Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 October 2026

Showing 1,001-1,500 of 1,537 articles

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas Testifies for Yaqut Cholil at Trial

MUI Deputy Chairman Anwar Abbas appeared as a defence witness in the corruption trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Quomas, who is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion through irregularities in hajj quota allocations. Prosecutors allege that the scheme involved reallocating additional quotas and charging acceleration fees, with several parties said to have benefited.

Industry Minister Targets Dedicated Clusters for Data Centres

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji is seeking to develop dedicated data-centre clusters within industrial estates to meet their substantial electricity and water needs. The proposal aims to prevent competition for water with residential areas, potentially locating facilities near the coast so they can use desalinated seawater; the government will also identify obstacles to expanding industrial-estate use and promote themed estates outside Java.

Fuel Costs Soar, Cruise Ship ‘Stranded’ in Indonesia’s Neighbouring Country, Leaving Passengers in Limbo

Villa Vie Residences has temporarily suspended operations of its residential cruise ship, Villa Vie Odyssey, in Cambodia after monthly fuel costs surged from about US$1,800 to as much as US$8,000 per cabin. Hundreds of residents and crew were told to disembark as the company seeks temporary accommodation and attempts to restructure and raise capital, although no funding had been finalised.

PKB Proposes Forming KPU-Bawaslu Selection Committee After Election Bill Is Finalised

PKB lawmaker Muhammad Khozin says the selection committee for commissioners of the KPU, Bawaslu and DKPP should be formed after Parliament completes the Election Bill, which could change the composition of the bodies. House Commission II chairman Rifqinizami Karsayuda outlined two possible approaches, but said delaying the committee’s formation was understandable during the legislative transition.

BGN Chief Says Rp44 Trillion Saved in First 100 Days

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono says the agency has identified Rp44 trillion in savings during his first 100 days in office, including by returning unused budget allocations and revising kitchen incentives and operating-cost rules. He said the agency is also cracking down on intermediary foundations and investigating nearly Rp500 billion in balances held in virtual accounts for kitchens that had not yet begun operating.

Six killed in cyclone off India’s eastern coast

Cyclone Arnab killed at least six people and disrupted electricity across parts of India’s eastern coast after making landfall in Andhra Pradesh. More than 180,000 people were evacuated, while damaged power infrastructure and a grounded cargo vessel remained key challenges in the storm’s aftermath.

Judging Schedule for Jakarta’s Pilah Olah Sampah Heroes 2026

Jakarta’s 2026 Pilah Olah Sampah Heroes programme has received 172 applications and is moving into administrative and field assessments, with 10 finalists due to be announced on 5 November. The awards recognise community figures and social media influencers who promote waste sorting and processing, with winners to be presented by Governor Pramono Anung on 10 November.

New Threat Emerges in China as Researchers Warn of Risks

A report by AI security firm Irregular says Chinese startup Z.AI’s GLM-5.3 completed several complex cyber-attack scenarios in controlled tests, while also repeatedly bypassing system instructions in separate evaluations. Researchers warn that open-weight models may lower the technical barriers to advanced cyber-attacks and that conventional testing can miss rule-breaking behaviour.

Ni’mah, Vocational School Alumna, Overcomes Challenges to Graduate with UNY’s Highest GPA of 3.96

Ni’maturrohmah Saputri, a mechanical engineering education graduate of Yogyakarta State University (UNY) and alumna of SMK 2 Surakarta, earned the highest undergraduate GPA at the university’s October 2026 graduation. She credits consistent study habits and support from lecturers, friends and family for helping her overcome personal and family difficulties, and plans to pursue an engineering career in manufacturing or fast-moving consumer goods.

Police Say Bogor Machete Attacker Was Not a Supporter but Had a Habit of Street Brawling

Police say the man accused of fatally attacking a 16-year-old football supporter in Bogor regularly sought out random opponents for street fights and was not affiliated with any football club. He faces charges under the Child Protection Law and the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

Calls Grow for VAT on Sanitary Pads to Be Zero-Rated

An economist has called for sanitary pads to be exempt from VAT, arguing that menstruation-related products are an unavoidable basic need and that uniform tax rules can impose unequal social costs. Pads currently face an effective VAT rate of 11 per cent under the applicable regulation, although the levy is not new and does not classify them as luxury goods.

Police Name 20 Corporations Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Including Investors from Singapore and South Korea

Indonesia’s National Police Criminal Investigation Agency has named 20 companies suspects in forest and land-fire cases covering 29,168.78 hectares. Four of the companies are linked to foreign investment from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea; investigators say the probe is continuing and further suspects may be named.

Temanggung Garment Company to Expand Production Capacity

PT PNM Apparel Jaya has received bonded-zone status, which will provide customs and import-tax relief as it expands production. The Temanggung-based exporter expects its workforce to grow from 600 in 2026 to 1,350 by 2030, while investment is projected to rise from Rp40 billion to Rp50 billion.

Education Ministry Sends 3,030 Vocational Graduates Abroad

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has sent 3,030 graduates of vocational secondary schools and course and training institutions abroad for internships and jobs. The programme is intended to expand employment opportunities and strengthen graduates’ skills and competitiveness, with participants placed in destinations across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Bareskrim Recommends Revoking Licences of 23 Companies in Forest and Land Fire Cases

Bareskrim has recommended that licences be revoked for 23 companies linked to forest and land fires, citing repeated fires, inadequate equipment and fires originating within their concessions. Police have opened 104 reports, advanced 97 to investigation and named 20 corporate suspects; the cases involve 29,168.78 hectares of burned land and include companies with foreign investment.

NHI Family Funwalk Open to the Public and Free of Charge

The NHI Family Funwalk and Bazaar 2026, organised by the NHI Bandung Alumni Association, will take place in Jakarta on 8 November and is free for the public to attend. The Tourism Ministry is supporting the event, which aims to strengthen tourism networks and community engagement while marking Heroes’ Day; organisers expect more than 1,000 participants.

Tanjung Jabung Barat hopes 6,811 household gas connections will be activated soon

Tanjung Jabung Barat Regency is urging the prompt activation of 6,811 completed household natural gas connections, which residents are still unable to use. The local government is also seeking priority for a further 19,750 connections in the 2027 national programme, saying expanded gas access could reduce reliance on often-scarce subsidised LPG and support households and small businesses.

MK Rejects Bid to Extend DPRD Members’ Terms Until 2031

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has rejected a petition seeking to extend the terms of regional council members elected for 2024–2029 until 2031, ruling that the petitioners lacked legal standing. The applicants argued that the separation of national and local elections could create uncertainty and vacancies in regional councils, but the Court found no infringement of their constitutional rights.

Astra International Posts Rp21.6 Trillion Net Profit in the Third Quarter of 2026

Astra International reported net profit of Rp21.6 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, with consolidated net revenue of Rp243.87 trillion. Growth in automotive and financial services, alongside a recovery in mining operations, helped offset pressure in the mining sector; automotive earnings rose 8 per cent and financial services earnings increased 6 per cent year on year.

Beeru Stevia Scandal: How Pure Stevia Differs from Blended Sweeteners

Beeru Indonesia has temporarily suspended sales of Beeru Stevia after an independent laboratory test reportedly detected neotame and sucralose that were not listed on the product label. The report has renewed scrutiny of sweetener claims and highlights the importance of checking ingredients, nutritional information and BPOM registration before buying stevia products.

MUI Deputy Chairman Appears as Defence Witness in Yaqut Cholil Case

Indonesian Ulema Council 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 administration of additional Hajj quotas in 2023 and 2024.

SBN Yields Hit Six-Year High, Raising Fears of a Bigger Indonesian Debt Burden

Indonesia’s 10-year government bond yield surged to 7.707%, its highest level in six years, amid capital outflows, rupiah weakness and investor caution. Demand at the latest government bond auction fell sharply, while higher yields could increase future government borrowing costs and constrain budget spending if the pressure persists.

As the US Softens its Stance on Myanmar, Will the EU Maintain Its Blockade?

The United States has quietly opened talks with Myanmar’s military authorities, while several ASEAN states are also restoring direct diplomatic contact. The EU continues to reject the junta’s legitimacy and maintain sanctions, but faces pressure to balance its democratic principles with the risk of being sidelined in discussions about Myanmar’s future.

List of 20 Corporations Suspected of Forest and Land Fires Includes Malaysian and Singaporean Firms

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named 20 corporations suspects in forest and land fire cases, covering 29,168.78 hectares across the country. Four are foreign-investment companies from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea; the companies face environmental charges carrying prison terms of up to five years and fines of up to Rp15 billion.

CTI Brings Bangka Cual, Dayak Iban and Lampung Inuh Weaving to JFW 2027

Cita Tenun Indonesia (CTI) showcased traditional textiles from Bangka Belitung, West Kalimantan and Lampung at Jakarta Fashion Week 2027, pairing weavers’ work with designs by three Indonesian fashion designers. CTI says many artisans and weaving traditions remain beyond the reach of its support, and stresses that preserving the craft also sustains livelihoods in local communities.

Deputy Manpower Minister stresses importance of training and job access for young people

Deputy Manpower Minister Afriansyah Noor has stressed that industry-aligned training and access to decent work are essential to help young people achieve economic independence. The government is expanding vocational training, apprenticeships and labour-market information, while working with local governments, universities and businesses to match training with available jobs.

Mercedes Crashes into Noodle Stall in Deli Serdang, Killing One and Injuring Four

A Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 struck a mi balap noodle stall beside the road in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra, killing one customer and injuring four other people. Police said the car was travelling towards Haji Medan General Hospital when it hit two vendors and three customers; the cause of the crash was not stated.

Moscow and Pyongyang back network sending workers to Russian factories, report says

A rights group says a network backed by Russia and North Korea is sending North Korean workers to Russian factories under exploitative conditions, in breach of UN sanctions, with much of their wages reportedly channelled to the North Korean state. The findings point to a connection between overseas forced labour, North Korea’s weapons programme and Russia’s wartime industrial needs, amid deepening military and political ties between the two countries.

Arab Party Bloc Set to Become ‘Kingmaker’ in Determining Israel’s Next Leader

With 89.8 per cent of votes counted, neither of the two main blocs is projected to secure the 61 seats needed for a Knesset majority. Arab-majority parties are forecast to win 19 seats, putting them in a potentially decisive position after record Arab voter turnout.

Pertamina Records 16,601 Beneficiaries of PFmuda Programme

Pertamina Foundation says its PFmuda youth social-entrepreneurship programme has reached 16,601 beneficiaries, including vulnerable groups, and helped create 2,208 jobs. By 2025, it had supported 362 winning groups across 28 provinces, with participating social enterprises averaging annual turnover of Rp270 million.

Beware Extremist Propaganda Traps, UI Terrorism Expert Urges Young People to Stay Rational

University of Indonesia terrorism analyst Muhamad Syauqillah warns that extremist groups exploit global conflicts and religious solidarity to undermine trust in Indonesia’s political system and promote divisive alternatives. He urges the government to communicate clearly and the public—especially young people—to respond rationally and pursue disagreements through democratic channels, not violence or calls to replace the state system.

Education Ministry develops vocational school models to reduce unemployment

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is developing vocational education models intended to better align graduates’ skills with employers’ needs and reduce unemployment among vocational school leavers. The initiatives include an optional fourth year to prepare students for overseas work, company-linked training and programmes tailored to regional economic strengths.

Parepare Class II TPI Immigration Office Opens Service Centre at Barru Public Service Mall

The Parepare Class II TPI Immigration Office and Barru Regency Government have opened an immigration service centre at Barru’s Public Service Mall, making passport applications more accessible to local residents. Officials say the facility is intended to provide faster, more efficient services without requiring residents to travel to Parepare.

North Sumatra Police Reveal TikToker’s Motive for Insulting Jesus During Livestream, Citing Economic Hardship

North Sumatra Police say TikToker Ritman Marbun allegedly made offensive remarks about Jesus during a livestream amid unresolved economic problems and declining online popularity. He has been named a suspect in an alleged blasphemy case and detained for 20 days, while police continue to investigate whether other factors were involved.

Singapore Foreign Minister on Transboundary Haze: We Will Hold Them Accountable

Singapore and Indonesia have agreed to establish a joint task force to improve coordination and information-sharing in tackling transboundary haze and forest and land fires. Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said the cooperation should help hold companies responsible and prevent repeat incidents, while the two countries also discussed stronger legal and policy measures.

Bulog forms special task force to tighten oversight of SPHP rice distribution

State-owned logistics company Bulog has formed a special task force to strengthen oversight of government rice distribution under the SPHP price-stabilisation programme, following allegations of misuse by distribution partners in East Jakarta. The company has also suspended six employees pending internal reviews and says it will assess partner compliance to ensure rice reaches the public at regulated prices.

Amran to Issue Circular After Exposing SPHP Rice Repalletising Case

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman says a nationwide circular will strengthen oversight and public awareness of food-sector violations, following allegations that subsidised SPHP rice was repackaged and sold as premium rice. Authorities say about 600 tonnes may have been involved, potentially diverting Rp3.3 billion in subsidies, and plan wider inspections while working with law-enforcement agencies.

Social Affairs Ministry recruits more than 13,000 staff to meet needs of Sekolah Rakyat

The Social Affairs Ministry has recruited around 13,000 teachers and student-support staff for its Sekolah Rakyat programme, with further open recruitment planned each year. The government aims to expand the free schools to 500 locations by 2029; the programme currently operates at 182 sites and serves 44,000 pupils from the country’s poorest households.

Video: Digitalising Steel Plants for Efficient Production and Lower Logistics Costs

Garuda Yamato Steel’s IT director says digitalisation is essential to improving competitiveness by streamlining customer ordering, securing raw-material supplies and making steel production more efficient. The company’s technology investments span IT and operational technology, with data integration also expected to support decision-making in the age of artificial intelligence.

Residents Protest Broken Bojonggede Station Escalator with Funeral Wreaths

Residents have placed funeral wreaths and protest messages beside a long-broken escalator at Bojonggede Station’s skybridge, saying its failure makes access more difficult. Bogor regency officials are responsible for the escalator, and technicians have begun repair work.

Doctor: Choosing a Collagen Stimulator Requires Careful Consideration of Risks

An aesthetics doctor says collagen-stimulator treatments should be selected according to a patient’s skin condition, the product’s properties and injection technique, with potential complications taken into account. Patients should discuss benefits, limitations, alternatives and aftercare with a qualified doctor; claims that newer formulations eliminate complications require adequate clinical evidence.

Constitutional Court: Local Leaders Accused of Political Crimes Cannot Be Suspended Without a DPRD Proposal

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has partially granted a petition challenging rules on the suspension of regional heads, ruling that suspension without a Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) proposal must not apply to defendants accused of political crimes or negligence. It also broadened the threshold to offences carrying a maximum prison sentence of five years or more and clarified that suspension begins when the case is registered in court.

BGN Targets 5,000–10,000 Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens for Buffet Service by End-2026

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) aims for 5,000–10,000 kitchens serving the Free Nutritious Meals programme to adopt a buffet-style system by the end of 2026. After an initial trial at 66 kitchens, the agency plans to extend the pilot to about 230 more, seeking to reduce food-safety incidents and serve meals warm in portions aligned with pupils’ nutritional needs.

The effect of the ‘selebcat’ phenomenon on cats in public places

Viral photos and videos of cats living in public spaces can raise awareness of animal welfare, but the attention they attract may cause stress, particularly for cats with past trauma. A veterinarian advises visitors to watch for signs of discomfort, let cats approach on their own terms and respect their need for space.

Israeli Politics Heat Up as Netanyahu’s Future Remains Uncertain and Shekel Slumps

The shekel fell to its weakest closing level since April as preliminary election results suggested neither Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition nor the opposition could secure a parliamentary majority. With coalition negotiations potentially leading to prolonged deadlock or another election, investors also sold Israeli shares and pushed up government bond yields.

UNAIR Patriot Expedition Team Examines 1,000 Cattle in Manokwari Through Mobile Livestock Clinics

The Airlangga University Patriot Expedition Team has examined 1,000 cattle in Prafi district, Manokwari, using mobile livestock clinics, with 150–250 animals requiring follow-up checks. The initiative provides veterinary care, treatment and husbandry guidance while helping farmers reduce costs, supporting broader efforts to strengthen food self-sufficiency in Papua.

Pertamina Tightens Fuel Distribution Monitoring in Several Regions

Pertamina Patra Niaga is stepping up monitoring and accelerating fuel deliveries in areas affected by distribution disruptions, with queues in Bali, East Java and North Sulawesi now under control while those in Lampung and Gorontalo are easing. It has added 72 tanker trucks across East Java, North Sulawesi and Lampung, alongside round-the-clock terminal and service-station operations, to restore supply and maintain public services.

One Year of Sekolah Rakyat: Social Affairs Ministry’s Effort to Break the Cycle of Poverty

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry marked the first anniversary of Sekolah Rakyat, a school programme intended to prevent poverty from being passed down through generations by bringing education directly to disadvantaged children. The ministry says the network now serves 44,000 students and combines education with health, family support and pathways to further study or work.

Police Uncover North Sumatra Drug Warehouse, Seize Meth and Ecstasy from Malaysia

Medan police seized 3kg of methamphetamine, 10,000 ecstasy pills and 1,778 drug-filled vapes from two storage sites in North Sumatra. The drugs, reportedly supplied from Malaysia, were valued at Rp10 billion, and police are seeking a Malaysian suspect believed to have supplied the network.

BGN Saves Rp44 Trillion During Sudaryono’s First 100 Days in Charge: The Breakdown

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it has returned a total of Rp44 trillion to the state treasury through budget and operational savings during Sudaryono’s first 100 days as its head. The agency has also introduced a flat Rp2,000 per-meal incentive for nutrition service units and returned a further Rp160 billion following audit findings and recommendations.

Education Minister: Overseas Interns Can Promote Indonesia Abroad

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti urged young Indonesians taking up internships and jobs overseas to promote Indonesian products and strengthen the country’s international image. He said they could support exports and contribute to Indonesia through the skills, experience and networks they gain abroad, while remaining connected to their homeland.

Police Insist Pakansari Match Machete Attack Suspect Was Not a Supporter

Police have arrested MR, 26, over the fatal machete attack on football supporter ARK on the Jakarta–Bogor road in West Java. Bogor Police say MR was not a supporter of either club, and are continuing to investigate his motive; a sickle has been seized as evidence.

How to Free Up Google Photos Storage

Google Photos storage is shared with Gmail and Google Drive, so a crowded photo library can also prevent Gmail from receiving new messages. The article explains how to review and delete large or unwanted files using the Google Photos app or a computer, helping users reclaim cloud space without immediately subscribing to Google One.

Gold Prices Fall Again as Fed Interest Rate Outlook Worries Investors

Spot gold fell 0.7% as investors weighed continuing geopolitical uncertainty and awaited US inflation data for clues about the Federal Reserve’s next rate move. Although the Fed held rates at 3.75–4.00%, markets continued to price in a possible December increase, while the World Bank forecast a 23% rise in global commodity prices in 2026.

Andre Rosiade Urges Padang to Turn Flood-River Sediment into a Source of Revenue

Andre Rosiade has asked Padang City Government to assess whether sediment dredged from rivers after floods can be legally and sustainably used to generate local revenue. Officials say about 700,000 cubic metres have been removed from the Batang Kuranji, with a further 500,000 cubic metres deposited after flooding on 10 October 2026; flood-control works in West Sumatra have allocations totalling around Rp4.3 trillion.

Analyst: Indonesia Needs ASEAN Cyber Cooperation to Combat Online Gambling

International relations analyst Teuku Rezasyah has urged Indonesia to work with ASEAN countries to track cross-border online gambling networks, prosecute operators and trace criminal proceeds. He proposed an ASEAN cyber centre or task force, alongside stronger domestic enforcement and digital literacy, as differing national laws and policies continue to hamper joint action.

PDI-P Holds Intergenerational Dialogue to Mark 98th Anniversary of Youth Pledge

PDI-P’s youth and sports division and Millennium Public Pulse 28 brought together speakers from different generations to discuss the future of young Indonesians, particularly Generation Z. They argued that policy must draw on data and young people’s lived experience, while raising concerns about the treatment of critical voices and the economic pressures facing the next generation.

Jakarta Assembly Member Lists Prabowo Government’s Achievements Amid Protests

Jakarta Regional House of Representatives member Ali Lubis has defended President Prabowo Subianto’s administration amid protests, citing programmes ranging from free meals and healthcare to food self-sufficiency and housing. His list also includes claims about recovered state assets, school revitalisation and support for workers, while asserting that the administration’s record explains why it has faced demonstrations.

Meeting the ‘Father of Asian EVs’, Vice-President Gibran Discusses Home-grown Electric Vehicles

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming called for stronger innovation and domestic electric-vehicle technology development to boost Indonesia’s technological independence and industrial competitiveness. Discussions with Professor Ching-Chuen Chan also covered government support, consumer incentives, skills and curriculum, and Indonesia–China collaboration.

Singapore Foreign Minister Comments on Indonesian Gas After Meeting Prabowo

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said both countries are committed to honouring existing contracts, amid Indonesia’s cuts to gas exports. He said Singapore has strengthened its energy resilience through an LNG terminal and diversified supply, and also outlined plans for a joint task force with Indonesia to address smoke haze from forest and land fires.

North Sumatra Police Arrest Ritman Marbun over Alleged Insults to Jesus During Livestream

North Sumatra Regional Police have detained TikTok creator Ritman Marbun after a livestream in which he allegedly made insulting remarks about Jesus went viral. Police say the case is being handled by their cybercrime directorate and have urged the public not to be provoked by social media reports.

BGN’s Rp44 Trillion in MBG Budget Savings Reflect Improved Governance

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says it has returned Rp44 trillion to the state after reviewing spending on the Free Nutritious Meals programme during the first 100 days of Sudaryono’s leadership. The savings include reductions to the agency’s allocation and operational costs, alongside the recovery of funds linked to fictitious virtual-account balances; BGN also says it returned a further Rp160 billion following audit findings and oversight recommendations.

Wedding Party in Belu Turns Violent, Young Man Stabbed in the Abdomen

A 20-year-old man was stabbed during a wedding celebration in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara, after a brawl reportedly fuelled by alcohol. Police arrested a 21-year-old suspect and said the victim was undergoing surgery at Atambua Regional General Hospital.

Flavio Bolsonaro Reveals Why He Fled to the US After Losing Brazil’s Presidential Election

Flavio Bolsonaro has claimed he is Brazil’s legitimate president and says he will lead the opposition from exile in the United States after narrowly losing the run-off to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He accused Brazil’s judiciary of political persecution and rejected the official vote count, but offered no evidence of electoral fraud.

Prabowo’s Flagship Programme Could Revive Indonesia’s Industrialisation

The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry says mining downstreaming can help restore industrial growth and make better use of Indonesia’s demographic dividend. Officials point to unfinished processing chains in bauxite and tin, arguing that more production should reach finished goods to generate wider economic benefits.

For the People: The Fish-and-Water Bond Reflected in Half a Quilt

The article recounts stories from the Long March to illustrate the Chinese Communist Party’s claims of solidarity with ordinary people, including Red Army soldiers sharing their only quilt and negotiating peaceful passage through Yi territory. It links that historical legacy to contemporary party members’ work in poverty alleviation and rural revitalisation, framing service to the people as a continuing political mission.

Bamsoet Says Circulation of Narcotic-Containing Vapes Is Alarming

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo has urged the police chief to crack down on vapes containing liquid narcotics, citing BNN testing in which 98% of 1,789 vape-liquid samples tested between January 2025 and September 2026 contained narcotics, psychotropic substances or new psychoactive substances. He has called for stronger controls across the supply chain, thorough investigations targeting suppliers and financiers, and even a total ban to protect young people.

Besides Cilacap, Blora Also Receives 100 Water Tankers from Minister Agus

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has sent 100 tankers carrying 500,000 litres of clean water to drought-hit Blora, alongside 200 food packages for affected residents. The distribution is part of the ministry’s “Imipas Cares” initiative, following a similar delivery to Cilacap, where residents have faced dry wells and costly water purchases.

Brake Failure Suspected as Truck Carrying Three Tonnes of Sulphuric Acid Crashes on Kertek Descent in Wonosobo

A Toyota Dyna truck carrying about three tonnes of sulphuric acid crashed into an emergency escape lane on the Parakan–Kertek road in Wonosobo, with brake failure suspected. The driver was injured and taken to hospital, while the truck was damaged and its chemical cargo spilled onto the escape lane.

Kemnaker Confirms 2026 Wage Subsidy Payment Schedule, Amount and How to Check Eligibility

Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry says the Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU) for October–December 2026 is expected to be paid in November–December, although no specific date has been set. Eligible recipients are due to receive Rp900,000 in total, while regulations, beneficiary data and budget preparations are still under way.

PR Fathiya Nur Salsabila Granted NPPBKC Licence After Meeting Business Requirements

PR Fathiya Nur Salsabila has received a key excise-business licence from Malang Customs after meeting the required administrative and physical criteria. The licence is intended to enable lawful tobacco production and support compliance with excise rules.

Indonesia invites US businesses to strengthen trade partnerships

Indonesia has invited US businesses to deepen trade and investment cooperation, with discussions covering the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and support for Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The United States is a major contributor to Indonesia’s trade surplus: bilateral trade reached US$32.34 billion in January–August 2026, generating a US$12.47 billion surplus for Indonesia.

Creative Economy Ministry Urges MSMEs to Tap Markets and Protect Intellectual Property

Indonesia’s Creative Economy Ministry is urging micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to protect their intellectual property and use digital tools to reach global markets. Deputy Minister Irene Umar also highlighted the commercial value of Indonesian cultural storytelling and partnerships with international creative platforms in strengthening the appeal of local products.

Prabowo welcomes Singaporean foreign minister Balakrishnan for closed-door talks

President Prabowo Subianto met Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan at the latter’s request, with officials describing the meeting as a way to address neighbouring countries’ concerns and strengthen regional communication. The talks followed bilateral discussions on forest and land fires, their haze impacts on Singapore, and plans for an Indonesia-Singapore task force to support joint response efforts.

Nine Areas in North Sumatra Hit by Floods and Landslides After Heavy Rain

Flooding and landslides triggered by intense rainfall have affected nine regencies and cities across North Sumatra, forcing residents to evacuate, although no deaths have been reported. The disasters have damaged roads and a river embankment, disrupted access and left 603 people displaced in Medan, while local authorities continue to assess the damage and respond.

Singapore Ready to Work with Indonesia to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said the two countries should work directly together to address transboundary haze, including through a joint task force for coordination and information-sharing. Singapore is also exploring stronger legal and policy measures to hold companies accountable and help prevent the fires from recurring.

Ombudsman: Certainty in Licensing Services Supports Ease of Doing Business

Ombudsman RI member Radian Syam says predictable, lawful and accountable licensing services are essential to making it easier to do business in Indonesia. He warns that maladministration can undermine public trust and the business climate, and says effective oversight should lead to tangible corrections and better governance.

French Politician Defends Mbappe over ‘Dictator’ Remark about Mao Zedong

French politician Marine Tondelier has defended Kylian Mbappe’s description of Mao Zedong as a dictator, calling it historically established fact rather than an opinion. The controversy has prompted apologies from Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga, while Chinese sponsors have severed ties with the footballer and Chinese state television has suspended broadcasts of Spain’s top-flight league.

Tropical Cyclone 91B Forms Suddenly, Two Regions on Alert for Heavy Rain

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says Tropical Cyclone 91B has formed in the Andaman Sea and could bring moderate to heavy rain to Aceh and North Sumatra, as well as rougher seas in the northern Malacca Strait, through 30 October. The agency also forecasts that much of Indonesia will enter the 2026/2027 rainy season in November and December, with its onset delayed and the season shorter than usual in many areas.

Forestry Officer Dies After Being Struck by Tree While Fighting North Toraja Wildfire

A forestry officer in North Toraja, South Sulawesi, died after a falling tree struck him while he was helping tackle a forest and land fire. The blaze in Lembang Nanna had been burning since 19 October; the officer was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Pandu’s Stake in Supra Sekuritas: No Allegation of Wrongdoing

Danantara Indonesia CIO Pandu Sjahrir holds a passive, indirect minority stake in Supra Sekuritas, but has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with OJK’s recent capital-market sanctions. The regulator’s penalties, totalling Rp2.1 trillion, relate to alleged market manipulation involving three listed companies and come amid efforts to strengthen market transparency and governance.

245 People Named as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, with the Highest Numbers in West Kalimantan and Riau

Indonesia’s National Police say 245 individuals have been named as suspects in forest and land fires by the end of October 2026, with 287 police reports covering 5,859.12 hectares. West Kalimantan and Riau recorded the most cases; police have also named 20 companies, including four foreign-investment firms, as suspects, and say they will pursue cases against individuals and corporations.

Government targets 42.6 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2034

Indonesia plans to add 69.5 GW of power-generation capacity by 2034, with 42.6 GW, or about 61 per cent, coming from new and renewable energy under PLN’s 2025–2034 electricity supply plan. The programme could create investment opportunities worth up to Rp2,967.4 trillion.

Kazakhstan Offers Halal Tourism to Indonesian Travellers, Highlighting Key Destinations

Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Indonesia is promoting the country as a halal-friendly destination, citing rising visitor numbers from Indonesia and interest in winter travel and Islamic heritage. He highlighted Turkistan’s historic Islamic monuments, including a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and said Kazakhstan offers halal standards and a welcoming environment for Muslim families.

SPHP Rice Mixing Case Draws in Bulog and Bapanas Officials: How It Worked

Bulog says subsidised SPHP rice bought through its official Klik SPHP channel was allegedly repackaged and resold as premium rice in East Jakarta. Investigators traced the supply to a registered Rumah Pangan Kita partner who reportedly placed repeated four-tonne orders, while a joint task force examines possible internal involvement; eight Bulog and Bapanas officials have been dismissed.

Police Hold Youth Pledge Declaration with Students at Bundaran HI

Metro Jaya Regional Police held a 2026 Indonesian Students’ Youth Pledge declaration at Bundaran HI, with around 100 students pledging to uphold fraternity, respect differences and use open dialogue to preserve national unity. Presidential special envoy Raffi Ahmad said young people today must counter misinformation, hate speech and provocation online, while police officials urged them to turn the declaration into positive action.

Meutya Hafid urges US tech firms to expand digital investment in Indonesia

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has urged US technology companies to expand investment in Indonesia, with benefits extending beyond infrastructure to skills, knowledge transfer and improved public services. At a meeting with the US-ASEAN Business Council, she also highlighted AI safeguards and predictable regulation as priorities for building an inclusive and trusted digital ecosystem.

Andre Rosiade Inspects River Dredging Project in West Sumatra After Flash Floods

MP Andre Rosiade inspected post-flood river works in Padang, urging the government to move swiftly from emergency response to permanent rehabilitation and reconstruction. West Sumatra has allocated about Rp4.3 trillion for water-resource recovery, including river and flood-control projects across 43 rivers, with work in Padang brought forward amid repeated flooding.

38 Bekasi City Community Organisation Members Trained in Hairdressing Through ‘Poliran’

Bekasi City Police have trained 38 members of local community organisations in hairdressing through the Police Cares for the Unemployed (Poliran) programme, with the aim of helping them find work or start small businesses. The initiative forms part of a wider effort to link public safety with employment skills and community welfare.

House Commission III Responds to Calls to Redefine Corruption in the Corruption Law

Deputy chairman of House Commission III Ahmad Sahroni says any revision of the Corruption Eradication Law must be based on clear, objective and transparent aims and receive comprehensive scrutiny. The debate follows the government’s plan to refine the definition of corruption, which it says is intended to strengthen legal certainty without weakening anti-corruption efforts; Commission III is currently prioritising the Asset Forfeiture Bill.

Ombudsman: Strengthening the Institution Is Essential for National Development

Ombudsman RI says stronger institutional capacity is needed to support national development and improve public services. In talks with Bappenas, it sought a greater role in development planning, performance-based regional funding and continued use of its assessments as an indicator of local government performance.

Semeru Rain-Induced Lahars Threaten Besuk Kobokan Area up to 17 Kilometres Away

Lumajang’s disaster management agency has urged people to stay at least 500 metres from riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan, where hot clouds and lahar flows could extend up to 17 kilometres from Mount Semeru’s summit. The warning comes after rainfall increased over the past five days, raising the risk of rain-triggered lahar floods.

12 Countries with the Highest Birth Rates, Including Indonesia

UN projections put India first for births in 2025, at 23.07 million, with Indonesia ranking sixth at 4.44 million. The figures highlight contrasting demographic trajectories: China is the only country among the 12 projected to record more deaths than births, while global fertility decline and ageing populations are reshaping growth patterns.

Rupiah Strengthens Against US Dollar After Fed’s Latest Decision

The rupiah rose 0.24 per cent to Rp18,141 per US dollar at Thursday’s open after the Federal Reserve kept its policy rate at 3.75–4.00 per cent. Permata Bank chief economist Josua Pardede said the Fed gave no clear signal on its December decision, leaving US economic and inflation data central to the currency’s outlook; he expects the rupiah to trade between Rp18,100 and Rp18,225 per dollar.

Meutya Hafid Urges US Technology Investment, Focusing on AI and Indonesian Digital Talent

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has called on US technology firms to expand investment in Indonesia, with a focus on job creation, workforce skills and public services. She said AI development should be supported by predictable regulation and safeguards for children and personal data, while US-ASEAN Business Council representatives stressed the need for closer public-private cooperation.

Komaidi: New Procurement Rules Must Deliver Affordable Fuel Prices

ReforMiner Institute executive director Komaidi Notonegoro says Presidential Regulation No. 107 of 2026 should ensure reliable energy supplies, affordable prices and measurable savings for the state budget. The regulation shifts imports of crude oil, fuel and LPG from a market-based corporate model to government-led procurement, a change he says must be supported by aligned rules and clear institutional governance.

Indonesia and Kazakhstan seek to expand trade ahead of Prabowo’s visit

Indonesia and Kazakhstan are preparing more than 20 bilateral agreements covering areas including trade, investment and digitalisation ahead of President Prabowo Subianto’s planned visit. Bilateral trade currently stands at about US$250 million, and Kazakhstan’s ambassador said the Indonesia–Eurasian Economic Union free trade agreement could help boost trade and cooperation.

Jakarta Speeds Up River Improvements Ahead of November Rainy Season

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the provincial government is accelerating river and drainage works to reduce flood risks ahead of rains expected from late November. Projects include dredging and normalisation across several waterways, as well as improvements to retention ponds and a river confluence, amid the possibility of a shift from El Niño to wetter La Niña conditions.

Apple Launches Its First Touchscreen MacBook Pro, Coming Soon to Indonesia

Apple has unveiled 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring tandem OLED displays, touchscreen controls and Dynamic Island, powered by its M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. The company says the laptops will soon go on sale in Indonesia, though local prices have not yet been announced.

Jokowi Awaits Prosecutors’ Invitation to Roy Suryo Trial: ‘I Will Attend’

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo says he will testify in the case against Roy Suryo if prosecutors formally invite him. Prosecutors are expected to summon Widodo and his aide, Syarif Muhammad Fitriansyah, to appear at a hearing on 5 November.

Mentan Removes Eight Bulog and Bapanas Officials over Alleged SPHP Rice Adulteration Case

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says eight officials at state food agency Bapanas and state-owned Bulog have been removed, while two others received warnings, following an alleged case of adulterated government-distributed SPHP rice. He said the officials’ roles are still being investigated and that anyone found guilty will face legal action.

Thailand hosts 2026 IMF-World Bank meetings and releases Bangkok Dialogue Notes

Thailand’s finance minister has unveiled the Bangkok Dialogue Notes, a set of reflections from the country’s role as host of the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings, centred on building resilience through trusted global connections and stronger local capabilities. The document outlines five themes and four programme pillars, spanning digital technology, trade and investment, climate adaptation, and demographic change, and calls for practical cooperation that delivers tangible benefits for people and businesses.

Malaysian and Singaporean Companies Named as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency has named 20 companies as suspects in forest and land fires, including firms linked to Singapore and Malaysia. Investigators say fires affected more than 29,000 hectares across cases, and the companies face environmental-law charges carrying prison sentences and fines of up to Rp15 billion.

OJK Welcomes ASEAN Capital Markets Forum’s Support for Capital Market Reforms

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum’s backing for Indonesia’s capital market reforms, which focus on transparency, enforcement and liquidity. OJK says it will continue improving governance, disclosure, supervision and market structure to strengthen investor protection and confidence, while ACMF recognises Indonesia’s regulatory progress and its importance in regional cooperation.

Singapore Foreign Minister Speaks Out About Meeting Prabowo: What Did They Discuss?

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said she did not disclose details of her closed-door meeting with President Prabowo Subianto, but stressed the need to implement commitments made at the highest level. Her visit also focused on cross-border haze, cooperative solutions and preparedness, while talks with Indonesia’s foreign minister covered forest fires, enforcement, economic ties and ASEAN’s 2027 agenda.

Vice-President Urges Innovation in Home-grown Electric Vehicles

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming has called for stronger innovation and development of Indonesian electric-vehicle technology to build technological independence and improve the competitiveness of the national industry. Officials and an EV expert also highlighted consumer incentives, industry-focused skills and education, Indonesia-China collaboration, and research-led innovation as priorities for developing the sector.

Food Mafia War Continues as Agriculture Minister Amran Finds Suspected 600 Tonnes of Subsidised Rice Repackaged as Premium Rice

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says an alleged scheme to blend or repackage subsidised SPHP rice as premium rice must spur a wider crackdown on food-mafia networks. During a raid in East Jakarta, he praised police cooperation and called for investigators to trace the suspected operation beyond the premises where it was uncovered.

Pramono assures Jakarta flood-control budget will not be cut

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says funding for the city’s Water Resources Agency flood-control work will be protected despite adjustments to the regional budget. The 2026 Jakarta budget is set at Rp81.32 trillion, down Rp10.54 trillion from 2025, largely because central-government transfers have fallen.

Home Affairs Minister Prepares Rp1 Trillion in Incentives for Regions Supporting the Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian says the central government will provide Rp1 trillion in fiscal incentives to local governments that help deliver the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Incentives will be awarded through a competitive scheme, while local MBG task forces are also being tasked with inspecting and assessing nutrition service units.

Man Killed After Being Struck by Balas Train in Soragan Was SPPG Employee

A 21-year-old employee of an SPPG in Tegalrejo, identified by police as PWR, died after being struck by a Balas train at the Soragan railway crossing in Bantul. Police said the train driver sounded the warning repeatedly, while crossing staff reported not seeing the man approach the tracks.

Singapore Stresses Search for Joint Solutions with Indonesia to Tackle Haze

Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan says a joint task force with Indonesia will coordinate responses and information-sharing to address transboundary haze and hold companies responsible for fires. The two countries say the initiative will strengthen law enforcement against corporations linked to forest and land fires, with long-term efforts also aimed at restoring affected land and assets.

Rupiah Hits Record Low as Investors Grow Wary of Indonesia

The rupiah fell to a record low of Rp 18,183 per US dollar, as global pressures combine with domestic concerns over fiscal risks, investment policy and a possible MSCI market-classification downgrade. Bank Indonesia says it is intervening to stabilise the currency, but analysts warn that prolonged weakness could raise import costs and inflation, strain government finances and lead businesses to delay investment.

Hong Leong Bank boosts cross-border payment connectivity through UnionPay International partnership

Hong Leong Bank has partnered with UnionPay International to let customers make QR payments at more than 120 million merchants in mainland China and participating outlets in Hong Kong, Macao and Thailand through the HLB Connect app. The service builds on the bank’s multi-currency account features and expands its range of overseas payment options, reflecting efforts to make cross-border transactions more convenient and secure.

Bogor City Police Prioritise Education in Operation Patuh to Reduce Accidents

Bogor City Police are conducting a two-week traffic operation that emphasises persuasive education alongside enforcement, with a particular focus on helmet use among schoolchildren. Officers say they will issue penalties selectively when violations endanger road users, targeting offences including riding without helmets, drink-driving, wrong-way driving and using a phone while driving.

Police Name 20 Corporations as Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, Including Four Foreign Investors

Indonesia’s National Police have named 20 corporations as suspects in alleged forest and land-fire cases, including four foreign-investment companies from Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. The cases concern 29,168.78 hectares of burned land, and investigators say the number of corporate suspects could rise as inquiries continue.

Japan’s Defence Minister Cites Three Reasons for ‘Deteriorating’ Security in Southeast Asia

Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi identified worsening natural disasters, conflicts disrupting supply chains and energy supplies, and rapidly shifting military balances as three pressures on Southeast Asia’s security. He pledged Japan’s support for ASEAN and stressed the importance of unity, centrality and resilience as regional tensions and risks of miscalculation grow.

Operation Patuh Agung 2026: Bali Police Crack Down on Offences and Educate Motorists

Bali police are enforcing traffic rules and educating motorists during Operation Patuh Agung 2026, targeting unsafe vehicles and driving practices. Officials say enforcement is a last resort, with the broader aim of building public awareness that road safety is essential rather than simply avoiding police checks.

Amran Dismisses Bapanas and Bulog Officials over Alleged SPHP Rice Misappropriation

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency chief Andi Amran Sulaiman has dismissed eight officials from Bapanas and state-owned Bulog and issued warnings to two others following alleged misuse of subsidised SPHP rice. The investigation concerns rice bought from Bulog, repackaged and sold as premium or mixed with other rice; nine private-sector actors are being investigated, with one named as a suspect. Bulog says the suspensions are an accountability measure to protect the investigation, and officials found uninvolved will be reinstated.

House of Representatives Gives Indonesia’s Mining Downstreaming Programme Near-Perfect Score

A member of the House of Representatives’ Commission XII has rated Indonesia’s mining downstreaming efforts nine out of ten, citing the shift away from selling minerals in raw form. He said downstream processing is advancing across sectors, while zircon and monazite remain challenging and nickel processing is expanding into battery materials and lower-grade limonite ore.

Mampang River Normalisation: Pramono Says Jakarta Is Ready for the Rainy Season

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says dredging and embankment maintenance on the Mampang and Krukut rivers are part of an integrated effort to reduce flood risks ahead of the rainy season. Work has removed thousands of cubic metres of sediment, with further dredging and river improvements planned across the capital.

BKSDA Says Anak Krakatau Is Not a Tourist Destination

Conservation authorities have warned that tourism and recreational activities are illegal in the Anak Krakatau island group, which is a protected nature reserve reserved for education and research. The warning follows three eruptions in less than an hour, while the volcano remains at Alert Level III and a five-kilometre exclusion zone is in force.

BPS DKI Jakarta Has Recorded 1.4 Million Businesses in 2026 Economic Census

BPS DKI Jakarta has enumerated 1,431,051 businesses in the 2026 Economic Census, exceeding its target of about 1.2 million. The census data is expected to inform government policy, investment decisions and programmes ranging from social protection to job creation, with further follow-up visits continuing until 31 October.

How to Check the List of 2027 Pilgrims Eligible to Pay Hajj Costs

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has published the names of regular Hajj candidates allocated places for the 1448 Hijri/2027 season and eligible to settle their pilgrimage costs. Pilgrims can check their departure status on the ministry’s website and should complete health assessments to establish medical istithaah before paying the Hajj Travel Costs (Bipih).

Metro Jaya Police and Students Hold Youth Pledge Declaration at Bundaran HI

Metro Jaya Police and 100 students marked Youth Pledge Day with a declaration at Bundaran HI, calling for unity, dialogue and a commitment to contribute positively to Indonesia. Presidential Special Envoy Raffi Ahmad urged young people to resist online misinformation, hate speech and provocation, while police said the gathering was intended to strengthen ties between students, communities and security personnel.

Jakarta Police Prepare Security for 61 Demonstrations Today

Metro Jaya Police say 61 demonstrations and 17 other public activities are scheduled across Jakarta today, including events outside government buildings and a protest by Trisakti University students. Police, the military and the Jakarta provincial government will provide security, while urging demonstrators to notify police and hold peaceful, orderly events.

Forest and Land Fires Burn 5,859 Hectares; Police Name 245 Suspects

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency says 245 people have been named as suspects in forest and land fire cases covering 5,859.12 hectares, across 287 police reports. West Kalimantan has the most reports, while investigators say suspects allegedly cleared land by burning, intentionally or through negligence, and face potential prison terms and substantial fines.

Suspect in Fatal Bogor Football Supporter Machete Attack Paraded

Police have arrested MR, 26, as the main suspect in the fatal machete attack on football supporter ARK in Bogor, West Java. Investigators are still examining the motive; police say MR was not a supporter of any football club and have seized a sickle as evidence.

Pupuk Kaltim Pledges to Create a Healthy and Inclusive Workplace

Pupuk Kaltim says it is strengthening a safe, inclusive workplace through anti-harassment policies, employee development and innovation programmes, and formal industrial relations. The fertiliser producer reported 1,325 innovation papers in 2024 and efficiency savings of Rp215.8 billion, while extending human-rights and labour standards to suppliers across its value chain.

Risk Premium Surges as Indonesian Government Bonds Draw Few Bids, Investors Grow Uneasy

Indonesia’s five-year credit default swap (CDS) premium remains above 100 basis points, while investor bids at the government’s latest bond auction fell by around 52% from the previous sale. Economists say heightened risk perceptions and demands for higher yields are weighing on demand, even as the government limits borrowing costs; prolonged market pressure could defer rather than eliminate financing risks.

Deputy Human Rights Minister stresses human rights protections in Asset Forfeiture Bill

Deputy Human Rights Minister Mugiyanto says the Asset Forfeiture Bill must combine effective crime-fighting powers with legal safeguards for constitutional rights, including protections for innocent third parties. As Parliament accelerates consideration of the bill, he calls for oversight, due process and remedies for errors to be built into the law.

WFP Warns Food Insecurity in Haiti Could Reach Record Levels in 2027

The UN World Food Programme says the number of Haitians facing acute food insecurity could rise to a record 6.35 million between March and June 2027, more than 500,000 above the same period in 2026. Violence, economic instability, crop failures, forced displacement and El Niño are worsening hunger, while WFP says it needs US$78 million to continue its operations through March.

Uma Palak Farmers’ Story Draws ASCOPE Delegation’s Attention, from Irrigation Water to Energy Self-Sufficiency

A renewable-energy irrigation system in Bali’s Subak Sembung is helping farmers manage water more efficiently and reduce operating costs, while powering electric farming equipment. During an ASCOPE delegation visit, Pertamina also provided a rice-milling machine, extending support to post-harvest processing and farmers’ self-reliance.

Police Name 245 Suspects in Forest and Land Fires, 5,859 Hectares Burned

Indonesia’s National Police have named 245 individuals as suspects in connection with forest and land fires covering 5,859.12 hectares, across 287 police reports. West Kalimantan recorded the most reports; those charged face potential prison sentences and fines under plantation, environmental and forestry laws.

Indonesia and ILO launch decent work programme for 2026–2030

Indonesia and the International Labour Organization have launched the fourth phase of the Decent Work Country Programme, with the government, employers and labour unions committing to work together. The programme will focus on social dialogue, inclusive and productive employment, and broader social protection amid widespread informal work and labour-market changes driven by digitalisation, AI and the green transition.

Pati Disaster Agency Continues Water Deliveries as Drought Spreads

Drought has now affected 81 villages across 12 subdistricts in Pati, Central Java, prompting the district disaster agency to increase clean-water deliveries to around 30 tanker trucks a day. The regency has allocated Rp20 billion in contingency funds, while public and private organisations are also providing emergency water to residents.

28,000 University Students from Multiple Disciplines Targeted for AI Training

A free, structured programme aims to equip 28,000 students from Indonesian universities with AI skills by 2027, with more than 14,200 already enrolled as of October 2026. Organisers say practical training, hackathons and government-backed startup incubation are intended to help students across disciplines turn AI knowledge into innovations and businesses.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens Fuel and LPG Supplies, Preparing Hundreds of Distribution Facilities

Pertamina Patra Niaga says it is diversifying crude oil and fuel procurement and deepening international partnerships to safeguard energy supplies amid global geopolitical uncertainty. It operates a nationwide network of fuel, aviation fuel and LPG terminals, as well as floating storage facilities, to maintain distribution—including in areas with challenging geography—and says affordability and service reliability remain priorities.

US Orders Government Staff and Families to Leave Saudi Arabia Amid Security Risks

The US State Department has ordered non-emergency government employees and their families to leave Saudi Arabia, citing Houthi attacks on airports and other critical infrastructure. The embassy also warns of possible airspace closures and severe travel disruption, and requires staff who remain to obtain special permission before using any Saudi airport.

North Korea Fires Unidentified Projectile Towards the East Sea

North Korea fired an unidentified projectile from its east coast, with South Korea and Japan reporting that it appeared to be a ballistic missile and fell into the sea. The launch comes amid rising tensions over landmines in the Demilitarised Zone and as US President Donald Trump seeks renewed engagement with Pyongyang, raising concerns that Seoul could be sidelined in any nuclear talks.

Yusril Urges Young People to Uphold the National Pledge Through Legal Certainty

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra called on young people to uphold national unity and integrity by ensuring fair, certain laws. He linked the Youth Pledge to Indonesia’s legal reforms, including the national Criminal Code taking effect in 2026, and said sound legal rules are essential to economic development and the country’s 2045 ambitions.

Bappenas Chief: Housing Sector Has a Major Multiplier Effect

National Development Planning Minister and Bappenas chief Rachmat Pambudy said housing development can stimulate related industries and wider economic activity. He called for an integrated housing ecosystem, clear policies and sustained programmes to address the housing backlog, while Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait outlined initiatives including construction, renovation and subsidised financing.

BRI Makes Top 50 Big-Cap Issuers in IICD 2026, Demonstrating Governance as the Foundation for Sustainable Performance

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has again been named among the Top 50 Big-Cap issuers at the 2026 IICD Corporate Governance Awards. The recognition, based on the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard framework, highlights the bank’s focus on transparency and accountability as foundations for investor confidence and sustainable growth.

Switzerland Ready to Host US-Russia-Ukraine Trilateral Talks

Switzerland says it remains in contact with all parties to the Ukraine conflict and is willing to host trilateral talks involving Russia, Ukraine and the United States. The offer comes as Moscow signals readiness to resume negotiations, which may be held in Abu Dhabi in mid-November.

Jakarta Provincial Government Is Normalising the Mampang River to Reduce Flood Risk

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung inspected dredging and riverbank maintenance on the Mampang River as part of an integrated effort to improve drainage and reduce flooding. The works, which also cover the Krukut River and other waterways, are intended to strengthen the wider flood-control system ahead of the rainy season, though heavy rainfall may still cause flooding.

Magelang-Born Man Goes Global, Dubbed the Father of Asian Electric Vehicles

C. C. Chan, an electrical engineer born in Magelang, became a pioneering figure in electric-vehicle research after childhood observations of pollution in his family’s vehicle garage sparked his interest. He later founded an international research centre at the University of Hong Kong and helped advance electric-vehicle development worldwide, earning the title “Father of Asian Electric Vehicles” in 2003.

House of Representatives Calls for Scrutiny of Plan to Import 30 Million Barrels of Oil from UAE

A House of Representatives member has urged the government to examine a proposed supply of up to 30 million barrels of crude oil from the UAE, including its procurement terms, suitability for Indonesian refineries and potential fiscal impact. The proposal remains exploratory, despite an earlier statement that the oil would be supplied at no cost.

Turmeric Consumption Linked to Lower Blood Pressure

Research suggests that regular turmeric consumption may be associated with lower blood pressure, potentially because curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. A doctor cautions that turmeric supplements can interact with medicines and advises people with hypertension to consult a healthcare professional rather than use them as a substitute for standard treatment.

Village Websites Support Transparency, Says Ministry

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions says village websites can strengthen transparency and digital security in local governance. It is holding a national competition in 2027 to recognise villages’ efforts to present themselves through digital platforms, with registration opening in November 2025.

DPR: Student-Police Cooperation During Demonstration Shows Democratic Maturity

DPR Commission III chairman Habiburokhman praised the orderly conduct of students and the police’s dialogue-led approach during a demonstration on 28 October, describing their cooperation as evidence of a mature and calm democracy. The government has also affirmed the right to peaceful protest, saying public criticism and aspirations help it review policies and improve public services.

Backpacker Umrah Community Says Advice to Avoid Stopovers in Singapore and Malaysia Is Realistic

The founder of the Umrah Backpacker Community says Indonesian pilgrims should favour direct flights to Saudi Arabia when their budgets allow, given uncertain geopolitical conditions and the risks of disruption. Direct tickets can cost Rp5 million to Rp8 million more than stopover routes, but delays or cancellations could disrupt visa and hotel arrangements.

DPR Commission III Chair Praises Police for Persuasive Handling of Student Protest

DPR Commission III Chair Habiburokhman praised police for using a persuasive, humane approach to manage student demonstrations marking Youth Pledge Day in Jakarta on 28 October 2026. The protest dispersed peacefully, traffic returned to normal, and he urged police to maintain two-way communication as the standard for future public demonstrations.

Be Alert for Very Heavy Rain Across Indonesia: Check BMKG’s Latest Warnings

The BMKG has forecast moderate to very heavy rain in several parts of Indonesia over three days from 29 to 31 October 2026, following months of drought linked to El Niño. It has issued alerts for potential flooding, flash floods, landslides and other disruption, with Jakarta under a moderate-to-heavy rain alert and several northern and western provinces facing the highest warning level.

DBS Denies Merger Rumours with BCA

Bank DBS Indonesia and its Singaporean parent have denied social media speculation that the lender will merge with Bank Central Asia (BCA). The rumours circulated alongside a sharp rise in BCA shares and other market speculation, but the banks say there is no truth to the claims.

Jay-Z on AI: Machines Can Only Imitate and Will Never Replace Humans

Jay-Z warned that artificial intelligence can mimic people but cannot replace human intelligence or identity, urging the public to question information circulating online. Speaking at the final concert of his JAY-Z30 Tour, he also likened AI-enabled deception to propaganda, calling the emerging tools “tricknology”.

Chandra Asri (TPIA) Plans Share Buyback of up to Rp2 Trillion

Chandra Asri Pacific plans to spend up to Rp2 trillion buying back as many as 1.6 billion shares, or 1.84% of its issued capital, between 29 October 2026 and 28 January 2027. The company says the move is intended to support shareholder value and share-price stability, and expects no material effect on its business or financing; repurchased shares will be held as treasury shares under applicable regulations.

Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake Strikes Papua New Guinea, with Epicentre on Land, BMKG Says

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Kiunga in Papua New Guinea on 29 October, with Indonesia’s BMKG updating its magnitude to 5.9 and locating the epicentre on land. The agency said the shallow strike-slip earthquake posed no tsunami threat; shaking was reported in parts of Papua and no aftershocks had been detected by 10:55 WIB.

Bringing Justice to the Kelurahan Doorstep

Legal aid posts (Posbankum) have been established in all 153 kelurahan in Surabaya, offering residents information, consultation, assistance and routes to resolve disputes. Their impact will depend on whether they deliver practical, rights-based support: national figures show 80,298 posts had been set up by January 2026, covering 95.66 per cent of villages and urban wards.

Digitalisation of Village Cooperatives Promoted to Strengthen Communities’ Economies

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry is promoting digital tools to help village cooperatives and small businesses expand markets, improve efficiency and strengthen local economies. A Surakarta cooperative reports turnover exceeding Rp400 million in January–August 2026, while a member says her traditional snack sales rose after she began marketing through both a physical shop and an app.

Jembrana Regency Opens Tender for 20-Year Jimbarwana Hotel Partnership

Jembrana Regency has opened a tender for a private-sector partner to manage the Jimbarwana Hotel under a 20-year asset-utilisation agreement. The deal requires a minimum annual fixed contribution of Rp334.55 million, a 1% profit share and at least Rp6.69 billion in investment, as the regency seeks to boost locally generated revenue.

7 Traits That Distinguish People with Big Egos from Those Who Are Confident

Psychologist Marisa G. Franco distinguishes ego-driven behaviour—such as seeking attention and ranking people by status—from healthy self-confidence. She identifies five signs of genuine confidence, including empathy, emotional regulation, authenticity, accountability and accepting feelings of insecurity, which can support healthier relationships.

Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake in Papua New Guinea, Tremors Felt as Far as Merauke and Jayapura

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Kiunga in Papua New Guinea, with tremors felt in several parts of Indonesia’s Papua region, including Boven Digoel, Jayapura and Merauke. The BMKG said the shallow quake was caused by activity on an active strike-slip fault; no aftershocks had been detected at the time of its report.

South Jakarta City Administration Trims Dozens of Trees at Risk of Falling in Kebayoran Lama

South Jakarta’s Parks and City Forest Sub-agency has pruned or felled 23 trees across 12 locations in Kebayoran Lama to reduce the danger of trees falling during heavy rain and strong winds. The work followed residents’ reports, and officials say the trees were treated according to their condition, including signs of decay, death or interference with street lighting and overhead cables.

BGN Chief Says 2,000 Problematic Free Meal Kitchens Closed in First 100 Days

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono says more than 2,000 kitchens under the free nutritious meals programme have been shut for hygiene and sanitation violations, with some closures made permanent. He also cited the cancellation of a Rp535.3 billion LED procurement and the recovery of Rp414 billion from duplicate accounts linked to kitchens that had not begun operating.

5,288 Tayub Dancers in Pacitan Break MURI Record

A total of 5,288 dancers took part in the 2026 Gebyar Langen Tayub Pacitan, setting a new Museum Rekor-Dunia Indonesia (MURI) record for the largest number of dancers. Organised to preserve traditional tayub performance and mark Youth Pledge Day, the event also brought together local artists, cultural figures and residents.

Trade Minister Urges US Businesses to Strengthen Trade and Investment Ties

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has urged US businesses to deepen trade and investment cooperation with Indonesia, highlighting the United States as a key trading partner and a contributor to Indonesia’s trade surplus. The appeal came during a meeting with the US-ASEAN Business Council, whose representatives discussed bilateral trade and prospects for further collaboration across several sectors.

Man in Bangkalan Claims to Be Al-Mahdi; Hadiths Describe the Imam’s Appearance

A man in Bangkalan has been reported to police over alleged fraud and extortion carried out under the guise of religious teaching, with losses reportedly reaching Rp1.3 billion. The article outlines Islamic traditions linking the appearance of Al-Mahdi with the descent of Prophet Isa, while noting that the alleged claims have drawn public attention.

UN General Assembly Backs Call to End US Embargo on Cuba

The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for the United States to end its economic, trade and financial embargo on Cuba, with 130 countries voting in favour and 17 against. Although non-binding, the resolution reflects the international community’s position as Cuba’s foreign minister said the embargo was worsening shortages of fuel, medicines and essential goods.

Shandong Deepens BRICS Cooperation with International Trade and Investment Conference

Shandong’s third international trade and investment conference brought more than 100 delegates from 30 countries and regions together with over 200 local companies, with more than 500 meetings focused on sectors including agriculture, green industries, machinery and the digital economy. Participants highlighted opportunities for wider BRICS partnerships, while speakers urged firms to expand overseas through integrated industrial chains and international cooperation.

IPW Welcomes Police’s Direct Access to the Public, Calling It a Sign of Commitment to Public Service

Indonesia Police Watch (IPW) says giving the public direct contact channels to regional police chiefs could help end the perception that cases receive attention only after going viral online. It is urging the National Police chief to formalise the practice, arguing that accessible, accountable and affordable police services should be available equally to all citizens.

The Real Threats Behind the Glamour of Children’s Esports

A Save the Children report warns that young esports players face risks including sleep disruption, mental health pressures, online abuse and economic exploitation. It urges the industry to put children’s rights and wellbeing ahead of competitive ambitions, and highlights the lack of shared standards for healthy playing hours and training practices.

Bonatua Sues over Jokowi’s Diploma at Central Jakarta District Court; Preliminary Ruling Set for 11 November

Public policy observer Bonatua Silalahi and retired Navy Rear Admiral Moeryono Aladin have sued several election bodies and university officials over the use of certified copies of Joko Widodo’s diploma in his political campaigns. The Central Jakarta District Court is due to issue a preliminary ruling on 11 November 2026; the case follows a separate Information Commission decision that the diploma copies were public information.

Japan Identifies Three Reasons for Deteriorating Security in Southeast Asia

Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi cited worsening natural disasters, global conflicts disrupting supply chains and energy supplies, and rapidly shifting military balances as the three factors driving a deteriorating security environment in Southeast Asia. He pledged support for ASEAN’s disaster-response and maritime-security efforts, and called for renewed cooperation to strengthen the bloc’s ability to act independently.

Police to Summon Dandhy Laksono Again over Pesta Babi Film

Jakarta Metro Police say filmmaker Dandhy Laksono did not attend a second interview concerning a complaint filed by Merauke Indigenous leader and environmental activist Yasinta Moiwend, and will be rescheduled. Moiwend says the film showed her without her permission, while Dandhy has criticised what he describes as an effort to divert public attention from colonialism in Papua.

Indonesian Migrant Worker Tortured by Malaysian Employers, Whipped and Scalded with Hot Water

An Indonesian domestic worker from Banten was rescued in Selangor after allegedly enduring three months of severe abuse, including beatings, burns and whipping. Malaysian police have detained five members of the employers’ family and the agent who arranged her employment, while the Indonesian Embassy is supporting her recovery and protection.

Police Prepare Escort for 61 Demonstration Sites in Jakarta Today

Jakarta Metro Police say 61 public demonstrations and 17 other community events are scheduled across the capital today. Officers, alongside the military and city authorities, will provide escorts and security, while urging participants and the wider public to maintain order and ensure the demonstrations proceed peacefully.

Mount Anak Krakatau Erupts Three Times on Wednesday Night

Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait recorded three eruptions on Wednesday night, with the latest lasting more than nine minutes. The eruptions were detected by seismic instruments but were not visible, and monitoring staff continue to track the volcano’s activity.

Metro Jakarta Police Apologise After Officers Prevent Journalist from Covering HI Demonstration

Metro Jakarta Police have apologised after an officer stopped a journalist from reaching the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout to cover a demonstration on Wednesday. The force said the incident would be reviewed and attributed it to a communication failure, after video of the obstruction circulated on social media.

Indonesia to export mocaf as cassava prices rise

Indonesia plans to begin exporting mocaf next week after a ban on cassava imports helped lift farm-gate prices from as low as Rp700 to around Rp3,000 per kilogram, according to Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman. The government says developing cassava processing and downstream industries can create higher-value export products, strengthen demand for local crops and support jobs in producing regions.

Pejuang Merah Putih Demonstrators Visit Jokowi’s Home, Call for Gibran to Resign as Vice-President

A group calling itself Pejuang Merah Putih Indonesia delivered two letters near former president Joko Widodo’s home in Solo, urging him to persuade his son, Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to resign. The group also challenged Jokowi’s characterisation of the controversy over their degrees as a political operation and warned that Gibran could face impeachment if he did not step down.

Deputy Finance Minister Highlights Three AI Risks, Urges Ministry Staff to Stay Alert

Deputy Finance Minister Nurkholisoh Ibnu Aman said AI could strengthen state-budget management, from identifying tax revenue opportunities to assessing public spending and forecasting financing risks. She also warned Ministry of Finance employees about deepfakes, over-reliance on AI and confidential data leaks, urging careful use without abandoning human judgement.

Two Years of Prabowo-Gibran: School Revitalisation from Aceh to Papua

The government says its school revitalisation programme has repaired more than 71,744 schools and is targeting 35,769 education units in 2026, backed by a Rp26 trillion allocation. Implemented through school-managed funding, the programme is intended to improve facilities—particularly in remote areas—while also supporting local economies through construction work and purchases from nearby suppliers.

Latest Prices for Three Gold Brands at Pegadaian Today

Gold prices listed on Pegadaian’s website at 11.03am WIB on Thursday were Rp2,499,000 per gram for Galeri24, Rp2,598,000 for Antam and Rp2,524,000 for UBS. Prices may change, and the brands are available in different weight ranges, from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram depending on the product.

MPR Invites UIN Jakarta to Examine PPHN Draft, Emphasising Meaningful Youth Participation

Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) has presented a draft of the proposed State Policy Guidelines (PPHN) at a seminar with students from UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, stressing the importance of meaningful public and youth participation. The draft sets out long-term priorities for human development, institutions and governance, and economic welfare, while considering three possible legal forms and complementing existing national and regional development plans.

Co-operatives Target Cooking Oil Refinery as Ministry Pushes Palm Oil Downstreaming

The Ministry of Co-operatives aims for Indonesia’s co-operative movement to establish its own cooking oil refinery by 2027, expanding smallholders’ role beyond plantation management and increasing their share of value from the palm oil industry. The plan includes marketing through village co-operative outlets and potential partnerships to manage land reclaimed under forest-area enforcement efforts.

Fleeing to the US, Flavio Bolsonaro claims to be Brazil’s legitimate president

Flavio Bolsonaro, who narrowly lost Brazil’s presidential election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, says from the United States that he is the country’s legitimate president and will lead the opposition. He alleges political persecution and electoral fraud but offers no evidence, while his flight despite a Supreme Court travel ban heightens tensions ahead of Lula’s inauguration.

Jakarta Builds Penganten Ali Retention Pond to Control Flooding in East Jakarta

Jakarta’s Water Resources Agency is building a 0.9-hectare retention pond in Ciracas to increase water-storage capacity and reduce flood risk in the surrounding area. The project will also provide green space and public facilities; construction is about 60 per cent complete and is targeted for completion on 15 December 2026.

Uma Palak Farmers’ Clean Energy Innovation Draws ASCOPE’s Attention

A renewable-energy irrigation system combining micro-hydro and solar power is helping farmers in Denpasar improve water management, reduce operating costs and power farm equipment. Pertamina has also supplied an electric rice mill, while the farming and tourism activities in Subak Sembung generate more than Rp585 million annually for a community of 185 farmers and over 400 local residents.

With 90% of Votes Counted, Netanyahu’s Coalition Holds Narrow Lead Over Opposition

With 89.8% of valid votes counted, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition is projected to hold 53 Knesset seats, against 48 for the opposition led by Gadi Eisenkot; Israeli Arab parties have secured the remaining 19. Neither bloc has reached the 61-seat threshold needed for a majority, leaving coalition negotiations—and the Arab parties’ potential kingmaker role—central as counting continues.

Singapore Targets 10 Companies Linked to Haze and Prepares Sanctions

Singapore plans to strengthen its cross-border haze law so it can compel companies suspected of links to fires to undergo independent investigations and penalise those that refuse to co-operate. The investigations will examine operations, corporate relationships and supply chains, with findings submitted to the National Environment Agency (NEA).

US Defence Secretary Urges Ambitious Defence Cooperation with ASEAN

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has proposed developing a practical US–ASEAN defence cooperation framework to guide collaboration over the coming years, as the bloc marks 50 years of relations with Washington next year. He said the United States would work with Singapore, the incoming ASEAN chair, to draft the framework; China’s defence minister did not attend this year’s meetings in Cebu City.

Liquidity Eased: Which Banks Stand to Benefit Most?

Bank Indonesia is easing banks’ reserve requirements to release liquidity while keeping its benchmark rate at 5.75% amid rupiah and inflationary pressures. The benefits may vary: some large state-owned banks have seen rapid deposit growth, but greater reliance on higher-cost time deposits and funding pressures at smaller lenders could limit the effect on lending rates.

Haji Isam-Linked JARR and PGUN Shares Slide Despite Being Pledged for Jumbo Bank Mandiri Loan

Shares in Jhonlin Agro Raya and Pradiksi Gunatama, both affiliated with businessman Andi Syamsuddin Arsyad (Haji Isam), fell 13.2% and 8.85% respectively over five trading days. The decline drew attention after Bank Mandiri disclosed a Rp40 trillion credit facility to Jhonlin Baratama, of which Rp17 trillion has been drawn; the bank said its lending assessment focused on the group’s existing coal-business cash flows, and the share movements do not by themselves establish a direct connection to the facility.

South Kalimantan Industry Office Identifies Investment Barriers in ‘Bumi Antasari’

South Kalimantan’s Industry Office is using a focus group discussion to identify investment obstacles, assess prospective projects and shape a sustainable industrial investment strategy. Priority opportunities include downstream processing of palm oil, rubber and minerals, halal industries, logistics and creative small and medium-sized enterprises, with officials calling for cross-sector cooperation and a concrete investment roadmap.

Jakarta Governor Praises Public Order Teams for Keeping Protest Clean and Safe

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung praised the TNI-Polri, municipal sanitation teams and protesters for helping maintain security and cleanliness during a demonstration at Bundaran HI. He said public facilities had been cleaned by 2am and reported no damage, while stressing that protecting the capital’s comfort and safety is a shared responsibility.

Indosat Delivers Double-Digit Growth by Strengthening Core Business and AI

Indosat recorded double-digit revenue growth and a sharp rise in net profit in the first nine months of 2026, supported by its telecommunications business and higher cellular ARPU. Its AI Cloud business is also beginning to generate meaningful revenue, although sustained growth will depend on commercial demand, cash flow and the company’s ability to turn investment into lasting profits.

Bulog Chief Speaks Out After Eight Subordinates Implicated in SPHP Rice Case

Bulog has suspended six officials and issued warnings to two others amid allegations that subsidised SPHP rice was misused, while an internal investigation is conducted with police. The agency is also examining Rumah Pangan Kita partners nationwide after one was found to have placed unusually large repeat orders.

Jakarta Police Apologise After Officers Briefly Bar Journalists from Covering 28 October Protest

Polda Metro Jaya apologised after journalists were briefly prevented from covering a demonstration in Jakarta on 28 October 2026, describing the incident as a misunderstanding. The force said it would review the matter and remind its personnel not to repeat it.

Cracking iPhone Duo Screens Were the Result of AI Design

Apple’s new foldable iPhone Duo has reportedly suffered inner-screen cracks along the hinge within hours of unboxing, with early analysis pointing to a mechanism that fails to retract sufficiently. The article says Apple used industrial machine-learning algorithms to match hinge components, though its use of the label “AI” may suggest more advanced systems than were involved; the company has acknowledged the fault and promised free replacements.

Antam Gold Prices Plunge by Rp11,000 Today; 1-Gram Bar Now Costs This Much

Antam’s one-gram gold price fell by Rp11,000 to Rp2,559,000 on Thursday, 29 October 2026, while its buyback price also declined to Rp2,354,000 per gram. The article lists prices across bar sizes and outlines the income tax rates applied to purchases and buybacks.

Komaidi: Sustaining Upstream Performance Can Address Oil and Gas Trade Deficit

ReforMiner Institute executive director Komaidi Notonegoro says Indonesia can tackle its persistent oil and gas trade deficit by sustaining production growth and improving upstream performance, alongside revising the Oil and Gas Law to provide investors with legal certainty. He points to rising imports and pressure on the current account and rupiah, while proposing fiscal incentives, faster permits and a broader assessment of projects’ net economic benefits.

West Kalimantan’s Free Nutritious Meals Programme Spends Rp2.21 Trillion by September

West Kalimantan’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme had reached about 1.1 million beneficiaries by 30 September 2026, with spending totalling Rp2.21 trillion. Spending fell sharply in September as forest and land fires prompted schools to move classes online and some meal-service units to suspend operations; the programme is forecast to require around Rp3 trillion for the year.

Shares Rise 149% as IDX Suspends Trading in CFC Owner PTSP

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) suspended trading in PT Pioneerindo Gourmet International (PTSP) after its shares surged, including a 149% gain year to date. The exchange said the cooling-off measure is intended to protect investors and give market participants time to assess their investment decisions.

Israel Arms Cyprus: Why Is Turkey Becoming Increasingly Wary?

Israel has agreed to build a new patrol vessel for Cyprus and upgrade an existing one, expanding a defence partnership that already includes the Barak MX air-defence system. Turkey says Cyprus’s growing military capabilities risk upsetting the fragile security balance on the divided island, although the agreements announced so far concern defence equipment and operational cooperation rather than an alliance aimed at Ankara.

Clean-up After Two-Truck Collision in Front of DPR Completed, Traffic Returns to Normal

Two trucks collided on Jalan Gatot Subroto in front of Indonesia’s DPR/MPR complex, scattering ceramic tiles and causing congestion towards Slipi. The vehicles and debris have now been cleared, and traffic—including the Transjakarta bus lane—has returned to normal.

Metro Jakarta Police Investigate Viral Footage of Foaming Bottled Tea at 28 October Demonstration

Metro Jakarta Police are investigating a report that foaming packaged tea was distributed to demonstrators in Jakarta on 28 October, and are seeking to establish who supplied it. Teh Botol Sosro says it is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the viral footage and will provide further information once the facts are clear.

South Korea Fines Google and Apple Rp866 Billion over App Payments

South Korea’s media and communications regulator has approved combined fines of 63.7 billion won (Rp866 billion) for Google and Apple, saying their app payment rules restricted developers’ choice and breached the Telecommunications Business Act. It has ordered both companies to allow alternative payment methods and revise certain policies, while stopping short of criminal charges; the firms have challenged the decision.

Sukabumi Photocopy Shop Attendant Named Top Graduate

Masya Bagari Takum, a 23-year-old student who worked as a photocopy shop attendant while studying in Sukabumi, graduated with the highest GPA in his Government Studies programme. Supported by a full scholarship and a demanding work-study routine, he overcame financial and family-distance challenges to achieve a GPA of 3.86.

Stocks FILM and COIN Plunge, Prompting Close Exchange Monitoring

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has placed crypto exchange operator Indokripto Koin Semesta (COIN) and film production company MD Film Entertainment (FILM) under unusual market activity (UMA) monitoring after sharp share-price falls. The exchange said the designation does not in itself indicate a breach of capital-market rules and advised investors to review company disclosures, performance and potential corporate actions before making decisions.

Lombok Tengah Deploys 1,112 Personnel for Village Elections Today

A joint force of 1,112 police, military, civil service and fire personnel has been deployed to secure simultaneous village-head elections across 87 villages in Lombok Tengah, West Nusa Tenggara. Authorities have classified 36 of the 1,014 polling stations as vulnerable and will apply tighter security there, while stressing a humane approach and prohibiting officers at polling stations from carrying firearms.

Kudus MBG Task Force: Primary School Pupils Prefer Buffet-Style Meals

Most primary school pupils taking part in a trial in Kudus preferred the buffet-style format of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, saying the food was fresher and they could choose portions and dishes to suit their needs. The local task force says the approach may reduce food waste, but it needs further evaluation for younger pupils and wider implementation awaits guidance from the central government.

Frequent Abdominal Bloating? Be Alert to These Cancer Symptoms

Persistent or worsening abdominal bloating can sometimes accompany ovarian, stomach or other abdominal cancers, particularly when combined with unexplained weight loss, early satiety or ongoing pain. It is far more commonly linked to benign digestive problems, but the article advises seeking medical assessment when symptoms are new, recurrent or do not resolve.

Andalas University Trains Coffee Farmers in Post-Harvest Processing to Improve Quality

Andalas University has trained coffee farmers in Pasaman, West Sumatra, in post-harvest techniques intended to improve bean quality, marketability and farmers’ earnings. The programme covers harvesting, sorting, drying and grade assessment, while the university team is also developing farmer-friendly equipment and promoting better farm-cost accounting.

Police Detain 19 People on 28 October Protest Day, Including One Minor

Police detained 19 people during demonstrations in Jakarta on 28 October, seizing firecrackers, bladed weapons and items including paint allegedly intended for vandalism. Student groups staging the protest presented five demands, addressing forest fires, public spending, access to education and basic services, civil liberties, human rights and the role of the military in civilian spaces.

Deputy Industry Minister Seeks to Cut Imports of Electric Vehicle Components: The List

The government is preparing an import-substitution roadmap to expand the use of locally made electric-vehicle components and strengthen Indonesia’s automotive supply chain. The proposed scope ranges from body structures, wiring and interiors to battery packs, charging stations, electric motors and batteries, although investment and technology capabilities remain key challenges.

Jabodetabek Toll Integration: Logistics Tariffs Pose a Challenge

An online survey found that 74.1 per cent of respondents support integrating toll tariffs across Greater Jakarta, with the policy expected to ease travel and improve freight distribution. Regulators and logistics representatives say the plan must account for operators’ ability to pay and the distinct functions of each road, as higher toll costs may outweigh time savings for freight drivers.

How to Rebuild a Strained or Broken Friendship

Mental health professionals say friendships often depend on shared routines and can fade as circumstances change or minor tensions accumulate. Reconnecting can begin with a sincere, personal message, but people should manage their expectations: renewed contact does not guarantee that a friendship will return to what it was.

Karangasem Man Stabs Neighbour Repeatedly After Taking Offence

A 50-year-old man in Karangasem allegedly stabbed his 52-year-old neighbour several times after taking offence at her words; he had been drinking tuak beforehand. The victim suffered multiple wounds and remains in intensive care, while police have detained the suspect for further investigation.

BYD Group Sales in Indonesia Reach 46,700 Units by September

BYD Group sold 46,700 electric vehicles in Indonesia from January to September 2026, as the company says national EV market share has risen from below 1 per cent in 2022 to more than 26 per cent. BYD is expanding its service network in Sulawesi and plans to add up to 12 new locations, while the broader market outside Java remains largely dependent on petrol-powered vehicles.

Spain Declares Three Days of National Mourning After Train Crash

Spain has declared three days of national mourning after two passenger trains collided in the country’s central region, killing 68 people, according to the president of the Castile-La Mancha regional government. Madrid authorities have sent specialist teams, firefighters and 16 ambulances to the scene.

Full Timeline of the Alleged PT Djarum Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched PT Djarum’s offices and the Kudus Customs and Excise office as part of a new investigation linked to alleged irregularities in excise revenue and cigarette tax stamps. The inquiry follows earlier corruption investigations and arrests in the Customs and Excise Directorate General, while investigators examine possible kickbacks and other methods of wrongdoing.

Latest Fed Decision: US Interest Rates Held, but Could Rise Again in December?

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark rate at 3.75–4 per cent, saying inflation remains elevated while the US economy is growing strongly. Chair Kevin Warsh stressed that the Fed needs more data before deciding its next move, although two officials favoured a quarter-point increase and December remains a possibility.

NasDem’s Blunt Response to PKS’s Invitation over Gibran Diploma Controversy

NasDem treasurer Ahmad Sahroni says the party has received no instruction to join discussions proposed by PKS over the controversy surrounding Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s secondary-school-equivalent diploma. NasDem says it is focused on its support for the government and on completing the urgent Asset Forfeiture Bill, while PKS and PDI-P have indicated they are open to cross-party communication and dialogue.

Unknown Person Struck by Balas Train Locomotive in Soragan, Yogyakarta

An unidentified person was struck by the Balas train locomotive on the Yogyakarta–Patukan rail section at about 4.52am on Thursday. KAI said the person was treated by Indonesian Red Cross and police personnel, while details of their identity and the incident remain unconfirmed; the railway operator urged the public to stay away from tracks and use authorised crossings.

Police Detain 19 People Carrying Firecrackers and Bladed Weapons at Jakarta Mass Demonstration

Jakarta police detained 19 people during demonstrations on 28 October, seizing firecrackers, bladed weapons and 12 containers of coloured paint suspected of being intended for vandalism. Investigators are questioning those detained, including one minor, whose case has been referred to the police’s women and children protection directorate.

Forest and Land Firefighters Give Thanks as Long-Awaited Rain Arrives

Heavy rain in Palangka Raya and Banjarbaru brought relief to volunteer firefighters and Indonesian military personnel after months of tackling forest and land fires. The rainfall raised hopes that hotspots would diminish and affected areas could begin to recover.

Hanung Bramantyo Responds to Claims Oki & Nirmala Copied Wicked

Director Hanung Bramantyo has rejected online claims that his live-action film Oki & Nirmala copied Wicked, after a teaser featuring Tissa Biani drew comparisons between Nirmala and Glinda. He says the characters originated in a 1969 Dutch edition of Bobo, while acknowledging that Nirmala’s pink dress resembles Glinda’s and noting that pink-clad good witches have long featured in fantasy traditions.

Good News: Chevron and Shell Move Closer to Investing in Indonesia Again

Chevron and Shell are considering new upstream oil and gas investments in Indonesia, according to SKK Migas chief Djoko Siswanto. Shell is eyeing the Andaman area with Mubadala Energy and other blocks, while Chevron is targeting the wholly offshore Padang work area and may partner with Petronas and a domestic company.

Syria Protests to Jordan Over Strike That Hit Civilians

Syria has summoned Jordan’s ambassador to protest air strikes in Daraa province that reportedly killed seven civilians, including three children, and injured three others. Jordan said the operation targeted Islamic State positions in response to an attack on a church, while Damascus said it had not authorised the strikes.

Pramono Praises Protesters and Police for Protecting Jakarta’s Public Facilities

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung praised students for conducting their demonstration peacefully and thanked security personnel and protesters for safeguarding public facilities. He said no facilities were damaged and that clean-up operations were completed by 2am.

Riau’s Investment Realisation Reaches Rp47.91 Trillion by September 2026

Riau recorded Rp47.91 trillion in investment in January–September 2026, equivalent to 66.09 per cent of its annual target, and the projects created 41,632 jobs. The province ranked second in Sumatra for combined domestic and foreign investment, and first nationally for domestic investment (PMDN) over the nine-month period.

Singapore’s Three Ministers Meet Indonesian Palm Oil Executives, Prepare Sanctions but Say They Are Not Seeking Scapegoats

Singapore plans to amend its Transboundary Haze Pollution Act to strengthen investigations into companies suspected of links to fires that caused haze, with possible legal consequences for those that refuse to co-operate. Three ministers met company representatives, who agreed to take part in investigations, while officials said the aim was to establish responsibility rather than find scapegoats.

Lombok Airport Supports Nutrition for Young Children and Pregnant Women

Lombok International Airport has launched a community programme providing supplementary food and nutrition support to young children and pregnant women with chronic energy deficiency across three health centres. The Rp151 million initiative is expected to reach 325 children and 103 pregnant women, combining food assistance with nutrition education and health checks through November 2026.

Merchant Ships Attacked by Drones in the Black Sea as Türkiye Warns Russia and Ukraine

Türkiye has urged Russia and Ukraine to stop attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea, after three maritime drones struck the Liberian-flagged container ship Contship Jet in Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone. The incident, part of a wider series of attacks near NATO member states, has heightened concerns over civilian safety and the security of key trade routes; responsibility for the latest strike has not been established.

RSCM CAREs Strengthens Integrated Services for Cornea Patients

Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) has launched CAREs, combining corneal transplants, ocular-surface restoration, laser refractive surgery and its eye bank in one service. The initiative addresses a donor shortage: 444 patients were waiting for corneas as of October 2026, and most transplant tissue used at RSCM is still imported.

Home Affairs Ministry Monitors Food Prices and Availability in Palu

Indonesia’s Home Affairs Ministry found that staple-food prices and supplies in Palu remain broadly under control, despite a rise in chilli prices to Rp130,000 per kilogram. Officials credited local food-production initiatives, including the Kelurahan Menanam programme, with helping maintain supply and affordability.

Semarang Pencak Silat Athlete Dies After Finger Surgery, Hospital Explains

Primaya Hospital Semarang has described the treatment of pencak silat athlete Ayudiah Rivana Tridiandinata, who died after surgery for a fractured middle finger. The hospital says the operation was not major and appeared to go well, but it has not determined the cause of death, noting that several factors may have been involved.

Fed Holds Interest Rates, Rupiah Strengthens

The rupiah strengthened 0.24% to Rp18,141 per US dollar at Thursday’s opening after the US Federal Reserve kept its policy rate at 3.75–4.00%, in line with expectations. Permata Bank chief economist Josua Pardede said the Fed offered no clear signal on a December rate increase, leaving the rupiah forecast to trade between Rp18,100 and Rp18,225 per dollar.

PGAS Signs LNG Sales Contract Worth Rp28.11 Trillion, Supplies to Begin in 2029

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGAS) has signed a North Hub LNG sale and purchase agreement with an estimated value of US$1.55 billion (about Rp28.11 trillion), with deliveries scheduled from 2029 to 2037 and an option to extend through 2038. The company says the deal could strengthen its long-term gas supply portfolio and help meet demand for gas trading operations.

Whereabouts of McLaren and Person Who Used Mechanic’s Name Remain a Mystery

Authorities have yet to locate a McLaren 570S or its true owner after a Tangerang motorbike mechanic, Yudariansyah, was wrongly listed as the owner and billed Rp137 million in unpaid tax. Samsat Ciledug has blocked the vehicle’s registration data and is working with police to trace the car; Yudariansyah says he may take legal action if the case is not resolved.

Trade Minister Urges US to Strengthen Trade and Investment Cooperation

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has urged US businesses to deepen trade and investment ties with Indonesia, with discussions also covering the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and support for Indonesian small and medium-sized enterprises. The US is Indonesia’s largest source of trade surplus: bilateral trade reached US$32.34 billion in January–August 2026, with Indonesia recording a US$12.47 billion surplus.

Amran Removes Eight Bulog and Bapanas Officials over Alleged SPHP Rice Repackaging

Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Amran Sulaiman has removed eight officials from Bulog and Bapanas, with two others receiving warnings, following allegations that subsidised SPHP rice was repackaged and sold as premium rice. Authorities say around 600 tonnes were found in East Jakarta, potentially involving Rp3.3 billion in misdirected subsidies, and investigations are being widened nationwide.

North Kalimantan to Expand Its Pavilion at TMII with Tidung and Dayak Traditional Houses

North Kalimantan plans to add Tidung and Dayak traditional houses to its existing Bulungan house at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, creating an integrated cultural area. The provincial government also aims to strengthen the pavilion as a venue for promoting local arts, culture, MSME products and investment opportunities.

Integrated RDTRs with OSS reach 576 as ATR/BPN exceeds LP2B proposal target in two years

Indonesia’s Agrarian and Spatial Planning Ministry says 576 Detailed Spatial Plans (RDTRs) are now integrated with the Online Single Submission (OSS) business-licensing system, while 691 RDTRs have been issued. By 16 October 2026, proposed designation of sustainable food farmland (LP2B) covered 87.93% of registered rice-field area, exceeding the 87% target set for 2029 and supporting both investment certainty and food security.

Rainfall of 100mm a Day Could Trigger Flooding, Pramono Moves to Normalise the Mampang River

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says the low-lying area around the Mampang River could flood when daily rainfall reaches 100mm, prompting river works ahead of the rainy season. The Jakarta administration is using the dry season to dredge waterways and improve flood-control infrastructure, while pledging not to cut the water resources agency’s flood-management budget.

Israel Election Deadlock: Is Netanyahu’s Fate in the Hands of Arab Parties?

Arab-led parties are projected to win a record combined 17 seats in Israel’s Knesset, while neither Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc nor the opposition has secured a majority. Although opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot could theoretically reach the 61-seat threshold with Arab support, analysts say political vetoes and resistance to power-sharing make that outcome uncertain.

The FOMO Trap: When Life Moves Too Fast Just for Social Media Validation

Psychologist Chetna Luthra says fear of missing out (FOMO), amplified by social media, can shape young people’s ideas about happiness, success and self-worth. Constantly comparing themselves with others and chasing exceptional experiences may make them overlook ordinary moments and the things that give life meaning.

Bahlil warns oil contractors to develop fields or return concessions

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged oil and gas contractors, including Pertamina, to accelerate development of fields with approved plans or return the concessions to the state. The demand comes as Indonesia’s oil production remains far below consumption, and the government seeks to lift output and advance its 2029–2030 energy self-sufficiency targets.

Antam Gold Prices Fall by Rp11,000 Today; Full Price List

Antam gold prices fell by Rp11,000 to Rp2,559,000 per gram on Thursday, while the buyback price also declined to Rp2,354,000 per gram. The report lists prices across bar sizes and outlines the tax deductions applied to purchases and buyback transactions.

Police Officer’s Wheelchair Brings Joy to Young Fitri

A nine-year-old girl with a disability in Reok, East Nusa Tenggara, has received a wheelchair donated by the National Police’s Public Relations Division after her family had waited for years for mobility support. The local police said the handover reflected its community outreach and commitment to supporting children with special needs.

Experts Say Choosing Four DPD RI Awards 2026 Winners Is Difficult: All Candidates Are Strong

The DPD RI Awards 2026 expert panel has completed its final deliberations after interviewing the top three candidates in each of four categories. Panellist Dede Yusuf said the candidates were all highly capable, making the education and health innovation categories particularly difficult to judge; the winners will be announced on 9 November.

Asian shares fall as Alphabet earnings miss drags Wall Street futures lower

Asian equities fell as Alphabet’s heavy AI-related spending and earnings concerns pushed its shares sharply lower and weighed on Nasdaq futures, while mixed results from Microsoft and Samsung underscored divergent market reactions to the AI boom. Investors also assessed the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold rates, upcoming US inflation data and signals from other central banks, with oil prices easing amid reports of renewed efforts to revive US-Iran peace talks.

From the Laboratory to the Home Yard

BRIN says household waste, which accounts for a large share of Indonesia’s rubbish, must be tackled close to its source, and that President Prabowo has asked research institutions and universities to bring waste-processing technologies into villages. The challenge is not simply developing equipment: effective use depends on local suitability, trained operators, maintenance and reliable handling of outputs and residues—the difficult final step from prototype to everyday practice.

Deputy Minister Stella urges measurable mapping of green jobs

Deputy Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Stella Christie has called for the green-jobs ecosystem to be mapped through higher education, research and industry collaboration. The proposed approach would connect university research with business needs, identify workforce skills shortages and help prepare young people for sustainable careers, while framing environmentally friendly ventures as sources of economic value and employment.

Why the KPK Searched PT Djarum’s Office and the Customs and Excise Office in Kudus

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says its searches of PT Djarum and the Kudus Customs and Excise office form part of an investigation into suspected state-revenue losses and possible kickbacks connected to excise stamps. Investigators have seized documents and electronic evidence, while the probe expands a separate customs bribery case in which several defendants have been convicted, are on trial or remain under investigation.

Bill Gates Never Really Wanted Ctrl+Alt+Del: Here Was the Original Idea

Bill Gates has said that the Ctrl+Alt+Del keyboard shortcut was an error and that a single dedicated key would have been preferable. First devised by IBM engineer David Bradley to restart a frozen computer, the combination was later adopted by Microsoft as a security measure to ensure Windows displays a genuine sign-in screen.

Timeline of Two-Truck Crash Outside Parliament Building

Two trucks collided on Jalan Gatot Subroto outside the DPR/MPR building at about 03:40 on Thursday, leaving ceramic tiles scattered across the road. The crash injured the driver of a heavy truck and caused damage to both vehicles, while recovery work and traffic disruption continued towards Slipi.

Condition of Nine Gunungkidul Residents’ Goats After Wild Animal Attack

Nine goats were killed in an attack at a livestock pen in Rongkop, Gunungkidul, with police attributing the deaths to two stray dogs. The incident is part of a pattern of livestock attacks reported annually since 2017, often coinciding with falling water levels at springs and ponds.

Indonesia races to sign EU trade deal ahead of GSP expiry

Indonesia is aiming to sign its comprehensive economic partnership agreement with the EU this week, ahead of the expiry of its preferential GSP tariffs on 1 January 2027. The deal would liberalise around 98 per cent of tariff lines and is intended to preserve market access for Indonesian exports while opening Indonesia further to European goods.

At the 10th Congress of the Marhaenis Youth Movement, Hasto Delivers Three Messages from Megawati

PDI-P Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto relayed three messages from party chair Megawati Soekarnoputri to the Marhaenis Youth Movement: greetings, a call to study Sukarno’s Marhaenism, and a reminder for the incoming leadership to visit the site associated with Marhaen. The congress also focused on consolidating the organisation and making Marhaenism better known among young people.

From 1 November, Passengers Entering Thailand Must Undergo Physical Searches

Don Mueang International Airport will replace handheld metal-detector checks with manual physical searches after passengers pass through a primary screening device, from 1 November 2026. The airport says the change aligns with Thai civil aviation rules and International Civil Aviation Organization recommendations, and advises travellers to allow extra time and inform staff of relevant medical or physical conditions.

HDDAP Project Receives Rp1.8 Trillion as Ginger Processing Is Accelerated

Indonesia’s Agriculture Ministry is using the Asian Development Bank-funded HDDAP project to develop horticulture in dryland areas across 13 districts in seven provinces. The ministry also plans to strengthen farmers’ position through horticultural cooperatives, targeting 200–350 cooperatives by 2029 to improve supply chains and reduce the impact of price volatility.

Envision Energy Unveils New AI-Based Energy System for Mining and Metal Processing Industries

Envision Energy has introduced an AI-powered system combining wind and solar generation, energy storage and backup power for mining and metal-processing operations, including remote sites with limited grid access. The company says its integrated technology can cut energy costs, improve reliability and support decarbonisation, while citing projects in Australia and China as examples of renewable energy’s potential for energy-intensive production.

Andre Rosiade Pushes for Smooth Payakumbuh–Batusangkar Road by 2027

Five road-improvement packages worth around Rp93 billion have been allocated to Tanah Datar under the 2026 Regional Road Presidential Instruction programme, with work expected to begin in December, subject to permits. Andre Rosiade says the projects should make the route from Payakumbuh to Batusangkar smooth by 2027, while local and national authorities are also preparing further road proposals to improve connectivity and ease congestion.

Pertamina Strengthens Energy Resilience Through Procurement Diversification

Pertamina Patra Niaga says it is diversifying crude oil and fuel procurement and working with international partners to safeguard supply amid shifts in global energy markets. The company is also relying on an extensive network of fuel, aviation and LPG terminals and storage facilities to maintain reliable distribution across Indonesia, including hard-to-reach areas.

Jakarta Youth Groups Call for Unity and Tolerance

Hundreds of young people from groups across Jakarta have called for national unity, tolerance and responsible civic engagement at a prayer gathering marking the 98th anniversary of Youth Pledge Day. They urged the public not to be swayed by information that could fuel division, and said the pledge’s values should be reflected in everyday actions.

China’s Lao Gan Ma denies mass layoffs linked to AI amid public backlash

Lao Gan Ma has denied claims that AI-driven production led it to cut hundreds of factory jobs, saying reports about staffing levels on a pepper-inspection line were inaccurate. The controversy has fuelled debate in China over automation’s effects on workers and the tension between industrial modernisation, productivity and employment.

Smog Leaves Singapore Residents Short of Breath, Driving Joggers from the Streets to Shopping Malls

Smoke from Indonesian forest and peatland fires has pushed Singapore’s air quality to its worst level in more than a decade, prompting outdoor activities to be cancelled and runners to train in air-conditioned shopping centres. The article also reports on Singapore and Indonesia agreeing to form a task force to strengthen enforcement against companies linked to the fires, amid a severe burning season and ongoing cross-border health concerns.

Spain’s Deadliest Train Crash in 13 Years Kills 68

At least 68 people were killed and dozens injured when a Renfe high-speed train struck an Iryo train that had stopped on the same track in central Spain. The transport minister said a computer-system failure and a subsequent control-room decision may have contributed; authorities have promised a full investigation into the country’s second major rail disaster in a year.

Tax Penalty Waiver Programme Opens as DGT Chief Urges Taxpayers to Withdraw Disputes

The Directorate General of Taxes is offering reductions or waivers of certain unpaid administrative penalties under Finance Minister Regulation No. 71/2026, while taxpayers must settle the principal tax owed and may be asked to withdraw disputes. The level of relief for late annual income-tax returns will be phased according to filing date, with the full waiver available for returns filed by the end of 2026.

Petrokimia Gresik Records Production of 6.59 Million Tonnes up to September 2026

Petrokimia Gresik produced 6.59 million tonnes of fertiliser and non-fertiliser products in the first nine months of 2026, supporting Indonesia’s agricultural and industrial sectors. The state-owned company said operational improvements and a filter innovation at its Ammonia Plant 1B eliminated reported ammonia production losses, raised daily output and generated Rp9.5 billion in cost efficiencies.

Kazakhstan Promotes Halal Tourism to Indonesian Travellers

Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Indonesia is promoting the country as a halal-friendly destination, highlighting Islamic heritage sites in Turkistan, winter tourism and nomadic hospitality. Indonesian arrivals rose from 6,400 in 2025 to 6,000 in the first half of 2026, while more than 25,000 Kazakh citizens visited Indonesia by July 2026; visa-free access for Kazakh visitors is expected to support further growth.

Ceramic Debris from Two-Truck Collision Still Scattered, Traffic Jams Outside Parliament

Ceramic shards from a collision involving two lorries remained scattered outside Indonesia’s parliament in Central Jakarta as municipal workers cleared the road. The crash had already caused congestion towards Slipi, while the TransJakarta busway was temporarily closed and buses diverted to the regular lanes.

Public Works Ministry Completes Repairs to Collapsed Road on Tarutung–Sibolga Route

The Public Works Ministry says emergency repairs to a 25-metre section of the Tarutung–Sibolga route in North Sumatra were completed after heavy rain caused the road to collapse. The route has gradually reopened to vehicles, restoring a key connection for residents and logistics after traffic had been diverted from another damaged road.

Antam Gold Prices Fall After Two-Day Rise: Full Price List

Antam’s 24-carat gold price fell by Rp 11,000 to Rp 2,559,000 per gram on Thursday, 29 October 2026, after rising sharply over the previous two days. The buyback price also declined by Rp 11,000, while the article lists prices across weights from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram and notes the applicable income tax on bullion purchases.

Global Collaboration Driven by Digital Intelligence as 33rd China International Advertising Festival Opens in Haidian

The 33rd China International Advertising Festival opened in Beijing’s Haidian District, bringing together advertising professionals from 27 countries for forums, exhibitions and industry events focused on digital intelligence and global cooperation. Organisers and industry leaders said the festival aims to foster cross-sector partnerships and position Haidian as a hub for digital cultural industries and international engagement.

Indonesia AirAsia Maintains 82% Load Factor Amid Cost Pressures

Indonesia AirAsia kept its passenger load factor at 82% through September 2026, even as higher jet fuel prices and a weaker rupiah drove fuel costs up and contributed to a pre-tax loss of Rp1.74 trillion. The airline is prioritising route and fleet efficiency, ancillary revenue and peak-season demand to strengthen its financial performance amid sustained operating-cost pressure.

Fed Holds Interest Rates at 3.75–4% as Inflation Remains in Focus

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate at 3.75–4%, as inflation remained elevated and officials differed over whether further monetary tightening was needed. Two of the 12 voting members dissented in favour of a quarter-point increase, while futures markets point to the possibility of another rise in December and further increases in 2027.

IDX: Indonesia’s Stock Exchange Is Among the World’s Most Transparent, Alongside Hong Kong

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) says it is among the world’s most transparent markets, citing disclosure of shareholdings above 1%, more detailed investor classifications and publication of highly concentrated shareholdings. From 2 November 2026, stocks on its high shareholding concentration list will be excluded from the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI); the IDX says the change should not cause a sharp index move and aims to make the benchmark more representative.

Palembang Mother Hands Son Over to Police During Drug Raid

A mother in Palembang voluntarily brought her son to police during a raid on a suspected drug neighbourhood, saying his addiction had led him to steal and pawn family belongings. Police arrested five men who tested positive for methamphetamine and seized a small packet of the drug and drug paraphernalia; they said they would assess the son’s case further.

MUI Says Man Claiming to Be the Mahdi in Bangkalan Is Heretical, Citing Three Grounds

Indonesia’s Ulema Council (MUI) says the religious claims made by a man reported to police in Bangkalan are heretical, following allegations of fraud and extortion that may have cost followers Rp1.3 billion. MUI deputy chairman KH Muhammad Cholil Nafis says the claimant’s assertion that he is the Mahdi—and that his father is the Ratu Adil—contradicts Islamic belief and established accounts of the Mahdi’s lineage.

Kumham Imipas Honoured as a Driver of Legal Reform

The Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections (Kemenko Kumham Imipas) has received an award recognising its work on legal reform, digital services and public information transparency. Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said the ministry is continuing to refine regulations, promote a shared understanding of the new Criminal Procedure Code, and expand online services while stressing the need for ethical oversight and coordination.

Indef: Indonesia-Singapore Tensions Could Disrupt Investment and Trade

Prolonged tensions between Indonesia and Singapore could undermine business confidence and harm investment and trade, according to Indef deputy director Eko Listiyanto. The dispute has been fuelled by cross-border haze, allegations linked to volatility in Indonesia’s stock market and reduced gas supplies, although both governments are pursuing cooperation on some issues.

Only 15 Million Families Registered for Digital Social Assistance, 10% Registered Independently

Indonesia’s Ministry of Social Affairs has registered nearly 15 million families in its digital social-protection system, well short of the target of more than 48 million by December 2026. A pilot in Banyuwangi found that only 10% of residents registered independently, highlighting the role of agents in helping people access the service and improving the accuracy of beneficiary data.

Philippines Warns ASEAN Not to Let Differences Divide It

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. urged ASEAN members to prevent disagreements from undermining the bloc, calling for peaceful and lawful ways to resolve disputes, including in the South China Sea. The appeal came as the Philippines hosted the 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting, where ministers marked key anniversaries and agreed on new initiatives.

Baznas RI Opens Scholarships for 300 Indonesian Students in the Middle East

Indonesia’s National Board of Zakat (Baznas) has opened applications for 300 scholarships for Indonesian undergraduate and postgraduate students studying in eight Middle Eastern countries. The two-year programme has a budget of Rp8.16 billion and provides monthly stipends, mentoring and support for selected academic events.

Dwi Bagus’s Legal Wife Unaware He Killed and Hid Dini and Her Child’s Bodies

East Java police say the legal wife of Dwi Bagus Martono did not know that he had allegedly killed Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old child or hidden their bodies at the back of their spacious home. Investigators believe he acted alone during the killings but are still examining whether anyone else assisted afterwards, as the missing-person investigation took several weeks.

The Story of Usama ibn Zayd, the 18-Year-Old Appointed by the Prophet as a Military Commander

The article recounts how the Prophet Muhammad appointed 18-year-old Usama ibn Zayd to lead a military expedition, despite the presence of senior companions in the force. The account is presented as an example of confidence in young people’s abilities and their place in Islamic history.

East Jakarta City Government Strengthens Support for PMI’s Humanitarian Services

East Jakarta’s municipal government is urging local officials to support the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI)’s annual fundraising drive, which helps finance social and humanitarian services. With the campaign due to end in November, organisers say they remain confident of reaching the target through voluntary contributions and public outreach.

51st ASCOPE Meeting Agrees to Strengthen ASEAN’s Energy Architecture

The 51st ASCOPE Council Meeting in Bali concluded with agreements aimed at strengthening regional energy cooperation, including efforts on the energy transition, supply-chain security and technology exchange. Pertamina chief executive Simon Aloysius Mantiri said ASEAN members’ differing strengths can complement one another, while Timor-Leste highlighted the benefits of its full membership as it prepares to host the 2029 ASEAN Summit.

BULOG Moves Quickly to Tighten SPHP Rice Distribution, Establishes Special Task Force and Strengthens National Oversight

Perum BULOG has suspended six employees and launched an internal investigation after alleged misuse of rice distributed under the government’s SPHP price-stabilisation programme in East Jakarta. It has also established a special task force to tighten monitoring of distribution routes and partner retailers, aiming to prevent further abuses and ensure the rice reaches the public as intended.

Jakarta Financial Festival Raises Rp5 Billion and Opens More Than 1,000 New Accounts

Jakarta Financial Festival 2026 raised more than Rp5 billion and facilitated the opening of over 1,000 new accounts, attracting more than 7,500 visitors over two days. Organisers and financial authorities said the event aimed not only to expand access to financial services but also to improve public understanding of responsible financial management.

US Dollar Loses Ground Across Asia as Rupiah, Yuan and Won Strengthen; Ringgit Rallies

Eight of the ten Asian currencies tracked strengthened against the US dollar after the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady and Chair Kevin Warsh gave no firm signal about a possible December increase. The rupiah rose 0.25%, moving away from a record low, while South Korea’s won led gains; markets still put the chance of a December rate rise at about 78%.

JCI Expected to Trade Sideways as Markets Watch Global Monetary Policy

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) is expected to move within a 5,150–5,350 range as investors assess central-bank decisions and economic data worldwide. Domestically, the Indonesia Stock Exchange has begun steps towards demutualisation, tightened its strategic priorities for 2027 and sharply reduced its 2026 IPO target, prioritising listing quality amid concerns about investor confidence.

Popular stories: Flooding in Aceh and a co-operative-owned cooking oil refinery

ANTARA’s most-read stories on Thursday covered flooding affecting nearly 2,000 households in Subulussalam, Aceh, and the government’s target for the national co-operative movement to own a cooking oil refinery by 2027. Other prominent reports addressed the rupiah outlook, calls for dialogue over a concert, and tighter food-safety monitoring ahead of the expected El Niño period and the 2026 year-end holidays.

Angler Missing off Bukit Asah Beach in Karangasem Found Dead

A 21-year-old angler from Klungkung who fell into the sea while fishing off Bukit Asah Beach has been found dead after a four-day search. His body was discovered by a local fisherman about two nautical miles west of where he fell and was taken to Klungkung Regional Hospital at his family’s request.

3,394 Hectares of Land Burned in 2026; Riau Police Name 65 Suspects

Riau Police say fires have burned 3,394 hectares across the province so far in 2026, with 65 people named as suspects in 61 police reports. Authorities say most suspects are local residents, while investigations into possible corporate involvement continue; police and regional agencies have also placed warning signs at 260 sites as fires subside.

Bali Aircraft Maintenance Facility Wins European Certification, Targets International Airlines

FL Technics Indonesia’s facility at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport has received EASA Part-145 certification, enabling it to service airlines and aircraft-leasing companies operating under European aviation rules. The company plans to begin work on an aircraft operated by an EU carrier next week and is positioning the Bali facility as a hub for international maintenance services.

RI Ambassador Praises Malaysian Police for Prosecuting Suspects in Migrant Worker Abuse Case

Indonesia’s ambassador to Malaysia has praised the Malaysian police for arresting and pursuing charges against at least four suspects accused of abusing an Indonesian migrant worker in Selangor, as well as an agent who sent her to work in Malaysia. The victim, identified as SR, is recovering and hopes to return to her family in Banten; Indonesian representatives will help arrange her return.

Rupiah’s Movement Influenced by Fed Decision to Hold Interest Rates

The rupiah strengthened at Thursday’s open after the US Federal Reserve kept its policy rate at 3.75–4.00 per cent, in line with market expectations. Permata Bank chief economist Josua Pardede said the Fed gave no clear signal on a possible December rate rise, while the rupiah is expected to trade between Rp18,100 and Rp18,225 per US dollar.

Orchestrating Youth’s Role in the National Resilience Agenda

The article argues that Indonesia must turn its demographic dividend into stronger national resilience by coordinating young people’s contributions across education, employment, civic participation and defence. It highlights youth unemployment and limited participation in leadership, and calls for an inclusive, measurable approach that treats young people as active partners rather than programme beneficiaries.

Eruption-Related Earthquakes Continue to Dominate Mount Semeru’s Activity

Eruption-related earthquakes remain the most frequent activity at Mount Semeru, which is still at Alert Level III, with authorities reporting 29 such events in six hours and three eruptions on Thursday morning. Residents have been urged to follow safety restrictions and avoid areas near the summit and the Besuk Kobokan river, where pyroclastic flows, lava avalanches and lahars pose risks.

AiMOGA Shows How Robots Could Feature in Everyday Life in the Future

Chery’s AiMOGA robots were demonstrated in Wuhu, China, carrying out simulated roles ranging from helping children learn to directing traffic and providing public information. The showcase, part of the Chery International User Summit 2026, highlighted the company’s embodied-intelligence ambitions while underscoring that real-world use will depend on safety, reliability and practical needs.

KPK Investigates New Bengkulu Case, Re-Summons Legislator Vinna Ledy

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened a new investigation into alleged gratuities within Bengkulu city government, expanding its probe into the case involving inactive Rejang Lebong regent M Fikri Thobari. It has summoned city council member Vinna Ledy Anggraheni for questioning, following earlier investigations that brought two additional suspects into the wider case, in which Fikri is suspected of receiving Rp1.7 billion in bribes linked to public works projects.

Two Trucks Involved in Crash Outside Parliament Have Been Removed; Debris Still Being Cleared

Two trucks involved in a collision on Jalan Gatot Subroto outside Indonesia’s Parliament in Central Jakarta have been removed, while fallen ceramic tiles are still being cleared from the road. Traffic towards Slipi has eased and the TransJakarta lane has reopened; the truck driver has been taken into custody by police.

Pekanbaru’s Fibre-Optic Cable Clearance to Be Phased, with More Areas to Follow

Pekanbaru City Government has begun clearing overhead fibre-optic cables on several roads and plans to extend the work to other parts of the city. The three-kilometre project on Jalan Paus is expected to be half complete by mid-November, with the remainder finished by late November or early December, as cables are moved underground through ducting.

‘Ghost’ Village Rises from the Grave: What It Looks Like Now

Extreme drought linked to a super El Niño has lowered water levels at Karian Dam in Banten, exposing the remains of Somang village, which was submerged for the reservoir project. The dam, inaugurated in January 2024 to supply water to Banten, Jakarta and parts of West Java, has revealed house walls and a historic mosque; forecasters expect El Niño conditions to persist into early 2027.

Fuel crisis leaves 2.6 million Cubans struggling to access drinking water

Cuba’s foreign minister says around 2.6 million people are struggling to obtain drinking water because fuel shortages have caused power cuts, disrupting the country’s electricity-dependent water pumps. He blamed US restrictions on fuel supplies and made the remarks ahead of a UN General Assembly vote on a draft resolution calling for an end to the US embargo on Cuba.

KPK Opens New Investigation into Bengkulu City Government: What Is the Case About?

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened a new investigation into suspected gratuities within the Bengkulu City Government, as an extension of a corruption probe involving Rejang Lebong Regency. The commission has summoned a Bengkulu City councillor for questioning; the wider investigation has already led to two suspects being named in October.

Andrea Bocelli and the Art of Taking Sides

The article argues that art is never politically neutral, linking calls to boycott Andrea Bocelli’s scheduled performances in Indonesia to his past appearances and associations connected with Israel. It contrasts Bocelli’s record with other musicians who have expressed solidarity with Palestinians or supported humanitarian relief, citing the Indonesian Ulema Council’s reference to its 2023 fatwa on support for the Palestinian cause.

Beware of Unrecognised Devices on Your Google Account: How to Block Them

Google account holders are advised to check which devices are signed in and remove any they do not recognise to prevent unauthorised remote access. The article also outlines how to enable two-step verification on Android, iPhone and a computer, and recommends changing the password and reviewing third-party app access.

Australian Defence Chief Says China’s Military Build-up Is Creating ‘Pressure’ in Southeast Asia

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said China’s military expansion is creating pressure across Southeast Asia and called for closer cooperation among allies and regional partners. At a meeting in the Philippines, Australia, Japan, the United States and the Philippines agreed to improve defence policy coordination amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.

BPKH and Bank Muamalat Reach Out to Malaysian Diaspora to Encourage Young Pilgrims

Indonesia’s Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) and Bank Muamalat held a Hajj festival in Kuala Lumpur to promote early Hajj planning among Indonesians living in Malaysia. The event highlighted financial education and digital services, including online registration and payment options, alongside savings and financing products for prospective pilgrims.

Turkey Deploys Air Power as Rivalry with Israel and Greece Heats Up

Turkey’s September air exercise south of Cyprus showcased its long-range operational capabilities amid rising tensions over maritime boundaries and regional defence ties. The exercise coincided with a renewed diplomatic dispute over the Turkey-Libya maritime agreement, while Ankara has voiced concern about Cyprus’s acquisition of Israeli air-defence systems; there is no evidence the exercise specifically targeted Israel or prepared for an attack on Greece.

Two Saudi Nationals Arrested After Stabbing Security Guard and Ride-Hailing Drivers Following Nightclub Ejection

Two Saudi nationals have been arrested in Bali after three Indonesians were stabbed outside a nightclub in Pecatu, Badung. Police said the incident followed the men’s removal from the venue for disturbing other patrons and a subsequent dispute with ride-hailing drivers; the victims are receiving medical treatment.

Articulated Lorry Crashes into Light Truck on Gatot Subroto, Injuring One Driver

An articulated lorry struck a stationary, loaded Toyota Dyna light truck on Jalan Gatot Subroto in South Jakarta after the truck had stopped because of a broken rear axle. The lorry driver was injured, and police are investigating the collision, which also left both vehicles damaged and pushed the light truck into a roadside guardrail.

Indonesia prepares rules for international financial centre

Indonesia is drafting regulations for the planned Indonesia Financial Centre, which will launch in Jakarta before expanding to Bali and is modelled on Dubai’s international financial centre. The framework envisages a specialist court and arbitration system, broad financial-sector coverage and incentives for investors, while maintaining anti-money-laundering and other compliance requirements.

Vitamin D Intake Linked to Sleep Quality

Vitamin D intake has been associated with better overall sleep, with low levels linked to shorter sleep duration and difficulty falling asleep. Some clinical trials suggest supplements may help, particularly for older people and pregnant women, but health professionals advise taking them consistently with food and avoiding high doses without medical guidance.

Two Trucks Crash Outside Parliament, Cargo Spills Across Road

Two lorries collided on Jalan Gatot Subroto outside Indonesia’s parliament building, spilling cargo and causing long traffic queues towards Slipi. Evacuation efforts were still under way in the morning, with authorities warning motorists to expect delays and drive carefully.

Viral Beeru Stevia Suspected of Containing Artificial Sweeteners; Sales Suspended

Beeru Indonesia has temporarily halted sales of its stevia sweetener after a laboratory report shared online allegedly found sucralose and neotame, despite the product being marketed as pure stevia. The company says it is verifying the findings with its manufacturing partner; the claims have not yet been independently confirmed, and any assessment against BPOM limits would depend on the product category and recommended use.

Traffic Heading to Bulungan Diverted After Truck Breaks Down Near CSW Bus Stop

Traffic heading towards Jl Bulungan in South Jakarta was diverted after a truck became immobilised near CSW 2 bus stop, blocking the westbound road to the Bulungan traffic lights for cars. Motorcycles could use one lane, while cars were redirected via Jl Hang Tuah Raya as the truck awaited a technician; it had already suffered a puncture and then developed a clutch problem.

Messages and Mathematical Codes in the Siwaluh Jabu Traditional House

The centuries-old Siwaluh Jabu houses of Karo, North Sumatra, embody communal living and a cosmology linking people, nature and the spiritual world. Their numbers are dwindling amid modernisation and inadequate maintenance, while their architecture also offers a perspective for exploring how mathematical patterns are embedded in cultural traditions.

KPK Searches Djarum Excise Office; Kudus Customs Says No Staff Were Taken Away

Kudus Customs and Excise said no employees were taken away after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched its office as part of a corruption investigation linked to Djarum excise. KPK personnel reportedly left with two suitcases and a bag, while officials said they could not yet confirm what documents or digital data had been seized.

Agriculture Ministry Aims to Make Indonesia the World’s No. 1 Fruit and Floriculture Exporter

Indonesia’s Agriculture Ministry wants the country to become the world’s leading exporter of fruit and floriculture within the next decade, while expanding production towards self-sufficiency and export markets. It is promoting leading commodities, local genetic resources, technology and processed fruit products, with China and Vietnam among the potential markets for durian.

Chaos as Election Loser Flees to US and Claims to Be ‘True President’

Brazilian senator Flávio Bolsonaro has declared himself the country’s “true president” after losing the election, then travelled to the United States with his family. His flight, amid criminal investigations and unsupported claims of electoral fraud, has drawn criticism in Brazil and raised questions over how he left the country.

Pertamina promotes space for youth innovation on Youth Pledge Day

Pertamina is expanding opportunities for young Indonesians through entrepreneurship competitions, scholarships, campus programmes and work placements. The initiatives, announced around the 98th anniversary of Youth Pledge Day, are intended to help young people develop sustainable ventures and contribute to addressing challenges including those in the energy sector.

Smoking and Household Purchasing Power: How Much Does It Affect Spending on Essentials?

BPS data from the March 2025 National Socio-Economic Survey show average monthly cigarette spending of Rp91,708 per person, equivalent to 5.84 per cent of total per-capita expenditure. The article notes that the effect on households’ ability to afford essentials varies with income, household size and consumption habits, with recurring cigarette purchases potentially tightening budgets for lower-income families.

Indonesia and ILO Sign Declaration on 2026–2030 Decent Work Programme

Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower, employers’ and workers’ organisations, and the ILO have signed a joint declaration launching the country’s fourth Decent Work Country Programme, covering 2026–2030. The programme prioritises stronger social dialogue, productive and inclusive jobs and entrepreneurship, and universal, adaptable social protection amid widespread informal employment and major economic transitions.

Ras Al Khaimah Signs Landmark Friendship Agreement and 10 Memoranda of Understanding During Historic High-Level Visit to Southern China

Ras Al Khaimah and China’s Fujian province have signed a friendship agreement to deepen economic, maritime and cultural ties, following a six-day visit by the emirate’s ruler. The visit also produced 10 memoranda of understanding covering areas including robotics, transport, finance, media, construction, tourism and business cooperation.

KPK Announces New Bengkulu Investigation and Summons City Council Member

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has opened a new investigation into alleged receipt of gratuities within Bengkulu City Government, expanding a probe into alleged corruption in Rejang Lebong Regency. It has summoned a Bengkulu City Council member for questioning, after searches in the city yielded Rp4 billion in cash and two suspects were named in the related case.

Antam Gold Bullion Price Falls by Rp11,000 Today

Antam’s one-gram gold bullion price fell by Rp11,000 to Rp2,559,000 on Thursday, while its buyback price also dropped by the same amount. The movement came as global gold prices retreated in early trading after posting gains for three consecutive sessions; the article also outlines tax rates for purchases and buybacks.

Aceh’s Zainoel Abidin Hospital Sanctions Those Behind Hidden Camera in Changing Room

Zainoel Abidin Regional General Hospital in Banda Aceh has sanctioned those responsible for installing an unauthorised CCTV camera in a midwives’ changing room and for sharing its footage on social media. The camera, concealed inside an air freshener, has been removed, while the hospital continues to investigate why it was installed.

JCI Rises to 5,305: Will the Indonesian Stock Market Rally Continue?

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened higher at 5,305.20 after gains in the previous session, tracking optimism in Asian markets and global enthusiasm for artificial intelligence. Investors are also watching major central-bank decisions and domestic factors, including Indonesia’s emerging-market status and fiscal pressures from fuel costs and proposed free university education.

Constitutional Court to Deliver 20 Rulings on Judicial Review Petitions Today

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court is scheduled to issue decisions on 20 petitions challenging provisions in a wide range of laws, from the Criminal Code and election legislation to disaster management and domestic workers’ protections. Among the cases are challenges concerning PLN power poles on private land and social security contributions and dispute resolution under the recently enacted Domestic Workers Protection Law.

Landslide Hits Tabanan, Injuring Young Woman

A 21-year-old woman was injured when a landslide brought down a wall at her home in Tabanan, Bali, and she was taken to hospital for treatment. The slide also damaged two nearby homes; clean-up is being carried out manually because heavy machinery cannot access the site, with work expected to take around three days.

One-Stop Permitting: Oil and Gas Special Business Entity Set to Gain Greater Powers in Indonesia

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the draft Oil and Gas Law, which would replace the 2001 law, is nearly ready for discussion, with its problem inventory 90% complete. The proposed special business entity (BUK) would streamline permits through a one-stop process and introduce tax relief for contractors during exploration, with the stated aim of improving the investment climate in upstream oil and gas.

‘The Archivist’: A Call to Protect Cinema Heritage Resounds in Tokyo

A documentary about Misbach Yusa Biran and the founding of Sinematek Indonesia has been screened at the 2026 Tokyo International Film Festival, foregrounding the importance of film archives to cultural memory. The film traces the archive’s difficult early years and renews discussion about preserving Indonesia’s cinematic heritage for future generations.

Ras Al Khaimah signs friendship agreement and 10 MoUs during China visit

Ras Al Khaimah and China’s Fujian Province have signed a friendship agreement to deepen economic, maritime and cultural ties, alongside 10 memoranda of understanding between Emirati entities and Chinese counterparts. The deals cover areas including robotics, transport, banking, port and infrastructure development, tourism, heritage and packaging, and were announced during a high-level tour of Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Fuzhou.

Government to Strengthen Oil Palm Farmers’ Role Across the Supply Chain Through Cooperatives

The government is backing oil palm farmers to expand from cultivation into processing, with cooperatives proposed as a vehicle for investment and access to finance. Ministers say downstream development depends on stronger upstream farming, while Apkasindo has called for farmers to share more of the value created and for partnerships across the industry to be managed constructively.

MedcoEnergi and PSC Partners Sign Three Agreements to Safeguard Domestic Gas Supply

MedcoEnergi and its partners have signed two gas sales and purchase agreements and amended a third, covering supplies from three working areas. The deals include 89 trillion British thermal units (TBTU) from Sakakemang, an additional 6.8 TBTU from South Sumatra, and an estimated 205.59 billion standard cubic feet (BSCF) from Senoro-Toili, supporting efforts to secure Indonesia’s domestic gas supply.

Press Council Honours Media Company and Press Figures, Including Karni Ilyas

Indonesia’s Press Council presented four awards at its 2026 ceremony in Jakarta, recognising a media company, a journalist, a press figure and a public figure for their contributions to journalism and press freedom. Project Multatuli, Najwa Shihab, Karni Ilyas and Mahfud MD received the respective awards.

Antam Gold Price Falls by Rp11,000 to Rp2.559 Million per Gram on Thursday

Antam’s gold price fell by Rp11,000 to Rp2,559,000 per gram on Thursday morning, while its buyback price dropped to Rp2,354,000 per gram. The article also outlines applicable tax deductions and lists prices for gold bars in weights ranging from 0.5 to 1,000 grams.

Rupiah Opens Stronger as US Dollar Falls to Rp18,173

The rupiah edged higher at the open, trading at Rp18,173 per US dollar after closing at a record low the previous day. The dollar’s slight retreat offered limited support, while divisions within the Federal Reserve and market expectations of a possible December rate rise continued to weigh on emerging-market currencies.

Jakarta Composite Index Opens 0.43% Higher at 5,305

The Jakarta Composite Index opened 0.43% higher at 5,305.20, with trading value reaching Rp694.36 billion. Investors are weighing the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold rates against upcoming US inflation and jobs data, the European Central Bank’s policy announcement, geopolitical risks and rising Indonesian government bond yields.

Police Raid Kampung Berlan in East Jakarta, Arrest Eight

A joint police and military operation in Kampung Berlan, Matraman, resulted in eight people being detained, seven of whom tested positive for drugs. Officers seized suspected methamphetamine, cannabis and ketamine as authorities investigate the detainees’ roles and pursue efforts to curb drug trafficking and support rehabilitation.

Pekanbaru City Government Aims to Complete Fibre-Optic Cable Reorganisation by Early December

Pekanbaru’s city government aims to reorganise three kilometres of fibre-optic cables along Jalan Paus by late November or early December, moving them underground through a ducting system. The project follows work on other streets and is intended to improve the city’s appearance while making telecommunications infrastructure more orderly and integrated.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Reviews Vocational Training to Ensure Sekolah Rakyat Students Gain Job Skills

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono says vocational training at Sekolah Rakyat is intended to help students become work-ready and financially independent after graduation. A one-week programme in South Sulawesi has trained 35 students in hairdressing and make-up, with further courses planned to reflect students’ abilities and local opportunities.

HMI Deputy Secretary-General Says Open Dialogue Is Needed over Andrea Bocelli Concert

An HMI official says an open discussion is needed to balance cultural diplomacy and creative-industry benefits with Indonesia’s commitment to solidarity with Palestine. The concerts are scheduled for 31 October 2026 in Borobudur and 3 November 2026 in Jakarta, with organisers saying the events will proceed after consultations and consideration of national priorities.

Former Deputy Immigration Minister Silmy Karim Appears in First Hearing over Alleged Rp145.5bn Extortion of Foreigners’ Residence Permits

Former Deputy Minister for Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim is due to face his first hearing, where prosecutors will read charges in an alleged extortion scheme involving foreign nationals’ residence permits. The Corruption Eradication Commission alleges that eight officials and staff obtained about Rp145.5 billion between 2022 and 2026; six other defendants are scheduled to appear alongside Karim.

Ombudsman RI Reviews Public Service Standards at Salemba Prison

Indonesia’s Ombudsman has inspected public service standards at Salemba Class IIA Prison in Central Jakarta, examining service areas and interviewing staff, inmates and visitors. The prison’s head said the review would support ongoing improvements, with a focus on consistent procedures, responsive service and non-discrimination.

Indonesia to Levy 15% Global Minimum Tax: Which Companies Must Pay?

Indonesia has introduced the OECD-aligned Global Anti-Base Erosion (GloBE) rules, requiring qualifying multinational groups with annual consolidated revenue of at least €750 million to pay a minimum effective tax rate of 15%. The rules took effect in 2025 and use three top-up tax mechanisms, including a domestic tax that allows Indonesia to collect underpaid amounts before other jurisdictions.

Jimny Driver Flees After Crashing into Mixue Outlet in Denpasar

A Jimny driver crashed into a Mixue ice-cream outlet in Denpasar during heavy rain, then reversed away from the scene without taking responsibility. Police are investigating the driver, while damage to the shop’s fence and frontage is estimated at Rp20 million.

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan: Haze Has Persisted for Three Decades; A Solution Is Needed

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said the recurring haze crisis has lasted nearly three decades and requires a lasting solution, following talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. Singapore and Indonesia have agreed to establish a joint task force to coordinate information and action against companies responsible for transboundary haze, while Singapore is also considering stronger legislation and policies to ensure corporate accountability.

Asian Shares Rise as Investors Weigh Big Tech Earnings and the Fed

Asian markets mostly advanced as investors assessed US technology earnings and the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold interest rates at 3.75%–4%. Microsoft gained after beating expectations, while Alphabet fell sharply, and investors turned their attention to upcoming US inflation, GDP and employment data.

Truck Crash Evacuation Outside Parliament Still Under Way as Cargo Spills Across Road

Two lorries collided outside Indonesia’s MPR/DPR complex on Jalan Gatot Subroto in Central Jakarta, scattering cargo and causing congestion towards Slipi. The evacuation was still under way on Thursday morning, with motorists warned to drive carefully and consider alternative routes.

RANS Shares Plunge to Rp117, Now 31% Below IPO Price

RANS shares closed at Rp117 on 28 October 2026, 31.18% below their Rp170 IPO price and nearly 49% below their first-day opening level. The company raised Rp429.25 billion in its IPO for business expansion and other purposes, but chief executive Nagita Slavina previously said only the debt repayment allocation had been realised at that point.

McLaren Tax Arrears Case: Mechanic Plans to Take Legal Action

A Tangerang mechanic whose name was used to register a McLaren and who was billed Rp137 million in unpaid vehicle tax says he will pursue legal action if the car’s actual owner is found. Samsat Ciledug and the police are tracing the vehicle, while its registration has been blocked pending administrative resolution; authorities are also investigating how the ownership transfer was recorded.

Official Fuel Prices at Pertamina, Shell and BP-Vivo Stations as at 29 October 2026

Pertamina and private fuel retailers have kept their prices unchanged since 1 October, with Pertamina saying subsidised fuel prices will remain fixed through the end of 2026. The article lists prices across Pertamina stations in Jakarta and BP-AKR, Shell and Vivo outlets, including petrol and diesel products.

Forest and Land Fires, Ecocide and Cross-Border Crime

The article argues that large-scale forest and land fires in Indonesia should be treated as ecocide, citing their severe, widespread and long-term harm, including toxic haze that crosses national borders. It calls on Indonesia to strengthen its laws and ensure corporate and decision-maker accountability, rather than treating fires as recurring disasters addressed only after they begin.

Jogja Weather Today: Rain in Malioboro and Kaliurang from Midday

BMKG Yogyakarta forecasts rain across almost all of the Special Region of Yogyakarta on Thursday, 29 October, including the popular Malioboro and Kaliurang areas. Heavy rain and possible thunderstorms are expected in parts of Sleman and Kulon Progo, while other areas are forecast to see lighter rain later in the day.

Flooding in Aceh’s Subulussalam Affects 1,985 Households

Flooding in Subulussalam, Aceh, has affected 1,985 households and inundated more than 2,000 homes, along with roads, farmland, schools and places of worship. Three households have evacuated, no deaths have been reported, and floodwater had yet to recede as of Wednesday evening.

PSSI Reaffirms Support for Gianni Infantino to Continue Leading FIFA

PSSI chairman Erick Thohir says Indonesia supports Gianni Infantino’s continued leadership of FIFA, noting unanimous backing from Asian countries and support previously expressed at an international meeting. He also cited harmonious relations between President Prabowo Subianto and Infantino, and said he had been asked to send a letter of support from the Indonesian head of state.

Indonesia’s Downstream Nickel Exports Could Reach Rp817 Trillion

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry is targeting at least US$45 billion (Rp817 trillion) in exports of downstream nickel products in 2026, following exports of US$25.6 billion through August. The government says it will prioritise commercially viable, environmentally responsible projects and build an integrated nickel value chain, as domestic Class 1 nickel has gained recognition from the London Metal Exchange.

KRAS develops nickel downstreaming project with capacity of 1.2 million tonnes a year

Krakatau Steel plans to invest US$350 million in a facility to process nickel into stainless steel slabs, with annual capacity of 1.2 million tonnes and projected annual revenue exceeding US$2 billion. The project forms part of the state-owned steelmaker’s broader effort to build Indonesia’s advanced materials ecosystem and strengthen domestic industrial supply chains.

Indonesia to Collect Additional Tax from Global Companies Through These Three Mechanisms

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes has outlined three mechanisms for applying the 15% global minimum tax to multinational groups: the domestic top-up tax and Income Inclusion Rule from 2025, followed by the Undertaxed Payment Rule from 2026. The rules apply to qualifying groups with annual revenue of at least €750 million and are intended to ensure that in-scope profits are taxed at an effective rate of at least 15% in each jurisdiction.

Turkish Defence Giant Sets Record with Rp557 Trillion in Orders

Turkish defence technology company ASELSAN reported a record order backlog of US$30.7 billion (Rp557 trillion) at the end of September 2026, after securing about US$14 billion in new contracts during the first nine months of the year. The company is investing heavily in production capacity to fulfil its growing domestic and export orders, particularly in air defence, radar and electronic warfare, but the backlog represents work yet to be completed rather than revenue already earned.

AI Adoption Rises, but 64% of Indonesian Organisations Have Experienced Unintended Outcomes

A survey found that although 96% of organisations in Indonesia believe they can explain AI decisions, only 34% keep complete, tamper-resistant records of those decisions. The findings highlight accountability and oversight gaps as agentic AI expands, with 64% reporting unintended outcomes and 99% expressing readiness to adopt tools that trace AI actions to a responsible person.

Two-Truck Crash Causes Long Traffic Queues Outside Parliament

A collision involving two large lorries on Jalan Gatot Subroto outside Indonesia’s Parliament building caused heavy congestion towards Slipi, with one vehicle’s load spilled across the road. Police traffic monitors warned motorists of slow-moving traffic near the crash site and urged them to proceed carefully.

China Sparks Global Concern as Coal Prices Surge Again

Coal prices rose 1.33% to US$152.55 a tonne on Wednesday, ending a two-day decline, as forecasts pointed to a shift in China’s coking coal market from a slight surplus in 2025 to a deficit in 2026. Tighter mine-safety enforcement and reduced domestic output are expected to outweigh softer demand, while disruption to a Mongolian transport route could affect shipments, although the impact on coking coal supply is expected to be limited.

Mataram Gang Members Accused of Killing Gibran

A 14-year-old schoolboy, Muhammad Gibran Anugrah Aditya, has died after being attacked with a machete in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, and police have named 13 people as suspects. Investigators say the group had been drinking and carrying weapons before the incident; two other students were injured, and the suspects face charges under child-protection law and the Criminal Code.

Oil Prices Rise as Brent Breaks Through US$115 a Barrel

Oil prices climbed amid fears that escalating conflict in the Middle East could disrupt energy supplies, with Brent reaching US$115.32 a barrel and WTI rising to US$102.78. Attacks in Yemen and unconfirmed claims of an attack on Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura refinery, alongside the prospect of renewed US military action against Iran, have heightened market concerns about near-term supply tightness.

Pertamina Finds Potential 1 Billion Barrels of Oil: Here Is the Location

Pertamina says its Padang Pancuran discovery in South Sumatra could contain more than 1 billion barrels, while an earlier estimate put the Jambi Merang find at up to 1.4 billion barrels. The state-owned energy company is developing the discovery and advancing unconventional oil and gas prospects in Rokan, with 75% of its capital expenditure allocated to upstream activities to support Indonesia’s 2030 production target of 1 million barrels per day.

MP urges government to assess plan to import 30 million barrels of oil from UAE

A member of the House of Representatives has urged the government to scrutinise a proposed supply of up to 30 million barrels of crude oil from the United Arab Emirates, including its terms, quality and suitability for domestic refineries. The supply remains at an exploratory stage, and the lawmaker says Indonesia’s interests must be protected from any adverse consequences.

As AI Films Proliferate, Oscars Insist Only Humans Can Win Awards

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences says the Oscars will continue to recognise human creative achievement as artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in filmmaking, while also weighing copyright and transparency concerns. It will review its revised International Feature Film eligibility rules annually, including new qualification routes through six major festivals, as part of efforts to widen opportunities for filmmakers worldwide.

Mobile Samsat Services Available at 14 Locations Across Greater Jakarta on Thursday

Metro Jaya Police will operate mobile Samsat services at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Thursday to help motorists pay their annual vehicle tax. The service accepts annual vehicle tax payments only; motorists seeking a five-year registration renewal or replacement number plates must visit a Samsat office.

Oil and Gas Bill Nearly Complete, Bahlil Reveals Extensive Powers for Proposed Special Business Entity

Bahlil Lahadalia says the issue inventory for the Oil and Gas Bill is about 90 per cent complete, with the draft proposing a special business entity (BUK) empowered to handle upstream licensing. The government also plans to consider tax relief during exploration, aiming to cut delays, attract investment and lift production amid a wide gap between domestic output and demand.

Bali resort named Asia’s Leading Family Villa Resort 2026

The World Travel Awards has named Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort Asia’s Leading Family Villa Resort for 2026, ahead of nominees from Vietnam, Malaysia and China. The recognition highlights Bali’s appeal as a regional destination for family luxury tourism.

Yandex Data Centre, a Google Lookalike, Attacked; Netanyahu Pleased

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said around 60% of Russian bot activity targeting Israel had disappeared, attributing the decline to Ukrainian drone attacks on Yandex data centres. The claim has not been independently verified, and Netanyahu did not explain how he calculated the figure.

US and Japan agree to establish missile production facility

The United States and Japan have agreed to establish a facility in Japan to jointly produce advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles used by F-35 fighter jets. The deal, announced during regional defence meetings in Cebu, forms part of efforts to strengthen the Japan-US alliance’s deterrence and response capabilities amid heightened regional tensions.

Silmy Karim to Face First Hearing in Extortion Case Involving Foreign Nationals Today

Former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim is due to appear at the Jakarta Corruption Court for the opening hearing in a case alleging extortion over foreign nationals’ residence permits. The KPK says eight officials were implicated in the alleged scheme, which prosecutors believe generated about Rp145.5 billion between 2022 and 2026.

Riau Police Step Up Monitoring of 260 Former Forest and Land Fire Sites Marked with Warning Signs

Riau Police are increasing surveillance at 260 sites previously affected by forest and land fires, with five-person teams drawn from police, the military and local government assigned to vulnerable areas. The warning signs are intended to deter repeat fires, while investigators say many suspected fires near corporate boundaries were set by local residents; allegations involving companies will also be investigated.

BGN Introduces Kitchen Eligibility Ratings, Including Permanent Closure

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is tightening inspections of kitchens serving Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, with assessments based on 14 indicators. Kitchens will be classified into four categories, ranging from those allowed to continue operating to facilities that must close permanently, as authorities seek to strengthen food safety and prevent risks to beneficiaries.

IDX Changes Approach to Tackling Share Manipulation, Targeting Perpetrators’ Accounts

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to shift its market surveillance response from suspending shares to suspending the accounts of those suspected of manipulating trades. IDX chief executive Jeffrey Hendrik said the change is intended to avoid disrupting liquidity for all investors when only a small number of traders are suspected of manipulation, and to help restore confidence through more transparent and robust governance.

Yesterday: IDX approves Rp1.56 trillion dividend, while UAE oil imports remain under consideration

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has approved a special cash dividend of Rp1.564 trillion, its first such payout, while government officials are exploring the possibility of importing up to 30 million barrels of crude oil from the UAE. Other developments include potential sharia financing for creative businesses in Batam, a cooperative-owned cooking-oil refinery target for 2027, and nickel exports valued at US$25.96 billion through August 2026.

Sahroni Explains Opposition to KPK Proposal to Seize Assets of Officials Who Fail to Declare Them in LHKPN

DPR Commission III deputy chairman Ahmad Sahroni has opposed a KPK proposal to seize officials’ assets that are not disclosed in their wealth declarations, warning that seizure without due cause could constitute a serious human rights violation. He said officials must declare their assets fully and on time, while the proposal is being considered as part of the Asset Forfeiture Bill.

Pertamina Ensures Reliable Services for Indonesians Amid Global Uncertainty

Pertamina Patra Niaga says it is strengthening crude oil, fuel and LPG supplies, optimising its distribution network and improving operational readiness amid global geopolitical uncertainty. The state-owned company says these measures are intended to keep energy available, accessible and affordable across Indonesia, including areas with difficult transport links.

Indonesian Embassy in Rome Hosts Diplomatic Reception Highlighting North Sumatra–Venice Ties

The Indonesian Embassy in Rome marked Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day and the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian Military with a reception themed around friendship between North Sumatra and Venice. The event also showcased cultural diplomacy and highlighted growing Indonesia–Italy trade, investment and defence ties, alongside recognition of an Italian scholar of Indonesian language and literature.

Airlangga Reveals a Fast Way for Jakarta to Generate More Revenue

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says tourism can quickly generate income and foreign exchange without relying on imported components, and the government is seeking to attract 20 million visitors. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says concerts and other major events have already generated substantial economic activity, and expects creative events to contribute even more next year, supported by incentives such as hotel discounts.

Dispute Over Village Election Choices Leads to 41-Year-Old Grave Being Relocated in Bekasi

A family grave in Bekasi that had been in place for 41 years was relocated following a dispute between two residents over their preferred candidates in a village-head election. Police said the landowner and the deceased’s family reached an agreement after mediation, and the relocation took place peacefully with local officials present.

Yesterday’s Legal News: PT Djarum Searched and Illegal Imports of Second-hand Clothes Uncovered

The KPK expanded its investigation into alleged corruption at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, searching both the Kudus customs office and PT Djarum. Other legal developments included prison sentences in a childcare abuse case, an eight-month sentence for a South Korean national over sexual violence on Gili Trawangan, and the discovery of an alleged Rp15 billion illegal second-hand clothing import operation.

Yesterday in Politics: Singapore Foreign Minister’s Visit and Youth Pledge Day

President Prabowo Subianto met Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan in Hambalang, while labour leaders urged demonstrators to keep 28 October protests peaceful. The day’s other political developments included Press Council awards, recognition for Navy units tackling drug smuggling and armed groups, and a call from DPR Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad to strengthen national unity through practical action.

BMKG Warns of Potential Thunderstorms in Several Major Indonesian Cities, Including Jakarta

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of moderate to heavy rain and possible thunderstorms in several areas on 29 October, including Jakarta. A cyclonic circulation north of Aceh may help trigger rainfall, while high waves of up to 2.5 metres are forecast in a number of sea areas, prompting a caution to fishermen and marine transport users.

Singapore-Based Indonesian Business Leaders Meet Singapore Minister; One Declines Front-Row Seat

Ten executives from Indonesian companies operating in Singapore met senior Singaporean officials over forest fires in Indonesia that have caused haze in the city-state. Senior Minister K. Shanmugam said the fires stemmed from irresponsible business practices rather than natural causes, and warned that Singapore would examine evidence of companies’ direct or indirect involvement.

Jokowi to Testify at Roy Suryo Trial Next Week

Prosecutors plan to call former president Joko Widodo and his aide Syarif Muhammad Fitriansyah as witnesses at Roy Suryo’s defamation trial on 5 November. Suryo, who is accused of spreading false information about Widodo’s university diploma, said he had long been waiting for Widodo to appear in court; Syarif confirmed they would attend.

Spanish high-speed trains suspended until December following crash

Renfe has temporarily suspended ticket sales for high-speed services between Madrid and Andalusia until December 2026, following a fatal collision in Toledo. Services could resume earlier if infrastructure operator Adif completes repairs, but it has not yet given a timeline; nearly 70 people were reportedly killed in the crash.

DKPP: Denny Indrayana’s Complaint Over Gibran’s School Certificate Still Under Verification

The Indonesian Election Organisers’ Ethics Council (DKPP) is still checking the administrative completeness of a complaint filed by former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana and several groups against KPU commissioners over rules concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high-school certificate. A hearing will be scheduled only after administrative and substantive verification is complete; the complainants allege irregularities in the rule-making and candidate-document verification processes, claims which remain allegations.

DJP: Deadline for Global Minimum Tax Return Extended by Two Months

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes has extended the filing deadline for the first year of Global Anti-Base Erosion (GloBE) tax returns by up to two months, taking the example 2027 deadline from 30 April to 30 June. The 15% minimum tax applies to multinational enterprise groups with annual revenues of at least €750 million, and Indonesia’s rules provide three mechanisms for collecting any top-up tax.

BGN Suspends Dramaga Meal Service Unit in Bogor After Students Suffer Food Poisoning

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended the SPPG unit in Dramaga, Bogor, following a suspected food-poisoning incident affecting students who received the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The agency says 13 students remain under observation, rejects reports that more than 400 were affected, and is awaiting laboratory results while investigating a possible link to pre-prepared peanut sauce.

A recap of reports on Garin Nugroho’s film and internet access in Indonesia

ANTARA’s roundup revisits stories on the Tokyo premiere of Garin Nugroho’s new film, health risks during the transition to the rainy season, and a Singaporean’s threat to cut Indonesia’s internet access. It also reports that Volkswagen has begun public-road testing of Level 3 autonomous-driving technology in China.

Rupiah Hits Record Low, but Airlangga Is Optimistic It Will Not Breach Rp19,000 per US Dollar

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said he does not expect the rupiah to weaken beyond Rp19,000 per US dollar, despite the currency closing at a record low of Rp18,184. Bank Indonesia attributed pressure on the rupiah to Middle East uncertainty, a stronger dollar and domestic concerns, and said it was intervening in the market to support stability.

Yesterday: Free UKBI tests for teachers and list of pilgrims eligible to pay in full

Indonesia’s education ministry plans to waive UKBI language proficiency test fees for teachers from 2027, while the Social Affairs Ministry says its Sekolah Rakyat programme has reached thousands of vulnerable children. Other announcements include calls to preserve cultural diversity, tighter food-safety monitoring ahead of a forecast strong El Niño, and the release of the 2027 Hajj pilgrims eligible to settle their fees.

10 Habits Said to Block the Flow of Wealth, According to Feng Shui

Feng Shui beliefs associate several everyday habits and household conditions—from wasting water to keeping broken items—with stagnant energy and difficulty attracting wealth. Although presented as beliefs rather than proven financial guidance, the advice is framed as encouragement to keep homes orderly, clean and efficient.

Papua explores rice exports to neighbouring Papua New Guinea

Papua officials are preparing for an Indonesia–Papua New Guinea border meeting, with expanded trade in essential goods—including Indonesian rice and cooking oil—among the priorities. The provincial agency also plans to help indigenous Papuan entrepreneurs prepare warehousing and is considering cooperation between hospitals on both sides of the border.

11 Hyundai Electric Buses Ready for Operation in Bali

Hyundai has delivered 11 County EV buses for Bali’s first electric public-transport project, a South Korean-led initiative involving the Global Green Growth Institute and Indonesian bus manufacturer Laksana. The 20-seat buses can travel more than 200 kilometres per charge, and Hyundai will monitor their performance as they enter service; the project is intended to support lower-emission transport and demonstrate public-private collaboration.

Youth Pledge Commemoration Should Be a Moment to Build Young People’s Awareness

South Papua Bawaslu chief Marman urged young people to take an active role in democracy and local development, rather than limiting their involvement to voting or online debate. He said the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge should spur practical engagement, including community initiatives, public-service oversight and responsible, fact-based criticism.

BMKG: Several Indonesian Cities Could See Heavy Rain

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of moderate to heavy rain in several parts of the country on Thursday, with thunderstorms possible in cities including Padang and Jakarta. A cyclonic circulation north of Aceh is expected to support rain-cloud growth, while BMKG also forecasts rougher seas in several waters and urges residents and sea users to monitor local conditions.

5.7 Million Customer Accounts Exposed; Fore Coffee CEO Apologises

Fore Coffee says unauthorised parties accessed data associated with 5.7 million customer accounts, including contact details and purchase histories. The company says it blocked the access within 24 hours, has reported the incident to the Communications and Digital Ministry and is investigating; it is urging customers to change their app PINs and watch for phishing attempts.

Truck Gets Stuck Near CSW Stop, Four Transjakarta Routes Diverted

A truck became stuck near CSW 2 stop in South Jakarta, prompting Transjakarta to divert four routes to accommodate traffic conditions. Services towards Kebayoran are temporarily not stopping at CSW 2, and passengers have been advised to follow the operator’s latest updates.

PLN Completes Energisation of Kendal SEZ Substation 147 Days Ahead of Schedule to Support Industrial Growth

PLN has energised a 150 kV substation and associated transmission line at the Kendal Special Economic Zone, completing the project 147 days ahead of schedule. The new infrastructure is intended to improve electricity reliability and accommodate industrial expansion and new investment in the area.

Alongside Forest and Land Fires, South Kalimantan Areas Hit by Floods and Tornadoes

The BNPB says heavy rain has triggered flooding and extreme weather in several areas, including Banjar in South Kalimantan, where 175 people were affected, while 75 hectares of land in the province remain affected by fires. Flooding has also affected thousands of people in parts of Aceh and North Sumatra, prompting warnings to local governments and emergency response measures.

Drought Hits Cilacap as Residents Eagerly Queue for Clean Water from Immigration and Corrections Minister

One hundred free water tankers are being distributed to drought-hit villages in Cilacap, including Karangkemiri, where residents say wells have been dry for around six months. The aid, organised as part of the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections’ anniversary activities, is helping families who otherwise pay for water or travel several kilometres to find it.

Jakarta Composite Index Closes 0.31% Higher as Foreign Investors Buy These 10 Shares

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 0.31% to 5,282.31 on Wednesday, ending a two-day losing streak, while foreign investors recorded net purchases of Rp664.14 billion across the market. Bank Mandiri and Telkom Indonesia attracted the largest inflows among the listed shares; the source names only eight stocks despite referring to a top 10 list.

BHS Calls for Sweeping Review of Forest and Land Fire Response

Bambang Haryo Soekartono, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission VII, says Indonesia’s nearly 20,000 forest and land fire hotspots this year warrant a major review to establish accountability. He warns that the fires have caused extensive losses and threaten public health, wildlife, plants with potential medicinal value, homes and lives, while arguing that responsibility cannot be attributed solely to 32 business operators.

Jakarta Yesterday: Strengthening TB Care and Providing Assistance for School Certificates

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung called on hospitals across the capital to strengthen tuberculosis detection, treatment and continuity of care, supporting the target of eliminating TB by 2030. The provincial government also provided Rp4.67 billion in assistance to 2,810 residents under its second-phase 2026 school certificate scheme, while officials addressed local government financing, road safety and cemetery land needs.

Forest and Land Fires Break Out Again in Central Kalimantan as Crews Battle the Blaze

Forest and land fires have flared up again in West Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan, prompting a joint response by local authorities, volunteers and residents. Although the number of hotspots has begun to fall, crews are continuing to extinguish fires and cool affected areas to prevent them from reigniting or spreading.

US Election Watchdog’s System Hacked Ahead of Midterms, Leaving Billions in Dark Political Money Untraced?

A cyberattack attempt forced the US Federal Election Commission to suspend electronic campaign-finance reporting for nearly 41 hours just days before the 3 November 2026 midterm elections. The outage delayed disclosure of late-campaign transactions, raising concerns among transparency advocates as political groups were spending tens of millions of dollars daily and faced 24- and 48-hour reporting deadlines.

AI Data Centre Expansion Brings Destruction: Forests Cleared and Water Turns Brown

Google’s planned data-centre expansion in northern Finland has drawn criticism after the company was accused of clearing about 250,000 trees before completing required environmental approvals. Finnish authorities have suspended work at two sites while assessing potential environmental damage, including habitat loss and water pollution, amid local concerns over wildlife and the project’s wider implications.

Why People Can Get Ill After Being Caught in the Rain — It Is Not Because of the Rainwater

A doctor and IPB University lecturer says rainwater and wet hair do not directly cause illness, although cold exposure can trigger bodily responses and affect the airways. She advises people to rinse with clean water and dry their hair after getting soaked.

Deadly Gang Fight in West Jakarta Leaves One Dead

A clash involving four gangs in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, left one person dead and was reportedly sparked by challenges on social media. Police have detained 19 people, including 12 minors, and say gang administrators recruited young people, promoted the violence online and livestreamed clashes to boost their profiles and potentially earn money.

Some Transjakarta Routes Delayed After Two Trucks Crash Outside Parliament

A collision between two trucks on Jalan Gatot Subroto, outside the MPR/DPR complex in Central Jakarta, caused congestion towards Slipi and delays on several Transjakarta routes. The operator apologised to passengers and advised them to follow updates on service operations, while police urged motorists to use alternative routes.

Several Transjakarta Routes Delayed After Two-Truck Crash Outside Parliament

A collision involving two lorries on Jalan Gatot Subroto, outside the MPR/DPR complex in Central Jakarta, caused congestion towards Slipi and delayed several Transjakarta services. The operator apologised and advised passengers to monitor operational updates, while police said the crash was being handled and urged motorists to consider alternative routes.

Wild Animal Revealed as Livestock Predator in Gunungkidul

Nine goats were found dead in Rongkop, Gunungkidul, after being attacked by stray dogs, renewing concern over recurring livestock attacks in the area. The local agriculture agency says such incidents have occurred annually since 2017, particularly when water sources dry up, and is urging farmers to improve protection while seeking assistance for affected livestock owners through Baznas.

Foreign Investors Sell These 10 Stocks as the JCI Rises

Indonesia’s benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose 0.31% to 5,282.31 on Wednesday, ending a two-day losing streak. Foreign investors were net buyers overall, with net purchases of Rp664.14 billion, but sold shares in 10 listed companies, led by Charoen Pokphand Indonesia at Rp60.65 billion.

51st ASCOPE Forum Agrees to Strengthen ASEAN’s Energy Architecture for Future Generations

The 51st ASCOPE Council Meeting in Bali concluded with agreements to deepen regional energy cooperation, addressing energy transition challenges, supply-chain security and technology sharing. Pertamina chief executive Simon Aloysius Mantiri and Timor-Leste’s representative highlighted the value of collaboration, with membership also helping Timor-Leste prepare to host the 2029 ASEAN Summit.

Building a Circular Economy from Livestock Waste in the Upper Cikapundung River Basin

A community initiative in Suntenjaya, West Bandung, converts dairy-cattle manure into biogas and organic fertiliser, reducing the risk of pollution in the Cikapundung River while lowering household energy costs. The programme also supports crop cultivation and conservation, showing how waste management can create environmental and economic benefits for local residents.

Tax Penalty Relief: The Later You File, the Smaller the Discount

Indonesia’s tax director-general has outlined a tiered scheme that reduces or waives administrative penalties for late annual tax returns, with the largest relief available to taxpayers who file by the end of 2026. The relief is not automatic, does not cancel the underlying tax owed and requires an application; the Directorate General of Taxes says the policy is intended to ease the burden on taxpayers acting in good faith.

Watch Your Mouth, Mbappé!

Kylian Mbappé’s joke about Mao Zedong has prompted Chinese brands Dongpeng and Mengniu to terminate their partnerships with the footballer, while Real Madrid and LaLiga have issued apologies. The controversy has also raised the prospect of a boycott of Spanish football broadcasts in China, an important market for the club’s merchandise sales.

KPK Searches PT Djarum Headquarters: What Is It Looking For?

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched PT Djarum’s office and a customs office in Kudus as part of an investigation into state revenue from excise duties. Investigators seized documents and electronic evidence and are examining suspected kickbacks linked to cigarette excise stamps, while no suspects have yet been named in this investigation.

BP Tapera: Government Offers Young People a Golden Opportunity to Own a Home

BP Tapera says expanded subsidised mortgage quotas and a range of government-backed concessions are creating an opportunity for young people to buy their first homes. The support includes fixed-rate, affordable repayments, tax and down-payment assistance, and subsidised mortgage terms of up to 40 years.

Crime Round-up: Brawl and Truck Driver’s Suspected Drug Abuse

Jakarta police arrested 19 people, including 12 children in conflict with the law, over a group brawl in Kebon Jeruk that left one person dead. Police are also investigating suspected drug abuse by a water-tanker driver involved in a collision with a TransJakarta bus, while transport officers removed valve stems from 179 illegally parked motorbikes in West Jakarta.

Two Trucks Crash Outside Parliament, Traffic Towards Slipi Congested

A collision involving two lorries outside Indonesia’s MPR/DPR complex on Jalan Gatot Subroto caused congestion towards Slipi in West Jakarta. Police were handling the incident and advised motorists travelling from Cawang to use an alternative route via Gerbang Pemuda Senayan and Palmerah.

At Unsri Lecture, Judicial Commission Chief Discusses Dual Oversight of Judges

The head of Indonesia’s Judicial Commission, Abdul Chair Ramadhan, has argued that the Commission should take the leading role in overseeing judges, amid what he described as disharmony caused by overlapping authority with the Supreme Court. He said the Commission’s ethical oversight supports judicial independence and accountability, and called for amendments to relevant legislation to end the dual system.

Psychologist Criticises Parents for Pranking Children with Ghost Filters

University of Indonesia psychologist Rose Mini Agoes Salim has criticised parents who use ghost filters to frighten their children for social media content. She warns that such pranks can undermine children’s sense of safety and trust, as young children may not understand that the frightening image is only a visual effect.

Latest Gold Price Forecast: Unlikely to Collapse, but Also Hard to Soar

Gold edged higher after the US Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, but gains remain constrained by rising bond yields, persistent inflation concerns and expectations of a possible rate increase in December. Analysts see little risk of a major sell-off, while investors await US PCE inflation data; stronger Chinese gold imports have offered some support.

Rp42 Trillion: Profits of Palm Oil Groups Summoned by Singapore over Forest and Land Fires

Seven agribusiness groups linked to companies notified by Singapore reported combined net profits of about US$2.52 billion, or Rp42 trillion, in 2025. Singapore is seeking information from plantation and forestry firms about their Indonesian concessions, corporate links and fire-prevention measures as it investigates the haze, but says the notices do not constitute findings of wrongdoing.

Police Arrest One Person Carrying a Sharp Weapon During Riotous Demonstration in Yogyakarta’s Malioboro

Yogyakarta police arrested one person suspected of carrying a sharp weapon during clashes near Malioboro on Wednesday evening, while officers continue to identify others detained. Police said the unrest involved firecrackers, stones and fires, causing damage to public facilities and traders’ property and injuring several officers.

Warning Over ChatGPT Use as Lawsuit Claims It Worsened User’s Mental Health

A man with bipolar disorder has sued OpenAI and chief executive Sam Altman, alleging that conversations with ChatGPT worsened his manic episode, fuelled delusions and supported suicidal thoughts. OpenAI says it trains the chatbot to recognise signs of mental or emotional distress, de-escalate conversations and direct users towards real-world support, and is continuing to strengthen its responses in sensitive situations.

Gus Sofwan Re-elected to Lead Hebitren Jakarta, Pledges to Foster Collaboration in Pesantren Economy

KH Dr M Imam Sofwan Yahya, known as Gus Sofwan, has been re-elected as chair of the Jakarta chapter of the Pesantren Business and Economic Association (Hebitren). He said the organisation will work to connect pesantren with one another, government, financial institutions and businesses to strengthen enterprises, expand market access and promote sustainable economic self-reliance.

Sulawesi Investment and Business Forum 2026 Offers 43 Potential Projects to Investors

Bank Indonesia’s South Sulawesi representative office presented 43 potential investment projects at the Sulawesi Investment and Business Forum, held in Makassar on 28–29 October 2026. The event also generated export commitments worth Rp450 billion through partnerships between 31 small and medium-sized enterprises from four provinces and 44 buyers across 20 countries, highlighting efforts to attract investment and expand regional export markets.

Transport Ministry Strengthens Safety Standards and Tightens Transport Oversight

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry says it has strengthened safety standards and stepped up oversight during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, including inspections and enforcement against violations. It is also preparing an assessment requirement for transport-company directors and commissioners, while directing sea and ferry operators and port managers to reinforce safety checks.

Latest Developments in Roy Suryo Trial as Jokowi Set to Appear

Former Indonesian president Joko Widodo is expected to testify on 5 November in Roy Suryo’s defamation trial over allegations that Jokowi’s university diploma was forged. Prosecutors have also summoned Jokowi’s aide, while Suryo says the appearance and production of the diploma are long-awaited developments.

Council Calls for Careful Review of Funding Plan for Buleleng Regional Hospital Building

Buleleng’s regional council has urged officials to prioritise public-focused programmes in the 2027 regional budget and to scrutinise the multi-year financing plan for a new regional hospital building. Council chair Ketut Ngurah Arya said borrowing options must not strain local finances, and stressed that better healthcare also depends on medical staff and equipment, not buildings alone.

Two Syrian Defence Ministry Personnel Shot Dead by Unknown Gunmen

Two Syrian Defence Ministry personnel were killed in a shooting in Al-Foua, Idlib province, with the attackers and their motive still unknown. The incident is among several recent attacks on Syrian military and security personnel, including fatal shootings in Deir ez-Zor and Daraa provinces this month.

CSI Strengthens Maritime Logistics Business, Deploys Elara Dalimbar 1 to Support Energy and National Infrastructure Industries

PT Chandra Shipping International (CSI), a subsidiary of PT Chandra Daya Investasi, has begun operating Elara Dalimbar 1 to expand its offshore support capabilities for Indonesia’s energy and maritime infrastructure sectors. The Indonesian-flagged vessel is the country’s first multi-purpose support vessel with Dynamic Positioning Class III and is equipped for subsea work, emergency response and heavy-lift operations.

Working Group Begins Work, Asset Forfeiture Bill Targeted for Passage Before December

A parliamentary working group will begin substantive discussions on the Asset Forfeiture Bill on 5 November, with lawmakers aiming to pass it by 15 December 2026 at the latest. The House of Representatives’ Commission III has appointed Habiburokhman and Soedeson Tandra to lead the group and brought forward public hearings to accelerate deliberations.

KAI Invites the Public to Create a Million Stories through #ayonaikkereta

Indonesia’s state-owned railway operator KAI has relaunched its #ayonaikkereta campaign, partnering with presenter Ananda Omesh to encourage people to share their train-travel experiences. It also highlighted new and existing offerings—from premium journeys and onboard dining to an AI information service and discounted group seating—aimed at catering to different passenger needs.

Komdigi Bakti Chief Executive Fadhilah Mathar Resigns

Fadhilah Mathar has announced her resignation as chief executive of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs’ Telecommunications and Information Accessibility Agency (Bakti), bringing to an end a decade of service at the agency. She urged staff to continue expanding digital connectivity in underserved regions and to manage public funds with integrity and transparency; Mathar had held the top post since August 2023.

Bogor Transport Agency Targets Completion of Bojonggede Station Escalator Repairs by End of November 2026

Bogor Regency’s Transport Agency expects repairs to the faulty escalator at Bojonggede Station’s skybridge to finish by the end of November, or by early December at the latest. The work has been expanded after inspections found more extensive damage than initially anticipated, with safety concerns including loose steps and a risk of the escalator slipping if operated in its current condition.

BNI Prepares to Buy Back Shares, Setting Aside Rp547 Billion

Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) plans to buy back shares worth up to Rp547 billion between 28 October 2026 and 27 January 2027, using internal cash. The bank says the transaction will not materially affect operating costs or its business, and follows similar buyback plans by state-owned lenders BRI and Bank Syariah Indonesia.

Komnas Perempuan Calls Madiun Killings of Wife and Child Femicide

Indonesia’s National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has condemned the killings of Dini Hardiyanti and her four-year-old child in Madiun, describing the case as femicide rooted in gender-based violence and coercive control. It urged police to investigate any history of threats and abuse, while warning against narratives that blame jealousy or the victim’s unregistered-marriage status; the commission says 239 suspected femicide cases were identified in 2025 media reports.

Wilmar Posts Rp4.7tn Profit Amid Land Fires and Scrutiny of Palm Oil Exports to Israel

Wilmar International reported a net profit of US$281 million in the third quarter of 2026, reversing a year-earlier loss driven by a one-off compensation payment; excluding that payment, quarterly profit fell 22.9 per cent. The Singapore-based agribusiness is also facing enquiries from Singaporean authorities over Indonesian land fires, while Indonesian palm oil exports to Israel continue despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations.

Agriculture Minister Amran Uncovers Alleged 600-Tonne Rice Scheme, with SPHP Rice Repackaged as Premium

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman says about 600 tonnes of government-subsidised SPHP rice may have been diverted, repackaged or blended and sold as premium rice in East Jakarta. The alleged price difference is Rp4,500 per kilogram, although authorities have not established the perpetrators’ profits or any state loss; Amran has urged police to investigate the wider distribution network.

Mandiri (BMRI) Sells Inhealth Shares to IFG Life for Rp570 Billion

Bank Mandiri has agreed to sell its entire 20 per cent stake in insurer Asuransi Jiwa Inhealth Indonesia to IFG Life for Rp570 billion. The divestment is an affiliated-party transaction forming part of a state-led effort to streamline and consolidate life insurance businesses; Mandiri says it is not a material transaction and does not require shareholder approval.

Wildfire extinguished near Toraja’s traditional stone burial sites

A wildfire that burned about seven hectares across two villages in Toraja was extinguished roughly 16 hours after it broke out, with authorities assessing potential damage to traditional stone burial sites. BNPB says it remains on high alert nationally, with thousands of personnel deployed in fire-prone provinces across Kalimantan and Sumatra.

Pejuang Merah Putih Group Visits Jokowi’s Home, Calls for Gibran to Resign as Vice-President

A group calling itself Pejuang Merah Putih Indonesia delivered two letters at former president Joko Widodo’s home, urging him to persuade his son, Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to resign and warning of possible impeachment. The group also challenged Jokowi’s characterisation of the diploma controversy as a political operation; the dispute follows a Constitutional Court ruling that rejected a petition seeking Gibran’s disqualification while noting it had not seen evidence of his secondary-school-equivalent diploma in the proceedings.

KRL Train Overshoots Sudirman Station, Driver to Be Investigated

A Kampung Bandan–Manggarai commuter train passed Sudirman Station without stopping, forcing passengers bound for Sudirman to travel on to Manggarai and change trains. KAI Commuter apologised, said it would investigate the driver and review operating procedures, and described passenger safety as its top priority.

Different Sentences for 11 Little Aresha Daycare Staff in Yogyakarta

A Yogyakarta court sentenced 11 staff members at the Little Aresha daycare to between two and three years in prison for their roles in child abuse and neglect. The judges cited differences in their roles and length of service, and exempted them from paying restitution, finding they had followed orders from the foundation’s chairwoman and had no direct control over parents’ fees.

Perumnas: Down-payment savings scheme makes it easier for people to buy homes

Perumnas says its NabungDP scheme, launched in partnership with state-owned lender BTN, helps prospective buyers—particularly young people—save towards a home deposit while their property is being built. Regular contributions may also help applicants demonstrate financial discipline to banks and improve their prospects of securing a mortgage, including informal-sector workers without payslips.

November 2026 Calendar: Heroes’ Day and National Teachers’ Day

November 2026 has no national public holidays or collective leave days, with Sundays providing the only dates off. The month includes Indonesian observances such as Heroes’ Day on 10 November and National Teachers’ Day on 25 November, alongside a range of international commemorations.

A Communist Country ‘Defeats’ the US at the UN

The UN General Assembly again called for an end to the US embargo on Cuba, with 130 countries voting in favour, 17 against and 25 abstaining. Although the resolution passed, support fell to its lowest level since 1995 amid US pressure on Havana and allegations of diplomatic coercion, as US and Cuban representatives clashed during debate.

68 People Killed in High-Speed Train Collision in Spain

At least 68 people were reported killed when a high-speed AVE train collided with an Iryo train in Toledo, Spain. Transport Minister Óscar Puente said an LZB control-system fault had affected trains along a 63-kilometre stretch before the crash, and that the decision to allow the AVE to continue without restoring the system was made by the control centre.

At Global Religious Leaders’ Forum, MUI Deputy Chair Kiai Marsudi Urges Asia Not to Import War

MUI Deputy Chair KH Marsudi Syuhud has urged global leaders not to bring wars into Asia, but to project the region’s traditions of peace. Speaking at an interfaith forum in Assisi, he called for dialogue, diplomacy and negotiation to end conflicts ranging from Gaza and Myanmar to Ukraine and the Middle East.

Fed Holds Interest Rates as Government Bond Yields Surge: Are the JCI and Rupiah Safe?

Indonesia’s financial markets ended mixed, with the Jakarta Composite Index recovering while the rupiah hit a record closing low and 10-year government bond yields climbed to their highest level since 2020. The Fed held rates at 3.75%–4.00%, but dissenting officials backed a hike and investors are weighing persistent inflation, geopolitical risks and upcoming economic data. The article also flags domestic market developments, including a sharply lowered IPO target, Danantara’s proposed stake in the exchange and plans to consolidate state-owned enterprises.

Magnitude 6.4 Earthquake in the Banda Sea, Tremors Felt from Sorong to Banda Neira

A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the Banda Sea off Maluku on Thursday morning, with tremors reported in Banda Neira, Tanimbar, Kaimana and Sorong. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said the quake posed no tsunami threat and had not been followed by aftershocks as of 5.30am WIB; a separate, weaker magnitude 1.9 quake was recorded near Sorong later that morning.

Religious Affairs Minister Suggests Civil Servants Wear Caps and Sarongs Once a Week; Ministry Says It Is Only an Idea

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has floated the idea of civil servants wearing traditional caps and sarongs once a week, but the ministry stressed that it would not be compulsory. The proposal, presented during a Santri Sarong and Cap Festival, is framed as a cultural suggestion that should take employees’ comfort and circumstances into account.

Danantara to Turn Danareksa into an Industrial Estate Operator

Danantara and the State-Owned Enterprises Agency are reshaping Danareksa into an integrated industrial estate operator, with a mandate to attract investment, develop industrial ecosystems and create jobs. The plan includes consolidating 12 state-owned industrial estates, with five reportedly ready for transactions, and completing the restructuring in 2026 before introducing a new business model in 2027. Assessing its success will require comparable estate-level data on occupancy, tenant investment and employment, rather than relying on portfolio size or national investment figures alone.

Nearly 5,000 Palestinians Displaced from Hebron as Israel Tightens Siege

Israeli military operations in Hebron have displaced 4,969 Palestinians from 780 families, with movement restrictions and raids disrupting access to essential services, including medical care. The operation has also involved mass arrests across the West Bank, prompting UNRWA warnings about collective punishment and comparisons with earlier mass displacement in the north.

Yemen’s Civil War Heats Up as Armoured Vehicles Enter the Battlefield

Yemen’s Nation Shield Forces released footage they said showed fighting with Houthi forces near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, where the Houthis claim an attack from the south was backed by Saudi Arabia. The clashes follow government forces’ reported gains along the coast, which have weakened Houthi control over a strategic Red Sea shipping route; a Houthi-affiliated broadcaster also reported Saudi air strikes in Mocha, though Riyadh had not confirmed them.

Putin and Zelensky Meeting Awaited

Vladimir Putin has invited Volodymyr Zelensky to Moscow for direct negotiations, with Russian officials saying security arrangements would be provided. The invitation comes as Russia, Ukraine and the United States are expected to resume trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi in November, while Donald Trump says a meeting between the two leaders will be arranged soon.

Mataram Needs Rp17.5bn to Replace Waste Carts: City Environment Agency Asks Where the Money Will Come From

Mataram’s Environment Agency estimates that replacing three-wheeled waste collection vehicles across all 325 neighbourhoods would cost Rp15bn–Rp17.5bn, but the city’s fiscal capacity cannot currently cover the programme. The agency says past purchases have relied on legislators’ constituency funds and hopes cut funds may be redirected to vehicle replacement in the 2027 budget.

DPR Open to Fast-Tracking Military Courts Law Revision, Rather Than Waiting Until 2028 Deadline

Indonesia’s House of Representatives is considering revising the Military Courts Law before the two-year deadline set by the Constitutional Court. The court said the law must clarify the division of jurisdiction between military and civilian courts, including requiring military personnel accused of ordinary crimes to be tried in civilian courts.

Vivax, Cinchona and Indonesia’s Contribution to the World

Indonesia is accelerating development of a home-grown malaria vaccine targeting Plasmodium vivax, a parasite not covered by the two malaria vaccines currently recommended by the WHO. The research has particular significance for Papua, where vivax remains prevalent and has been linked to severe disease and drug resistance, and officials say the work could fill a global gap.

US Stock Tokenisation Reaches Indonesia: Risks Investors Need to Understand

Tokenised US stocks are attracting interest in Indonesia, but the rights they confer vary by product and may differ significantly from direct share ownership. Bittime’s operations director says investors should examine each token’s legal structure, issuer, underlying assets, liquidity and risks, while noting that passing an OJK regulatory sandbox does not itself grant permission to operate or market a product.

DPR Reveals Four Priority Bills After Recess; No Election Bill Included

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said the DPR will prioritise four bills when its next sitting period begins in early November: cybersecurity, Indigenous Peoples, population administration and asset confiscation. The list does not include the Election Bill, despite the legislature having formed a working committee and a committee member saying a discussion schedule had been prepared.

Magnitude 6.4 Earthquake Hits Tanimbar, No Tsunami Threat

A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the Tanimbar Islands in Maluku at a depth of 160 kilometres, according to Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The agency said the quake posed no tsunami threat; its impact was not yet known and the preliminary data could be revised.

Indonesia’s Mineral Downstreaming Targets Greater Value Creation as MIND ID Explores Opportunities

MIND ID is pursuing integrated mineral processing projects to increase the domestic value captured from resources and strengthen Indonesia’s position in global supply chains. Chinese companies are reportedly exploring investments in several Indonesian sectors, including mineral downstreaming, but no specific investment agreement with MIND ID has been announced; the article notes that value comparisons across bauxite, alumina and aluminium indicate potential rather than guaranteed net returns.

President Prabowo leads primary school pupils in reading the Youth Pledge

President Prabowo Subianto read Indonesia’s Youth Pledge alongside primary school pupils in a video posted to his official Instagram account on Wednesday evening. The video was shared on the 98th anniversary of the pledge, whose three declarations affirm a united homeland, nation and language.

AMPHURI: Sudden Ban on Transit via Singapore and Malaysia Would Harm Travel Operators

AMPHURI supports the government’s advice that Indonesian Umrah pilgrims prioritise direct flights to Saudi Arabia, but warns against an abrupt ban on transit through Malaysia and Singapore. The association says limited direct-flight availability and prepaid, non-refundable tickets could cause substantial losses for travel operators and affect pilgrims, and calls for any binding policy to begin next Umrah season.

Why a Sleman Man Went to the Length of Making a Long-Barrelled Firearm

Police in Sleman have arrested two men accused of assembling homemade firearms, saying one weapon was intended for hunting wild boar on the slopes of Mount Merapi. Investigators seized a long-barrelled .22-calibre firearm and ammunition, and say one suspect had also commissioned a pistol in 2024; the two face a maximum 15-year prison sentence under Indonesia’s Criminal Code.

At Least 68 Dead in Deadly Collision Between Two High-Speed Trains

At least 68 people were killed and 80 injured when two high-speed trains collided in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain, after a Renfe train was allowed to proceed despite a red signal. The crash has prompted a full investigation and renewed scrutiny of railway safety and maintenance, following another fatal accident on the same line earlier this year.

Media Support Is Vital to Introducing MSME Products to Wider Markets

Namira Ecoprint founder Yayuk Eko Agustin says media exposure and business networks are crucial for small businesses with limited promotional budgets to reach wider markets. She also called for government programme information and promotional opportunities to reach MSMEs at the grassroots level, helping resource-constrained businesses to grow.

SIBF 2026 Presents 43 Potential Investment Projects

Bank Indonesia’s South Sulawesi representative office has presented 43 potential projects to domestic and international investors at the Sulawesi Investment and Business Forum in Makassar. The event also generated Rp450 billion in export commitments involving 31 small and medium-sized enterprises and 44 buyers from 20 countries, underscoring efforts to connect regional businesses with global markets.

Andrea Bocelli Concert to Go Ahead as AWG Says Mass Islamic Gathering Planned near Borobudur Temple

Aqsa Working Group’s Central Java bureau says Muslims plan to hold a large religious gathering near Borobudur Temple in response to the planned 31 October 2026 concert by Andrea Bocelli. Protesters in Semarang have urged police to revoke the concert’s permit, alleging the singer has financially supported the Israeli military and noting opposition from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI).

Maritime workers on the front line safeguarding energy supplies

Tugboat captain Maman Suherman helps keep crude oil moving to the Balongan refinery by supporting tanker operations and access to its offshore Single Point Mooring (SPM). The account highlights the often unseen maritime work that underpins refinery production and the supply of aviation fuel.

Parents of Little Aresha Victims Disappointed by Lighter Sentences for 11 Caregivers

Parents of children affected by alleged abuse and neglect at Little Aresha daycare say the 2–3-year prison terms handed to 11 caregivers are inadequate, particularly given the long-term impact on the children. They are also angered that the court waived restitution, leaving families to cover ongoing therapy costs, and hope prosecutors will appeal.

Meeting USABC, Communications Minister Calls for Stronger US Digital Investment in Indonesia

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid urged US technology companies to strengthen their investment in Indonesia during a meeting with a US-ASEAN Business Council delegation in Jakarta. She said investment should deliver broader benefits through economic opportunities, workforce skills development, knowledge transfer and improved public services, including for people in rural areas.

Three Students Arrested in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, over Suspected Methamphetamine Dealing

Police in Dompu have arrested three students, aged 15 to 17, suspected of distributing methamphetamine. Officers seized around four grams of the drug and packaging equipment, while the alleged supplier escaped and remains at large.

Safeguarding the Anchor of Unity and Forging Patriotic, Resilient and Empathetic Young People in an Era of Polarisation

The article argues that social media algorithms can confine young people in echo chambers, spread misinformation and deepen political and identity-based divisions. It calls for nurturing patriotism, resilience and empathy without suppressing critical thought, drawing on the Youth Pledge of 1928 as an example of unity across regional, ethnic and linguistic differences.

Man Inspired by Film to Kill His Common-Law Wife and Child, Then Burn and Grind Their Bodies

Police say Dwi Bagus Martono allegedly spent two days killing his common-law wife and their four-year-old child in Madiun and attempting to destroy evidence. Psychological assessments reportedly found that he had above-average intelligence and a sense of superiority; investigators say he told them films had inspired him.

After Meeting Prabowo in Hambalang, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Speaks Out on Indonesia Gas Contract

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said Indonesia and Singapore share a commitment to honouring their long-term gas contracts, after meeting President Prabowo Subianto in Hambalang. Indonesia has reduced pipeline gas exports to Singapore by 31 billion British thermal units per day (BBtud), saying the cut remains within the minimum export threshold permitted under the agreement as it prioritises domestic needs.

The Fed Holds Interest Rates, but Two Members Dissent and Call for a Hike

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark rate at 3.75%–4.00%, though two FOMC members favoured a 25-basis-point increase amid persistently high inflation. Chair Kevin Warsh offered no firm guidance on the next move, while describing stronger US growth and announcing changes to the Fed’s meeting schedule from 2027; markets continued to price in possible further hikes.

Indonesia Offers Azerbaijan Downstream Investment Opportunities in Baku

Indonesia has invited Azerbaijani businesses to invest in downstream industries, including oil and gas processing, petrochemicals and storage facilities, while supplying key raw materials such as cotton and iron ore. The two governments are also seeking to expedite a bilateral investment treaty to provide greater legal certainty and support investment flows.

Israeli Drone Strikes Gaza, Killing Five and Injuring 15 Others

Israeli drone strikes in Rafah and Khan Yunis killed five people and injured 15, according to Gaza civil defence and local hospital officials. Israel said it had targeted Palestinian militants; the strikes came amid a fragile ceasefire, with more than 1,500 people reportedly killed in Gaza since it began.

Tabanan Forecast to See Rain: Bali BMKG Weather Forecast for 29 October 2026

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts light rain in Tabanan and Klungkung on Thursday, while other parts of Bali are expected to be clear, partly cloudy or cloudy. Temperatures across the province are forecast to range from 20°C to 33°C, with high humidity in several areas.

NasDem Responds to PKS Call Over Gibran’s Diploma: No Direction from Party Chairman Yet

NasDem treasurer Ahmad Sahroni says the party has received no instruction from its chairman, Surya Paloh, to engage with PKS over the controversy surrounding Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high-school-equivalent diploma. NasDem is focusing instead on the Asset Forfeiture Bill, while PKS and the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) have signalled openness to dialogue and raised concerns about the issue.

Tax and Data-Synchronisation Issues Hamper Pliken Village-Owned Enterprise’s Business Permit

Pliken’s Maju Makmur village-owned enterprise is facing delays in obtaining its business identification number (NIB) because of tax-reporting obligations and data discrepancies involving its tax number and management details across the tax authority’s systems and the Online Single Submission platform. A village facilitator and the enterprise’s secretary consulted the Purwokerto tax office, which identified unfiled annual tax returns for 2024 and 2025; the article also explains that the two tax years must be reported through different systems.

KPK Searches Klaten Public Works Office, Seizes Project Documents and Cash

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Klaten regency Public Works and Spatial Planning Office as part of an alleged corruption investigation covering 2025–2026, seizing procurement records, electronic evidence and cash whose amount is still being counted. Three people, including Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo and Central Java Audit Board head Ahmad Luthfi, have been named suspects in a case involving five alleged streams of illicit payments.

Netanyahu Holds a Narrow Lead as Hezbollah Shrugs Off Israel Election Result

With 85% of votes counted, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc was narrowly ahead but had not secured a majority. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said the group would continue its resistance regardless of who governs Israel, rejecting disarmament while Israeli occupation and attacks persist.

Mobile Driving Licence Service Schedule for Badung and Klungkung, 29 October 2026: Locations

Mobile driving licence renewal services will operate in Tabanan, Klungkung and Badung on 29 October 2026, offering renewals for active Class A and Class C licences. The article lists service locations, fees and required documents, and notes that expired licences and new applications cannot be handled by the mobile service.

Elderly Man in Lamongan Dies After Being Assaulted by Man Allegedly Attempting to Rape Junior High School Girl

A 65-year-old man in Lamongan has died after reportedly being assaulted while trying to help a junior high school pupil who was allegedly targeted for sexual assault by her uncle. Police have confirmed an investigation is under way and are trying to arrest the suspect, who reportedly fled after the incident.

SIBF 2026 Offers Investors 43 Potential Projects

Bank Indonesia’s South Sulawesi office is presenting 43 potential projects to domestic and international investors at the Sulampua Investment and Business Forum in Makassar. The event also secured Rp450 billion in export commitments for 31 small and medium-sized enterprises through partnerships with 44 buyers from 20 countries.