently Shut: Here’s Why

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency says it has permanently closed more than 2,000 kitchens participating in the Free Nutritious Meal programme over serious hygiene and sanitation breaches. Officials also cited alleged brokering, in which foundation operators sought per-meal commissions without providing the capital needed to run kitchens.

Police Arrest 19 During 28 October Demonstrations, Seize 12 Cans of Paint

Jakarta police arrested 19 people during demonstrations on 28 October, saying they were suspected of carrying items intended for vandalism, including 12 cans of paint. The protests coincided with Youth Pledge Day and included demands on disaster response, public spending, education, jobs, human rights and civil liberties.

Twenty Corporations Named Suspects in Forest and Land Fires; House Commission III Praises National Police Chief’s Leadership

A deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission III has praised the National Police for naming 20 corporations, including four foreign-invested firms, as suspects in alleged forest and land fires. The investigations cover 104 police reports and 29,168.78 hectares of burned land, with calls for accountability, environmental restoration and support for affected communities.

Local aid groups in Myanmar step up to help vulnerable communities amid worsening humanitarian crisis

With 16.2 million people in Myanmar expected to need humanitarian assistance in 2026, local organisations are helping fill gaps through essential supplies and vocational training, including reusable sanitary pads made by vulnerable people. Their work faces severe constraints from insecurity, restricted access and a shortfall in UN funding, while an ASEAN mission is beginning rice and essential-goods distribution to more than 11,000 households.

Culture Minister Stresses the Importance of Conserving Maros’s Natural Heritage

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has called for the sustainable protection of the biodiversity and natural heritage of South Sulawesi’s Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park, part of the Maros-Pangkep UNESCO Global Geopark. He said geopark management must meet UNESCO’s conservation, education and periodic reporting requirements, while recognising the links between geological, biological and cultural heritage.

Fleeing to the US, Flavio Bolsonaro Claims to Be Brazil’s Legitimate Leader

Defeated presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro has arrived in Florida after reportedly leaving Brazil despite a travel ban, and says he will lead the opposition from the United States. His departure comes amid ongoing corruption and money-laundering investigations, while he alleges electoral fraud and political persecution.

Ties Growing Closer: Indonesia-Kazakhstan Cooperation Is More Than Just Words

Indonesia and Kazakhstan are seeking to deepen ties across trade, investment, transport, energy, education and other fields, with their leaders having met three times on the sidelines of international events over the past year. Kazakhstan is preparing a package of more than 20 bilateral agreements for President Prabowo Subianto’s planned state visit next year, while a free trade agreement between Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union is expected to boost trade, currently worth about US$250 million.

KPK Summons New Suspect in Rejang Lebong Regent Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned B Daditama, a former expert adviser to the Rejang Lebong administration, as part of an expanded investigation into alleged bribery linked to public procurement. The case concerns alleged project kickbacks totalling Rp1.7 billion to the now-suspended regent, with the KPK’s investigation also naming a company director as a new suspect.

Women’s Role in Building Inclusive Climate Resilience Strengthened

The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection is calling for women to play a central role in inclusive, gender-responsive climate resilience, alongside efforts to strengthen women’s economic empowerment and household food security. A Monash University researcher highlighted the need for gender-responsive climate finance, practical guidance on gender equality, disability and social inclusion, and measures to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

Bangka Regency and Pertamina Agree to Limit Subsidised Fuel Purchases

Bangka Regency Government and Pertamina have agreed to limit purchases of subsidised Pertalite at local petrol stations, aiming to ease queues that have persisted for several months. Motorcyclists may buy up to five litres once a day upon presenting vehicle registration documents, while refuelling hours for six-wheeled vehicles are set between 4am and 5am.

Beware of Trading Promotions, Broker Warns of Need for Financial Literacy

More than half of Indonesia’s investors are under 30, with the investor count reaching 32.17 million by the end of September 2026, according to OJK data cited by Finex. The brokerage warns that social-media trading content can blur education and promotion while downplaying the risk of losing capital, and urges novice traders to check creators’ credibility, commercial ties and disclosure of risks.

bank bjb’s Profit Rises 37.3% Through September 2026

bank bjb reported consolidated assets of Rp219.7 trillion and net profit attributable to owners of Rp1.1 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, up 37.3% year on year. The lender said its growth-with-quality strategy combines selective lending and tighter risk management with stronger low-cost funding, fee income and operational efficiency.

Indonesia Among Countries Spending the Most on Food

Indonesian consumers allocated 33.1% of their expenditure to food consumed at home in 2025, ranking the country 23rd among 103 countries and territories. Separately, FAO estimates that healthy diets were unaffordable for about 43.5% of Indonesia’s population in 2024, highlighting how food costs and household incomes shape access to nutritious meals.

Thousands of Islamic Boarding School Students to Pray for Forest Fires to Be Brought Under Control

Thousands of santri are due to gather at Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque on 30 October for prayers for Indonesia and for the swift containment of forest and land fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra. The event will conclude the 2026 National Santri Day programme and include the launch of pesantren initiatives, a letter to President Prabowo Subianto and an inauguration ceremony.

Investment Surges as Apindo Praises Jakarta’s Transformation

Apindo chair Shinta Widjaja Kamdani praised Jakarta’s rapid transformation, citing investment growth of 62.5% from 2023 to 2025—1.7 times the national average. She highlighted transport, artificial intelligence, data centres and green business as investment opportunities, while calling for stronger governance and greater inclusion of MSMEs to sustain growth.

Transmigration Ministry and House of Representatives Strengthen Cooperation on Development in Muna

Deputy chair of Commission V Ridwan Bae has urged Muna regency to use a visit by the Transmigration Ministry’s secretary-general to press for infrastructure investment and improved welfare in transmigration areas. The ministry has handed over 100 land-ownership certificates in Raimuna, with the remaining certificates for 286 households scheduled for processing or funding through 2027.

Rupat Residents Declare ‘Drug-Free’ Village as Riau Police Push for Clean Communities

Residents of North Rupat, Bengkalis Regency, have pledged to prevent drug abuse and illicit narcotics trafficking, with Riau Police emphasising a coordinated approach combining enforcement, prevention and public education. The declaration was accompanied by social assistance and a tree-planting activity, underscoring community participation in both public safety and environmental stewardship.

Mahfud MD: Students Have the Right to Protest, but Must Respect Police Maintaining Public Order

Former coordinating minister Mahfud MD said students must be free to express their views through demonstrations, while police have a duty to maintain public safety. He urged protesters and officers to respect one another and avoid escalating tensions, warning that unrest harms the public.

Parents of Little Aresha Daycare Victims Disappointed, Deem 2–3-Year Sentences Unfair

Parents of children abused and neglected at Yogyakarta’s Little Aresha daycare have criticised the prison terms handed to 11 caregivers, saying sentences of two to three years do not reflect the harm or its long-term effects. They are also angered that court-ordered restitution was removed, leaving families to cover years of therapy costs, and hope prosecutors will appeal.

KPK Questions Wife of Former BNPB Chief’s Brother as Witness in Disaster Fund Corruption Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Sri Endang, a commissioner at PT Alfa Pranata Yudha and the wife of suspect Bima Setiawan, as a witness in an alleged corruption case involving BNPB disaster-response funds. Investigators suspect vendors linked to Bima benefited from direct procurement contracts, while a separate cluster of the case concerns alleged bribes involving private-sector vendors.

Video: Didimax Trading Tips for Navigating Volatility in the Futures Market in 2026

Didi Max Berjangka says it is pursuing sustainable growth in customers, trading activity and service amid market volatility and global geopolitical tensions. Its director, Cenli Yani, stresses that customer education should cover both investment prospects and risks, helping traders decide when to transact and when to hold back.

FPI Ready to Mobilise Supporters to Press for Andrea Bocelli Concert Cancellation

The Islamic organisation Front Persaudaraan Islam (FPI) says it is ready to mobilise supporters alongside the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to seek the cancellation of Andrea Bocelli’s concert in Indonesia, citing the singer’s alleged support for Israel. FPI leader Muhammad Alatas outlined possible demonstrations and online campaigns, while also suggesting that any concert allowed to proceed should include public support for Palestine and donations from its proceeds.

Singapore to Become a BTS City for a Month — When Will Jakarta Get Its Turn?

Singapore will host the first BTS THE CITY ARIRANG programme in Southeast Asia from 1 to 31 December 2026, alongside four sold-out BTS concerts. HYBE says it has no plans to bring the programme to Indonesia, while the month-long city-wide activations are expected to boost tourism and related businesses.

Jokowi Degree Trial: Dr Tifa Says Aiman’s Attendance Is ‘Very Important for Justice’

Dr Tifa, a defendant in the alleged defamation case concerning former president Joko Widodo’s degree, has asked iNews editor-in-chief Aiman Witjaksono to testify. She says his evidence about the broadcaster’s “Rakyat Bersuara” programme—cited as evidence in the case—could clarify the proceedings and protect freedom of expression.

BGN Requires SPPGs to Renew Agreements to Prevent MBG Kitchen Brokerage

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is requiring every Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) to renew its cooperation agreement as part of efforts to strengthen governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and curb brokerage. The agency says around 600 kitchens linked to fictitious foundations may have generated up to Rp1 billion a day, and that new agreements will be reviewed by its legal bureau and notarised, with electronic signing due to begin in stages from late October 2026.

Rupiah Gains 0.28% as US Dollar Closes Lower at Rp18,125

The rupiah rose 0.28% to Rp18,125 per US dollar, recovering after hitting a record closing low in the previous session. The currency strengthened as the dollar eased following the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold rates, while investors awaited US inflation and jobs data and the European Central Bank’s policy announcement.

Culture Ministry commits to making traditional music part of cultural advancement

The Ministry of Culture says it will integrate traditional music more fully into cultural policy through the Indonesia Traditional Music Festival, with the Makassar edition showcasing nine South Sulawesi groups. The festival also recognises practitioners who sustain the tradition and forms part of a nationwide programme supported by the Dana Indonesia Raya fund.

Tangerang Police Bust Synthetic Drug Production Syndicate Operating Through Social Media

Tangerang City Police say they have dismantled a cross-regional network producing synthetic tobacco and selling it through social media, arresting six suspects and seizing evidence valued at about Rp400 million. Investigators uncovered three connected production sites, with the suspects allegedly using Instagram and map coordinates to arrange distribution.

Sudaryono Aims to Eliminate MBG Food Poisoning Incidents and Calls for Tighter Food-Service Rules

National Nutrition Agency chief Sudaryono says preventing any food-safety incidents in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is a top priority. The agency plans to tighten food storage and serving procedures, introduce consumption-time labels and seals, and expand CCTV monitoring at meal preparation facilities.

UI Patriot Expedition Team supports Red and White Village Cooperative managers in West Papua

Universitas Indonesia’s Patriot Expedition Team has trained managers of the Werianggi and Werabur Red and White Village Cooperatives in Teluk Wondama, West Papua, on business licensing through the risk-based OSS system. The programme, delivered with the local investment and one-stop services agency, covers business identification numbers, business classifications and compliance requirements, aiming to strengthen cooperative governance and support legal, sustainable business development.

Yamie Ayam Anugerah Depot Owner in Purworejo Finds QRIS BRI Makes Transactions Easier

BRI says its QRIS payment service is helping micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Kutoarjo handle cashless payments more easily. The owner of Depot Yamie Ayam Anugerah says it simplifies payments, reduces the need for change and makes incoming transactions easier to monitor, while BRI also highlights the importance of digital-payment security.

Hashim Warns Rupiah Could Fall to Rp21,000 per US Dollar if Issue Is Not Resolved

Presidential Special Envoy for Climate and Energy Hashim Sujono Djojohadikusumo warned that substantial foreign investment outflows amid concerns about a possible downgrade of Indonesia’s stock exchange could push the rupiah to Rp20,000–Rp21,000 per US dollar. He urged businesses to stop stock-price manipulation, warning that a weaker currency would raise the cost of foreign debt and pose serious economic and political risks.

Hashim Warns the Rupiah Could Fall to Rp21,000 per US Dollar

Presidential climate and energy envoy Hashim Sujono Djojohadikusumo warned that major foreign investment outflows could push the rupiah to between Rp20,000 and Rp21,000 per US dollar, raising the cost of servicing overseas debt. He urged businesses to stop stock-market manipulation, warning that continued market turmoil could have serious economic and political consequences.

This Indonesian Region Grew Wealthy Without Taxing Its People

Historical accounts describe the Sultanate of Palembang as a prosperous state whose rulers’ income relied heavily on trading pepper and tin rather than ordinary tax levies. The account highlights the economic role of commodity exports, while cautioning that it does not establish that wealth was shared equally or that no other charges existed.

Batam Customs Prioritises Services for 76 Compliant Companies

Batam Customs is giving priority services to 76 exporters and importers selected under its EPIC 100 programme for their strong customs compliance. The companies were assessed against four measurable criteria, out of around 1,500 export-import businesses operating in Batam in 2026.

Rumah Zakat Strengthens Response to Forest and Land Fires and Protects Volunteers

Rumah Zakat has provided emergency supplies, clean water and protective equipment to communities affected by forest and land fires and to volunteers supporting the response. The organisation is calling for stronger cross-sector collaboration, improved preparedness and firm action against those responsible for starting fires.

Mecca Pact: Strategic and Geopolitical Significance of the Quartet Meeting in Tehran

Senior officials from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan met in Tehran to explore regional security cooperation and ways to de-escalate tensions, with Saudi Arabia describing the visit as part of efforts to support dialogue and mediation. The meeting comes amid fears of renewed conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, and follows a mutual-defence pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan in August.

To Realise Golden Indonesia, Deputy Home Affairs Minister Addresses Young People

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto urged young people to voice their ideas and take an active role in shaping Indonesia’s future, saying the 2045 national vision depends on broad collaboration. Drawing on his own leadership programme experience and visits to schools, he said critical discussion must be accompanied by concrete strategies and contributions from all parts of society.

Police Name 245 Individuals and 20 Companies as Suspects in Forest and Land Fire Cases

Indonesia’s National Police have named 245 individuals and 20 companies as suspects in forest and land fire cases recorded across the country through October 2026. Investigators have also recommended revoking the business licences of 23 companies, while the police have deployed personnel for enforcement, prevention and support for affected communities.

Immigration Ready to Act Against Israeli Tourists Causing Trouble in Lombok, Provided There Is Evidence

Indonesia’s Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, says authorities will take action if they receive concrete evidence that a group of Israeli tourists stole goods from shops on Gili Meno. The group, comprising 20 women, has since left Lombok for Bali and returned to Israel, while the allegations have spread on social media.

Pekanbaru City Government Allocates Rp12.4bn for Free School Uniforms

Pekanbaru is providing three sets of free uniforms to 19,900 pupils at public primary and junior secondary schools for the 2026/2027 school year. The city has allocated more than Rp12.4 billion for the programme, which Mayor Agung Nugroho says will continue annually to ease the cost burden on parents.

Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby Set to Stand Trial

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has completed its investigation into alleged bribery involving Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby and handed him and the evidence to prosecutors. Prosecutors have up to 14 working days to prepare an indictment, while the case also involves allegations of vehicle gifts and payments linked to forest-conversion recommendations.

Former KPK Deputy Chairman Warns Against Seizing Officials’ Assets Omitted from LHKPN

Former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) deputy chairman Nurul Ghufron opposes a proposal to seize officials’ assets simply because they were not declared in their asset reports (LHKPN). He says administrative reporting breaches should not automatically be treated as proof of criminal origins, and insists any seizure must follow valid evidence and criminal procedure while safeguarding property rights and legal certainty.

Antam strengthens profitability and maintains solid financial fundamentals

State-owned miner Antam reported a 46 per cent rise in net profit to Rp9.66 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, alongside growth in revenue, EBITDA and operating profit. The company attributed its performance to strong business fundamentals, effective working-capital management, cost controls and measured risk management.

Examining the Harmonized System and Indonesia’s Leadership at the HSC

Indonesia has secured a leadership role in the World Customs Organization’s Harmonized System Committee, with Taufik Ismail re-elected by acclamation to chair its 2027 sessions. The committee’s work on product classification and future HS revisions helps maintain consistency in customs procedures, trade statistics and the rules governing imports and exports, although international decisions do not automatically take effect in Indonesia.

Russia Comes Under Missile Barrage as 613 Drones Target Moscow

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said 613 drones were launched towards the capital overnight, with Russia’s Defence Ministry reporting that 231 were destroyed on approach. The attack coincided with a Russia-Africa summit in Moscow and followed a large-scale drone assault in September; Russia also struck Kharkiv, damaging an educational institution.

Komdigi Says Four-Hour Takedown Rule Is Not Intended to Silence the Public

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs says its four-hour deadline for platforms to remove specified content is intended to curb disinformation and hate speech, not suppress public criticism. The rule has drawn concerns over freedom of expression and also places responsibility on digital platforms to prevent content that could destabilise society.

Religious Affairs Ministry Urges Intensified Campaign for Official Marriage Registration

The Religious Affairs Ministry has urged its regional offices and the Indonesian Association of Marriage Registrars to step up public awareness of official marriage registration, highlighting the legal protections it provides, particularly for women and children. It is also preparing to integrate marriage, divorce and population data under the 2027 National Strategy for Corruption Prevention to improve service governance, data accuracy and fraud prevention.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Urges M.H. Thamrin High School Students to Prepare for a Golden Indonesia 2045: The Future Is in Their Hands

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto urged students to prepare for Indonesia’s 2045 development goals through careful planning, personal growth and active participation in society. He said the country’s future—including prosperity, research and innovation, more evenly distributed development and environmental sustainability—must be built through concrete steps taken now.

Breaking: JCI Slumps 3%, BCA Shares Fall 5% — Here’s Why

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell 3.04% to 5,121.97 in late Thursday trading, with BCA among the biggest drags after its shares dropped 5.7%. Investors were weighing the Federal Reserve’s divided decision to hold rates, upcoming US inflation and labour-market data, the ECB’s rate decision, and risks including war-related energy costs and rising Indonesian government bond yields.

Telkom CEO Outlines the Future Potential of the AI Industry

Telkom CEO Nanang Hendarno says AI’s next major business opportunities will depend not only on technology sales, but on the infrastructure, investment and partnerships needed to support widespread use. He highlighted five potential global industries and said long-term investment, reliable energy, clear regulation and redesigned business processes will be essential to turning AI adoption into sustainable economic value.

PUI Praises Police for Naming 20 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Persatuan Ummat Islam (PUI) has praised the police for naming 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land fires, including four foreign-invested companies. PUI urged the authorities to review their response to prevent future incidents and called for local communities and civil society organisations to help protect forests.

SBN Yields Hit Six-Year High: What Is Driving the Rise?

The yield on Indonesia’s 10-year government bonds rose to 7.70%, its highest level since May 2020, as domestic and global risks weigh on investor confidence. Economists point to rupiah weakness, foreign capital outflows and fiscal concerns, while forecasting yields could approach or exceed 8% if pressures persist.

Social Affairs Ministry Offers a Range of Free Health Services in Makassar

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry has provided free health and social rehabilitation services in Makassar as part of the one-year anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat. The programme also showcased products made by beneficiaries of its ATENSI scheme, aiming to expand market opportunities and support their economic independence.

Indonesia hires 13,000 personnel to staff Sekolah Rakyat campuses

Indonesia has hired about 13,000 teachers and support personnel for its Sekolah Rakyat boarding-school programme, with further recruitment under way as the government plans to expand the network from 182 campuses to 500 by 2029. Launched in 2025 for children from the country’s lowest four socioeconomic deciles, the programme is part of the government’s broader effort to tackle poverty by expanding access to education and improving human capital.

Wife’s Words to Dwi Bagus, Accused of Killing His Unregistered Wife: ‘It’s Already Happened, Just Accept It’

After a reconstruction of the murders of his unregistered wife and her four-year-old child, Dwi Bagus Martono’s legal wife, Marta, urged him to accept responsibility and remain patient. The emotional exchange, in which Bagus reportedly wept and knelt to apologise, went viral on social media.

2026 Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference Held in Hong Kong

The 2026 Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference brought together nearly 300 officials, experts and industry leaders from more than 20 countries to discuss sustainable development and accelerating the green transition in the Global South. Chinese Environment Minister Huang Runqiu highlighted China’s commitment to green development and international cooperation, while Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee pointed to the city’s role in financing and managing green infrastructure projects.

Expert calls for joint ASEAN cyber action against online gambling

An international relations expert has urged Indonesia and other ASEAN members to establish a regional centre or task force to coordinate cyber operations, intelligence-sharing and efforts to trace illicit proceeds from cross-border online gambling. He said legal and regulatory differences complicate cooperation, and called for stronger domestic enforcement, digital literacy education and data collection to protect vulnerable groups from financial and social harm.

Supra Sekuritas Caught Up in OJK Sanctions; Pandu Speaks Out on Ownership

Danantara investment chief Pandu Sjahrir says his indirect stake in Supra Sekuritas is a passive minority investment and that he had no role in its management or trading decisions. OJK has not publicly named the brokerage firms sanctioned in its market-manipulation cases, which involved fines totalling Rp2.1 trillion and come amid efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s capital-market governance.

Anwar Abbas Testifies as a Defence Witness for Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas appeared as a defence witness for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in the trial over alleged corruption involving additional Hajj quotas in 2023–2024. Abbas said Yaqut had worked hard and carried significant responsibility for ensuring the pilgrimage ran smoothly; prosecutors allege the scheme caused state losses of about Rp622 billion.

KPK summons Customs and Excise civil servant and land deed official in Customs case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned a Customs and Excise civil servant and a land deed official as witnesses in an expanding corruption investigation. The case began with a February 2026 sting operation and now includes allegations linked to cigarette excise arrangements, with investigators having searched a Customs office and PT Djarum.

Singapore Says Indonesia Is Committed to Honouring Gas Export Contracts

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said both countries are committed to honouring their gas supply contracts after Indonesia reduced exports by 31 MMBTUD. The reduction, attributed to maintenance and rising domestic demand, is around 8 per cent of pipeline exports and remains within the agreed minimum threshold; Singapore has also diversified its energy supplies and prepared an LNG terminal.

Bappebti’s Strategy to Promote Tin and CPO Trading on the Futures Exchange

Bappebti says it is promoting commodity futures trading linked to the needs of the real sector, including the development of tin and crude palm oil (CPO) trading. Its chief also sees growth potential in gold and other derivatives, which can help businesses manage risk amid global challenges and regulatory changes.

DPD Chair’s Mission to Turn Local Heroes into National Inspirations Through the DPD RI Awards

DPD RI Chair Sultan Baktiar Najamudin says the 2026 DPD RI Awards will spotlight regional talent and bring local concerns and aspirations into national policy discussions. More than 1,100 people applied—nearly double last year’s total—with nominees selected through a rigorous verification and curation process.

Alphabet reports higher revenue but lower net profit in Q3 2026

Alphabet’s third-quarter revenue rose 25% year on year to US$127.58 billion, driven by strong growth in Google Search and Cloud, while net profit fell 24% to US$26.47 billion. The decline reflected a swing from investment gains to losses, even as Google Cloud revenue more than doubled and CEO Sundar Pichai said AI investment was boosting Search activity and Gemini had reached one billion users.

40,000 Civil Servants Hit by Data Breach, with Phone Numbers and Emails Exposed

A hacktivist group says it exposed personal and operational data belonging to more than 40,000 employees of the US Department of Homeland Security, including staff at ICE, CBP and CISA. Reuters verified the data against other sources; the incident is the third major breach affecting US security institutions in a month, while Okta denies that its systems were compromised.

High-fibre foods that can lower cholesterol

Oat-based snacks can support lower LDL cholesterol, especially when combined with nuts, which provide soluble fibre, beta-glucan, unsaturated fats and plant sterols. The article also points to broader dietary guidance from the American Heart Association, stressing sustained changes such as eating more whole grains, fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds.

Antasyafi Robby: Young People Are Fighters for the Nation and State

Indonesian climbing athlete Antasyafi Robby Al Hilmi says the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge is a reminder that young people can serve the country through their work in many fields. He argues that unity, courage and adaptability remain vital as young Indonesians face economic and geopolitical challenges, and urges them to make a contribution through consistent effort.

Horror Collision Between Two High-Speed Trains in Spain Occurs at 200 km/h

At least 68 people were killed and more than 100 injured when a Renfe train struck a stationary Iryo train on Spain’s Madrid–Seville high-speed line. Transport Minister Óscar Puente said a computer-system failure disrupted safety controls, after which the state rail operator ADIF manually authorised a train to proceed despite a red signal; a full investigation is under way.

Chinese Robotics Company Offers Technology Transfer

Shenzhen-based AI² Robotics is seeking local partners in Indonesia to develop its artificial intelligence and robotics business, including through technology transfer, research collaboration and real-world applications. The company says local partnerships will also be important for maintenance, support services and adapting robots to Indonesian market needs.

Merdeka Gold Commits Rp206 Billion to Search for More Gold at Pani

Merdeka Gold Resources has approved an US$11.4 million (about Rp206.39 billion) exploration programme for 2027 after drilling at its Pani Gold Mine in Gorontalo identified gold mineralisation across three areas. The planned 50,000 metres of drilling will test extensions to known mineralisation and other targets, but further work is needed before any new findings can be included in a formal mineral resource estimate or ore reserve.

Riau Islands Provincial Government to Pay BPJS Employment Contributions for Thousands of Natuna Residents

The Riau Islands provincial government will cover BPJS Employment contributions for 6,281 independent farmers and fishers in Natuna using the regional budget. The scheme extends work-related accident and death protection to vulnerable workers, with education scholarships available to eligible children of active members.

Analyst: JCI Correction Driven by Investors Reducing Exposure to Risky Assets

The Jakarta Composite Index fell 2.86 per cent as global and domestic concerns prompted investors to reduce exposure to riskier assets, with foreign outflows and profit-taking adding to selling pressure. An analyst expects volatility to persist in the near to medium term, advising investors to manage risk and focus on fundamentally strong shares at more reasonable valuations.

KPK Summons Six Private-Sector Figures in Case Involving Suspended Pemalang Regent

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned six private-sector figures to testify in an extortion investigation involving suspended Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The probe stems from a July 2026 sting operation and covers allegations that Anom solicited funds through an associate, as well as a separate alleged scheme to extort Anom by offering to arrange his case at the KPK.

Social Affairs Ministry Offers a Range of Free Services to Mark School Rakyat’s First Anniversary

The Social Affairs Ministry provided free health, rehabilitation and psychosocial services at an event marking the first anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat in Makassar. The programme also showcased products made by ATENSI beneficiaries, with the ministry seeking to bring rehabilitation services closer to the public and broaden market opportunities for their work.

Two Saudi Nationals Stab Three People Outside Pecatu Nightclub with Folding Knives

Two Saudi nationals allegedly stabbed three people outside a nightclub in Pecatu, Bali, after being expelled following a dispute with other patrons. Police say the suspects brought folding knives into the venue and are coordinating with the Saudi Embassy as they investigate; the men face up to five years in prison if convicted of assault.

East Java Government Offers 4,807 Jobs Through Inclusive Job Fair

East Java’s provincial government is offering 4,807 job and internship opportunities from 102 companies through its Inclusive Job Fair 2026, running from 29 October to 6 November. The event combines an in-person fair in Surabaya with an online recruitment period and is intended to widen access to employment, including for people with disabilities.

Not Just Named Suspects: 23 Companies Proposed for Licence Revocation over Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Department has proposed revoking the licences of 23 companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires, citing repeat fires, inadequate firefighting facilities and burned areas exceeding 500 hectares. The proposal follows investigations into 97 of 104 police reports; separately, 20 companies have been named suspects in cases involving a total of 29,168.78 hectares of burned land.

Bogor Attacker Who Hacked Bobotoh Supporter Carried a Sickle Everywhere

Police say a 26-year-old man who fatally attacked a Bobotoh football supporter in Bogor routinely carried a sickle and had often been involved in or initiated street brawls. The victim was returning from a match at Pakansari Stadium when he was attacked; he later died in hospital.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Urges Young People to Speak Up for Golden Indonesia 2045

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged young people to continue putting forward ideas and help shape Indonesia’s future, saying the 2045 national vision requires collaboration across society. He cited examples from visits to schools and called for discussion forums to remain spaces where people can exchange views and develop practical contributions.

Indonesia and South Korea Develop Project to Recycle Mining Waste into Critical Minerals

Indonesia and South Korea are preparing an implementation document for a project to recover critical minerals from mining waste, with completion targeted by the end of 2026. The partnership is intended to improve Indonesia’s use of secondary resources and environmental management while drawing on South Korean technology, and to support greater domestic processing and value creation.

Culture Minister Urges Leang Bulu Sipong to Be Designated a Cultural Heritage Site

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has called for the accelerated designation of Leang Bulu Sipong 4 in South Sulawesi as a National Cultural Heritage site. Its cave art, estimated to be around 48,000 years old, offers important evidence of early human life, while environmental changes and surface deterioration make stronger protection and ongoing conservation essential.

A Closer Look at Indonesia’s Steps and Strategy Towards Food Sovereignty

President Prabowo Subianto has stressed the importance of strengthening Indonesia’s food security and protecting regional trade routes to safeguard supplies. A CNBC Indonesia special programme will examine how technology, research, agricultural innovation and collaboration can boost local production, reduce import dependence and advance food self-sufficiency.

Translators and Media Professionals from China and Abroad Discuss Yantai’s New Drivers of Development

Translators and journalists from China and five other countries visited Yantai to examine its cultural heritage, biotechnology and smart manufacturing sectors, and coastal tourism. The event also provided a forum on cultural translation, communicating scientific and technological innovation, and international city-to-city engagement.

Police Reschedule Questioning of Dandhy Laksono over Pesta Babi Film

Metro Jaya Police have again rescheduled a clarification session for documentary filmmaker Dandhy Dwi Laksono, who did not attend two previous appointments concerning a complaint linked to his film Pesta Babi. The case remains under preliminary investigation, while Dandhy’s lawyers argue that such invitations are not provided for in criminal procedure rules and that he has no formal status requiring him to attend.

Depok City Government Accelerates Red-and-White Cooperative Programme

Depok is stepping up its Red-and-White Cooperative programme despite delays in establishing physical outlets, with the mayor asking the central government to relax rules on using municipal assets that lack land certificates. The city says only about 1,500 of its roughly 9,000 assets are certified and is exploring alternative sites, while encouraging online sales and allocating dedicated funding for the cooperatives.

Air Force Says Transport Aircraft Are Ready for Forest and Land Fire Missions

The Indonesian Air Force says its transport aircraft are ready to support efforts to tackle forest and land fires, with maintenance teams conducting regular inspections, repairs and testing. Eleven aircraft are currently involved, including in delivering supplies for weather-modification operations and dispersing salt to induce rain over fire-affected areas.

BGN Chief Requires Free Meals Programme Kitchen CCTV to Be Linked to Central System

National Nutrition Agency chief Sudaryono says CCTV cameras in kitchens participating in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme must be connected to the agency’s central system, where AI will help monitor food preparation and flag hygiene breaches. The agency aims to connect 5,000–10,000 of its 26,300 kitchens by the end of 2026, alongside new crisis-management guidelines following food-poisoning reports.

DEN: Verifying Industrial Emissions Could Cut CBAM Costs by 90 Per Cent

A National Economic Council simulation found that verified, actual emissions data could reduce estimated EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism costs by about 90 per cent in one case, compared with using the EU’s default values. The DEN is urging faster emissions measurement, reporting and verification, as Indonesia’s exports of CBAM-covered goods to the EU were worth about US$2.32 billion in 2025; the 90 per cent figure is not a realised saving or applicable to all exporters.

Pekanbaru Mayor Personally Hands Out Free Uniforms to Students

Pekanbaru is providing free school uniforms to 19,900 pupils at public primary and junior secondary schools for the 2026/2027 academic year, funded by a municipal allocation of more than Rp12.4 billion. Mayor Agung Nugroho said the programme is intended to ease families’ education costs and will be budgeted for in future years.

Sudaryono Exposes Sale of MBG Service Locations, Naming Those Involved and Their Methods

BGN chief Sudaryono says service locations for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme were allegedly sold for Rp300 million to Rp350 million, with intermediaries taking daily deductions from food-tray payments. He also alleges that hundreds of fictitious kitchens and weak menu standards resulted from the scheme, and says the agency is cancelling questionable procurement and replacing staff as part of an overhaul.

Gianyar Regency Builds Infrastructure to Support Preschool Education

Gianyar Regency is developing and upgrading early childhood education facilities to support the central government’s one-year compulsory preschool programme, including classrooms, play areas and free uniforms for pupils at state-run centres. Officials say the initiative is intended to make learning safer and more accessible while strengthening cooperation between teachers and parents as part of the 13-year compulsory education programme.

Padang City Government Speeds Up Construction of 138 Permanent Homes for Disaster Victims

Padang City Government says around 60 of the 138 permanent homes planned for people affected by the 2025 disaster have been completed. It aims to finish all units by the end of 2026.

Jokowi Becomes a Magnet for PSI as It Sets Its Sights on a Top-Three Finish in the 2029 Election

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) is targeting a seat in the House of Representatives and a top-three finish in the 2029 election, with party officials calling for stronger grassroots organisation, broader recruitment and greater public trust. Ahmad Ali said Joko Widodo’s arrival could attract support, but stressed that the party must convert the attention into concrete work in communities.

Sudaryono: MBG Kitchens Can Now Be Monitored by Posyandu Staff and Parents

The National Nutrition Agency says the public—including parents, teachers and posyandu staff—can inspect kitchens and provide feedback on the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The agency is also expanding oversight through a monitoring platform, public complaints hotline, AI-enabled CCTV and coordination with local governments to check kitchen standards and meal quality.

Dwi Bagus, Accused of Killing His Wife and Child, Worked on Foreign Projects, Earning Rp9 Million a Day

Police say murder suspect Dwi Bagus Martono worked in manufacturing on projects for foreign companies, including offshore oil-platform construction, subsea drilling and soil surveys. He was reportedly paid as much as Rp9 million per day under contract, and could work on assignments lasting three months.

Haunted Homes Become a Target for Bargain Hunters, with Discounts of up to 50%

In Japan, properties associated with tragic deaths can sell or rent for substantially less than comparable homes, attracting buyers and tenants seeking lower costs. While guidelines require agents to disclose certain deaths, rising property and living costs are making some people more willing to consider these stigmatised homes.

One-Year-Old Dies After Going 10 Days Without Food in South Sulawesi’s Bulukumba

One-year-old Nakla Syafira died in hospital after reportedly going 10 days without food or milk and spending nine days in intensive care. Local officials and her family’s neighbourhood leader said illness prevented her from eating, while the case has prompted scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the care of the child, whose mother had died and whose father worked outside Bulukumba.

Unknown Projectile from North Korea Turns Out to Be Around a Dozen Ballistic Missiles; South Korea on Alert

South Korea says North Korea fired around a dozen short-range ballistic missiles from near Wonsan towards the East Sea, prompting Seoul to heighten surveillance. The launch comes amid worsening tensions over a DMZ landmine blast that injured three South Korean soldiers, which a joint South Korean-UN investigation attributed to North Korea—a claim Pyongyang denies.

Jasa Marga Marks Youth Pledge Day with Leadership Renewal and Digital Innovation

State-owned toll-road operator Jasa Marga says millennials and Generation Z make up 35% of its workforce, with 24% of employees in leadership or strategic roles drawn from these generations. The company is using youth development and employee-led digital innovations to support operational transformation and improve services for road users.

At Assisi Forum, MUI Deputy Chair Urges World Not to Import War into Asia

MUI Deputy Chair Marsudi Syuhud urged global leaders to keep war out of Asia and share the continent’s traditions of peace, speaking at an interfaith forum in Assisi, Italy. Citing conflicts from Gaza and Myanmar to Ukraine and the Middle East, he called on religious leaders to advance dialogue, diplomacy and negotiation.

MIND ID Prepares Raw Material Supply Chains for High-Tech Industries

MIND ID is preparing domestic mineral supply chains to support the manufacture of components for electric vehicles, energy infrastructure and aviation. Danantara Indonesia says the government is targeting US$20–30 billion in investment over the next three years for priority industrial projects, with advanced materials and semiconductors among the key areas; officials say Indonesia must build technological and manufacturing capabilities beyond resource extraction and processing.

Regions of Indonesia Forecast to Enter the Rainy Season in November 2026

BMKG forecasts that 185 seasonal zones, covering 24.66% of Indonesia’s land area, will enter the rainy season in November 2026, with the onset expected to spread gradually from northern Sumatra. Across most of the country, the 2026/2027 rainy season is forecast to start later than the climatological norm, while rainfall totals are expected to be normal in most seasonal zones and the season itself shorter than usual in many areas.

MSME Credit Program Supports 12 Million Jobs by October 2026

Government programme lending to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) is estimated to have supported around 12 million jobs by October 2026, based on 4.2 million borrowers and an estimate of three to four workers per borrower. Officials say the programme’s impact also includes rising incomes and improved family welfare, strengthening the case for expanding MSMEs’ access to finance given their substantial contribution to the national economy.

Video: Didi Max Offers Education on Maximising Forex, Gold and Silver Trading Returns

Didi Max Berjangka says it is expanding trader education to help clients understand market prospects, entry strategies, capital management and investment risks. The futures broker also highlights its trading services in currencies, gold and silver, and says it has operated since 1999 while focusing on client fund protection.

KPK Summons West Lombok Education and Culture Chief and Four Witnesses in LAZ Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned five officials and employees as witnesses in a suspected corruption case involving inactive West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The commission alleges that Zaini received up to Rp12.4 billion through conflicts of interest in procurement and bribes linked to a local government project.

Spain Declares Three Days of Mourning After High-Speed Train Collision Kills 68

Spain has declared three days of national mourning after a collision between Renfe and Iryo trains killed 68 people and injured more than 100, with 15 of the injured in serious condition. The crash, the country’s second high-speed rail collision this year, has renewed scrutiny of rail safety as rescue teams search the wreckage and authorities investigate the cause.

ASEAN Power Grid Could Cut Electricity Costs

Cross-border electricity trade through the ASEAN Power Grid could lower energy costs and bolster supply security by connecting countries with surplus power to those facing shortages. ASEAN Centre for Energy executive director Razib Dawood says the region should expand bilateral arrangements into multilateral trade, supported by transmission links that connect renewable-energy sources to major demand centres.

Why We Still Appreciate Bada Shanren’s Works Today

Young people from 19 countries and regions gathered in Nanchang, Jiangxi, to mark the 400th anniversary of artist Bada Shanren’s birth and explore his work. International students described how learning about his life and engaging with the emotions in his paintings helped them connect with his art across cultural and linguistic boundaries.

Hong Kong housing secretary resigns over deadly Tai Po fire

Hong Kong Housing Secretary Winnie Ho has resigned after a fire that killed 168 people exposed serious failures in the city’s building-renovation oversight. Leader John Lee apologised and pledged reforms, including abolishing the housing bureau’s checking unit, while a judge-led report called for accountability across several government bodies.

South Korea Says North Korea Launched 10 Ballistic Missiles

North Korea fired about 10 short-range ballistic missiles towards waters off its east coast, according to South Korea’s military. Japan said the projectiles landed outside its exclusive economic zone, with no damage reported, amid a series of North Korean missile launches earlier in October.

Indonesia publishes 32 bilingual books in 18 local languages in NTT

The East Nusa Tenggara Language Center has published 32 bilingual children’s storybooks in Indonesian and 18 local languages to support foundational literacy and preserve regional cultures. The books involve 29 authors, introduce five languages for the first time, and are intended for use in schools, homes and communities; the initiative will continue next year.

Government Urges Digital Platforms to Be Transparent and Provide an Appeals Process for Opinions

The Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry has called on electronic system operators to explain how their content moderation, recommendation algorithms and AI systems work, and to provide creators with an appeals process. The appeal follows reports of users in Indonesia experiencing shadow bans, with the ministry saying transparency is essential to protecting users’ rights and freedom of expression online.

BGN Permanently Closes More Than 2,000 MBG Kitchens Over Hygiene Failures

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has permanently closed more than 2,000 kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for failing to meet hygiene and sanitation requirements, including lacking the required certification. It will also withhold additional operating funds and temporarily suspend kitchens that fail to submit daily spending reports, amid broader efforts to tighten oversight.

Palembang’s IGM Campus Owes Rp2.3 Billion in Property Tax; Warning Banner Put Up

Palembang’s Regional Revenue Agency says the foundation overseeing IGM University has unpaid rural and urban land and building tax (PBB-P2) amounting to Rp2.3 billion, dating back to 2019. The city says it put up a warning banner after issuing notices and attempting mediation, and that the measure is part of administrative enforcement under local and national tax rules.

Motorcycle Theft Repeat Offender Arrested in Kupang Shortly After Prison Release

Police in Kupang have arrested a repeat offender suspected of stealing a motorcycle, less than a month after his release from prison for a similar case. Investigators say CCTV footage helped identify the suspect, who was detained at his home in South Central Timor and brought back to Kupang with the stolen vehicle.

Mataram’s Bakesbangpol Strengthens Patrols to Maintain Public Order Amid Motorbike Gang Violence

Mataram’s National and Political Unity Agency is stepping up inter-agency patrols after suspected motorbike gang attacks at four locations left a junior secondary school pupil dead. Officials will review patrol timings, particularly to cover the early-morning hours when incidents have been reported, and have urged parents to monitor their children more closely.

Industrial Estates Are Struggling, with Just 57% of Capacity in Use

Indonesia’s operating industrial estates are using only 57.2% of their capacity, leaving substantial room to accommodate more industrial activity and investment. Industry Minister Sarmuji and the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI) are identifying barriers to fuller utilisation, which they say could support both estate development and national economic growth.

Constitutional Court: Regional Heads Charged with Criminal Offences May Be Suspended

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that regional heads and deputy regional heads may be suspended without a recommendation from their regional council once charged with specified serious offences. The Court also set the registration of the case in court as the point at which a suspension must take effect, aiming to clarify an ambiguity in the Regional Government Law.

Protest at Yogyakarta DPRD: Students Urge National Disaster Status for Forest and Land Fires

Student organisations staged a protest at the Yogyakarta provincial legislature, presenting 15 demands on governance, alleged legal violations, police conduct and environmental damage. They called for forest and land fires to be declared a national disaster, while constitutional law professor Zainal Arifin Muchtar urged the government to listen to public criticism and involve citizens in lawmaking.

Expert Praises Police for Naming 20 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

An economics expert on forestry has welcomed the police’s decision to name 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land fires, saying firm enforcement could deter future incidents. Police said the cases involve 29,168.78 hectares of burned land; four of the companies are foreign-investment firms from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea.

Observer calls for social media algorithm transparency to prevent alleged ‘shadowbanning’

Social media analyst Ismail Fahmi says platforms must disclose how content distribution decisions are made, after alleged shadowbanning claims fuelled public suspicion over discussion of Indonesian forest fires. He calls for independent audits, researcher access to data and transparent reporting of government takedown requests, while warning that regulation must not become a tool of censorship ahead of the 2029 election.

Chinese Visitor Numbers Rise as Tourism Ministry Steps Up Promotion of Labuan Bajo

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry has hosted seven Chinese travel agents and tour operators on a familiarisation trip to Labuan Bajo and Bali, aiming to help them develop packages tailored to Chinese travellers. The initiative supports efforts to broaden international visitor traffic beyond Bali, while connecting the visitors with Indonesian tourism businesses and highlighting direct Guangzhou–Denpasar flights.

6,100 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Have Yet to Report Daily Spending, BGN Warns of Suspension

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency says 6,100 kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme have not submitted required daily spending reports. It will withhold further operating funds and temporarily suspend non-compliant kitchens for inspection, with possible legal action if investigators find criminal violations.

Hajj Quota Corruption Case: MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas to Testify for Yaqut Cholil

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas appeared as a defence witness in the corruption trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Quomas. Yaqut is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion through alleged irregularities in the allocation and operation of additional Hajj quotas in 2023 and 2024.

Bank Mandiri Sells Inhealth Shares to IFG Life for Rp570 Billion: BMRI’s Explanation

Bank Mandiri has agreed to sell its entire 20% stake in Asuransi Jiwa Inhealth Indonesia to IFG Life for Rp570 billion, making IFG Life the insurer’s sole shareholder. BMRI says the affiliated-party divestment forms part of its life insurance business-streamlining strategy and falls below the threshold for a material transaction, so it does not require shareholder approval.

Police Investigate 97 Companies Over Forest and Land Fires, Including 22 Foreign-Owned Firms

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency is investigating 97 companies over forest and land fires, including 22 with foreign investment from six countries. Investigators have recommended licence revocation for 23 firms, and 15 of those have been named suspects; 20 companies have been named suspects overall, facing potential prison terms and fines under environmental law.

Ready Server launches LLM API for VPS customers at no extra cost

Singapore-based Ready Server has launched an OpenAI-compatible LLM inference API for all its VPS customers, with no additional fee, API keys or per-token billing. The service uses shared infrastructure over a private network and initially offers two Qwen models, aiming to give developers a more predictable-cost option for building AI applications.

KPK Questions Vinna Ledy in Bengkulu City Gratification Probe

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened a new investigation into alleged gratification within the Bengkulu City administration, developed from a separate corruption case in Rejang Lebong. It has questioned city councillor Vinna Ledy Anggraheni and previously seized an apartment, four cars and Rp4 billion in cash as part of the probe.

Indonesian Air Force deploys 11 transport aircraft to tackle forest and land fires

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed 11 transport aircraft to support firefighting operations and weather modification across the country, following an order from President Prabowo Subianto. The aircraft are carrying cloud-seeding supplies and other equipment, with the Air Force reporting early rainfall in some fire-affected areas.

UMS and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Partner to Empower Coastal Communities

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) is exploring a partnership with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries to support coastal communities through the Red and White Fishing Village programme. The collaboration would draw on university research and multidisciplinary expertise to advance six national priorities, including fishing-village development, aquaculture, modern fishing vessels and salt self-sufficiency.

Indonesia develops new vocational school models to curb unemployment

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is developing vocational school models that include an optional fourth year of specialist training, industry-designed programmes and schools focused on local economic strengths. The initiatives aim to align graduates’ skills with employers’ needs, expand opportunities for overseas work and address high unemployment among vocational school graduates.

Police Recommend Revoking Licences of 23 Corporations Linked to Repeated Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s National Police have recommended revoking the licences of 23 corporations investigated over forest and land fires, citing repeat incidents, fires originating within concession areas, inadequate facilities and burned areas exceeding 500 hectares. Police said 20 corporations have been named suspects, including four foreign-investment firms, while investigations cover 97 corporate cases and 29,168.78 hectares of burned land.

Gibran Education Equivalency Decree Challenge Heard at Administrative Court as Denny Indrayana Walks Out

A Jakarta Administrative Court hearing over the education-equivalency decree issued for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka saw his challengers’ lawyer, Denny Indrayana, seek to withdraw the case, alleging the government had not produced key supporting documents. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and Gibran’s legal team objected, and the judge stressed that the documents were important before Indrayana left the courtroom while maintaining that he was withdrawing the lawsuit.

Uma Palak Farmers’ Story Draws the Attention of ASCOPE Delegates

A renewable-energy irrigation system in Bali’s Subak Sembung is helping farmers manage water more efficiently, cut operating costs and power agricultural equipment. The initiative has also expanded into post-harvest processing and local tourism, drawing interest from ASEAN energy delegates as a model for community development.

Continuing ‘Sharing the Light’, AZKO Distributes More Than 32,000 LED Bulbs

PT Aspirasi Hidup Indonesia Tbk (AHI), through AZKO, has distributed 32,818 LED bulbs to homes, schools and public facilities across Indonesia as part of its energy-efficiency initiative. The programme supports AHI’s 2030 sustainability ambitions, while AZKO says environmentally friendly products currently account for 11.3% of its range, with a target of more than 20% by 2030.

Restoration of Tembolon Bridge Rushed as Coffee Farmers’ Access Comes into Focus

Restoration work on Tembolon Village Bridge in Bener Meriah, Aceh, is about 60 per cent complete and is scheduled to finish in December 2026. The recovery effort also highlights the need to restore roads and bridges linking residents and coffee farmers to farmland, markets and essential services after disaster damage.

Health Ministry Explores HPV Vaccination for Young Adults from 2027

Indonesia’s Health Ministry is seeking approval to extend HPV vaccination to people aged around 21–22 from 2027, subject to funding and preparations for vaccine supply, logistics and staffing. The proposed programme would distribute vaccines through public health facilities but would not be covered by BPJS Kesehatan; officials also highlighted misinformation and the importance of vaccination before exposure to the virus.

Viral Meta AI Response Prompts Komdigi Warning That Chatbots Can Be Wrong

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has urged people to verify chatbot responses, warning that AI-generated information may be inaccurate. The caution follows a viral Meta AI answer claiming that restrictions on protest and forest-fire content were imposed at Komdigi’s request, which users linked to complaints about content removals and shadowbanning.

Who Shapes the Indonesian Language?

Indonesian has evolved through centuries of contact with other languages and cultures, while technology continually introduces new terms whose Indonesian equivalents may not catch on. The article argues that the language is shaped jointly by language institutions, everyday speakers and the changing needs of the times, with the media helping new terms gain public acceptance.

KPK Summons Former Kutai Kartanegara Regent as Money-Laundering Suspect

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned former Kutai Kartanegara regent Rita Widyasari for questioning as a suspect in an alleged money-laundering case linked to the local government. The investigation has expanded from alleged gratification involving a palm-oil plantation permit to alleged payments from the coal sector and, more recently, three companies connected to coal production.

Meeting Prabowo, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Says Communication Underpins Commitments

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said communication between Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and President Prabowo Subianto had established the political foundation for both countries to turn commitments into concrete action. He also stressed the need for candid, constructive dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared challenges, including transboundary haze and pandemics.

Viral Case of Mechanic Billed Rp137 Million in McLaren Tax Arrears Prompts DJP Response

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that motor vehicle tax administration and collection fall under local government authority, after a Tangerang mechanic said he was wrongly billed Rp137 million in arrears on a McLaren registered in his name. The mechanic says he plans to pursue legal action over the alleged misuse of his personal data, while Samsat Ciledug is expected to arrange mediation after locating the vehicle’s actual owner.

Tourism Ministry Seeks to Attract Chinese Visitors to Labuan Bajo

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry is courting Chinese travel agents and tour operators to develop packages tailored to Chinese visitors, with familiarisation trips to Labuan Bajo and Bali. The initiative aims to promote Labuan Bajo as a priority destination beyond Bali, amid rising arrivals from China, which reached 1.054 million in January–August 2026.

Before Lake Toba’s Pastors, Jumhur Calls for Ecological Repentance

Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has urged Indonesians to pursue “ecological repentance” to help protect the planet, alongside safeguarding communities’ agrarian rights. He cited Pope Francis’s 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ and said environmental damage reflects accumulated wrongdoing by individuals, organisations, corporations and the state.

MIND ID prepares supply chain for high-tech industry raw materials

MIND ID is preparing a domestic mineral supply chain to support high-tech manufacturing, including electric vehicles, energy infrastructure and aviation. Danantara Indonesia says the government is targeting US$20 billion–US$30 billion in investment over the next three years for priority industries, with minerals, advanced materials and semiconductors among the key development areas.

Kuwait Protests to Iranian Ambassador over Interference in Domestic Affairs

Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry summoned Iran’s ambassador and delivered a protest note over a statement by the Iranian Embassy criticising death sentences handed down to three people, including an Iranian national. Kuwait said the embassy’s remarks interfered in its domestic affairs and undermined the sovereignty and independence of its judicial system.

Telkom CEO: Infrastructure and Digital Security Are the Foundations of the AI Industry

Telkom CEO Nanang Hendarno says the next wave of AI-driven industries will depend on reliable connectivity, large-scale data centres, digital trust and long-term investment, not simply on technology adoption. He outlined five potential global industries and highlighted Telkom’s infrastructure plans, while noting that most generative AI pilots have yet to deliver measurable financial returns.

KMP Batumandi to Be Refloated in Early November After Fire

The ferry KMP Batumandi, which capsized after catching fire near Merak Port, is expected to be refloated in early November as ASDP coordinates with maritime authorities to appoint an operator. Police and the National Transportation Safety Committee will investigate the cause of the fire once the vessel has been brought back afloat; KMP Port Link III has been reassigned to cover the disrupted Merak–Bakauheni service.

Disaster Strikes India, Forcing 18,000 People to Evacuate

Cyclone Arnab struck India’s south-eastern coast, bringing strong winds and heavy rain that caused widespread damage and killed at least three people. The article reports that more than 180,000 people were evacuated from Andhra Pradesh and Odisha ahead of the storm, while local authorities continue to assess casualties and losses.

Tokenisation of US Shares Expands, but Investors Should Weigh the Risks

Tokenised US shares are gaining traction as a way for Indonesian investors to access global markets, while regulators and industry figures stress the need to understand product structures, ownership rights and risks. OJK’s regulatory sandbox has tested seven tokenisation-related business models, but passing the trial does not itself authorise products for sale; Bittime says it now offers 37 tokenised US stock products.

Hong Kong teen jailed for eight years over acid attack on Singaporean tourist

A Hong Kong court sentenced 19-year-old Anson Kew to eight years in prison for a premeditated acid attack on Singaporean tourist Jiang Wen, carried out when he was 17 for a promised payment of HK$10,000. The victim suffered extensive burns, permanent scarring and post-traumatic stress disorder; the judge said the attack had a lasting impact and questioned Kew’s motivation to change.

Specialist Doctor Allegedly Punches Flight Attendant After Plane Delay

A Super Air Jet flight attendant says a passenger, alleged to be an internal medicine specialist, punched him after a delayed Lombok–Jakarta flight. The passenger was questioned by airport authorities, apologised and was removed from the aircraft; the attendant reports physical pain and trauma and says he has undergone a medical examination.

Kemdiktisaintek and UMS Hold PASTI-Q1 to Help Indonesian Academics Publish in International Q1 Journals

Kemdiktisaintek and Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta have brought together more than 70 lecturers from over 50 universities for an intensive workshop on preparing papers for reputable Q1 journals. The programme reflects a shift in emphasis from publication volume to research quality and impact, including the potential for research findings to be commercialised and benefit society and industry.

UNM’s HIMABIG Takes Part in Inter-University Digital Business Study Visit at UNAS

The Digital Business Student Association of Universitas Nusa Mandiri joined a study visit at Universitas Nasional in South Jakarta, exchanging organisational practices with three other student associations. The event focused on governance and collaborative programme planning, with UNM’s representatives saying the insights could help make student initiatives more adaptive and effective.

Cabinet Secretary outlines two years of government achievements, with Free Nutritious Meals reaching 62 million

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has highlighted the Prabowo administration’s reported achievements over its first two years, including 62 million recipients of the Free Nutritious Meals programme and 108 million users of free health checks. The list spans education, infrastructure, food and energy security, economic empowerment and state finances, as the government says it will continue pursuing development that delivers tangible benefits.

Bappenas: State to provide security for oil palm farmers

Bappenas chief Rachmat Pambudy says the government will formalise smallholders’ oil palm land rights, expand access to the Smallholder Oil Palm Replanting programme and improve administrative services. The cross-ministry plan also proposes a National Palm Oil Agency and requires state-owned plantation company PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara to allocate at least 20 per cent of a designated plantation to local communities.

Saudi Arabia Reportedly Offers Houthis Rp18 Trillion for Ceasefire

Saudi Arabia has reportedly offered the Houthis US$1 billion to secure a ceasefire and halt attacks on the kingdom, amid rising regional tensions and disruption to Middle Eastern oil exports. Riyadh confirmed that its defence minister visited Tehran for diplomatic discussions but did not confirm the alleged offer; reports say Iran may mediate negotiations linked to an earlier, unimplemented agreement.

Pamekasan Job Fair 2026 Offers 1,491 Vacancies

Pamekasan Regency in East Java is hosting a two-day job fair featuring 1,491 vacancies offered by 32 companies across sectors including hospitality, construction and telecommunications. The local government says the event is intended to broaden access to employment and curb unemployment; official statistics put the regency’s open unemployment rate at 1.33 per cent, the lowest in East Java.

Pramono’s Plans to Tackle Jakarta’s Long-Standing Problems

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the city is pursuing waste-to-energy plants, river normalisation and expanded public transport to address its persistent waste, flooding and congestion problems. He expects waste to cease being a major issue by 2028–29 and says public transport connectivity has reached 93%, with ridership shifting from private vehicles rising by 15%.

Aide: Jokowi to Attend Diploma Hearing Next Week

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo has received a summons to testify on 5 November in a case concerning allegations that his university diploma is fake. His aide, AKBP Syarif Muhammad Fitriansyah, also said he had been summoned as a witness and explained that Jokowi missed an earlier hearing because he had not yet received an invitation.

Resilience: The Life-or-Death Trek Across Snowy Peaks and Marsh Grasslands

The article recounts the Red Army’s 1935–36 Long March across the Songpan Grasslands and snow-capped mountains, highlighting the extreme conditions, hunger and losses endured by its soldiers. It presents the Long March spirit of resilience, sacrifice and optimism as an inspiration for China’s current efforts to overcome technological and reform challenges.

Planning for Tuition Costs: A Guide to Helping Parents Prepare for Their Children’s University Expenses Early

The article advises parents to estimate the full cost of university—including living expenses and learning materials—and set a realistic budget before choosing a campus. It also promotes Cyber University’s industry-based 3+1 Company Learning Programme and scholarships, urging families to verify fees and eligibility through official channels.

DBS Denies Merger Reports with BCA as BBCA Shares Reverse Course

Bank DBS Indonesia has rejected social media reports that it would merge into Bank Central Asia, with BCA surviving as the combined entity. BBCA shares, which had risen by about 7 per cent amid the speculation, fell 4.27 per cent on Thursday, although no direct link between the rumours and the share movement has been established.

MBG 2.0 Transformation: Sudaryono Says National Nutrition Agency Is Open to Criticism

National Nutrition Agency chief Sudaryono says the agency welcomes public criticism as it tightens and revises rules for the second year of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. He says stricter oversight is needed to ensure state budget funds are properly spent, while pledging that legitimate entitlements will be protected and implementation improved in stages.

Coal Production Quota Restrictions Have a Ripple Effect on East Kalimantan’s MSMEs

A study by East Kalimantan’s Regional Research and Innovation Agency found that restrictions on coal production quotas in 2026 are sharply affecting businesses and households in mining areas. Of 847 MSMEs surveyed, 68% reported lower turnover and 17% had closed permanently, with estimated annual losses to supporting sectors reaching Rp3.1 trillion.

Putin Challenges Zelensky to Come to Moscow for Direct Negotiations

Vladimir Putin has invited Volodymyr Zelensky to Moscow for direct talks, with a Russian official saying security arrangements would be guaranteed. The invitation comes as officials discuss resuming trilateral negotiations involving Russia, Ukraine and the United States in Abu Dhabi, while Donald Trump says a meeting between the two leaders could be arranged soon.

Why Has Singapore’s Minister Summoned 10 Company CEOs, Including Those from Wilmar and Sinar Mas?

Singapore has summoned executives from 10 companies over possible links to Indonesian entities suspected of contributing to transboundary haze from forest and land fires. The authorities say the meetings are to obtain information, not to declare the companies guilty, and warned that failure to comply with information requests under Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act could lead to penalties.

Cyber University Partners with Lenteng Agung Sub-district to Digitally Empower MSMEs

Cyber University has partnered with the Lenteng Agung sub-district administration to equip local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) with digital business skills. The programme includes practical training and a month of online mentoring, with plans to establish a supported business community to sustain local economic empowerment.

Djarum Says No Senior Executives Were Taken by KPK: ‘We Are Co-operating’

PT Djarum says none of its executives or employees were taken into custody during KPK searches at its Kudus office and the local Customs and Excise office. The company says it respects the legal process and will co-operate with the anti-corruption agency’s investigation into a customs case.

Tom Lembong and Ahok Attend PDI-P Youth Pledge Commemoration

Tom Lembong, Ahok and Gustika Jusuf Hatta attended a PDI-P event marking the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge, where they discussed young people’s concerns, critical thought and the importance of responsive leadership. Lembong warned of a greater than 50 per cent risk of an economic crisis within six to 12 months, while arguing that crises can also spur reforms benefiting future generations.

UNM Data Science Programme Offers a Part-Time Option in Jakarta

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) offers regular and part-time classes for its S1 Data Science programme, which has received Unggul accreditation, aiming to accommodate school leavers and working professionals. The university says its industry-focused curriculum and flexible payment and registration options are intended to widen access to higher education in digital technology.

Traders dismantle 16 former Ciracas temporary market structures as area is redeveloped

Traders have voluntarily dismantled 16 semi-permanent kiosks at the former JT 56 temporary market in Ciracas, East Jakarta, after the site’s market status was revoked in 2023. The local authorities say the site had been used for unlicensed trading, including the alleged sale of controlled tramadol, and plan to clear any remaining structures before turning the land into a green park.

Researchers reveal how neurons support flexible decision-making

A Chinese research team has found that different parts of the same neuron process abstract rules and sensory input, integrating them to produce decisions. The findings, published in Science, shed light on how the brain adapts flexibly and efficiently, and may offer insights for developing more capable, energy-efficient AI systems.

Directorate General of Corrections and Densus 88 train terrorism convicts in bakery skills

The Directorate General of Corrections and Densus 88 have provided 50 terrorism convicts at prisons on Nusakambangan with practical bakery training as part of a programme to support their independence and rehabilitation. Officials say the skills could help participants earn a living after release, with further training planned in agriculture and food production.

KKP: Salt Self-Sufficiency Is About Quality as Well as Volume

Indonesia’s fisheries and marine affairs minister says the country’s 2027 salt self-sufficiency target depends on improving quality as well as increasing production. Domestic output averages 1–2 million tonnes against annual demand of 4.5–5 million tonnes, and a new industrial salt centre in Rote Ndao is being developed to help meet higher purity standards and reduce imports.

Police Name 20 Corporations in Forest and Land Fire Cases, Including Four Foreign Companies

Indonesia’s National Police have named 245 individuals and 20 corporations as suspects in forest and land fire cases, with the corporate cases involving nearly 29,169 hectares of burned land. Investigators have also recommended revoking the business licences of 23 corporations, citing repeated fires, fire origins within concession areas and inadequate firefighting facilities.

Traffic Police Operation to Crack Down on Wrong-Way Driving at Accident Hotspots

Indonesia’s Traffic Corps says its Patuh 2026 operation, running from 26 October to 8 November, will focus on improving road discipline and targeting wrong-way driving at accident-prone locations. The police chief warned that saving a few minutes is not worth risking lives and urged officers to enforce the law professionally, while asking the public to report misconduct through the 110 hotline.

Firefighters Help Evacuate Worker’s Body from Second Floor of Bogor House

Firefighters in Bojonggede, Bogor, helped remove the body of a worker who died after suffering breathing difficulties while working on the second floor of a house. Colleagues and the property owner called the fire and rescue service after finding the body difficult to bring downstairs; the evacuation took about half an hour.

East Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government strengthens One Data governance to support development planning

East Nusa Tenggara is strengthening its One Data system through common standards, digital integration and coordination between provincial and district governments. The initiative, including the SASANDO One Data Portal, aims to improve the quality of development planning and enable more detailed, evidence-based policy decisions.

One Victim of Cimanggis Market Explosion Dies in Hospital After Receiving Treatment

The death toll from the explosion at Cimanggis Market in South Tangerang has risen to three after a victim died in hospital following several days of treatment. Police are still investigating whether negligence or deliberate action was involved, while forensic tests are expected to clarify whether gas caused the blast; authorities say it was not a bomb.

SPPGs Must Submit Daily Spending Reports Before Receiving Further Funding

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will require every Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) to submit a daily expenditure report before receiving a further allocation for the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The agency says the measure is intended to strengthen transparency and oversight, alongside operational-cost controls that it estimates will save about Rp3 trillion; it has also returned Rp160 billion to the state treasury following audit findings and recommendations.

KPK Searches Kudus Customs Office: Finance Ministry’s Customs Directorate Responds

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Kudus Customs and Excise Office and PT Djarum as part of a developing investigation into alleged kickbacks involving excise stamps. The Customs Directorate says it will co-operate with law enforcement while maintaining public services; investigators have seized documents and electronic evidence, and related import-corruption cases have already resulted in convictions and ongoing trials.

US$9 Trillion Investment Flows into Batam, Targeting Silica and Semiconductors

A US investment worth Rp9 trillion is set to enter Batam, with projects focused on downstream silica processing and semiconductor development. The investment could bolster Indonesia’s high-tech manufacturing capacity, support jobs and technology transfer, and strengthen Batam’s role in global supply chains, although the project’s implementation and sustainability remain key challenges.

IDX Removes BCA, BUMI and Others from November 2026 Short-Selling List

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has removed five shares, including those of BCA, Bumi Resources and Astra International, from its November 2026 short-selling list. It has also excluded 11 shares from the margin-trading list, under rules governing securities eligible for margin and short-selling transactions.

Denny Indrayana Withdraws Gibran Diploma Lawsuit and Walks Out of Jakarta Administrative Court Hearing

Former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana and his legal team withdrew a challenge concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s education equivalency certificate and walked out of a Jakarta Administrative Court hearing. Indrayana said the Education Ministry had repeatedly failed to produce evidence supporting the certificate, while the ministry reportedly objected to the withdrawal.

25 Traffic Offenders Penalised by Bali Police on Puputan Highway in Denpasar

Bali Police issued tickets to 25 motorists and warnings to eight others during a traffic enforcement operation on Puputan Highway in Denpasar. The 14-day Operation Patuh Agung 2026 involves 1,055 personnel across Bali and is intended to promote safer, more orderly driving through enforcement and public education.

Tourist Arrivals in Cambodia Plunge 43.7%

Cambodia’s international tourist arrivals have fallen sharply, with visitors from Vietnam and China recording substantial declines. The tourism minister attributed the downturn to negative publicity over online scam networks, border tensions with Thailand and the Middle East conflict, while an industry academic said efforts to improve security and restore the country’s reputation could support a recovery.

Indonesia Still Imports 80% of Its LPG; Bahlil Sets Out Search for Alternatives

Indonesia imports around 80% of its annual LPG needs, as domestic production of about 1.8 million tonnes falls far short of demand of 11–12 million tonnes. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the government is pursuing coal-derived dimethyl ether (DME) and compressed natural gas (CNG) to reduce reliance on imports, with trials of 3kg CNG cylinders still under way.

South Korea’s Births in August 2026 Reach Highest Level

South Korea recorded 23,703 births in August 2026, up 13 per cent year on year and the highest total for the month since 2019. Births have risen for 26 consecutive months, while the total fertility rate also increased, amid changing attitudes towards having children, a larger population in their thirties and a recent rise in marriages.

Sudaryono Explains Why He Proposed Adding Free Nutritious Meals to the School Curriculum

National Nutrition Agency head Sudaryono said nutrition education should accompany the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, with dedicated time during meals rather than taking time away from lessons. He said the initiative is intended to help children understand the role of different foods and encourage families to provide nutritious meals at home, complementing the government programme.

Bukit Asam’s Q3 2026 Profit Soars 216% to Rp4.41 Trillion

State-owned coal miner PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) reported attributable profit of Rp4.41 trillion for the third quarter of 2026, up 216.4% year on year, as revenue rose 12.35% and gross profit more than doubled. Operating profit climbed 220.44%, while the company’s assets increased 17.38% from the end of 2025 to Rp51.55 trillion.

Moment Football Supporter Was Hacked to Death After Watching Match in Bogor

A 16-year-old football supporter died after being attacked with a machete on Jalan Raya Jakarta-Bogor while returning from a match near Pakansari Stadium. Bogor Police say suspect MR faces charges under the Child Protection Law and the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

Jiahui Opens International Cell Therapy Centre to Expand Global Access to CAR-T Treatment

Jiahui International Hospital has launched a cell therapy centre intended to serve patients from China and abroad, building on its experience with CAR-T treatment and multidisciplinary care. The hospital cites growing international demand and its clinical use of therapies for blood cancers and solid tumours, including what it describes as the world’s first approved CAR-T treatment for a solid tumour.

Rekindling the Spirit of the Youth Pledge in the Digital Democracy Era

As Indonesia marks the 98th anniversary of the 1928 Youth Pledge in 2026, the article argues that its spirit of unity and political agency remains relevant amid economic uncertainty, social inequality and shrinking space for public participation. It highlights youth-led protests worldwide and stresses the importance of young people’s courage to criticise power, particularly when authorities are resistant to scrutiny.

Tourism Ministry steps up promotion of Indonesian destinations to British visitors

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry is promoting its leading destinations to British travellers through the #GoBeyondOrdinary campaign, with sales missions in Glasgow and Manchester followed by participation in WTM London 2026. The events are intended to expand business partnerships and showcase higher-value experiences, including marine tourism, gastronomy, wellness, textiles and Muslim-friendly travel.

After 100 Days Leading BGN, Sudaryono Details Failings and MBG Transformation

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono has announced an overhaul of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, citing corruption, weak governance standards and poor coordination. He said the agency’s limited staffing and oversight had left thousands of kitchens difficult to control, and pledged a more collaborative approach after taking office.

Five Houses Catch Fire in Raden Saleh, Cikini; 103 Firefighters Deployed

A fire damaged five homes in the Cikini area of Central Jakarta, affecting 20 people from five families. Firefighters deployed 103 personnel and 24 water-pump vehicles, with narrow access roads hampering the operation.

Jokowi to Testify at Roy Suryo Trial: ‘God Willing, I’ll Attend’

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo says he is willing to testify in the trial of Roy Suryo, who is facing charges of alleged defamation over claims that Widodo’s university diploma was forged. Prosecutors plan to summon Widodo and his aide for a hearing scheduled for 5 November 2026, although Widodo says he has not yet confirmed whether he has received an official summons.

IX Takes Part in IPVS 2026 to Learn from Global Priorities and Partner to Advance HPV Prevention

Xiamen Innovax Biotech (IX) took part in the International Papillomavirus Society’s 2026 conference in Athens, where it discussed vaccine innovation, access and international cooperation. The company also presented interim six-month data from a Phase III study comparing its single-dose Cecolin 9 vaccine with Gardasil 9; final results are expected in 2028.

Communications Ministry stresses importance of checking information on social media

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Ministry has urged people to verify information found on social media and generated by AI, warning that neither is always accurate. The ministry has also called on digital platform operators to be more transparent about their use of AI and algorithms, so the public can understand how online information is produced and distributed.

Unpad develops SMARTAMBAK platform to reduce the risk of failed shrimp harvests

Universitas Padjadjaran and UNSW Business School have developed SMARTAMBAK, an AI-powered platform designed to detect shrimp diseases early and monitor pond water and ecosystem conditions in real time. The initiative aims to help Indonesian farmers reduce production losses while supporting more environmentally responsible aquaculture and the application of university research.

Hoping to Overcome Extreme Marginalisation, Buka Describes the Current Conditions in Baturangin Hamlet

Buka, a traditional leader in Baturangin Hamlet, North Sumatra, says residents urgently need better access and infrastructure to overcome extreme marginalisation and prevent their ancestral village from losing its population. Although the community has around 50 hectares of customary land and relies on farming and coffee sales, only about five hectares are currently cultivated, while difficult terrain limits the amount of coffee residents can take to market.

Sudaryono Tells SPPGs to Update Administrative Requirements: No MBG Project Kickbacks and Crack Down on Broker Foundations

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is requiring all Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) to renew their cooperation agreements and undergo legal and administrative verification as part of efforts to strengthen governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. BGN chief Sudaryono says the agency will cooperate with the Attorney General’s Office and will not tolerate kickbacks, brokers or problematic procurement; as of 16 October, 3,479 of 21,527 submitted update files were complete.

After SPHP Rice Case in East Jakarta, Bulog Forms Special Task Force

Bulog has formed a special task force and tightened oversight of government rice distribution following suspected misuse by distribution partners in Matraman and the Cipinang Rice Market in East Jakarta. The state-owned food company has also suspended six employees pending further examination, while pledging to review compliance and ensure the subsidised rice reaches the public at the prescribed price.

Nickel Downstreaming Through to Batteries Is a Game Changer for Indonesia’s Economy

Indonesia’s nickel downstreaming industry has progressed from smelting into the production of electric-vehicle batteries, which a parliamentary lawmaker says could reshape the economy and strengthen energy independence. However, Indonesia still imports lithium-based batteries and will need to develop domestic production as demand for electric vehicles grows.

Timeline: Two Trucks Collide in Front of Parliament, Injuring Driver

A lorry collided with the rear of a light truck that had stopped on Jakarta’s Jalan Gatot Subroto after its rear axle broke, pushing it into a guardrail. The lorry driver sustained minor injuries, and police are investigating the crash, which took place in front of the DPR/MPR complex.

CDIA Posts Revenue of US$122 Million

PT Chandra Daya Investasi (CDIA) reported revenue of US$122 million in the first nine months of 2026, up 16 per cent year on year, while EBITDA rose 65 per cent to US$49.9 million. Growth was supported by new assets and recurring infrastructure income, as the company expanded capacity across water, ports and maritime logistics, including the commissioning of a water treatment plant in Cilegon.

Akulaku Capital Indonesia Receives OJK Approval to Become a Financial Conglomerate Holding Company

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved PT Akulaku Capital Indonesia to act as the non-operating financial conglomerate holding company for Akulaku Group’s Indonesian financial services businesses. The move, required under OJK Regulation No. 30/2024, will place Bank Neo Commerce and three other entities under ACI’s control, with the company to coordinate governance, risk management and capital management across the group.

Bareskrim Uncovers Illegal Import of 1,257 Bales of Second-hand Clothes Worth Rp15 Billion

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has uncovered 1,257 bales of allegedly illegally imported second-hand clothing in a warehouse in Subang, West Java, with an estimated value of Rp15 billion. Investigators are tracing the goods’ origins, import route and distribution network, while authorities say the enforcement action is intended to protect fair trade and the domestic textile industry.