Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 October 2026

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Suahasil assures public finances remain credible amid rising government bond yields

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the state budget would remain credible and flexible as Indonesian government bond yields rose to 7.64 per cent. Government borrowing reached Rp494.3 trillion by 30 September 2026, while officials said issuance would be adjusted cautiously to market conditions to keep financing costs efficient.

Hit-and-Run in Banguntapan Goes Viral; One Dead, Car Driver Detained

A motorcyclist was killed at the scene in a hit-and-run collision involving a car in Banguntapan, Bantul. Police say the car’s driver has been detained, and the case has been taken over by Bantul Police.

Publishing a Novel: SBY’s Way of Reflecting on Life

Former Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has published the novel *Diana Memang Manja*, drawing on his interest in Koes Plus’s song “Diana” and exploring life, loss and human relationships. Ingrid Kansil praised the work as a literary expression of SBY’s reflections, including emotions connected with the death of his wife, Ani Yudhoyono.

Thailand Space Expo 2026 opens global opportunities for the space industry

Thailand Space Expo 2026 has brought together more than 85 companies in Bangkok to attract space-related investment and strengthen the country’s international competitiveness. The four-day event offers business-matching opportunities and forums on the space economy, lunar exploration and satellite engineering, while officials highlighted skills development and regional cooperation.

Jasa Raharja’s Transformation to Strengthen National Transport Safety

State-owned insurer Jasa Raharja is expanding its role beyond compensation payments to help prevent accidents through data use, education and collaboration, while maintaining its core responsibility to support accident victims. From January to September 2026, it carried out 6,098 safety programmes, including interventions at 875 accident-prone locations, and served 129,443 victims.

Three killed after two helicopters collide in Oregon, US

Three people died when two helicopters collided near McMinnville Municipal Airport in Oregon. US aviation authorities have opened an investigation, with the National Transportation Safety Board leading it; the cause of the crash remains unknown.

French Protests to Continue; Paris Embassy Urges Indonesians to Stay Alert and Avoid Certain Areas

Indonesia’s Embassy in Paris has advised Indonesians in France to avoid demonstration sites and monitor local authorities’ and transport operators’ updates as protests are expected to continue on 31 October. The embassy provided an emergency protection hotline, while Indonesia’s Embassy in Berlin issued similar advice for Indonesians in Germany. The demonstrations in France have reportedly drawn hundreds of thousands of people amid demands over education and the cost of living, with thousands arrested.

Agriculture Ministry backs the replanting of 754 hectares of cashew orchards in Dompu

The Agriculture Ministry is supporting a 754-hectare cashew replanting programme in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, in 2026, providing farmer groups with seedlings, fertiliser and technical assistance. The initiative aims to reverse declining yields from ageing trees and strengthen farmers’ incomes, while encouraging intercrops or livestock to sustain earnings before the new trees bear fruit.

Journalists Stage Solidarity Rally, Reject Violence and Intimidation Against Reporters

Journalists from various media outlets and professional organisations held a solidarity rally outside Bogor City Police headquarters, calling for the safety of reporters and condemning violence that obstructs journalistic work. They urged that any officers suspected of involvement be dealt with in accordance with procedures and the law, and called for press freedom and journalists’ safety to be respected.

Prabowo: Taruna Nusantara High School May Seem Elitist, but It Seeks Top Talent

President Prabowo Subianto said Taruna Nusantara High School was established to identify and develop outstanding students who could contribute to Indonesia, despite perceptions that it is elitist. At the opening of its Cimahi campus, he pointed to alumni now serving in senior government roles and said the country needs a system to nurture talent across professions.

Prabowo Says Groups Opposed to Pancasila Are a Source of Division

President Prabowo Subianto said Pancasila and national values must be instilled to preserve Indonesia’s unity, warning that groups seeking alternative identity-based states could divide the country. Speaking at the inauguration of a school campus in West Java, he also urged vigilance against those disloyal to the state and called on teachers to foster patriotism and integrity among students.

Prabowo urges young people not to neglect the study of history

President Prabowo Subianto has urged Indonesia’s younger generation to study history, warning that failing to learn from past mistakes could lead the country to repeat them. Speaking at the inauguration of SMA Taruna Nusantara’s Cimahi campus, he said historical divisions and colonial divide-and-rule tactics underscore the importance of national unity.

Nezar stresses the importance of mitigating risks in the use of AI

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Nezar Patria has urged careful risk mitigation as artificial intelligence is increasingly used to make decisions, particularly in finance and healthcare. The government is preparing a national AI roadmap and ethics rules, while also backing infrastructure, skills and research development to support innovation without compromising public safety or data protection.

Teddy Indra Wijaya Tops List of Best-Performing Officials, Followed by Amran Sulaiman

A survey by IndocPolls ranked Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya as the best-performing official in the Prabowo-Gibran administration, with 15.8 per cent, followed by Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman at 13.6 per cent. IndocPolls attributed Teddy’s rating to his coordination and communications role, while Amran was praised for progress towards food self-sufficiency and record government rice reserves.

Prabowo Returns from Bandung on the Whoosh, Greeting and Posing for Photos with Residents at Halim

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Jakarta from a working visit to West Java aboard the Jakarta–Bandung high-speed train, Whoosh, and stopped to greet passengers at Halim station. His informal interaction with residents followed his inauguration of the Taruna Nusantara Senior High School campus in Cimahi.

ANTARA trains BESTARI Saintek research teams in public-facing writing

ANTARA has trained research teams participating in the BESTARI Saintek programme to communicate their findings in accessible language and make their work more useful to the public. The training, held as part of Living Lab Summit 2026 in Malang, also encouraged researchers to clarify their message and share proven results that could serve as examples for other regions.

Christa Pike Speaks Out a Month After Failed Execution: ‘My Body Hurts, and I’m Struggling to Speak’

Christa Pike says she has suffered persistent physical and emotional pain since surviving a botched lethal injection in Tennessee on 30 September. Her lawyers have asked Governor Bill Lee to commute her sentence, while the state’s executions remain suspended pending an independent investigation.

Indonesia Motorcycle Show targets industry growth and exports

The Indonesian Motorcycle Industry Association says the 10-day Indonesia Motorcycle Show in Banten will help stimulate the domestic market, strengthen the sector’s competitiveness and support manufacturers’ expansion into export markets. Scheduled for 20–29 November 2026, the event will feature at least 15 motorcycle brands and 53 supporting brands, with organisers expecting sales transactions to exceed last year’s results.

Manufacturing Capacity Is Key to the Competitiveness of Indonesia’s Technology Industry

SofLogic Indonesia has opened a new Jakarta office and plans to launch an Experience Centre as it seeks to expand its operations and showcase its products. Its executives argue that stronger domestic manufacturing, local supply chains and product quality—not merely administrative compliance with local-content rules—are essential for competing with international brands and reaching overseas markets.

Prabowo: Study History So the Mistakes of Our Predecessors Are Not Repeated

President Prabowo Subianto urged students to study history, saying Indonesia’s colonial past was made possible by disunity among its leaders. He warned that technology may change but human nature does not, and said Indonesians must learn from past failures and resist divisive tactics.

How Subsidised Fuel and Irrigation Assistance Saved Farmers’ Rice Fields

A leaking reservoir and drought, worsened by El Niño, left rice farmers in Geyongan, Cirebon, facing the risk of crop failure. Mashudi, a local farmers’ group leader, describes the water shortage and the irrigation challenges affecting the village’s 90 hectares of farmland.

BNPT trains a new generation of Peace Ambassadors in North Sumatra

Indonesia’s National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) has appointed and trained 50 new Peace Ambassadors in North Sumatra to strengthen young people’s digital resilience and promote local wisdom. The three-day programme equips participants with skills in national awareness, writing, visual communication design and information technology to help counter intolerance and spread positive messages.

South Sulawesi Customs Revenue Reaches Rp187 Billion in the Third Quarter of 2026

South Sulawesi’s customs and excise revenue reached Rp187.48 billion by September 2026, equivalent to 50.20% of its annual target of Rp373.43 billion. Customs officials attributed declines in export duties and excise to lower cocoa export volumes and broader trade and industrial conditions, while saying stronger oversight and service optimisation would support efforts to meet the target.

Mimika Animal Husbandry and Animal Health Agency Prepares 700 Free Rabies Vaccine Doses

Mimika’s Animal Husbandry and Animal Health Agency has prepared around 700 free rabies vaccine doses for pets and other animals capable of transmitting the disease, with mass vaccination and outreach to districts planned. Officials say the campaign, backed by tighter animal-movement monitoring, is intended to preserve the area’s rabies-free status and protect public health.

Apindo Targets Eastern Jakarta Corridor as a New Investment Hub

The Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) is seeking to position the eastern Jakarta corridor, including Jakarta Garden City in Cakung, as a new investment hub, citing its infrastructure, transport links and integrated facilities. A strategic partnership with developer PT Modernland Realty is intended to expand business networks and create opportunities for local companies; JGC spans 370 hectares and includes residential, commercial, education and healthcare facilities.

Prabowo Returns to Jakarta on Whoosh and Greets Passengers at Halim Station

President Prabowo Subianto travelled back to Jakarta on the Jakarta–Bandung high-speed train after a working visit to West Java, where he inaugurated the Cimahi campus of SMA Taruna Nusantara. At Halim Station, he greeted passengers, posed for photographs and exchanged brief remarks with members of the public.

Finance Minister Suahasil urges Kadin to pursue 7% investment growth target

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has called on Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) to help achieve 7% investment growth in 2027, supporting the government’s 6% economic growth ambition. He said private-sector investment is crucial alongside state spending, and highlighted the roles of the state budget and Danantara in creating favourable conditions for business investment.

Communications Ministry to Expand Affordable High-Speed Internet for Households

The Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry is prioritising fibre-optic expansion to homes, with the government aiming to offer fixed broadband at 100 Mbps for about Rp140,000 or less than Rp200,000 a month. It also plans to raise 5G adoption from below 10 per cent to around 30–40 per cent over the next three to five years, as part of efforts to broaden access to the digital economy.

Bulog’s Maluku and North Maluku Regional Office Tightens SPHP Oversight

Bulog’s Maluku and North Maluku office is strengthening controls over subsidised rice distribution under the Food Supply and Price Stabilisation (SPHP) programme, following suspected misuse by distribution partners in Jakarta. The office has established a special task force and is monitoring partners and distribution channels; by 29 October 2026, it had distributed 2,824 tonnes, or 54.9 per cent of its 2026 target of 5,142 tonnes.

APSMI Annual Summit 2026 Highlights the Importance of Health Literacy in the AI Era

Participants at the APSMI Annual Summit 2026 in Bali stressed that stronger health literacy is essential as more people turn to AI for health information and self-medication. Indonesia’s Health Ministry and BPOM outlined education and transparency measures, while APSMI highlighted the potential for responsible self-care to ease pressure on health systems.

Indonesia’s 104 Tonnes of Gold Ranks 10th Worldwide as IBMA Tests Downstream Processing

Indonesia produced 104 tonnes of gold in 2025, placing it tenth globally, but domestic use remains concentrated in jewellery and foreign-exchange reserves rather than higher-value industrial applications. The government is promoting domestic supply chains and has established the Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) to connect industry and regulators; its success will depend on whether it can build credible standards, pricing and liquidity infrastructure.

Paris and Berlin Embassies Urge Indonesians to Stay Alert During 31 October Demonstrations and Avoid Crowds

Indonesia’s embassies in Paris and Berlin have advised Indonesians in France and Germany to avoid demonstration sites, monitor official updates and follow local security instructions. The warning comes as protests in France over education reform and the cost of living have drawn hundreds of thousands of participants, with thousands reportedly arrested.

Police uncover fortified rice allegedly mismatched with its label in Deli Serdang

Indonesia’s National Police have uncovered alleged discrepancies between the nutritional claims on fortified rice labels and the products’ actual quality and nutrient content at PT UDS in North Sumatra. Investigators seized 2,236 rice packages and production equipment, and have moved the case to the investigation stage under consumer-protection legislation.

ASDP Offers 100% Discount on Port Service Charges for Christmas and New Year Travel

ASDP Indonesia Ferry will waive port service charges in full for eligible passengers and vehicles during the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year travel period, as part of a government economic stimulus programme. Tickets under the scheme go on sale on 7 November 2026 for departures from 22 December 2026 to 10 January 2027, covering 14 ports across seven ferry routes.

G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting Begins in US Amid Global Tensions

Foreign ministers from G20 members have gathered in Atlanta to discuss urgent global economic challenges, geopolitical tensions and international security. The meeting comes as conflicts in Ukraine and tensions involving Iran raise concerns about regional stability and the global economy, while Russia has criticised Washington’s decision to exclude South Africa from the 2026 summit.

After Supreme Court Ruling on Gibran’s Certificate, PDI-P Delivers Blunt Rebuke

PDI-P lawmaker Andreas Hugo Pareira said the Supreme Court’s decision to annul Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high-school equivalency certificate reinforced questions about whether he held a recognised qualification equivalent to an Indonesian high-school diploma. The ruling, delivered on appeal, concerns the certificate Gibran submitted during registration for the 2024 presidential election.

Friday Blessings: Tangerang Social Affairs Office Offers Free Haircuts

Tangerang City’s Social Affairs Office is providing free haircuts every Friday for orphans and underprivileged residents. The service is limited to 15 people each week and is intended as a practical form of social support for people in need.

Constitutional Court Rules Corporate Criminal Liability May Be Cumulative or Alternative

Indonesia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that the word “and” in the Criminal Procedure Code provision on corporate criminal liability must be understood as “and/or”. The change allows liability to be imposed on the corporation, its responsible individual, or both, with enforcement authorities required to decide carefully on the basis of the evidence.

MSF Launches Poverty-Reduction Collaboration in Three Villages

The Multi-Stakeholder Forum for Poverty Reduction has begun a collaborative programme in three pilot villages, combining government, philanthropic, business, academic and community resources. With a budget of Rp8.5 billion and a three-phase plan aimed at village self-reliance by 2031, the forum hopes to expand the initiative to more than 100 villages by 2030.

China launches Fengyun satellite-based AI models for extreme weather

China has unveiled its first artificial intelligence models using data from its Fengyun meteorological satellites to monitor and forecast extreme weather, including typhoons and severe convection. The tools can interpret typhoon imagery every 15 minutes and provide warnings of potential severe convection up to four hours ahead; Fengyun data are shared with 141 countries and regions.

Banten’s Ubruk Theatre Takes Cultural Diplomacy Mission to Pakistan

A theatre group from Cilegon, Banten, represented Indonesia at the 3rd Punjab Maas International Theatre Festival in Lahore, using its performance to promote cultural diplomacy. The production highlighted plastic pollution in the Cibanten River, earning an enthusiastic response from festival audiences and organisers.

Cimancis River Basin Agency Completes Drought Response on 15,851 Hectares of Rice Fields

The Cimanuk-Cisanggarung River Basin Agency says it has completed drought-response measures on 15,851.47 hectares of farmland in its service area, out of 18,898.2 hectares affected by drought. Measures included water rationing, pumping and irrigation-network repairs, while the agency also delivered 458,550 litres of clean water to communities facing shortages.

Man Arrested over Woman’s Death in Sack in Boven Digoel; Suspect Was Her Boyfriend

Police in Boven Digoel have named and detained a 25-year-old man suspected of killing a 35-year-old woman whose body was found in a sack in Asiki. Investigators say the pair were in a relationship and that a personal dispute escalated into a physical altercation; the suspect faces charges under the Criminal Code.

Badung to Earmark 5% of Regional Budget to Strengthen Agriculture in the North

Badung Regency plans to allocate 5% of its regional budget to develop an integrated agricultural sector in the north, balancing tourism-driven growth in the south. The programme includes revitalising an agricultural school, improving irrigation, supporting high-value commodities with monthly incentives, and having a regional-owned company purchase farmers’ produce.

Mandala Krida No Longer a Legal Object: Will the DIY Government Begin Renovations Straight Away?

The KPK has confirmed that the Mandala Krida Stadium case is legally final and that the venue is no longer subject to legal proceedings, allowing the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) Government to use and renovate it. The regional government is conducting a technical assessment expected to finish in December 2026, and has not yet set a date for construction work.

Dompu Regency’s 2027 Regional Transfers Projected to Reach Rp952 Billion

Dompu Regency in West Nusa Tenggara is projected to receive Rp952.04 billion in central government transfers in 2027, up 6.86% from its original 2026 budget allocation. The increase is driven by higher general and special allocation funds and revenue-sharing transfers, although physical special allocation funds and village funds are forecast to fall; the projection will inform next year’s spending priorities.

250 National Strategic Projects Worth Rp 2,396 Trillion Completed

The government says 250 National Strategic Projects (PSNs) have been completed since 2016, representing investment of Rp 2,396 trillion. A 2023 study estimated that the projects could generate Rp 3,344 trillion in economic output, contribute Rp 1,564 trillion to GDP and create 7.9 million jobs; four projects are still targeted for completion by the end of 2026.

Man Who Hit Padel Opponent After Being Smashed Comes Under Police Investigation

Police in Tangerang are investigating a man accused of striking his padel opponent with a racket after being hit by a smash during a doubles match. The victim suffered head and facial injuries and has filed a police report; the incident was captured on CCTV and went viral on social media.

Why Imam Al-Ghazali Says Knowledge Is More Important Than Worship Without Knowledge

Imam Al-Ghazali’s Minhajul Abidin compares knowledge to a tree’s trunk and worship to its fruit, arguing that both are essential but that knowledge must come first. It enables Muslims to worship correctly and, when beneficial, fosters reverence and fear of God, guiding obedience to religious commands and avoidance of prohibitions.

Gold Ecosystem Is Indonesia’s Future: Discover the Opportunities

Indonesia produced 104 tonnes of gold in 2025, ranking tenth globally, but domestic use remains concentrated in jewellery and foreign-exchange reserves despite gold’s role in modern electronics. The government is seeking to secure domestic supplies for downstream industries and has established the Indonesia Bullion Market Association, while CNBC Indonesia is hosting an award event to recognise businesses supporting the gold ecosystem.

Aceh Jaya DPRK Finds Palm Fruit Prices Below Government-Set Rates

Aceh Jaya’s district council found that three palm oil mills were paying farmers less than the government’s stipulated prices for fresh fruit bunches. The council has given the companies until 2 November to adjust their rates, warning it will report non-compliance to the Agriculture Ministry.

Raffi Ahmad urges IYS participants not to fear advances in AI

Presidential Special Staff member Raffi Ahmad urged young people at the Indonesia Youth Summit 2026 to embrace advances in artificial intelligence while continuing to learn and create with empathy. The summit, organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, brings together 160 participants from across Indonesia for leadership development and activities spanning technology, business and mental health.

Following Prabowo’s Directive, Danantara Steps Up Streamlining of SOE Subsidiaries

Danantara Indonesia is accelerating the consolidation of state-owned enterprise subsidiaries in line with President Prabowo’s directive to simplify SOE structures. PTPN Group has signed a conditional merger agreement involving several hospital-operating entities, aiming to bring them under one legal entity while safeguarding healthcare continuity, employees’ rights and corporate governance requirements.

President determined to advance health insurance programme: Minister

President Prabowo Subianto is committed to strengthening Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN), with Coordinating Minister Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar citing an additional Rp20 trillion in state funding for BPJS Kesehatan. Officials rejected social-media rumours that JKN would be abolished, stressing that the programme remains operational under Indonesia’s social security laws.

Controversy After Poster of Nude Woman Put Up at Gresik Shopping Centre, Allegedly Over Affair

A poster showing a woman nude was found displayed on a pillar at a shopping centre in Gresik, East Java, alongside insulting text identifying a female employee of a smartphone retailer. The centre’s general manager said the incident was reportedly linked to an alleged affair and that management was seeking to identify the person who put up the poster.

Bogor Deputy Regent Answers KPK Summons as Witness in Case Over Collection Fees

Bogor Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi has been questioned by Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as a witness in an investigation into collection fees at the Bogor Regency Revenue Agency. He said he was asked about the fees and his role as deputy regent, and urged civil servants to help combat corruption.

Indonesian National Serving in Russian Military Killed Fighting in Ukraine; Foreign Ministry Says Moscow Embassy Investigating

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry says its embassy in Moscow is verifying reports that Muhammad Taufiq, a 48-year-old Indonesian, died while serving in the Russian military in Ukraine. Jakarta has urged Russia to exempt Indonesians from military recruitment and is investigating possible human trafficking, fraud and exploitation linked to recruitment schemes.

Assessing Insurance Company Performance: Who Comes Out on Top?

Indonesia’s insurance industry remained stable through May 2026, with total assets rising 2.87% year on year to Rp1,197.04 trillion and aggregate capital ratios well above regulatory minimums. CNBC Indonesia is recognising insurers that have helped strengthen public trust, alongside a discussion of the sector’s outlook and opportunities.

Three helicopters deployed to fight forest fires in South Sumatra

Three water-bombing helicopters made 41 drops over fire-affected areas in Ogan Komering Ilir, South Sumatra, but blazes remained active in Cengal, Pedamaran and Sungai Menang. Fires had affected a combined area of about 21 hectares, and authorities continue to monitor and tackle smouldering hotspots despite patchy rainfall.

Bulog Maluku–North Maluku Strengthens Oversight of SPHP Rice Distribution

Bulog’s Maluku and North Maluku regional office is tightening controls on subsidised rice distribution to prevent misuse and ensure supplies reach the intended recipients. The move follows alleged abuses by distribution partners in Jakarta; the office has delivered 54.9 per cent of its 2026 target so far, with 9,424 tonnes of PSO rice in stock.

EIG and ACWA Announce Plenum Power, a Strategic Partnership to Invest in US Electricity Infrastructure

EIG and Saudi-listed ACWA have signed a definitive agreement to establish Plenum Power, targeting an initial equity commitment of about US$4 billion for investment in the US power sector. The partnership plans to pursue acquisitions and new capacity across conventional and renewable generation, energy storage and existing infrastructure, amid rising electricity demand driven by electrification and AI data centres.

Petrochemical Firm Loses Rp231 Billion in Email Scam

A Singapore-based petrochemical company lost US$12.8 million after fraudsters used forged payment instructions to divert a transfer to a bank account in Cambodia. Police in Singapore and Cambodia, working with OCBC, recovered the full amount, prompting renewed advice for businesses to verify payment changes through separate channels.

BGN and Education Ministry Join Forces to Build Students’ Character Through Free Nutritious Meals

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education are working together to broaden the benefits of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, including improving school attendance and promoting healthy habits. The partnership includes school facilities, dedicated meal times and nutrition education, with officials also presenting the programme as a way to nurture students’ character and support learning.

MDP Watch, MGBKI and PDUI Welcome Supreme Court Ruling Striking Down Dozens of Health Regulations

MDP Watch, the Indonesian Medical Professors Council (MGBKI) and the Indonesian General Practitioners Association (PDUI) have urged compliance with a Supreme Court ruling that annulled more than 70 provisions in health-related regulations. They warned that misleading claims could fuel divisions among doctors, and said the ruling concerns institutional and administrative structures rather than the validity of individual health workers’ documents.

BPJS Health: JKN can be accessed at Kopdes clinics if requirements are met

BPJS Kesehatan says people will be able to use National Health Insurance (JKN) services at clinics developed by Merah Putih Village Cooperatives, provided the clinics meet the requirements for primary-level health facilities. The government has begun pilot projects to identify a suitable business model, with the clinics expected to operate like private clinics and serve BPJS members.

Tense Scene at Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School as Female Students Say They Were Held at Gunpoint

Female students and staff at an Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo say armed police entered the premises before dawn, questioned them and took several people to police stations. The school’s secretary alleges the students were intimidated and that property worth about Rp50 million was seized without a receipt; the incident has left children traumatised and classes suspended. The account is attributed to the school, while the article’s final heading indicates that police deny procedural violations.

Health Ministry says self-care is a key pillar of Indonesia’s health system

The Health Ministry says responsible self-care and self-medication are essential to improving public health, and is expanding free health checks alongside efforts to strengthen health literacy. More than 78 per cent of Indonesians reported self-medicating in 2025, while officials stressed the need for safe, effective and affordable products and accurate information.

Carrying Thousands of Tourists, Costa Serena Cruise Ship Docks at Benoa

The Costa Serena has docked at Benoa Port in Bali with 1,795 passengers and 1,079 crew members, after sailing from the Philippines. Its visit, including shore excursions around Bali before it departs for Darwin, highlights the island’s role in Asia-Pacific cruise itineraries and the tourism opportunities they bring.

Andre Rosiade Facilitates Hospital Treatment for Woman Who Has Been in a Coma for 10 Years

Gustina Putri Ningsih, 26, has been transferred from her home to Dr M Djamil Padang General Hospital for more intensive treatment after spending about a decade unconscious. The move followed attention from MP Andre Rosiade and coordination between two Padang hospitals; doctors say they will assess her condition before drawing conclusions about its cause or the possibility of recovery.

Prabowo: Outstanding Leaders Must Be Selected Through a Rigorous Process

President Prabowo Subianto said strong selection systems are needed to identify leaders with intellectual, physical and moral qualities. He framed education as fundamental to Indonesia’s founding ideals and called for equal access to quality schooling, backed by responsible management of national resources and action against corruption.

Ministry pushes stronger village-based poverty alleviation programmes

Indonesia’s national poverty rate fell to 8.07 per cent in March 2026, but rural poverty remained significantly higher than urban poverty, prompting calls for village-focused interventions tailored to local needs. A multi-stakeholder initiative has allocated Rp8.5 billion to three villages, with a three-phase programme aiming to achieve self-reliance by 2031.

BGN suspends 6,097 SPPGs for failing to submit daily fund-use reports properly

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will suspend 6,097 nutrition service units from 2 November after they failed to submit Daily Fund Use Reports in a timely and orderly manner. The suspensions will remain until reports meet requirements, and the affected units will not receive incentives during that period; BGN says the reporting is essential to accountability and transparency in the government-funded MBG programme.

BPN has certified more than 50,000 waqf land plots

Indonesia’s Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) certified 53,431 waqf land plots during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration. The ministry says certification provides legal certainty and helps protect land used for religious, educational and social purposes; around 60 per cent of the country’s estimated waqf plots are now certified.

West Jakarta targets verification of 9,341 out-of-school children by December

West Jakarta is aiming to complete verification of 9,341 out-of-school children within the Education Sub-agency’s jurisdiction by 7 December 2026. By the end of October, 2,235 children had been verified, with local officials asked to coordinate community networks and identify barriers so that appropriate support can be provided.

Bima: Rp1 Trillion in Incentives Is Not Solely for Assessing the Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto said the Rp1 trillion incentive budget rewards local governments for performance across a range of areas, not just implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. From next year, the programme will be added as one assessment criterion, while incentives are intended to strengthen local fiscal capacity and must be transferred to residents through targeted spending.

Don’t Be Surprised: A Socialist Bank Was Founded in America

The Bank of North Dakota, the only state-owned bank still operating in the United States, was founded in 1919 out of a socialist-populist movement and now enjoys support across political lines. With around US$11 billion in assets, it channels funding through local banks and has helped finance regional projects, including the rescue of a coal-fired power station, though banking groups warn that public banks risk political interference and taxpayer exposure.

Efforts to Improve Nutrition for Children in Remote South Papua

Children at Miri Preparatory State Primary School in remote Boven Digoel received free nutritious meals as part of events marking the 98th Youth Pledge Day. The programme, organised by Cendekiawan Perempuan Papua, PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara and the local government, also included a low-cost market, free medical treatment and school uniform distribution.

EIG and Acwa launch Plenum Power to invest in US power infrastructure

EIG and Saudi-listed Acwa have agreed to establish Plenum Power, a partnership targeting an initial equity commitment of about $4 billion to pursue acquisitions and new development in the US power sector. The initiative aims to capitalise on rising electricity demand, including from AI data centres and electrification, through investments in generation, storage and existing infrastructure.

350 Participants Turn Out for UT Fest 2026 Night Run in Kupang

Some 350 people took part in Universitas Terbuka Kupang’s free 5K night run, held as part of the university’s 42nd anniversary celebrations. East Nusa Tenggara Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena said the event promoted healthy living and environmental cleanliness, while organisers also highlighted opportunities for students and small businesses to build networks.

Motorcyclist Seriously Injured After Falling from Pesing Flyover

A motorcyclist, Cahyadi Ramdani, fell from the Pesing Flyover in West Jakarta and was taken to hospital before being discharged the following morning with bruising to his hands and legs. Police said they had no complete official accident report, while an ambulance driver relayed an unconfirmed suggestion from witnesses that the rider may have been drowsy.

Deputy Speaker: Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Ensure Crime Proceeds Are Returned to Victims

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Sari Yuliati says the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill should enable the state to recover criminal assets and return losses to victims, particularly those harmed by financial scams and illegal fundraising. She called for clear procedures to identify victims and distribute recovered assets, alongside safeguards for human rights, legal certainty and public participation.

Police rescue woman found collapsed alone in boarding-house room

Police in Jakarta’s Tambora district rescued a young woman who called the national emergency line, 110, after becoming too weak to stand. Officers took her to hospital, where she was diagnosed with gastric problems and typhoid; police reminded people living alone that the 24-hour emergency service is free to call.

West Jakarta Police arrest three during raid on Kampung Boncos

West Jakarta Metro Police arrested three people suspected of drug misuse during a raid in Kampung Boncos, seizing methamphetamine, cannabis and drug paraphernalia. Police say enforcement will continue, alongside social and environmental initiatives including checks on homes deemed unfit for habitation.

MSMEs Ministry Seeks to Accelerate KUR Microcredit Distribution

Deputy Minister Helvi Yuni Moraza says national KUR lending to production sectors has met its 65 per cent target, while distribution in Java, Bali and Nusa Tenggara is about 61 per cent; overall disbursement has reached 91 per cent of the Rp290 trillion target, covering four million borrowers. The ministry plans to speed up lending and strengthen links between MSMEs and industrial supply chains, supporting the government’s downstream-processing agenda and aiming to create jobs and reduce poverty.

Bogor City Police Chief to Sanction Officers over Journalist Intimidation

Bogor City Police Chief Adhitya Panji Anom says officers involved in an alleged intimidation incident targeting a journalist covering a student demonstration have been sanctioned, though he did not disclose how many officers were involved or the penalties imposed. The statement came as journalists held a solidarity action, calling for accountability, a review of protest security procedures and guarantees for reporters’ safety.

ATR/BPN Targets Registration of 4.8 Million Hectares of Land through ILASPP

Indonesia’s Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) aims to register 4.8 million hectares of land under the World Bank-supported ILASPP programme between 2025 and 2029. The initiative will integrate land and spatial-planning data and modernise information systems to strengthen legal certainty over land rights and support sustainable development.

Supreme Court Says Gibran’s Education Certificate Is Invalid; Claimant Says He Should Resign

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has granted Subhan’s appeal and ruled that Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s certificate equating his overseas secondary education with an Indonesian high-school qualification is invalid and void. Subhan says the ruling means Gibran should resign, although the article reports the court’s decision on the certificate rather than an order requiring him to leave office.

Bali police confirm four foreign tourists survive Nusa Penida boat fire

Four foreign tourists and the crew of a snorkeling boat were evacuated safely after an explosion caused a fire in Gamat Bay, off Nusa Penida; the captain suffered burns to his legs. Police are investigating the cause, with initial information indicating the boat had undergone routine maintenance and repairs before the incident.

Peacekeeping Mission Turns Deadly as Italian Helicopter Crashes, Killing Four

An Italian military helicopter serving with the EU’s Operation Althea in Bosnia and Herzegovina crashed, killing four people and injuring 11. The cause remains under investigation; the mission oversees implementation of the Dayton Agreement.

Government Turns PLN Innovation into Tangible Benefits for Indonesians to Accelerate Energy Transition

PLN says its Green Energy Ecosystem Technopark on Rengit Island, Belitung, has extended daily electricity service from about 12 hours to 24 hours. Its Green Hydrogen Hub is also supporting the development of hydrogen research and technology, and both initiatives received recognition at the 2026 Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum.

MHU Cuts Emissions and Strengthens ESG Transparency

PT Multi Harapan Utama (MHU) says it cut carbon emissions by 41.34 per cent in 2024 through energy-efficiency and environmental programmes, while expanding transparent ESG reporting. The mining company also highlighted community programmes that have improved village business revenue and access to clean water, alongside recognition for its emissions disclosures and social impact initiatives.

200 Ciamis Civil Servants Undergo Urine Tests to Prevent Drug Abuse

The National Narcotics Agency tested 200 civil servants at the Ciamis regency secretariat using rapid diagnostic kits. The screening aims to detect drug abuse early and prevent drugs circulating within government offices, while supporting staff health and performance.

BP Batam honours investors for their major contribution to the economy

BP Batam honoured investors and businesses whose activities have supported Indonesia’s economy, reporting Rp59.73 trillion in investment realisation in the first nine months of 2026—85.33 per cent of its annual target. Batam’s economic growth reached 7.28 per cent in the first half, while the agency said poverty and unemployment had fallen and human development indicators improved; awards recognised contributions ranging from exports and technology to sustainability and community empowerment.

Rosan Admits Indonesia Needs to Improve Its Investment Climate

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani says the government must address shortcomings in transparency, governance and business certainty to maintain investor confidence and attract high-quality investment. He stressed that long-term foreign direct investment depends on predictable policies and a stable operating environment, while reporting that investment realisation reached Rp3,923.2 trillion from the fourth quarter of 2024 to the third quarter of 2026.

Foreign Ministry Investigates Report of Indonesian Killed Fighting in Ukraine as a Russian Soldier

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry is verifying reports that Muhammad Taufiq, 48, died while serving in the Russian military in Ukraine, and says it has made a diplomatic request for Russia to exclude Indonesians from military recruitment. Ukrainian intelligence says Taufiq was recruited after seeking work and was killed in his first battle, while Jakarta is investigating possible fraud and human trafficking and has urged Indonesians to verify overseas job offers.

PDI-P Keeps the Spirit of the Youth Pledge Alive Through Padel

PDI-P’s Lampung branch marked the Youth Pledge anniversary with a padel gathering attended by more than 50 young people, presenting the sport as a space for unity and engagement. Party leaders said political organisations should meet young people where they gather, while the event also formed part of the build-up to an internal party consolidation.

New Development in Kerry Riza Case as Supreme Court Revises Compensation Order

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has rejected Kerry Riza’s appeal while revising the compensation order in his corruption case involving crude oil and refinery products at Pertamina. The revised amount has not yet been disclosed; the lower courts had ordered compensation ranging from Rp2.9 trillion to Rp13.4 trillion, alongside prison sentences and fines.

Former President Jailed for 10 Years for Corruption Now Freed

Former El Salvador President Tony Saca has been released after completing a 10-year sentence for embezzling public funds and money laundering. He admitted diverting more than US$300 million during his 2004–2009 presidency; a separate civil case has also ordered him to repay millions of dollars to the state.

Ahead of the Sumpah Pemuda Centenary, Deputy Minister Fajar Highlights the Importance of Holistic Character Education

Deputy Minister Fajar Riza Ul Haq said the government is preparing young people to be competitive through talent development, character education and wider access to quality schooling. Speaking at the Indonesia Youth Summit 2026, he stressed that character is shaped across schools, families, communities and digital spaces, and should lead to socially beneficial action.

77 Global Brands Use Indonesian Components, Kadin Highlights Export Potential

Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) says components made in Indonesia are used by 77 global brands, including Tesla, Netflix, On and Nike, offering scope to deepen the country’s role in international supply chains. Kadin is promoting “Buy from Indonesia” to expand exports and “Buy Indonesia” to attract domestic and portfolio investment, as it seeks growth beyond the current US$300 billion in exports.

Billy Mambrasar Receives Indonesia’s TOYP Award for Empowering Papuan Communities

Billy Mambrasar has become the first Indigenous Papuan to receive a 2026 The Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) Indonesia award, recognising his work to expand education access and economic opportunities, particularly in Papua. Through initiatives supporting Indigenous students, entrepreneurs and communities, he hopes to inspire young Papuans to pursue education and contribute to development.

Deputy House Commission IX Chair Calls for Equitable Healthcare Access, Whatever the Circumstances

Putih Sari, deputy chair of the House of Representatives’ Commission IX, has called for healthcare services to reach all parts of Indonesia regardless of where people live or their economic circumstances. She cited disease burdens, nutrition and stunting, maternal and child health, unequal access and shortages of medical workers as major challenges, and stressed prevention, health education and early detection.

House Speaker Urges Transparent Probe as 20 Firms Named as Fire Suspects

House Speaker Puan Maharani called for a transparent, evidence-based investigation and sustained support for communities affected by forest and land fires. Police say 245 individuals and 20 companies, including four foreign-invested firms, had been named as suspects by October 2026, while authorities are urged to protect workers and small businesses if sanctions affect local operations.

PDIP After Supreme Court Annuls Gibran’s High School Equivalency Certificate: ‘He Has No Diploma’

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) says the Supreme Court’s decision invalidating Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high school equivalency certificate reinforces doubts about his graduation documents. The Court granted an appeal challenging the certificate, which had been used as a requirement for his 2024 presidential election candidacy.

Panasonic Continues to Grow in Indonesia Amid Challenges After 72 Years

Panasonic Gobel Indonesia says its business grew year on year in 2026 despite challenging conditions in the electronics industry, although growth remained below double digits. The company says it manufactures products locally for both domestic sales and export, and is strengthening ties with dealers as it maintains its long-term presence in Indonesia.

KPK Searches Semarang Customs Office and Central Java Regional Office; Budi Says Investigators Seized Cash

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Semarang Customs and Excise Office and its Central Java regional office as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving state revenue losses in the excise sector. Investigators seized documents, electronic evidence and cash, whose amount is still being counted.

With So Many Urgent Needs, Finance Minister Says Nearly Rp200tn Has Been Reallocated

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says the government has shifted nearly Rp200 trillion within the state budget to meet urgent spending needs, including disaster response and rising energy subsidies. The 2026 spending outlook has risen to Rp3,942 trillion, while the projected deficit has widened to 2.85% of GDP.

Forestry Ministry names two companies suspects in forest fires, including foreign-invested firm

Indonesia’s Forestry Ministry has named PT MAP and Singaporean-invested PT GAP as corporate suspects in separate alleged forest-fire offences in West and Central Kalimantan. The cases form part of 120 fire-related investigations handled by the ministry, with 32 companies also facing administrative sanctions and ecological-damage assessments still under way in the two cases.

KP2MI prevents prospective migrant worker from joining mercenary ranks

Indonesia’s Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) assisted a prospective migrant worker who cancelled a trip after an overseas agency offered a high-paying job under suspicious terms, including instructions to pose as a tourist. The ministry is investigating the recruitment and urged the public to use official placement channels and report suspected fraudulent overseas job offers.

Elviana’s Efforts to Revive Dayak Traditional Crafts

Elviana Ping, a craftswoman in East Kalimantan, makes traditional Dayak accessories and clothing while teaching others the skills and cultural meanings behind them. Since 2016, more than 1,000 people have attended her training, and some former trainees have gone on to produce crafts independently.

Understanding the Differences in TV Display Technology: Precise Dimming Is a Key Factor

TCL says precise lighting control is crucial to contrast, image detail and reducing blooming, outlining the evolution from QLED and QD-Mini LED to its SQD-Mini LED technology. The company held a product-experience workshop with Shopee in Jakarta to demonstrate these technologies, while advising consumers to compare individual models’ panels, dimming zones, brightness and colour reproduction.

IWAPI Extraordinary National Congress: 26 Provincial Chapters Agree to Dismiss Nita Yudi and the 2021–2026 Board

An extraordinary congress of the Indonesian Women Entrepreneurs Association (IWAPI) voted to remove chairwoman Nita Yudi and appoint Hana Fadel Mohammad as chairwoman for 2026–2031. Organisers said representatives of 26 of Indonesia’s 37 provincial chapters attended, following alleged violations of the organisation’s rules and ethics code.

Demand for Premium Rice Rises as Bulog Kendal Ramps Up Production to 600 Tonnes a Month

Bulog’s Kendal rice-milling centre is producing nearly 600 tonnes of premium rice each month to meet growing demand from modern retailers in Central Java. It is shifting towards commercial premium-rice production while working with small mills and managing rising paddy prices to keep retail prices within the government’s ceiling.

Israel Continues Military Operation in Hebron, West Bank, for Eight Days

Israeli forces have continued raids and movement restrictions in Hebron for eight consecutive days, with local sources reporting forced displacement and home searches. Hebron Municipality says the operation has displaced 4,969 Palestinians from 780 families, while the Palestinian Prisoners Society reports 110 arrests in the governorate since it began.

Car Drives Against Traffic at Ciledug Toll Gate, Nearly Causing Collision After Following Google Maps

A driver travelling against the flow at the entrance to Ciledug 3 Toll Gate in South Jakarta nearly collided with another motorist on Friday morning. Police said the driver had misread Google Maps while trying to reach Soekarno-Hatta International Airport; toll security staff redirected the car to the proper route.

Pope Leo XIV Votes in US Midterm Elections, Ballot Sent by Post

The Vatican says Pope Leo XIV, the first US-born pope, cast an absentee ballot in Chicago, in what is believed to be the first known instance of a pope voting in a political election. The announcement comes amid public tensions between Leo and President Donald Trump over immigration policy and the war with Iran, ahead of the 3 November midterms.

North Sumatra Governor Plans Funding for Fishermen’s Infrastructure in South Nias

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution is seeking private-sector and bank financing, potentially supported by government interest subsidies, to improve fisheries infrastructure in South Nias amid budget adjustments. The plans include ice factories, fish auction facilities and boats, while local officials say limited equipment and market access are preventing fishermen from making full use of the region’s marine resources.

Indonesia targets export growth of up to 6.5% this year

Trade Minister Budi says Indonesia remains confident of achieving export growth of up to 6.5% this year despite temporary trade deficits in May and June. The ministry is using its overseas trade offices and initiatives to strengthen domestic product sales, develop export markets and help local businesses meet global standards; exports reached US$193.64 billion in January–August 2026.

Foreign Investors Still Have Confidence in Indonesia, Finance Deputy Minister Suahasil Says

Finance Deputy Minister Suahasil Nazara said foreign investment recorded a cumulative net inflow of Rp127.7 trillion by 23 October 2026, channelled through government bonds and Bank Indonesia’s rupiah securities. While the stock market saw outflows, he expressed confidence that reforms by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) would help restore trust and attract investors.

Ibas Calls for Pine Resin Downstreaming to Boost Ponorogo’s Economy

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has urged stronger processing of pine resin in Ponorogo to create greater value, expand domestic and export markets, and benefit local workers and communities. He also stressed sustainable forest management, improved production technology and governance, worker welfare, and better access infrastructure around Perhutani’s Sukun plant.

Indonesia and Uruguay Establish Cultural Cooperation Framework

Indonesia and Uruguay have agreed on a five-year framework for cultural cooperation, covering exchanges of artists and experts, collaboration between cultural institutions, literary and audiovisual projects, and training programmes. The first bilateral agreement of its kind is intended to deepen relations and mutual understanding, and awaits signature by Uruguay’s Minister of Education and Culture.

Deputy Working Group Chair Says Fraudulent Investments and Hajj Schemes to Be Covered by Asset Forfeiture Bill

Soedeson Tandra, deputy chair of the working group drafting Indonesia’s Asset Forfeiture Bill, says it will cover fraudulent investments, illegal insurance, sham savings schemes and fraudulent Hajj and Umrah travel operators. The measure is intended to let authorities seize offenders’ proceeds to help compensate victims, with discussions with the government expected soon; the bill’s detailed forfeiture mechanism is still being debated.

Household Waste Can Become a Source of Income for Farmers: Here’s How

Organic household waste can be turned into fertiliser and natural pesticides, helping farmers cut production costs and creating potential new income streams. A training programme in Padang is promoting integrated farming that makes use of local resources to improve productivity, livelihoods and environmental sustainability.

MP: Asset Forfeiture Bill Should Prioritise Victim Compensation

A House of Representatives commission member says the Asset Forfeiture Bill should prioritise returning proceeds of financial crime to victims, rather than focusing solely on punishing offenders. The proposed provisions could facilitate recovery while requiring court procedures, evidence and safeguards for bona fide third parties.

Prabowo Provides Aid to Gontor to Support Pesantren Education

President Prabowo Subianto has provided assistance to Pondok Pesantren Darussalam Gontor in East Java, with the stated aim of supporting students’ education and developing human resources. During a visit, MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani also urged students to study diligently and uphold values of service, noting the pesantren’s record of producing leaders and scholars.

Trenggono Inspects Three KNMP Sites in Jember, Ensuring Construction Meets Its Targets

Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono inspected three sites for the Red and White Fishing Village (KNMP) programme in Jember, saying construction must meet local fishers’ needs and improve productivity and livelihoods. Fishers welcomed the planned facilities, particularly ice supplies, cold storage and boat workshops, which could reduce the need to travel to obtain essential supplies.

South Sulawesi governor supports children of firefighter killed on duty

South Sulawesi Governor Andi provided financial assistance to the family of Padayya Mangampang, a provincial forest firefighter who died after being struck by a falling tree while tackling fires in North Toraja. He also pledged support for the education of Padayya’s children, including possible scholarships, as the provincial government seeks to help the family after the loss of its main breadwinner.

Panangian Simanungkalit: BTN Property Auctions Could Be an Attractive Investment Alternative

Property analyst Panangian Simanungkalit says Bank Tabungan Negara’s 2026 auction offers investors a range of assets at prices potentially up to 40% below market value, supported by a 5% KPR Maju financing rate. His outlook is underpinned by forecasts of stronger Indonesian economic and mortgage growth through 2028, although he advises buyers to check legal status, occupancy, physical condition and additional costs.

Blackpanda and CyberCube collaborate to bring cyber risk analytics to brokers across Asia

Blackpanda and CyberCube are collaborating to give brokers across Asia access to CyberCube’s Broking Manager platform, which includes regional APAC benchmarks for cyber loss severity, incident frequency and security posture. The arrangement also combines Blackpanda’s local incident-response support with the use of anonymised incident data for future regional research.

Scientists Reveal the Facts About Life on Earth Coming from Outer Space

A University of Cambridge team ran 100,000 simulations of comet impacts and found that delivering enough hydrogen cyanide to Earth for life to develop would be extremely unlikely. The results do not rule out an extraterrestrial origin for life, but suggest that Mars may have been a more favourable destination for comet-borne chemicals than Earth.

SAGARA Finalisation: Major General Sriyanto Says One Peatland-Mangrove Data System for All Stakeholders

Indonesia’s National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency is refining SAGARA, an integrated platform intended to provide a single source of data for peatland and mangrove management. The system will combine geospatial technology, AI and information from multiple agencies to support early warnings, response planning and public accountability.

IPO: Gas Export Cuts Show National Energy Sovereignty

Indonesia’s reduction of piped gas exports to Singapore is being presented as a decision to put domestic energy needs and national sovereignty ahead of trade interests. The government says the 31 BBTUD cut, effective from 24 October 2026, remains within contractual limits and will help supply power plants and industry.

Deputy Hajj Minister Urges 2027 Pilgrims to Prepare Physically and Spiritually

Deputy Hajj and Umrah Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has begun briefing prospective pilgrims in Manado ahead of the 2027 Hajj. He stressed family-oriented management and accountability among organisers, while urging pilgrims to prepare spiritually, intellectually and physically.

BRIN Urges Muhammadiyah to Become a Partner in the Energy Transition

BRIN chief Arif Satria has called on Muhammadiyah to help accelerate Indonesia’s energy transition by linking research, technology and practical deployment through its extensive network of institutions. Speakers also stressed that the transition must deliver fair economic benefits, while pointing to gaps in renewable-energy capacity and the need for stronger implementation and more effective electricity-sector governance.

Jakarta’s zakat agency prepares haze relief for Palangka Raya

Jakarta’s Baznas has allocated Rp223.4 million for four initiatives to support residents and emergency workers affected by haze in Palangka Raya, targeting at least 1,500 beneficiaries. The programme includes respiratory care, home health visits, family food and mask packages, and firefighting equipment, funded by donations from zakat payers and other contributors.

IPB University’s Community Empowerment Programme Wins Mandaya Award 2026

IPB University’s One Village One CEO programme has won first place in the State-Owned Legal Entity University category at the Mandaya Awards 2026. The initiative supports rural economic development through community capacity-building, business mentoring and partnerships, with a stated aim of expanding market access, reducing poverty and strengthening local economic independence.

Asian Shares Plunge After Disappointing AI Investment Outlook

Asian markets fell sharply as concerns over the scale of AI investment and weaker prospects among US technology companies spread from Wall Street, with South Korea’s Kospi down more than 5% and Japan’s Nikkei 225 off 2.67%. Investors are increasingly questioning whether companies can finance AI expansion from their own resources, following disappointing forecasts and rising capital expenditure from major technology firms.

The Digital Economy Is Changing How SMEs Find Customers, with Online Reputation Now a Key to Sales

The growth of the digital economy has shifted how consumers discover and assess products, making online reviews, ratings and visual content increasingly influential in purchasing decisions. For Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), building trust now depends not only on product quality and price but also on customer experience and a strong digital reputation.

Indodax Crypto Exchange Hit by Cyberattack; CEO Says Customer Funds Are Safe

Indodax says it has fixed all issues identified during its investigation into increased cyberattack attempts and found no unauthorised transactions or customer data leaks. Deposits and withdrawals remain suspended for more than 24 hours while the exchange completes additional security checks, with the CEO apologising for the delay.

Good News: People Can Use BPJS Health Cover at Merah Putih Cooperative Clinics, Says Health Minister

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin says Merah Putih Cooperative clinics are being developed as primary clinics and will operate on a model similar to private clinics. Visitors will be able to use BPJS Health, Indonesia’s national health insurance programme, at the clinics and their pharmacies.

BPJS Kesehatan honours 80 exemplary businesses for JKN compliance

BPJS Kesehatan has honoured eight local governments and 80 businesses for compliance and support for the sustainability of Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. The awards recognise active participation and continued health protection as essential to achieving universal health coverage, beyond simply enrolling people in the scheme.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and Jababeka Strengthen Worker Protection Partnership

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan is deepening its cooperation with Jababeka Industrial Estate in Bekasi to improve employer compliance and extend social security coverage to workers. The partnership will also promote housing finance and economic empowerment initiatives, aiming to improve workers’ welfare and support their families.

Madiun Regency Ready to Implement PPP Road Preservation Project

Madiun Regency is preparing a public-private partnership (PPP) project to preserve nine priority roads spanning about 50 kilometres, addressing limited local budget capacity and supporting regional connectivity. The project is estimated to involve Rp192 billion in construction investment and Rp49 billion in maintenance support, with annual availability payments of Rp47 billion over 10 years once the roads are operational.

Children’s Diet and Habits Can Help Prevent Health Risks During the Seasonal Transition

A paediatrician at Sebelas Maret University Hospital says preventing illness during the transition from the dry to rainy season depends on daily hygiene, balanced nutrition, adequate rest and immunisation—not on any single food or supplement. She cautions that supplements are generally unnecessary for healthy children with adequate diets and that excessive doses can cause harm; respiratory infections, diarrhoea and dengue are among the risks to watch for.

East Java Police Confirm Kediri Mayor’s Father Removed from Post

East Java Police have confirmed that AKBP Edy Herwiyanto, the father of Kediri Mayor Vinanda Prameswati, has been transferred from his structural post while he is examined by the National Police’s Professional and Security Division. The provincial police say they cannot comment on the substance or outcome of the inquiry, or determine whether any rules were breached, until the examination is complete.

KKP to Prepare 1,000 Red and White Fishing Villages for 2027

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries plans to develop 1,000 Red and White Fishing Villages in 2027, following surveys of candidate sites across 37 provinces involving 3,500 participants. The ministry says site selection must reflect coastal communities’ actual needs, including marketing access, fuel, ice and storage, while previous modern fishing village projects reportedly raised fishers’ incomes by more than 50 per cent.

Dwi Bagus, Suspect in Dini’s Murder, Changed His Name to Amanullah While Hiding in Jombang

Dwi Bagus Martono, suspected of murdering his wife and young child, was arrested in Jombang after hiding at a religious retreat. Police say he adopted the name Amanullah when entering the retreat, although people there were unaware of the alleged crimes.

Kuantan Singingi Police Step Up Crackdown on Illegal Mining, Destroy 47 Rafts in a Week

Kuantan Singingi Police and local precincts destroyed 47 rafts used for illegal mining during 13 enforcement operations between 24 and 30 October 2026. No suspects were found at the sites, while police also carried out 140 prevention and public-awareness activities and pledged to continue enforcement to protect the environment.

Eastspring Indonesia Awarded idMIA-1 (Superior) Rating by PEFINDO

PEFINDO has awarded Eastspring Investments Indonesia its highest investment manager rating, idMIA-1 (Superior), while three of the firm’s mutual funds received top credit-quality ratings. The recognition comes as Eastspring’s assets under management reached Rp75.02 trillion at the end of September 2026, up 2.92% from December 2025.

Saudi and Houthis Trade Claims over Missile in Makkah Skies

Saudi Arabia said it intercepted a Houthi drone over the Makkah region, while the group denied conducting any operation targeting Saudi territory and called the allegation a “gross lie”. The claims come amid renewed cross-border attacks, with Saudi Arabia also reporting the interception of two ballistic missiles aimed at Riyadh and damage caused by debris from intercepted missiles.

Deputy Hajj Minister Says Christians and Hindus Could Serve as Hajj Officers

Deputy Hajj and Umrah Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak says people of different faiths could help support services for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims, framing the proposal as a practical expression of tolerance and social cooperation. He cited North Sulawesi as an example and said he had asked officials to encourage participation by non-Muslim communities there, with the ambition of extending the approach nationwide.

Bank Mandiri Integrates Gold Investment into Livin’ by Mandiri, Making Long-Term Asset Management Easier for Customers

Bank Mandiri has integrated gold savings, instalment-based gold purchases and physical gold withdrawals into its Livin’ by Mandiri app, following its approval to operate as a bullion bank. Customers can start buying gold from 0.02 gram, trade around the clock and access physical withdrawals through a network that includes 28 gold ATMs.

South Korea seeks nuclear energy ties with Indonesia

South Korea has expressed interest in working with Indonesia on nuclear power and carbon capture and storage, citing its experience building reactors overseas and Indonesia’s growing electricity demand. The discussions align with Indonesia’s 2025–2034 power plan, which includes 0.5 gigawatts of nuclear capacity and a target to select a plant site by 2026 or 2027; no specific joint projects have yet been announced.

Fisheries Minister Urges Faster Construction of KNMP in Jember

Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono has called for construction of the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) facilities at three sites in Jember to be accelerated, with completion targeted for the end of November 2026 and operations expected from June 2027. The government says integrating the facilities with local fish auctions and providing services such as ice plants, cold storage and fuel stations will support fishing activity and improve coastal livelihoods.

Indonesia-Singapore Relations Face Turbulence as Diplomatic Milestone Nears

Indonesia and Singapore are facing renewed diplomatic friction over gas exports, electricity plans, airspace and public accusations, despite recent commitments to deepen cooperation ahead of 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2027. Analysts warn that inflammatory rhetoric could weaken trust and investor confidence, while arguing that energy dependence and domestic enforcement gaps remain issues Indonesia must address.

Bulog South-east Sulawesi Conducts Market Inspections in Kendari to Prevent SPHP Rice Adulteration

Bulog’s South-east Sulawesi office has inspected markets in Kendari to check rice stocks and prices and prevent the adulteration or repackaging of subsidised SPHP rice. It is also monitoring Minyakita cooking oil prices, warning distribution partners that sales above the government’s retail price caps could lead to their agreements being terminated.

Tensions Rise as North Korea Condemns US-South Korea Stealth Fighter Drills

North Korea has condemned the joint US-South Korean Freedom Flag air-defence exercises involving F-35 stealth fighters, warning that it will maintain a strong military deterrent. The drills coincide with a dispute over landmines in the Demilitarised Zone and renewed threats of propaganda broadcasts, while Seoul says it will respond firmly to any border violations.

Air Quality and the Direction of Indonesia’s Energy Transition

Indonesia’s persistently poor air quality is linked not only to transport but also to industry and power generation, with fossil fuels continuing to dominate the energy mix. The article argues that court rulings and net-zero pledges have yet to produce effective emissions controls, and calls for binding policies and a measurable roadmap to shift towards low-emissions energy.

Prabowo Urges Taruna Nusantara Senior High School to Train Honest Leaders

President Prabowo Subianto has urged students at Taruna Nusantara Senior High School’s Cimahi campus to uphold honesty, integrity and patriotism as they prepare to lead Indonesia. The school, which operates six campuses nationwide, will provide full scholarships to all students from the 2025/2026 academic year under Prabowo’s government.

80% of Indonesian Companies Face System Integration Hurdles in Adopting AI

An HSBC survey found that 80% of Indonesian corporate finance managers identify integration with existing systems as the biggest barrier to wider AI adoption, although 84% expect AI to benefit corporate treasury within three years. Companies also cite data security and skills shortages, while logistics firm Shipper has used AI to cut its invoicing time from 21 days to five.

The World Is Growing More ‘Feverish’—Is Indonesia Still Safe? Finance Minister Responds

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says Indonesia is well positioned to withstand geopolitical tensions, prolonged conflicts and high oil prices, citing robust domestic growth and controlled inflation. He also pointed to expansion in manufacturing, a trade surplus, strong credit growth and foreign capital inflows as signs of resilience.

Demand for Air Purifiers Rises Amid Hot Weather and Air Pollution

Panasonic Gobel Indonesia says demand for air-treatment products, including air purifiers, air conditioners and HVAC systems, is increasing as parts of Indonesia face hot weather and air pollution. Sales remain concentrated in Java, although the company reports strong growth in Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi without disclosing regional figures.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Wiyagus Urges Youth to Become Adaptive and Innovative Leaders

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus said Indonesia must turn its demographic dividend into a “leadership dividend” by equipping young people to adapt, innovate and solve problems in their communities. He urged local governments to include youth programmes in development plans and budgets, and called for practical collaboration to support young people ahead of Indonesia’s 2045 national vision.

Ibas Calls for Forestry Industry Downstreaming and Less Wasteful Production

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has urged stronger downstream processing in Indonesia’s forestry industry, saying pine resin should be turned into higher-value products and production quality and capacity improved. He also stressed that industrial growth must go hand in hand with forest conservation, including planting, maintenance and rehabilitation to secure sustainable raw-material supplies.

Army assures due legal process in case of Second Lieutenant Jihad shot dead

The Indonesian Army says the investigation into the fatal shooting of Second Lieutenant Jihad Ahmad Al-Rasyid at a Kopassus weapons depot in Central Java is proceeding in accordance with the law. A fellow officer has been detained and faces a negligence charge, while the Army has also revoked his specialist qualifications as an internal sanction.

Central Java Deputy Governor Says Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Raided by Police Is Unrelated to Hamalatul Quran Jombang

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin said the Sukoharjo Islamic boarding school searched by police has no connection to Hamalatul Quran in Jombang, despite sharing its name. He also urged the Religious Affairs Ministry to regulate unlicensed Quranic study houses and boarding schools, and said the provincial government would support girls affected by the incident.

Three Lawsuits, Two Setbacks Over Vice-President Gibran’s Diploma

Three legal challenges have questioned the overseas education credentials used by Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka in his 2024 vice-presidential bid. Although the Constitutional Court rejected an election-result petition, it said it had found no convincing evidence of an equivalent overseas secondary-school qualification; the Supreme Court has since ruled that the equivalency certificate was invalid.

Prabowo: A Nation That Is Lazy to Learn History Will Be Punished by History

President Prabowo Subianto urged students at SMA Taruna Nusantara to make full use of their education and uphold national values, unity and respect for Indonesia’s diversity. At the inauguration of the school’s Cimahi campus, he stressed that learning from history—including the consequences of division and colonialism—is essential to preventing past mistakes from recurring.

Dedi Congor, Suspect in Customs Case, Barred from Travelling Abroad by KPK

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has barred Ahmad Dedi, also known as Dedi Congor, from travelling overseas in connection with a customs-import case. The investigation has also expanded to alleged corruption involving cigarette excise, with preliminary estimates of state losses reaching trillions of rupiah.

Sanitary Pads Subject to 11% VAT: Kadin Chief Weighs In on Boosting State Revenue

Kadin Indonesia chairman Anindya Novyan Bakrie says efforts to raise state revenue should be balanced with incentives that support investment and economic growth, amid public debate over the 11% VAT applied to sanitary pads. He also called for stronger exports, noting that Indonesia’s export value has reached Rp7,900 trillion this year but saying the economy needs a larger buffer.

Pramono to Send 10 Village Heads on Overseas Study Visits

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung plans to send the 10 finalists of the 2026 Benyamin Sueb Award on overseas study visits to broaden their perspectives on local administration. The programme, whose budget will be managed transparently by Jakarta’s Cooperation Bureau, may include destinations such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan and China.

Approved: Tax Refunds for Textile, Electronics and MSME Businesses to Be Paid Soon

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has instructed the Director General of Taxes to expedite refunds, prioritising micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, footwear and electronics. Tax refunds totalled Rp198.71 trillion by the end of September 2026, while the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomed the move and called for the priority sectors to be broadened.

More Transparent and Sustainable ESG Implementation and Empowerment of Communities Near Mines Urged

Mining company PT Multi Harapan Utama (MHU) says it is integrating Good Mining Practice and ESG principles, reporting a 41.34% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2024 compared with the previous year. Its community programmes have also expanded local economic activity and clean-water access, including support that helped a village-owned enterprise increase turnover and a water system serving 582 households.

Plaintiff Speaks Out on Impact of Ruling That Gibran’s High School Equivalency Certificate Is Invalid

The Supreme Court has granted Subhan’s appeal and ruled that Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s overseas high school equivalency certificate is invalid and null and void. Subhan says the certificate should be treated as never having existed and has called on Gibran to resign; the ruling follows a dispute over the document’s validity and its use in Gibran’s 2024 vice-presidential candidacy.

Singapore Summons Indonesian Palm Oil Executives over Haze from Forest and Land Fires: Trade Minister Responds

Trade Minister Budi Santoso said Singapore’s move to question Indonesian palm oil company executives over suspected links to fires causing transboundary haze would not disrupt Indonesia’s trade. Singapore is seeking independent examinations of companies’ operations and supply chains and plans to amend its haze pollution law to strengthen its investigative powers.

Public Satisfaction with Government Reaches 57.4%, with Defence and Security the Best-Rated Sector

An IndocPolls survey found that 57.4% of respondents were satisfied with the Prabowo-Gibran administration after two years, with defence and security receiving the highest approval at 70.4%. Satisfaction was also relatively high for law enforcement and anti-corruption efforts, while the economy was a weaker point, with approval at 43.8%.

Korean Webtoon Creators Urge UNESCO to Strengthen Copyright Protection in the AI Era

South Korean comic creators have urged UNESCO to promote strict rules requiring artists’ consent before their work is used to train AI models. A survey found that most creators did not know how to prevent such use, while more than four in five supported an opt-in system; speakers also called for AI-content labelling, training-data transparency and fair compensation.

Fadli: Digital Space Is a Cultural Space for Expression

Culture Minister Fadli Zon says digital spaces shape and pass on values, identity and expression, and argues that Indonesia’s cultural principles should guide online conduct. He called for family supervision, stronger media and information literacy, and collaboration between education and culture, while promoting a new guide for families raising children in the digital age.

Glacial Lake Bursts, Triggering Flash Floods in Bhutan

A glacial lake outburst flood swept through Bhutan’s Gasa Tshachu hot-spring resort, washing away infrastructure and apparently destroying two bridges, while no casualties were reported. The incident cut road access to Laya and highlights the destructive risks posed by glacial lakes in the Himalayas.

Viral Post Shows Rp10,000 Parking Fee and Rp5,000 Passenger Drop-Off Charge in Sayan, Ubud

A parking tariff notice in Sayan, Ubud, has circulated on social media, listing charges for cars and construction-material lorries, while motorbikes park free. A local customary leader said the rates are governed by a customary rule introduced in 2022 and apply to land set aside to reduce traffic congestion caused by vehicles stopping to drop off passengers.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Wiyagus: Demographic Dividend Must Foster Youth Leadership for Golden Indonesia 2045

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus said Indonesia must turn its demographic dividend into a new generation of adaptive, innovative young leaders capable of addressing local challenges. He urged regional governments to include youth programmes in development plans and budgets, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita agenda for strengthening human resources.

Court Hears Gibran’s Education History as Appeal to Revoke Certificate’s Validity Is Granted

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming’s lawyers have detailed his education from primary school through university in a response to a lawsuit concerning the recognition of his overseas secondary education. They say his academic documents have been submitted to the Jakarta Administrative Court, although the case has not yet reached the evidentiary stage.

HIMKI Steps Up Efforts to Expand Craft Markets Through Task Force and ‘Market Intelligence’

HIMKI is establishing an export task force and developing furniture market intelligence with the Trade Ministry to help Indonesian furniture and handicraft businesses navigate global demand and trade barriers. The association is also advancing a national industry strategy, as the government and industry bodies seek to boost production capacity, sustainable downstream processing and Indonesia’s position in global furniture manufacturing.

Pertamina Trans Kontinental Pursues Business and Workforce Transformation

PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK) is pursuing business growth alongside workforce transformation, focusing on skills, leadership, talent management and digitalisation. The company received five-star recognition at the 2026 Top Human Capital Awards, including a leadership award for its finance and human resources director, as it prepares for new maritime opportunities and greener operations.

Industry Ministry to Investigate Pindo Deli after Residents Suffer Gas Exposure in Karawang

The Industry Ministry will inspect PT Pindo Deli Pulp and Paper Mills 2 after a suspected chemical reaction released fumes and gas, leaving nearby residents with health complaints, including breathing difficulties. The investigation will examine the incident’s source and the company’s chemical-handling and workplace safety procedures, while the ministry monitors care for affected residents and workers.

Petrochemical Business Boosts Barito Pacific’s Revenue

Barito Pacific’s revenue rose 56.3 per cent to US$8.69 billion in the first nine months of 2026, driven overwhelmingly by its petrochemicals segment. The company also reported US$616 million in net profit and outlined expansion plans across geothermal energy, chemicals and infrastructure, while maintaining a focus on financial discipline.

Kiai Cholil Nafis Wins Sharia Figure Award, but Inclusion Remains a Shared Challenge

MUI Deputy Chairman KH M Cholil Nafis has been named Best Sharia Figure at the Best Sharia Awards 2026 for his contribution to developing Indonesia’s Islamic finance industry. The award acceptance speech highlighted a persistent gap: while Islamic financial literacy stands at about 43.6 per cent, inclusion is only 13.5 per cent.

Pregnant Woman Gives Birth on Yogyakarta–Cipendeuy Train with Help from Staff and Doctor Passenger

A woman gave birth aboard the Sangkuriang train travelling from Yogyakarta to Cipendeuy in the early hours of Friday, with railway staff and a passenger who was an obstetrician assisting her. Both mother and baby were reported to be healthy after the birth, which took place shortly before the train reached Banjar station.

Bacadnas: National defence training helps young people counter hoaxes

Indonesia’s National Reserve Agency says its 2026 national defence training for high-school students in Aceh is intended to strengthen resilience against hoaxes, disinformation and online provocation. The programme brings together 300 students from 61 schools and is part of the Defence Ministry’s effort to instil civic values and prepare young people for non-military threats in the digital era.

Protecting Santri, Pesantren Economies and Digital Preaching Top the Directorate-General’s Agenda

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs established a Directorate-General of Pesantren in 2026 to strengthen more than 42,000 Islamic boarding schools, with priorities including student protection, qualifications, technology skills, economic self-reliance and digital preaching. Its secretary says a dedicated task force, complaints hotline and counselling support are planned to address violence and bullying, while stressing that incidents at some schools should not be used to stigmatise all pesantren.

Bulog’s Kendal rice mill processes 120 tonnes of paddy a day to boost rice stocks

Bulog’s rice milling centre in Kendal can dry 120 tonnes of paddy and produce about 50 tonnes of rice each day, strengthening the Government Rice Reserve. The facility processes paddy bought from farmers in several districts and sends the resulting rice to Bulog warehouses, supporting domestic food supplies.

Deputy Culture Minister Urges South Sulawesi Musicians to Build Stronger Networks

Deputy Culture Minister Giring Ganesha urged musicians and arts workers in South Sulawesi to build broad networks, saying connections are vital to success in the music industry. At the closing of the 2026 Indonesian Music Conference in Makassar, he also outlined a strategy to promote Indonesian talent abroad by inviting international delegates, booking agents and festival organisers to meet the local music ecosystem.

PPSN 2026 Organisers Meet Jakarta Governor to Promote the ‘Care for Our Motherland’ Movement

Organisers of National Waste Awareness Week (PPSN) 2026 met Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to seek stronger collaboration on public education and responsible waste management. The week-long programme, scheduled for 9–14 November at Taman Ismail Marzuki, will promote waste reduction, sorting at source and sustained community action.

Industry Ministry prioritises public safety after gas incident in Karawang

Indonesia’s Industry Ministry says public and worker safety is its priority after a gas release at PT Pindo Deli Pulp and Paper Mills 2 in Karawang affected nearby residents. The ministry says the site is under control, but it will inspect the cause and the company’s chemical-handling and occupational safety procedures, requiring corrective action to prevent a recurrence.

Attorney General’s Office Raids PT IPPS, Seizes Electronic Evidence and Finds Secret Door

Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office has searched PT Indo Partners Plantation Services (IPPS) as part of an investigation into alleged transfer-pricing corruption involving PT Toba Pulp Lestari from 2008 to 2025. Investigators seized documents and electronic devices, reportedly finding relevant messages on a mobile phone, and sealed the office and a concealed entrance; two tax officials, a TPL director and corporate secretary, and TPL itself have been named suspects.

Coal Exporters Warn Shipments Could Be Disrupted from 1 January 2027

The Indonesian Coal Mining Association (APBI) warns that coal exports could be disrupted from 1 January 2027, when rules require strategic natural-resource exports to be handled exclusively through state-owned exporter PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI). APBI says preparations and exporter-registration arrangements remain unresolved, cautioning that the measure is not merely an administrative issue and could impede exports if not addressed in time.

Panel Says Fraudulent Investments and Hajj Scams to Be Covered by Asset Forfeiture Bill

The working committee for the Asset Forfeiture Bill says it plans to include fraudulent investment schemes, illegal insurance, sham cooperatives and religious-travel scams, allowing offenders’ assets to be seized to compensate victims. Lawmaker Soedeson Tandra says discussions are continuing and that the bill could permit seizure of other assets if criminal proceeds are insufficient, with the precise procedures still under consideration.

Bandung Regent Opens Nahdatul Ilmi Islamic Primary School, Promoting Character Education and Economic Self-Reliance

Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna inaugurated MI Nahdatul Ilmi in Cimaung, highlighting the role of faith-based education in developing academic ability and strong moral character. He also urged the foundation to consider establishing an equivalency-learning centre and a cooperative to widen access to education and support local farmers and the community economy.

Ustadz Adi Hidayat Receives Honorary Professorship from Uzbekistan’s TSEU

Ustadz Adi Hidayat has received an honorary professorship in community service and education from Tashkent State University of Economics in Uzbekistan. The same honour was awarded to the rector of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, with the delegation also scheduled to visit and conduct research at the Imam al-Bukhari Mausoleum in Samarkand.

Pertamina targets upstream oil and gas development and stronger supply-chain connectivity

Pertamina says it will pursue upstream oil and gas development, regional gas supply-chain connectivity and wider strategic partnerships following the 51st ASCOPE Council Meeting. The company says cooperation with Southeast Asian national oil companies could help strengthen energy availability and affordability amid geopolitical uncertainty and rising demand.

Deputy Hajj Minister Says Non-Muslims Can Serve as Hajj Staff

Deputy Hajj and Umrah Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak says people of other faiths may help support services for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims. He presents the proposal as a practical expression of Indonesia’s diversity, tolerance and cooperation, with North Sulawesi cited as a possible example.

Init-6 Invests in Netra Runtime to Strengthen AI Infrastructure Business

Venture capital firm Init-6 has added Indonesian AI inference infrastructure company Netra Runtime to its investment portfolio. Netra offers private deployment on a customer’s own GPUs as well as managed inference through its cloud service, addressing businesses’ need to run AI models efficiently and cost-effectively as adoption grows.

Former Gowa Regent Named Suspect Again in False Testimony Case

Sitti Husniah Talenrang, a former Gowa regent, has been named a suspect in an alleged false testimony case linked to divorce proceedings, following a complaint by her former husband. Police have postponed questioning her until 5 November because she is unwell; she remains in custody at the South Sulawesi Police detention centre after receiving medical treatment.

USABC says digital infrastructure will drive investment in Indonesia

The US-ASEAN Business Council says data centres and other digital infrastructure could attract investment and help Indonesia realise an estimated US$366 billion in economic gains from AI by 2030. It calls for greater regulatory certainty, stronger digital skills and institutional readiness, and clearer, risk-based rules to unlock that potential across sectors including banking, manufacturing and logistics.

Indonesian lawmaker calls for tougher penalties for forest-fire offenders

A lawmaker overseeing forestry affairs has urged investigators to pursue 125 entities and individuals linked to forest and land fires, calling for cumulative charges, maximum penalties and criminal sanctions such as confiscating corporate profits. The appeal comes as police have named 20 companies suspects and the Forestry Ministry has imposed administrative sanctions on 32 firms, while investigations into most of the 125 identified parties remain ongoing.

Customs Cracks Down, Foils Attempt to Smuggle 353kg of Gold Abroad

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise says it has foiled 94 attempted gold-smuggling operations this year, seizing a total of 353kg. Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara framed the enforcement drive as both a bid to protect state revenue and a law-enforcement measure, while customs officials reported 25.88kg of gold seized at strategic airports from early to late October.

Lampung develops local robusta clones to rejuvenate ageing trees

Lampung is cultivating robusta clones developed by local farmers and grafting them onto older, less productive coffee trees at its Hanakau nursery. The initiative aims to restore yields, diversify the province’s robusta crop and potentially secure official recognition for the local varieties; Lampung’s robusta output rose to 127,578 tonnes in 2025.

Forest and Land Fires Extinguished in Six Provinces, but Fires Continue in South Papua and East Kalimantan

The BNPB says fires are no longer being detected in six priority provinces, while five other regions still have a combined 1,410 hectares burning, with the largest affected area in South Papua. The agency has 58 aircraft and helicopters on standby for weather-modification and water-bombing operations, and warned that air quality is unhealthy at some monitoring locations, including in the Nusantara capital region.

Rupiah Falls Past Rp18,000 as Kadin Urges Businesses to Boost Exports and Investment

Kadin Indonesia chairman Anindya Novyan Bakrie says stronger exports and investment, including long-term investment in the real economy, can help support the rupiah after it weakened beyond Rp18,000 per US dollar. He also called for renewed foreign inflows and wider export access, arguing these could improve investor confidence, reduce government borrowing costs and benefit domestic supply chains.

Tegal Customs Destroys 5 Million Illegal Cigarettes and 43.2 Litres of Alcoholic Drinks

Tegal Customs and the Brebes Regency Government have destroyed more than 5.29 million illegal cigarettes and 43.2 litres of illegal alcoholic beverages, valued at Rp7.93 billion. The goods were seized in 80 enforcement operations since January 2026; authorities estimate the resulting state revenue loss from excise and taxes at Rp5.18 billion and say enforcement will continue.

Two Islamic Boarding Schools in Sukoharjo Raided After Pork Noodle Stall Arson; Weapons and Ammunition Box Seized

Central Java Police are searching for a former terrorism convict suspected of involvement in the arson of a pork noodle stall in Sukoharjo, after arresting another former convict in connection with the attack. Searches at two buildings described as Islamic boarding schools uncovered bladed weapons, bows and arrows, and other equipment; one of the schools was not registered with the Religious Affairs Ministry.

Depok immigration authorities detain 13 foreign nationals

Depok immigration officers detained 13 foreign nationals suspected of offences including visa overstays, misuse of residence permits and failure to report address changes during a joint operation with local law enforcement agencies. The detainees were taken for questioning and administrative checks, while the authorities said the operation would strengthen coordinated oversight and enforcement of immigration laws.

Data Centre Projects Face Rejection Everywhere, Leaving Governments at a Loss

Public opposition to data-centre construction is spreading across party lines in the United States, with voters in 38 local jurisdictions set to consider at least 41 restrictions. The proposals could stall major investments, including Amazon’s US$2 billion Ohio project, as communities cite pressure on electricity and water supplies and possible health effects; despite rapid industry growth, the backlash may complicate US ambitions in the global AI race.

Electronics Industry Hit by Rupiah Weakness Against US Dollar

The rupiah’s depreciation is raising costs for imported materials used by electronics manufacturers and could eventually push up retail prices. Panasonic says it is currently trying to absorb the pressure through internal management, but any price adjustments would be phased in; the company also sees growth and technology adaptation, including AI, as important opportunities for the sector.

Santri Urged to Prepare to Become Future Leaders

Muhammadiyah official Dr Faozan Amar urged students at Darul Arqam Muhammadiyah Natar Islamic boarding school to prepare for leadership through learning, integrity and physical and mental resilience. He outlined three qualities drawn from the Quran and said pesantren have an important role in developing knowledgeable, ethical young people who can serve society and the nation.

Medan City Government: ANTARA Training Strengthens MSMEs’ Competitiveness

Medan’s municipal government says business training run by state news agency Perum LKBN ANTARA will help micro and small enterprises build capacity and compete more effectively. The programme focuses on innovation and digital content, supporting the city’s broader efforts to strengthen MSMEs and improve residents’ economic welfare.

IMOS 2026 to Run Longer, Featuring 15 Global Motorcycle Brands

The Indonesia Motorcycle Show will run for 10 days in November 2026, bringing together 15 motorcycle brands, including established manufacturers and electric-vehicle makers. Organisers say the expanded event, with more than 70 participating motorcycle and supporting-industry brands, is intended to showcase new products and support growth in Indonesia’s two-wheeler market.

879 Central Jakarta Residents Receive Assistance to Redeem School Certificates

A total of 879 residents across eight districts in Central Jakarta are set to receive assistance to retrieve school certificates previously withheld because of unpaid fees. The second phase of the 2026 programme, run by the city administration with Baznas/Bazis and funded with Rp1.259 billion, is part of Jakarta’s effort to remove financial barriers to education and future opportunities.

Bali Police: Four Foreign Tourists Safe After Boat Fire off Nusa Penida

Four foreign tourists and the crew were evacuated safely after an explosion caused a snorkelling boat to catch fire in Gamat Bay, Nusa Penida. The captain suffered burns to his legs, and police are investigating the cause, with an initial suspicion that a battery component may have exploded.

BYD Factory Protested by Mass Organisation; Industry Minister Responds

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says the ministry may visit BYD’s factory site in Subang after a mass organisation protested, demanding more jobs for local residents. He says the dispute reflects differing views on local recruitment and that companies and communities need to align their understanding to prevent tensions from escalating.

West Java DPRD Backs PWI’s Bid to Reclaim Porwanas Title

West Java’s provincial legislature has pledged institutional support for the Indonesian Journalists Association’s provincial team to compete at the 2027 National Journalists’ Sports Week (Porwanas) in Lampung. PWI West Java, which has won the overall title four times, hopes to reclaim the trophy after taking silver at the most recent edition.

MPR Speaker Hopes Gontor Will Continue Producing Outstanding, Competitive Students

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani praised Gontor Islamic Boarding School for its contributions to Indonesia and urged it to continue producing students able to compete nationally and internationally. The remarks came during the handover of presidential assistance intended to support the students’ education.

Kadin Sets Out Three Recommendations to Tackle Global Economic Challenges

Kadin Indonesia has recommended strengthening economic buffers, securing supplies of production inputs and improving business certainty to help companies withstand global shocks and compete internationally. Its proposals also include promoting Indonesian products and investment, alongside a five-part strategy covering fiscal discipline, deregulation, bottleneck removal, Danantara and support for SMEs to grow.

Indonesians Return to Vehicle Financing as Adira (ADMF) Profit Rises 56%

Adira Finance’s net profit climbed 56% to Rp1.69 trillion in the nine months to September 2026, supported by higher revenue and a 13% increase in new financing. The company also reported improved asset quality, while growth in motorcycle and car sales helped underpin the recovery in vehicle financing.

Police Raid Kampung Boncos in West Jakarta; Three Arrested in Drug Operation

Police raided suspected drug-use and dealing sites in Kampung Boncos, West Jakarta, and arrested three people from different areas. Officers seized suspected methamphetamine and cannabis, along with weapons and other items, while investigating the detainees’ possible links to a drug-distribution network.

Aspebindo Calls for National Energy Independence and a Stronger Cooperative Role in Strategic Sectors

Aspebindo’s 2026 Energy Leadership & Business Conference brought together government, industry and academic stakeholders to discuss energy resilience, zero emissions and sustainable economic collaboration. The association called for integrated infrastructure, domestic investment and supply-chain capacity, while Indonesia’s Co-operatives Minister urged wider cooperative participation in energy, minerals and mining.

Customs Seize Truck Carrying 1.8 Million Illegal Cigarettes on Semarang–Solo Toll Road

Central Java and Yogyakarta Customs seized 1,874,000 cigarettes without excise stamps from a truck on the Semarang–Solo toll road, estimating the goods’ value at Rp2.78 billion and potential excise at Rp1.4 billion. The operation is part of efforts to curb illegal cigarette distribution, protect state revenue and ensure fair competition for compliant businesses.

South Jakarta administration distributes 72 educational aids to early childhood education centres

The South Jakarta City Administration has distributed 72 educational teaching aids to early childhood education (PAUD) centres, including 20 outdoor and 52 indoor units. Officials say the equipment is intended to support learning through play and children’s broader development, while stressing that teachers should use it effectively and schools should maintain it.

Burglars Break into Tenant’s Home in South Tangerang, Gold Bars Stolen

Thieves broke into a rented house in Ciputat, South Tangerang, and stole 15 grams of precious metal. Police found damage to the gate and front door and are investigating how the suspects gained entry, while urging residents to remain alert.

Dormant for 700,000 Years, This Volcano Is Becoming Active Again

Satellite data indicate that the ground near Iran’s Taftan volcano rose by 8.9 centimetres over ten months, suggesting increased gas pressure beneath the surface. Researchers say the finding does not mean an eruption is imminent, but the volcano should be monitored more closely, particularly given the region’s lack of monitoring infrastructure and difficult security conditions.

Experts Highlight the Importance of Education for Smokers Struggling to Quit

Health practitioners and academics say hospitals should do more to identify smokers and offer evidence-based support to help them quit, including through the 5A approach and collaboration among healthcare professionals. A symposium discussion also examined research into alternative tobacco products, while stressing that short-term findings do not establish long-term safety and that quitting tobacco remains the best way to avoid related health risks.

Godzilla El Niño Monster Replica Leads Youth Coalition Climate Justice March

A youth coalition marched a five-metre Godzilla El Niño replica through central Jakarta, using it to highlight fears over climate change and escalating ecological disasters. Its manifesto calls for a shift away from fossil fuels, fair and rights-respecting energy transition, greater environmental and social spending, and stronger participation for communities most affected by the climate crisis.

DTIIF 2026 Concludes with Research, Energy and Digital Infrastructure Partnerships

Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum 2026 concluded in Jakarta after three days, with agreements spanning research, health, data centres, electric vehicles and renewable energy. Danantara says it will oversee implementation of the deals, which are intended to translate research into industrial applications and strengthen Indonesia’s technological capabilities and competitiveness.

Indonesia and Uruguay Forge Cultural Cooperation Agreement

Indonesia and Uruguay have agreed to cooperate across a broad range of cultural fields under a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The agreement provides for exchanges of artists and experts, collaboration between cultural institutions, and joint efforts in areas including literature, film, preservation and cultural policy.

BYD Projected to Launch an Ocean Series MPV

BYD is reportedly testing a new MPV under its Ocean series, with spy photographs suggesting styling cues shared with the Sealion 08 SUV and Seal 08 saloon. Expected to target large families, the model could be offered as a battery-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, with prices starting at 200,000 yuan.

Bima Arya Clarifies Rp1 Trillion Incentive for Local Governments: Not Just for Free Nutritious Meals

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto says the Rp1 trillion incentive pool for high-performing local governments is assessed against a broad set of measures, including reductions in stunting, unemployment and poverty, service quality, environmental management and inflation control. The Free Nutritious Meals programme will become a criterion next year, while the Rp1 trillion figure refers to the overall incentive budget, not funding exclusively for the programme.

Survey: Young People’s Interest in Entrepreneurship Remains High Amid Job Market Challenges

A KedaiKOPI survey found that 32.8 per cent of respondents aspire to own a business, even as 74.7 per cent say finding work is difficult. Respondents also reported financial strain and concern that AI could replace future jobs, underscoring the need for better access to business capital and a stronger employment ecosystem.

South Korea Open to Partnering on Indonesia’s First Nuclear Power Plant, Targeted for 2032

South Korea says it is open to working with Indonesia on nuclear power development, drawing on its domestic operating experience and overseas projects as Indonesian electricity demand rises, particularly from AI and data centres. Indonesia’s 2025–2034 electricity plan includes 500 megawatts of nuclear capacity, with the first 250MW unit targeted to begin operating in Sumatra in 2032 and another planned for Kalimantan in 2033.

KB Bank’s Loans Reach Rp45.68 Trillion in Third Quarter, Up 3.07%

KB Bank’s lending rose 3.07% year on year to Rp45.68 trillion through the third quarter of 2026, led by 11% growth in wholesale banking. Net interest income climbed nearly 29% and its net interest margin improved, while the bank continued efforts to address loan quality, strengthen funding and restore profitability amid market and liquidity pressures.

After Meeting FSPGI, Manpower Ministry Follows Up Labour Complaint at PT Epson

The Manpower Ministry says labour inspectors have issued PT Indonesia Epson Industry with a First Examination Notice following complaints from the Global Indonesian Workers Federation (FSPGI). The union raised allegations of unilateral dismissals and improper handling of fixed-term employment contracts, and the Deputy Manpower Minister urged all companies operating in Indonesia to comply with national regulations.

Pramono Receives Bids for Naming Rights to JIS

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says several parties have submitted proposals for naming rights to Jakarta International Stadium, with a decision expected soon. He also said JIS has 15 concerts scheduled for 2027 and argued that improved transport links have helped make the venue more accessible.

Making Mosques a New Hub for Islamic Financial Literacy and Inclusion in Indonesia

Despite relatively high awareness of Islamic finance, Indonesia’s 2025 survey found that only 13.41 per cent of people use Islamic financial products and services. The article argues that the country’s roughly 800,000 mosques could help bridge this gap through trusted, community-based education and outreach, including practical guidance delivered at sermons and study groups.

Pramono Says 15 Major Concerts Have Applied to Perform at JIS, Citing Improved Access

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says 15 major concerts have applied to use Jakarta International Stadium, as transport links and access from Ancol improve. Several companies have also expressed interest in acquiring the stadium’s naming rights, while the city hopes major events will help establish Jakarta as an events hub.

Social Affairs Ministry Says 698,000 PKH Beneficiary Families Are Beginning Their Path to Independence

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry says 698,000 families receiving the Family Hope Programme (PKH) are beginning to move towards self-reliance, while more than 1.23 million are already fully independent. Officials say the success of digitising social assistance depends on frontline facilitators helping recipients overcome barriers such as limited access to devices and low digital literacy; the government plans to connect public services through digital public infrastructure.

Motorcyclist Falls from Pesing Flyover in Latest Accident

A motorcyclist was injured after falling from the Pesing flyover in West Jakarta, prompting renewed attention to the site’s history of accidents. Previous incidents there include a fatal collision with a lorry and a separate lorry breakdown that disrupted traffic.

Record Purge: Xi Jinping Expels 33 Elites as a Quarter of Officials Disappear

China’s Communist Party has expelled 33 officials, including 16 military figures, while attendance at a key Central Committee meeting fell to 279 of the 376 members and alternate members appointed in 2022. The unprecedented absences and sweeping disciplinary campaign raise questions about leadership stability and the pool of candidates ahead of the party congress scheduled for 2027.

Pramono Wants Jakarta to Issue Bonds: Finance Minister Suahasil Responds

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says any plan by Jakarta to issue municipal bonds must comply with regulations and take account of market conditions, particularly rising yields on central government bonds. The Finance Ministry is discussing alternative funding options with the Jakarta administration, including support through the state budget (APBN); Governor Pramono Anung says he has discussed the bond plan and LPDP Jakarta with Suahasil but has not disclosed the outcome.

Indonesia’s Danantara attracts 101 bidders for waste-to-energy projects

Danantara’s waste-to-energy programme has drawn 101 prospective bidders after 26 entities, including 16 Indonesian-led consortia, joined its Phase 3 shortlist. The expanded field includes domestic and international participants and is intended to encourage collaboration and strengthen local firms’ role in developing facilities suited to Indonesia’s municipal waste conditions.

Ships Struggle to Dock as Sediment Is Dredged at Gilimanuk’s LCM Pier

Low tides have disrupted ferry operations at the LCM Pier in Gilimanuk, preventing vessels’ ramps from reaching the quay and contributing to vehicle queues. PT ASDP is dredging sediment to a depth of 3–4 metres to reduce the risk of ships running aground and ease disruption, which is compounded by ongoing pier revitalisation.

Government to Provide Rp632 Trillion in Tax Incentives Next Year

Indonesia plans to provide Rp632 trillion in tax incentives in 2027, equivalent to 2.26% of GDP, to support households, small businesses, companies and investment. Manufacturing, agriculture and trade are expected to be the main beneficiaries, following a similar pattern in 2026, when tax incentives were estimated at Rp576.4 trillion.

India orders top drugmaker to halt eye medicine production at plant over quality lapses

Indian regulators have ordered Sun Pharma to halt the manufacture, sale and distribution of ophthalmic products from its Assam plant after inspectors identified failures in its quality management system. The action follows a recall involving 332 batches and comes amid heightened scrutiny of Indian-made medicines; production can resume only after regulators accept the company’s compliance report.

BPJS Kesehatan Awards 80 Compliant Employers at the 2026 Satya JKN Awards

BPJS Kesehatan recognised employers and local governments for supporting Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme at the 2026 Satya JKN Awards. The awards highlighted compliance with worker enrolment and contribution payments as essential to achieving universal health coverage, while officials stressed that worker protection is both a legal and social responsibility.

EPG Showcases Full-Stack AIDC Capabilities and Global Delivery Network at DCWA 2026 in Singapore

EPG presented its modular AI data centre infrastructure, Edge POD solutions and a new 1.85 MW magnetic-levitation chiller at DCWA 2026 in Singapore, highlighting approaches to faster deployment, high-density computing and reduced water use. The company also announced international cooperation agreements and said its joint venture MagPro will expand its cooling technology portfolio for AI data centres.

Prabowo Makes Education Free for All Taruna Nusantara Senior High School Students

President Prabowo Subianto has made education free for all students at SMA Taruna Nusantara, removing the fees previously charged. Announced alongside the inauguration of its Cimahi campus, the policy forms part of a wider expansion that has brought the school to six locations across Indonesia and is intended to widen access to quality education.

Police and BNN Find Crystal Meth and Ecstasy During Kerobokan Prison Search

A joint police and National Narcotics Agency (BNN) operation at Kerobokan Class IIA Prison in Bali uncovered crystal meth, ecstasy and suspected drug-use equipment, while urine tests found 24 of 36 inmates positive for stimulants. Five inmates have been taken for further questioning as authorities investigate possible drug networks and vow to tighten prison security.

MTEL’s Third-Quarter Profit Reaches Rp1.55 Trillion as Management Explains the Drivers

Telkom subsidiary Mitratel reported profit of Rp1.55 trillion through the third quarter of 2026, up 0.7% year on year, as revenue rose 1.81% to Rp7 trillion. The company is expanding tower and fibre infrastructure while using data analytics, AI and IoT to improve asset utilisation and operational efficiency amid growing demand for digital connectivity.

Pramono to Send 10 Benyamin S Award Finalists Abroad

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the 10 finalists in the 2026 Benyamin Sueb Award will be given the opportunity to study local governance overseas, with possible destinations including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan and China. He says the programme’s budget will be transparent, although its format and duration have yet to be detailed, and wants all 267 of Jakarta’s urban villages to enter the competition next year.

Bamsoet: Rupiah Pressure Must Be Addressed Calmly

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo has urged the government, financial authorities and businesses to respond calmly to a weakening rupiah and pressure on purchasing power. He cited strong foreign-exchange reserves, contained inflation and resilient banking indicators, while calling for currency stabilisation, consumer protection, stronger capital-market governance and support for businesses and small enterprises.

MP calls for Red and White Fishermen’s Villages to strengthen coastal MSMEs

MP Rina Sa’adah has backed the development of Red and White Fishermen’s Villages (KNMP), saying fisheries facilities should also help coastal micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) grow. She called for affordable access to infrastructure, finance, training and markets, with measurable benefits including more jobs and higher fishing-family incomes.

Three Wingless Crickets Discovered in Borneo, Now on Display in Singapore

Researchers have identified three previously undocumented species of wingless camel or cave crickets from Malaysian Borneo. Their specimens are held in collections in Sabah and Singapore, adding to scientific understanding of the genus Paradiestrammena and the region’s biodiversity.

ICM Realty Group and Concord Capital Management to Introduce US Sunbelt Industrial Opportunities in Taiwan

ICM Realty Group and Concord Capital Management plan to introduce a proposed US Sunbelt industrial real estate investment strategy to Taiwanese investors, with about 70–80% of capital expected to be focused on Phoenix. The article presents semiconductor and advanced-manufacturing expansion, population and employment growth, and industrial-market conditions as drivers of demand, while citing ICM’s regional development track record and Concord’s aim to support Taiwan’s asset-management industry.

IMOS 2026 to Boost Economic Growth through the Automotive Industry

Indonesia Motorcycle Show (IMOS) 2026 is expected to help drive economic growth and strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesia’s motorcycle industry, including its export potential. The 10-day exhibition will feature at least 15 motorcycle brands and 53 supporting-industry brands, with organisers optimistic that transactions will exceed last year’s total.

Ibas Oversees Home Renovation and Electricity Programmes for Magetan Residents

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) said he is overseeing government assistance in Magetan, including housing renovation grants of Rp20 million and new electricity connections for eligible households. He also called for stronger access to education, healthcare and agricultural support, stressing that assistance should reach those most in need.

Denny Indrayana Responds to Vice-President Gibran’s Claim He Is Ready to Show His Education Documents

Former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana criticised Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming for saying he was ready to disclose his overseas education documents, arguing that he should have done so in ongoing court proceedings. Gibran said he had prepared the documents for a hearing, but the plaintiff withdrew its case; meanwhile, the Supreme Court ruled that his high-school equivalency certificate was invalid for his 2024 presidential election candidacy.

Zero Tolerance for Burning: RSPO Reinforces Strict No-Burning Standards

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on the use of fire, highlighting certification rules, satellite hotspot monitoring and sanctions for proven violations. At a civil society discussion ahead of its 2026 annual roundtable, the organisation cited data indicating that nearly 90% of Indonesia’s burned land from January to September 2026 was outside oil palm concessions, and called for stronger multi-stakeholder action against recurring fires and haze.

Flooding in Aceh and North Sumatra: BNPB Urges Residents to Prepare for Heavy Rain

Indonesia’s disaster agency, BNPB, says the country has recorded 2,247 disasters by 30 October 2026, with recent flooding in Aceh and North Sumatra among the latest incidents. It has urged residents and local authorities to prepare for heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, landslides and coastal tidal flooding, including by identifying evacuation routes and securing essential supplies.

Coordinating Minister Says President Is Highly Committed to Strengthening JKN

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar said President Prabowo Subianto remains committed to strengthening the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. The government has allocated an additional Rp20 trillion to BPJS Kesehatan, while officials rejected social media claims that the programme would be abolished and said it continues under existing laws.

Plans Changed Suddenly? KAI Daop 4 Semarang Shares an Easy Way to Cancel Tickets Through Access by KAI

KAI’s Daop 4 Semarang explains how passengers can cancel paid train bookings through the Access by KAI app, subject to time limits and other conditions. The digital option is intended to make itinerary changes easier, while five stations in the region also handle cancellations in person.

Five Historic Trains Serving Passengers for More Than Four Decades Carry 1.26 Million Customers

Five long-running KAI services carried a combined 1,258,364 passengers from January to September 2026, reflecting the enduring popularity of railway names familiar to generations of Indonesians. As the services modernise their trains and facilities, KAI says their history and identity remain an important part of the national railway’s development.

AISI Welcomes Plans for Electric Motorcycle Incentives

The Indonesian Motorcycle Industry Association (AISI) has welcomed the government’s plan to subsidise electric motorcycle purchases, while urging officials to confirm when the scheme will launch so buyers are not left waiting. The proposed incentive is Rp3 million per unit, backed by a Rp3 trillion budget, although the programme could cover up to one million domestically produced motorcycles while national production capacity is forecast at only about 100,000 units by the end of 2026.

Kemenpora Proposed Hamka’s Dismissal in August

The Ministry of Youth and Sports says it asked the President on 13 August 2026 to dismiss Hamka Hendra Noer from his senior advisory post after he was named a suspect in an alleged corruption case in Gorontalo. It has also proposed his temporary suspension as a civil servant, while the case proceeds under the authority of the Gorontalo Prosecutor’s Office.

Industry Minister Highlights the Paradox of Vocational School Graduates Becoming a Source of Unemployment

Industry Minister M Sarmuji says vocational school graduates are among Indonesia’s sources of unemployment, despite vocational education being intended to prepare students for work. He called for closer coordination between government and industry to align training with employers’ needs, warning that Indonesia’s demographic dividend through 2035 could become an economic burden without a skilled workforce.

Indonesia seeks competitive raw material prices to boost output

Industry Minister Sarmuji says shortages and price disparities in refined sugar and broken rice are hindering manufacturers, and that the government is coordinating with stakeholders to secure adequate supplies at competitive prices. Indonesia aims to raise industrial capacity utilisation from 66.13 per cent to 80–85 per cent, as manufacturing growth has recently outpaced overall economic growth.

Kuansing Police Take Public-Safety Message to Mosques During Friday Visits

Kuantan Singingi Police held a Friday visit at Nur Muhammad Mosque to meet residents, hear their concerns and promote public order and security. The force said feedback gathered through the programme will inform service improvements, while stressing that community cooperation is essential to maintaining a safe environment.

KP2MI Foils Departure of Prospective Migrant Worker Recruited as a Mercenary

Indonesia’s migrant-worker protection ministry has stopped a man from Tulungagung from travelling abroad after he was recruited as a mercenary with promises of a Rp40 million monthly salary and a Rp400 million signing bonus. The case highlights suspected illegal cross-border recruitment and the ministry’s warning to verify overseas job offers and placement procedures through official channels.

IPO Explains Differences with Celios Survey on Bahlil’s Performance

Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) says its survey found 31.1 per cent satisfaction with Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, the highest among ministers overseeing economic sectors. IPO attributes the gap with a Celios study to differences in sampling and respondent profiles, and says competing findings should be assessed in light of their respective methods and indicators.

Whale Shark Stranded in Sikka; Its Meat Was Cut Up and Shared

A whale shark stranded at Lowolabo Beach in Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara, on 28 October and was cut up by residents, who shared its meat for consumption. The village head said the animal was already dead and residents acted out of a lack of awareness that whale sharks are protected, highlighting the need for stronger public education and enforcement.

KRL Train Change Causes Crowding at Manggarai Station

Passengers on the Jakarta Kota–Bogor Commuter Line experienced crowding at Manggarai Station after train KA 1374F terminated there temporarily for a train-set change. KAI said the original train set was being sent to Bukit Duri Depot for further inspection, and the service would continue to Bogor with a replacement set.

Global Economic Turmoil Intensifies as Suahasil Outlines State Budget Strategy to Withstand Pressure

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says Indonesia’s state budget must remain flexible in responding to global economic conditions, volatile commodity prices and rising interest rates, while retaining credibility. The central and regional governments are also forming a joint technical team to identify local budget constraints, particularly in areas where personnel costs consume 40–50 per cent of regional spending.

Attorney General’s Office: JKN Success Depends Not on Penalties, but on Sustained Compliance and Real Worker Protection

The Attorney General’s Office says the success of Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme should be measured by lasting employer compliance and tangible protection for workers, rather than the number of sanctions imposed. It backed stronger oversight and enforcement under the BPJS law, while calling for compliance to become part of company culture and for agencies to reinforce data-led monitoring and coordination.

Industry Minister Sarmuji Denies Indonesia Is Experiencing Deindustrialisation

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says manufacturing is expanding, citing growth of 5.32% in 2026, above national economic growth, alongside strong investment and exports. The government nevertheless aims to raise factory utilisation from 66.13% and extend downstream processing into finished goods and stronger domestic supply chains.

Intergenerational Climate Justice Manifesto Action Calls for an End to Deforestation and Ecosystem Destruction

Young climate activists in Jakarta called for a complete halt to deforestation and ecosystem destruction, warning against sacrificing the environment for short-term economic growth. The demonstration, organised by the Coalition of Young People for Climate Justice, included a “Godzilla El Niño” installation and took place near the US Embassy.

Why Indonesia Is Seeing Heavy Rain During a Very Strong El Niño: BMKG Explains

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) says heavy rain can still occur in some regions despite a very strong El Niño and positive Indian Ocean Dipole, as abundant moisture and active atmospheric waves trigger storms. It has issued warnings for heavy rain, strong winds and possible flooding across parts of the country, while also advising residents to prepare for continuing heat, drought and wildfire risks.

Wellness Tourism Is Gaining Popularity: Indonesia’s Strategy for Developing Wellness Travel

Global spending on wellness tourism reached US$893.9 billion in 2024, while Asia-Pacific recorded 562.7 million wellness trips. Indonesia is seeking to capitalise on this growth through curated travel routes, industry support and investment opportunities, positioning wellness as part of its quality-tourism strategy.

People’s Empowerment Ministry Promotes Villages as the Basis for Poverty Alleviation

The Coordinating Ministry for People’s Empowerment is calling for village-centred poverty programmes that bring government and non-governmental organisations together, citing persistently higher poverty rates and severity in rural areas. A multi-stakeholder initiative is allocating Rp8.5 billion across three villages, with the aim of making them self-reliant by 2031.

Japan’s Foreign Ministry Reports Data Breach Affecting 3,600 Records

Japan’s Foreign Ministry says unauthorised access may have exposed about 3,600 records containing personal information, although no highly classified data is believed to have been affected. The disclosure comes amid a wider wave of breaches in Japan, with reports that personal information belonging to around 260 million people was affected between April and mid-October.

IDX Launches IDX Commodity 20 Index as a Benchmark for Commodity Stocks

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has launched the IDX Commodity 20, an index tracking 20 listed companies involved in commodity production or related supply chains. Selected according to liquidity and free-float market capitalisation, the index is intended to help investors and fund managers develop commodity-based investment strategies.

South Jakarta tax revenue reaches 73.66% of target by October

South Jakarta had collected Rp12.24 trillion in local taxes by 27 October 2026, equal to 73.66% of its annual target of Rp16.61 trillion. Officials are stepping up collection in categories below 70% of target, while property tax and food-and-beverage service tax have performed strongly; the administration remains optimistic about meeting its year-end goal.

US Troops Trained to Dig Mass Graves Amid Plans for a New Attack on Iran

The US Army has reportedly conducted its first mass-grave excavation exercise since the Korean War, preparing for the possibility of heavy military casualties. The training took place at Fort Bragg as tensions with Iran escalated and amid disagreement over the number of US personnel killed in the conflict.

Prabowo expands Taruna Nusantara campuses and makes education free

President Prabowo Subianto has made education at Taruna Nusantara Senior High School tuition-free and accelerated its expansion, with five new campuses developed during the first two years of his administration. The network now has six locations across Indonesia, an effort the government says will widen access to quality education and strengthen the country’s human resources.

South Korea Explores Nuclear Energy Cooperation Opportunities with Indonesia

South Korea sees scope to work with Indonesia on nuclear power and carbon capture and storage (CCS), as rising electricity demand from AI and data centres strengthens the case for new energy sources. The discussions align with Indonesia’s plan to include nuclear power in its electricity expansion and build on bilateral clean-energy and CCS agreements signed in April 2026, although no specific projects have yet been announced.

Rinaldy Yunardi’s tiara worn by Selena Gomez in photoshoot

Selena Gomez wore a tiara from Indonesian accessories designer Rinaldy A. Yunardi’s latest collection for a photoshoot promoting her cosmetics brand. Yunardi said the design combines cubic zirconia, semi-precious stones and Swarovski crystals, and that he is preparing an event to mark 30 years of his career in December 2026.

Trade Minister optimistic export growth target of 5.5–6.5% can be achieved

Trade Minister Budi Santoso says Indonesia remains on course to meet its 5.5–6.5% export growth target this year, despite a dip in May and June, with exports growing 4.7% in January–August 2026. He also highlighted the role of overseas trade representatives in finding buyers and cited manufacturing exports and programmes supporting domestic products and small businesses.

South Jakarta Transport Agency Removes Valve Cores from Six Motorcycles Parked Illegally in Kebayoran Baru

South Jakarta transport officials took action against six motorcycles parked illegally on roads in Kebayoran Baru, removing their valve cores as part of an effort to curb improper parking and keep traffic moving. Officers also told a car parked on a pavement to move, while the agency said enforcement would continue regularly and urged motorists not to use public facilities for parking.

Net Interest Income Rises as KB Bank Continues Business Transformation

KB Bank reported net interest income of Rp926 billion through September 2026, up 28.94% year on year, while its net interest margin improved to 1.71%. The lender said it is prioritising higher-quality lending, stronger funding and operational efficiency as it manages credit and market risks amid competitive liquidity conditions.

Pramono Considers Proposal to Keep 76 Jakarta Parks Open 24 Hours, with CCTV

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is reviewing a proposal to keep 76 parks open around the clock, subject to safety requirements and the installation of CCTV. He is also considering longer opening hours for other public facilities, including libraries and museums, as part of efforts to improve access and support Jakarta’s ambition to become a global city.

AAI NB Installs New Central Board; Prof Jamin Says It Is a ‘Big Home’ for All Advocates

The Indonesian National United Advocates Association (AAI NB) installed its central board for the 2026–2031 term at a ceremony in South Jakarta. Prof Jamin Ginting was appointed chairman, with the new leadership pledging to strengthen unity among advocates and support law enforcement and justice.

Vice-President Gibran Comments on Plaintiff’s Withdrawal of Education Equivalency Lawsuit

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka said he respects the court process concerning a lawsuit over the equivalency of his education documents, and left further decisions to the judges. The plaintiff, former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana, withdrew the case and walked out of a Jakarta Administrative Court hearing; Gibran said his side had prepared documents for the evidentiary stage.

Eighteen Mataram Migrant Workers Repatriated After Leaving Indonesia Illegally

Mataram’s manpower office says 18 Indonesian migrant workers from the city have been repatriated after departing through unofficial channels, leaving them with limited access to assistance and protection. Malaysia remains their leading destination, accounting for 482 of the 760 Mataram workers recorded as having departed by September 2026.

Foreign Ministry: No Information Yet on Indonesians Among Victims of Spain Train Collision

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry says it has received no information indicating that Indonesian citizens were among the victims of the 28 October train collision in Spain. The Indonesian Embassy in Madrid is liaising with Spanish authorities as they identify victims, while the reported death toll and number of missing people remain high.

Indonesia to Regulate AI According to Risk, Komdigi Reveals Details of Rules

Indonesia is preparing a national AI roadmap for 2026–2029 and a presidential regulation on AI ethics, using a risk-based approach that would prohibit harmful uses and require oversight of high-risk systems. The plans also set out transparency and redress requirements, while aiming to develop domestic AI talent and provide businesses with regulatory certainty.

Indonesia to Ban High-Risk AI Uses, Communications Ministry Outlines Rules

Indonesia is preparing a national AI roadmap for 2026–2029 and a presidential regulation on AI ethics, including bans on uses that threaten public safety or citizens’ rights and stricter oversight for high-risk applications. The proposals also set out transparency, labelling and complaints requirements, while aiming to develop 45,000 AI professionals annually and expand AI training across the country.

Kelapa Gading Timur Village Head: Benyamin S Award Encourages Village Heads to Work Harder

Kelapa Gading Timur village head Nani says the 2026 Benyamin S Award (BSA) has motivated village heads to improve their work, rather than treating the competition as merely symbolic. She credits her district’s win in the “beautiful” category to collaboration among residents, local officials, businesses and other community partners, and sees the award as an opportunity to expand a pentahelix approach in line with Jakarta’s vision of a comfortable and humane global city.

JCWF 2026 to showcase jamu-drinking culture and the beauty of the keris

The Jogja Cultural Wellness Festival will highlight Yogyakarta’s inherited wellness traditions, including jamu, while presenting the keris as an artistic and philosophical heritage object rather than merely a mystical artefact. The 6–8 November festival will feature 97 curated communities and partners, and organisers say it will also promote local-industry links and environmentally responsible event management.

Cak Imin Calls for ‘Massive Mutual Cooperation’ to Sustain JKN at Satya JKN Awards 2026

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar urged all parties to sustain Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme through collective support, including healthy people helping those who are ill. He said JKN can boost worker productivity, reduce household spending and help tackle poverty, while praising businesses and local governments for contributing to the programme.

Home Affairs Ministry’s BSKDN prepares strategic studies based on real-world problems

The Home Affairs Ministry’s Agency for Domestic Policy Strategy (BSKDN) is strengthening its policy research to address practical governance challenges, drawing on reliable data, field findings and coordination with local governments. Officials say the studies should produce actionable recommendations, align with national priorities and help support the government’s 8 per cent economic growth target by 2029.

Creative Economy Ministry strengthens MSME financing to sustain the creative economy

The Ministry of Creative Economy is expanding financing access for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to support business growth and sustain regional creative-economy activity. Through its CreaFIN programme in Simalungun, 50 participants received guidance on financing, digital financial management, business legality and technology-based business models.

Supreme Court Rules Gibran’s High School Equivalency Certificate Invalid

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has upheld an appeal challenging the equivalency certificate for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s overseas high-school education, which was used to meet the education requirement for his 2024 presidential election candidacy. The ruling grants the appeal in case No. 742 K/TUN/2026; the claimant had also asked for the certificate to be declared invalid and withdrawn from the education ministry official holding it.

Ibas Urges Ponorogo’s Youth to Become Drivers of the Creative Economy

MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono has urged young people in Ponorogo to turn local creativity and resources into businesses and employment, amid growing competition for formal jobs. He highlighted Reog, food, coffee, small businesses and agriculture as assets that could be developed into creative economic opportunities.

Thousand Islands opens access to education for students through scholarships

The Thousand Islands Regency Government is supporting 128 university students from the archipelago through the Jakarta Future Students Scholarship, administered by Baznas/Bazis Thousand Islands. Officials said the zakat-funded initiative helps overcome financial barriers to higher education and could help break intergenerational poverty, while encouraging graduates to contribute to local development.

Polinela Researches Using Maggots to Process Food Waste from the Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Lampung State Polytechnic (Polinela) has studied black soldier fly larvae as a way to process organic waste generated by the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Tests found waste-weight reductions averaging more than 94 per cent, while results varied by food type; the institution says further trials and pilot projects are needed before wider adoption.

Pramono Says Several Companies Are Interested in Securing JIS Naming Rights

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says several parties have submitted proposals to acquire naming rights for Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), while 15 major concerts have also applied to be staged there. He attributes the growing commercial interest partly to improvements in transport access, including plans to add another KRL platform at the site.

With 81,600 Tonnes of Rice in Stock, Bulog Semarang Works to Maintain Reserve Quality

Bulog’s Semarang branch says it is carrying out regular inspections, pest control and fumigation to preserve approximately 81,600 tonnes of government rice reserves. The stock is expected to cover local distribution needs for four to five months, until the main harvest in February–March 2027, while the agency prepares to resume purchasing farmers’ grain.

Kadin’s 2026 National Leadership Meeting Produces Three Recommendations for Government

Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has agreed on three recommendations for the government, centred on economic resilience, reliable production inputs and expanding exports and investment amid global uncertainty. The proposals reflect input from business groups across 38 provinces and call for closer cooperation between government and the private sector, including stronger supply chains and wider opportunities for Indonesian companies in global markets.

Giant Whale Stranded in Riung, East Nusa Tenggara, Rescued by 10 Boats

A 25-metre whale that became stranded off Kolong Island in the 17 Islands Riung area was successfully guided back to deep water on Friday afternoon with the help of 10 local fishing boats. Officials said the whale was alive and uninjured; the rescue had been delayed by low tide.

IDX Launches IDX Commodity 20 Index: Analysts’ Stock Picks

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has introduced the IDX Commodity 20, tracking 20 highly capitalised and liquid shares linked to commodity production and supply chains. Analysts say it offers a more focused benchmark and portfolio-evaluation tool, while warning that index performance reflects company-specific factors as well as commodity markets; they also flag differing prospects for gold, copper and nickel.

Prabowo Provides Assistance to Gontor Islamic Boarding School to Support Students’ Studies

President Prabowo Subianto has provided assistance to Gontor Islamic Boarding School in Ponorogo, East Java, to support students’ education. Officials delivering the aid urged students to study diligently and contribute to society, highlighting Gontor’s role in producing national leaders and scholars.

Indosat’s New Revenue Stream Takes Off, Reaching Rp900 Billion in Nine Months

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison’s AI Cloud revenue reached US$50 million in the first nine months of 2026, nearly doubling its 2025 total, and the company expects full-year AI revenue of US$100 million. The telecoms operator is expanding AI computing capacity and says contracted annual revenue from 2027 is already above US$300 million, as its overall revenue and EBITDA also recorded year-on-year growth.

Three state firms align to drive Indonesia’s e-motorcycle programme

Pertamina Patra Niaga, PLN and Len Industri have signed an MoU to develop electric-vehicle battery charging and swapping infrastructure in support of Indonesia’s Molinas e-motorcycle programme. The partnership will connect Patra Niaga’s fuel stations and retail outlets to the charging network, building on 837 green energy stations, 112 EV charging points and 122 battery-swapping facilities as part of the country’s transport decarbonisation efforts.

Attended by 2,500 Candidates, Bina Insan Mulia Selection Seeks to Prepare Future Leaders

Around 2,500 prospective students took part in entrance tests for the 2027/2028 academic year at Bina Insan Mulia pesantren in Cirebon. Its leader, KH Imam Jazuli, said the institution aims to prepare graduates for influential roles in Indonesia’s development by supporting their access to higher education at home and abroad, including scholarships and overseas student support.

IYS 2026 Participants Urged to Take an Active Role in Regional Development Planning

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus urged participants in the Indonesia Youth Summit 2026 to contribute to provincial and local development planning forums, known as Musrenbang. He said youth organisations remain under-represented in government programmes and pledged to encourage local administrations to involve them, so young people’s ideas can help address regional challenges.

Finance Minister highlights State Budget flexibility amid challenges

Deputy Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the State Budget is designed to respond flexibly to developments while supporting prosperity, growth and public protection without compromising fiscal credibility. The government has formed a joint technical team to address local governments’ fiscal difficulties, including high personnel costs, and allocated Rp1 trillion in incentives to encourage progress on development indicators.

KPK Seizes Suitcases and Cash from Semarang and Central Java Customs Offices

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Semarang Customs Office and the Central Java Regional Customs Office as part of an investigation into suspected state losses in the excise sector. Investigators seized documents, electronic evidence and cash, whose amount is still being counted; the evidence will be examined to support the case.

After 11 Years Building Other People’s IP, PK Entertainment Group Plans Its Next Chapter

After more than a decade producing concerts and brand activations that it does not own, PK Entertainment Group is building a broader business spanning music, film and investment. The company says it is funding expansion internally and growing cautiously, while strategic partnerships such as its joint venture with CT Corp are intended to add capabilities and bring international content to the region.

In Djarum Case, KPK Searches Semarang and Central Java Customs Offices

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Semarang Customs Office and the Central Java Customs Regional Office in connection with alleged state losses in the excise sector involving PT Djarum. Investigators seized documents, electronic evidence and an undisclosed amount of cash as part of a continuing investigation.

BPGMN Plants Bamboo and Jelutung to Restore Peatlands

The National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency is trialling intercropped bamboo and jelutung in Ogan Komering Ilir, South Sumatra, to restore fire-damaged peat while creating livelihoods for local communities. The pilot combines ecological benefits with plans for bamboo processing and aims to expand from one hectare to 100 hectares, giving residents an economic stake in protecting the landscape.

Revenue Surges 55.45%, but Bakrie Issuer BNBR’s Net Profit Falls

PT Bakrie & Brothers reported third-quarter 2026 revenue of Rp4.12 trillion, up 55.45% year on year, with operating profit and EBITDA also rising sharply. However, net profit declined, mainly because higher floating-rate interest costs on the Cimanggis Cibitung toll road weighed on the company’s finances following its acquisition.

KedaiKOPI Survey: 75.8% of Young People Pledge to Vote in 2029 Election

A KedaiKOPI survey found that 75.8% of young respondents intend to vote in the 2029 election, despite 62.7% feeling their views are not represented in current policy and political affairs. The findings also point to strong support for demonstrations as a channel for expressing concerns, alongside calls for leaders with professional or technocratic backgrounds and attention to jobs, living costs and economic stability.

BRIN and YKAN strengthen science-based peatland restoration

Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and the Nusantara Nature Conservation Foundation (YKAN) have renewed and expanded their cooperation on science-based peatland restoration in West Kalimantan. The partnership aims to prevent fires, support climate mitigation and local livelihoods, and develop research and early-warning tools to inform future policy and decision-making.

BPJS Kesehatan Supervisory Board Chair Adds Pantun to Satya JKN Awards 2026, Stevanus Explains Significance of Ceremony

BPJS Kesehatan Supervisory Board chair Stevanus Adrianto Passat used a pantun to open the Satya JKN Awards 2026, which recognises employers and local governments supporting Indonesia’s national health insurance programme, JKN. He said employer compliance and cooperation with local authorities are essential to maintaining workers’ health coverage and sustaining the programme.

Oppo Find X10 Ultra Reportedly Tested with Dimensity 9600 Pro Chipset

Oppo is reportedly testing a special Find X10 Ultra variant powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 9600 Pro, which would be the first Find X Ultra model to use a MediaTek chipset. Leaked specifications include a 6.89-inch 144Hz display and high-resolution cameras, while a China launch is expected in 2027; no global release has been confirmed.

Governor Offers Solutions to Boost Food Production for Farmers in Gunungsitoli

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution has instructed officials to assess farmers’ needs for machinery and grain-drying equipment, while calling for irrigation and paddy-field planning to support production across 254 hectares in Gunungsitoli. He also urged local authorities to address subsidised fertiliser prices that exceed the official retail ceiling, alongside farmers’ requests for better machinery and repairs to a decades-old dam.

Education Ministry Tells TKA Invigilators to Ensure Candidates Have No Phones During Tests

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has instructed invigilators to check candidates for mobile phones before they enter the room, amid efforts to prevent cheating in the Academic Ability Test (TKA). Candidates found violating the rules may receive a zero, while invigilators who fail to enforce the ban may also face sanctions as the ministry investigates reports of misconduct during the first test session.

Indonesia calls for three steps to restore damaged ecosystems

Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat has urged the government, businesses and the public to acknowledge past environmental harm, stop destructive practices and restore damaged ecosystems. He called for stronger government oversight and enforcement, responsible business operations, and public action supported by adequate waste and environmental services, stressing that major polluters must be held accountable.

Government Bond Yields Hit a Record 7.7%: Finance Minister Responds

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the government would complete its planned state budget financing despite the 10-year government bond yield rising to 7.707%. He stressed the importance of a credible and flexible budget in responding to global conditions, volatile commodity prices and rising interest rates, without announcing any new financing measures.

Regional Digital Businesses Urged to Develop Products that Meet Market Needs

The Creative Economy Ministry is expanding support for regional information and communication technology businesses through its SIAP programme, which provides guidance on product innovation, branding and business strategy. Officials say stronger market focus, networks and collaboration can help businesses compete and extend the reach of Simalungun’s cultural and tourism offerings.

186 Salt-Boiling Facilities Built to Revive North Aceh Salt Farmers’ Livelihoods

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is funding 186 permanent salt-boiling facilities across four districts in North Aceh to restore production disrupted by a November 2025 hydrometeorological disaster. The facilities are also expected to improve salt quality, raise farmers’ incomes and, in time, open up industrial and pharmaceutical markets.

New Zealand Tests Find Sunscreen Products Fail to Meet SPF Claims

Consumer NZ found that only three of 10 widely available sunscreens met the SPF claims on their labels, although all passed broad-spectrum requirements based on their tested SPF levels. The findings have renewed calls for regular independent testing, as there is no rule specifying how often sunscreen products must be tested.

Bakrie Electric Bus Maker VKTR’s Profit Jumps 47%: What Is Driving Growth

VKTR Teknologi Mobilitas reported a 49% year-on-year rise in revenue to Rp1.06 trillion and a 47% increase in net profit to Rp12.1 billion in the first nine months of 2026. Growth was driven by stronger commercial electric vehicle sales and automotive parts manufacturing, alongside deliveries for public transport projects and expansion into the agribusiness sector.

Prabowo Expands Taruna Nusantara Schools and Makes Tuition Free

President Prabowo Subianto has made education free for all students at SMA Taruna Nusantara as part of efforts to widen access to quality schooling. The government is also developing five new campuses across Indonesia, expanding the school network to six locations and positioning the initiative as an investment in the country’s human resources.

High School Diploma Equivalency Certificate for Gibran Ruled Invalid

The Supreme Court has granted an appeal challenging the validity of Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high school diploma equivalency certificate, declaring it invalid and void. The ruling overturns the lower court decision and grants the claimant’s case in full; former deputy law and human rights minister Denny Indrayana said it aligns with a Constitutional Court ruling on Gibran’s educational qualifications.

Lampung Provincial Government develops coffee clones bred by local farmers

Lampung is cultivating locally developed superior Robusta coffee clones at the Hanakau Mother Garden, using them to rejuvenate older, less productive trees. The initiative recognises farmers’ breeding work and could widen production options; the province’s Robusta output rose to 127,578 tonnes in 2025, while 6,814 hectares were classified as damaged or old.

Pramono Says 15 Major Concerts Have Applied to Be Held at JIS

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says 15 major concerts have applied to take place at Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), as improved transport links make the venue more attractive to promoters. The Jakarta provincial government also plans to add a second KRL commuter-train platform, while several parties have submitted proposals for JIS naming rights.

3,361 Hebron Residents Forced to Displace Amid Israeli Assault

At least 3,361 Palestinians from 537 families have been forced to leave their homes in Hebron amid ongoing Israeli attacks, with many facing difficulty accessing healthcare and basic necessities. The crisis has also caused estimated daily economic losses of 10–12 million shekels and disrupted schooling for about 262,000 pupils across 589 schools.

Taj Yasin Says Children Affected by Islamic Boarding School Search Will Receive Support

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin says children present during searches at two sites will receive support to prevent lasting trauma and ensure they can continue their education. The provincial government will coordinate with families and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, amid concerns that a religious education facility mentioned in reports may not have an operating permit.

Natuna Food Task Force Inspects SPHP Rice Retailers to Prevent Adulteration

Natuna’s Food Task Force inspected Rumah Pangan Kita outlets after reports elsewhere that government-subsidised SPHP rice had been repackaged and sold as premium rice. Inspectors found one retailer selling the rice loose, contrary to rules requiring intact five-kilogram packs; Bulog said it would issue a warning and noted that two-kilogram packs are not yet available in Natuna.

Finance Minister Signals Caution over Jakarta Bonds

Finance Deputy Minister Suahasil Nazara urged caution over Jakarta’s planned bond issuance, citing unfavourable global conditions and rising yields on central government bonds. The central government is discussing alternative support through the state budget (APBN), including spending and financing for projects such as the MRT.

Health Minister Comments on Viral Beeru Stevia Controversy

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin warned that excessive sugar consumption can contribute to serious health problems and said some artificial sweeteners are not recommended. The comments follow an independent laboratory test reportedly finding undeclared sucralose and neotame in Beeru Stevia; the manufacturer has temporarily halted sales while the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency investigates.

Indonesia targets 85 per cent industrial capacity utilisation

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji has set a target of lifting industrial capacity utilisation from 66.13 per cent to 80–85 per cent, citing manufacturing growth that has outpaced overall economic growth. The sector accounted for 38.98 per cent of national investment and generated US$159.55 billion in exports by August 2026, with domestic demand helping underpin its resilience.

Fakfak Fishers Develop Processed Seafood to Support Prabowo’s Food Self-Sufficiency Drive

Twenty fishing households in Saharey, Fakfak, have begun turning their catch into products such as fish balls, nuggets and crackers, with reported daily earnings of Rp400,000–Rp800,000. Supported by Hasanuddin University’s Patriot Expedition Team, the initiative aims to raise incomes and reduce post-harvest losses, while contributing to the government’s food self-sufficiency agenda.

Lombok Barat MBG Kitchen Suspended for 20 Days for Distributing Milk

A free nutritious meals programme kitchen in Lingsar, West Lombok, has been suspended for 20 days after continuing to include milk in its meals, contrary to National Nutrition Agency guidance. The milk was consumed by 16 Islamic boarding-school students who reportedly felt weak; authorities are testing samples and will delay issuing the kitchen’s hygiene and sanitation certificate.

Governor Says Turyapada Tower Has Entered the Gondola Facilities Construction Phase

Bali Governor Wayan Koster says the Turyapada Tower project in Buleleng has completed its main tower and is now developing visitor facilities, including gondolas expected to be installed from November. The Rp670.5 billion attraction is targeted for full completion by December 2026 and is intended to generate regional revenue, stimulate nearby economies and help balance development between northern and southern Bali.

Public Works Ministry ready to build Bailey bridge at Polor weir in Tangerang

The Public Works Ministry is preparing to install a temporary Bailey bridge at the Polor weir in Tangerang before dismantling part of the existing structure, so traffic can continue to pass. The century-old Dutch-era weir has no known technical blueprints, and further study is needed to identify structures that may be obstructing water flow; officials say addressing flooding along the Angke River requires coordination across regional boundaries.

After Winning at the Supreme Court, Gibran Vice-Presidential Certificate Plaintiff Speaks Out

HM Subhan says the Supreme Court has granted his cassation appeal challenging the equivalency certificate for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high-school education, though the ruling’s written copy has not yet been released. The case adds to legal challenges over Gibran’s educational qualifications for the 2024 presidential election, while a separate lawsuit at the Jakarta Administrative Court was withdrawn by its plaintiff.

National Police Chief Transfers Five Officials, Replacing Heads of Medical and Finance Centres

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto has transferred five senior and mid-ranking officers, including appointing new heads of the force’s Medical and Health Centre and Finance Centre. Police said the reshuffle is part of routine career development and organisational renewal, while two outgoing centre chiefs are retiring.

Industry Minister: Access to Key Raw Materials Is Crucial to Boost Industrial Capacity

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says reliable supplies of raw materials at competitive prices are essential to raising national manufacturers’ capacity utilisation, currently at 66.13 per cent. The government is addressing shortages of refined sugar and the high domestic price of broken rice, as it targets utilisation of 80–85 per cent and seeks to strengthen manufacturing’s contribution to the economy.

Indonesia completes 250 strategic projects worth Rp2,396 trillion

Indonesia says 250 National Strategic Projects were completed between 2016 and 29 October 2026, representing Rp2,396 trillion in investment, while 30 projects remain under construction. A study cited by the government estimates the programme will generate Rp3,344 trillion in economic output and create 7.9 million jobs; the Batang industrial zone illustrates its regional impact, with most of its 26,871 workers drawn from the local district.

Barito Pacific (BRPT) Revenue Rises 56.3%, but Net Profit Plunges 66.1%

Barito Pacific reported consolidated revenue of US$8.69 billion in the first nine months of 2026, up 56.3% year on year, while EBITDA fell 35.2% and net profit dropped 66.1% to US$616 million. The company cited challenging global conditions and outlined ongoing growth plans, including geothermal expansion and construction of its CA-EDC project, which is 80% complete.

KPK Searches Djarum’s Office and Six Companies in Kudus; Management Responds

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched Djarum’s office, a customs and excise office, and six companies affiliated with the group in Kudus as part of an investigation into alleged corruption and state losses in the excise sector. Djarum says it respects the ongoing legal process, while investigators are also examining alleged payments to customs officials; the case began with an operation in February 2026.

Samsung Faces Potential Rp272 Billion Fine Over Galaxy Phone Advertising

South Korea’s Fair Trade Commission plans to impose a provisional fine of 20 billion won (about Rp272 billion) on Samsung Electronics for allegedly misleading advertising about the gaming performance of Galaxy S21, S22 and Galaxy Tab S8 devices. The regulator says Samsung failed to disclose that its Game Optimizing Service imposed performance limits, while promoting the devices’ gaming capabilities; Samsung disputes the move and says it will defend its position through legal procedures.

Eight Suspects Arrested over Attack on Merangin Police Headquarters; Police Seize Five Homemade Firearms

Police in Jambi have arrested eight people suspected of taking part in an attack and shooting at Merangin Police Headquarters, seizing five homemade long-barrel firearms. The suspects have been transferred to Jambi Regional Police for further questioning, while officers remain on alert and urge residents to surrender any illegally held homemade firearms.

East Java Chamber of Commerce highlights three key challenges for the regional economy

The East Java Chamber of Commerce says the province must improve the quality of economic growth, employment absorption and the commercialisation of research. Despite growth reaching 5.96 per cent year on year in the first quarter of 2026, the chamber cited poverty, skills mismatches and weak links between university research and industry as pressing concerns.

Maybank Indonesia Posts Rp1.43 Trillion Pre-Tax Profit as Net Interest Income Grows 4.3%

Maybank Indonesia reported pre-tax profit of Rp1.43 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, with net interest income rising 4.3% year on year to Rp5.75 trillion. Improved asset quality and a stronger low-cost deposit mix supported results, while non-interest income fell amid market volatility; its Islamic banking unit and several subsidiaries also recorded growth.

Supreme Court Upholds Cassation Appeal over Gibran’s High School Equivalency Certificate

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has granted Subhan Palal’s cassation appeal challenging the validity of Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high school education equivalency certificate. The Court overturned the prior ruling and decided the claim in full, in a case against the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.

Coal Exports to Go Through State-Owned DSI from 1 January 2027; Industry Raises Concerns

From 1 January 2027, Indonesian coal exports will be handled exclusively through state-owned PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia under new regulations, alongside palm oil and ferro-alloy exports. The Indonesian Coal Mining Association says technical preparations and regulatory certainty are essential to avoid export disruptions when existing registered-exporter permits expire.

Polri Makes Further Senior Personnel Changes, Replacing Heads of Medical and Finance Centres

Indonesia’s National Police (Polri) has reassigned five senior and mid-ranking officers, including new heads for its Medical and Health Centre and Finance Centre. The changes, set out in a police chief’s telegram dated 29 October 2026, include two officers entering retirement and are intended to match personnel capabilities and experience with organisational needs.

Economist projects year-end tax revenue will reach 98% of target

CORE economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet forecasts that 2026 tax receipts will reach 96.5–98% of the state budget target, leaving a shortfall of Rp45 trillion to Rp80 trillion. He warns that the final-quarter collection requirement is steep and urges stronger data-led compliance measures rather than delaying refunds or imposing new taxes, while also recommending tighter spending reviews and improved non-tax revenue collection.

Jakarta Governor to Hold In-Person Meetings in Districts from November

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says he will begin holding meetings across the capital’s 44 districts in November 2026 to hear local problems directly and seek solutions with officials. He aims to complete the meetings within four months, saying the approach will give him a more accurate picture of issues on the ground than relying solely on positive reports.

UGM Brings Young Indonesians Together at Youth Food Forum

Universitas Gadjah Mada and Foodbank of Indonesia have convened 47 young people from across the country to develop ideas for strengthening local food systems and preventing hunger. The summit combines expert discussions with field visits, with organisers hoping participants will return to their communities equipped to create value-added food innovations.

Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment partners with philanthropies and private sector to tackle rural poverty

The Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment is working with philanthropic organisations, businesses and other partners to coordinate village-based poverty-reduction efforts. Three villages have been chosen as pilot sites, with the model intended to expand to more than 100 villages by 2030.

UPJ Drives Four Technology Innovations from Campus to Industry

Universitas Pembangunan Jaya (UPJ) is advancing four research innovations in AI-powered waste sorting, digital learning, electric-vehicle design and blockchain-based art provenance, with support from an Indonesian diaspora professional in Singapore. The 2026 programme is intended to improve product readiness, protect intellectual property and build pathways to commercialisation through industry collaboration.

SME Ministry urges faster disbursement of people’s business loans to productive sectors

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises is seeking to accelerate People’s Business Credit (KUR) disbursements to productive sectors across Java, Bali and Nusa Tenggara, where allocation has reached about 61 per cent against a national target of 65 per cent. National KUR disbursement has reached 91 per cent of its Rp290 trillion target, with East Java recording the highest total at Rp48 trillion to Rp49 trillion; the ministry says stronger industry supply chains can help bring more SMEs into production networks.

Croatia Reports 25 West Nile Virus Infections, Including One Death

Croatia has confirmed 25 West Nile virus cases this year, with one death; 19 patients developed symptoms, including 17 with neuroinvasive disease. Zagreb and its surrounding area recorded the most cases, while health authorities say transmission is expected to ease as temperatures fall; cases are higher than last year but remain below the 2018 record.

IESR Proposes Five Clean Energy Cooperation Priorities for Indonesia and South Korea

IESR has proposed five areas for Indonesia–South Korea energy cooperation, including battery-backed solar projects, green financing, green steel and greater household electrification. The recommendations come as Indonesia pursues 100 GW of solar capacity and South Korea advances its own ambitious renewables and investment targets, with grid readiness a challenge in both countries.

Satya JKN Awards 2026: Proof that Businesses Care for Workers

BPJS Kesehatan has honoured eight local governments and 80 businesses for supporting compliance with and the sustainability of Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. The agency says active membership and employers’ timely registration and payment of contributions are vital to universal health coverage, while collective contributions help fund costly treatment such as dialysis.

Energy Ministry Regulation 12/2026: Criteria for Priority WIUP/WIUPK, WPR and IPR Rules

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry Regulation 12/2026 sets criteria for priority allocation of mining areas, including geological potential, community proximity, local employment and domestic downstreaming. It also establishes limits and procedures for community mining areas and permits, with governors responsible for issuing permits and overseeing safety and post-mining environmental restoration.

A Year On, Internet Rakyat Has Yet to Reach One Million Subscribers

Surge’s affordable Internet Rakyat service had 900,000 subscribers by September 2026, nearly a year after pre-registration opened. The company is expanding its 5G fixed wireless and fibre infrastructure, while established competitors retain substantially larger customer bases.

Prabowo says education is key to Indonesia’s national development

President Prabowo Subianto said quality education at every stage of life is central to nation-building, speaking at the inauguration of a new Taruna Nusantara High School campus in Cimahi, West Java. He called for natural resources to be protected from corruption and misappropriation to help fund education, and said access should be available to all Indonesians regardless of background.

Indonesian Migrant Worker from Rejang Lebong Who Died in Japan Buried

Rizki Ade Putra, a 26-year-old Indonesian migrant worker who died in Osaka on 11 October, was buried in his home village in Bengkulu after his body was repatriated. The return took nearly three weeks and involved local and provincial governments, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and other parties; officials said it was the province’s first repatriation and compensation case under new regulations.

Klungkung Village Election Results: Winners in 22 Villages

Twenty-two villages in Klungkung Regency held simultaneous village-head elections on 30 October 2026, with preliminary tallies indicating winners across four districts. The results remain provisional pending formal confirmation by the regency-level committee, while officials reported that voting and counting were orderly and peaceful.

Bengkulu Has Indonesia’s Highest Farmer Terms of Trade, Supported by Rubber and Palm Oil

Bengkulu recorded a Farmer Terms of Trade (NTP) index of 206.79, the highest in Indonesia, with rubber and palm oil identified as key contributors. The Agriculture Ministry also highlighted a modern rice-planting acceleration programme, with officials stressing that its success depends on close coordination among local government, agricultural extension workers and farmers.

KedaiKOPI Survey: 81.5% of Young People Proud to Be Indonesian

A KedaiKOPI survey found that 81.5% of young Indonesians are proud to be citizens, even though 75.2% would like to work abroad if given the opportunity. Most respondents who wanted overseas work said they planned to return, underscoring the importance of expanding employment and business opportunities at home.

Euro Retreats from Today’s High as US Dollar Rebounds; German HICP Data Awaited

The euro gave back most of its early gains against the US dollar as stronger-than-expected US growth and persistent inflation concerns supported the dollar and the prospect of a December Federal Reserve rate rise. Investors are now awaiting Germany’s October flash HICP reading, expected to show annual inflation easing to 3.1% from 3.3%.

Coordinating Minister: Keep JKN sustainable through a massive collective effort

Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar says the sustainability of Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme depends on a broad collective effort in which the healthy help the sick. He highlighted its benefits in reducing household costs, tackling poverty and boosting worker productivity, and praised businesses and local governments for supporting contributions and implementation.

BGN Chief Exposes Alleged Scheme to Build MBG Kitchens in Small Contracts Using State Budget

National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Sudaryono says suspected irregularities in building kitchens for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme are under investigation by the Attorney General’s Office. He alleges that construction was split into small e-catalogue procurements disguised as installation services, while payments to some contractors remain on hold pending the authorities’ review.

Rivers burst their banks, displacing 112 residents in South Aceh floods

Flooding caused by rising river levels has affected 232 people in South Aceh, with 112 residents from two villages taking shelter at a Brimob unit and in relatives’ homes. The local disaster agency is monitoring conditions and has urged residents to remain alert and evacuate if further flooding occurs.

North Jakarta City Government Expands Greening in Six Districts

North Jakarta’s parks and forestry agency says it has planted 994 trees across the city since January, extending greening efforts to green belts, parks, urban forests and cemeteries. The latest planting of 10 pink tabebuya trees along the Sunter River is part of a broader effort to improve public spaces and encourage residents to help maintain greenery.

NTB Police Investigate Alleged Land Grabbing in Sumbawa; Former East Lombok Regent Drawn In

West Nusa Tenggara Police have opened an investigation into an alleged land-grabbing dispute in the Samota area of Sumbawa, involving former East Lombok Regent Ali Bin Dachlan. Both sides hold valid ownership certificates for the same land, and police are assessing whether the ongoing criminal case can be informed by an earlier civil ruling won by Ali.

Mendukbangga Urges Teenagers Not to Make AI Their Main Confidant

Population and Family Development Minister Wihaji has urged teenagers not to rely primarily on AI when discussing psychological difficulties, saying it cannot offer human empathy. He encouraged young people to seek support from peers and, where needed, professionals, while highlighting outreach counselling for vulnerable and marginalised groups.

BGN Partners with Education Ministry to Adopt SIPLah and Strengthen Loka MBG System

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is adapting the Education Ministry’s established SIPLah procurement system for Loka MBG, its planned marketplace for sourcing food ingredients for the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The system, due to launch in December 2026, is intended to verify suppliers, safeguard food quality and safety, and support fair prices while improving the programme’s reach and impact on pupils.

Bima Arya Clarifies Rp1tn Incentive for Local Governments Is Not Based Solely on MBG Assessment

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto said the Rp1 trillion allocation for high-performing local governments rewards a broad range of public-service and development outcomes, rather than being dedicated solely to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. From next year, MBG implementation will be added as one assessment criterion, including whether beneficiaries are correctly targeted; the total allocation has already supported about 270 regencies and cities in the first two rounds.

Trade Minister Sets Year-End Export Growth Target, with a ‘New Weapon’

Trade Minister Budi Santoso is targeting export growth of 5.5%–6.5% by the end of 2026, despite global trade barriers and a temporary dip linked partly to higher oil prices. A government programme helping small businesses reach overseas buyers recorded US$360 million in transactions in January–September, with about 60% of participating firms new to exporting.

Pramono to Hold Meetings in 44 Districts from Next Week, Giving Village Heads a Chance to Speak Directly

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung will begin holding in-person meetings across the capital’s 44 districts next week, with three districts scheduled each week. The initiative is intended to help local officials raise problems directly with the governor and speed up responses by reducing the delays caused by bureaucratic layers.

Finance Minister: State Budget Must Be Flexible in Responding to Changing Conditions

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the state budget must adapt to changing global conditions, including volatile commodity prices and rising interest rates, while maintaining credibility and supporting public welfare and growth. The central government is also assessing fiscal remedies for local governments constrained by high personnel spending, and has allocated Rp1 trillion in temporary regional fiscal incentives to encourage improvements in key development indicators.

Bengkulu provincial government explores carbon trading through exchange in 2027

Bengkulu is exploring participation in the carbon exchange by 2027, subject to meeting the required administrative and technical conditions. The province sees carbon trading as a potential source of economic value from emissions reductions and carbon absorption, while the handling of any proceeds remains to be clarified.

Kediri Mayor’s Father Transferred within East Java Police While Under Propam Investigation

AKBP Edy Herwiyanto, the father of Kediri Mayor Vinanda Prameswati, has been removed from his post and reassigned within the East Java Police while the National Police’s Propam division investigates him. Police have not disclosed the allegations or reached any conclusion, while reports circulating online have alleged abuse of authority and links to a local organisation.

Bulog East Java Forms Special Task Force to Prevent Misuse of SPHP Programme

Bulog’s East Java regional office has established a special task force to strengthen oversight and prevent irregularities in the government’s food supply and price stabilisation programme, including among distribution partners and Rumah Pangan Kita outlets. The move follows suspected misuse of SPHP rice by distributors in Jakarta and is intended to ensure orderly, transparent and targeted distribution.

Agriculture Ministry Outlines How to Sustain Food Self-Sufficiency

Indonesia’s Agriculture Ministry says food self-sufficiency, particularly in rice, has been achieved since the end of last year, but maintaining it will require strengthening domestic seed independence. The ministry also highlights prioritising rice, maize and soybeans, adopting up-to-date farming and post-harvest technologies, and improving the quality and continuity of supplies and distribution to reduce import needs.

Binance Hit by Rp114 Trillion Hack Attributed to North Korean Hackers

Binance says hackers transferred assets worth US$6.3 billion, or about Rp114 trillion, after its security team detected suspicious activity. Around US$3 billion has been located and frozen, while the exchange says user funds are safe and is working to restore withdrawals; blockchain analysts say the attack resembles operations by North Korean hackers.

Homage launches Esteem AI to meet rising demand for eldercare across Asia

Singapore-founded home care company Homage has launched Esteem AI, care management software that consolidates provider operations and uses AI agents to prepare routine administrative work for human review. Already used by more than 50 care organisations, the platform is now available to providers in Singapore as the company positions it for regional and eventual global expansion amid a rapidly ageing population.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Wiyagus Calls for Food Safety in Free Nutritious Meals Programme to Protect Children

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus says food safety and operational standards at nutrition service units are central to oversight of Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals programme. Local governments are due to begin inspections in November, using on-site assessments and a three-tier recommendation system to ensure facilities are fit to serve children.

Mataram City Government Proposes Revitalising Three Health Centres and Nine Auxiliary Clinics

Mataram has submitted a proposal to the Health Ministry to revitalise 13 health facilities, including three community health centres, nine auxiliary clinics and a health laboratory, as part of a national infrastructure improvement programme. The city is assessing building conditions and repair costs, with supporting documents due by 2 November; the proposal covers work through 2030 and reflects a broader shift towards strengthening frontline healthcare.

Drainpipe Comes Loose at Depok Baru Station During Heavy Rain, Briefly Delaying Commuter Train

A Jakarta Kota–Bogor commuter train was held for five minutes at Depok Baru Station after a drainage pipe came loose and water flowed onto the tracks during heavy rain. KAI Commuter said staff quickly repaired the issue, allowing services to resume at 4pm.

Pramono Targets All 267 Jakarta Urban Villages for Benyamin S Award 2027

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung wants all 267 urban villages in the capital to take part in the Benyamin S Award in 2027, up from 52 participants in 2026. The award is intended to encourage improvements to local environments and community welfare, as the city also reports a 52.6 per cent fall in the number of slum neighbourhood units since 2017.

Weak Rupiah Could Push Energy Subsidies and Compensation to Rp700 Trillion

An IESR energy analyst warns that if oil averages more than US$100 a barrel and the rupiah weakens to Rp18,000 per US dollar through year-end, Indonesia’s energy subsidies and compensation could rise to Rp600 trillion–Rp700 trillion. Spending had already reached Rp376.8 trillion by the end of September, driven by oil prices, the exchange rate and higher volumes of subsidised fuel, LPG and electricity.

Video: Interest in Physical vs Digital Gold Investment Amid Price Volatility

Gold remains a safe-haven asset amid geopolitical and economic uncertainty, with prices in 2026 fluctuating around US$4,000 per troy ounce. IndoGold says physical gold prices briefly exceeded Rp3.1 million per gram before falling by 20%, while both physical and digital gold transactions continue to grow, attracting buyers with different purchasing patterns.

On the 80th Oeang Day, Finance Minister stresses the APBN’s role in the economy and public welfare

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said the state budget (APBN) is a key instrument for economic growth and public welfare as Indonesia marked the 80th Republic of Indonesia Oeang Day. He highlighted growth-oriented spending, targeted support and credible, disciplined fiscal management as priorities for ensuring that public finances deliver tangible benefits.

Social Affairs Minister: Response to Alleged Bullying at Sekolah Rakyat Is Going Well

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf says the response to alleged bullying involving three pupils at Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi 1 Jember is progressing well, and that the alleged victim has returned to school. The ministry is supporting the pupil and their parents and is liaising with the Indonesia Defence University, while the minister says safeguards will be strengthened to prevent a recurrence.

BPK: Infrastructure governance must take economic considerations into account

Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) says toll-road governance should balance economic viability with social and environmental considerations, sustainability, prudent use of public funds and road users’ interests. Following a sample audit of 14 toll-road sections in seven provinces, it recommended closer stakeholder coordination and reviews of business plans, investment calculations, tariffs and concession periods; BPK is also using data analysis and AI to strengthen its audits.

Perempuan Indonesia Maju Urges Women to Seek Early Breast Cancer Detection

Perempuan Indonesia Maju (PIM) is urging women to improve their health literacy and seek early detection of breast cancer through self-examination, clinical checks and mammography when recommended by medical professionals. The organisation also highlighted how digital applications and artificial intelligence could provide guidance and reminders to support regular checks.

Public Works Minister: Narrowing of Angke River Contributed to Flooding in Tangerang

Public Works Minister Doddy Hanggodo said sediment build-up and narrowing along the Angke River have reduced its capacity and contributed to flooding in South Tangerang, Tangerang City and Jakarta. He said planned works must combine dredging with widening sections of the river, with the roughly 3.5-kilometre project to be discussed by the ministry and local governments.

Doctor Urges Parents to Pay Closer Attention to Children’s Health During Seasonal Transition

A paediatrician at Sebelas Maret University Hospital has advised parents to watch for infections and other illness as Indonesia moves from a prolonged dry season into the rainy season. The warning comes as BMKG forecasts the rainy season will begin in November and peak in December 2026, with the onset delayed in much of the country by a very strong El Niño.

Jakarta’s Baznas prepares four programmes to help victims of haze from forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan

Baznas/Bazis Jakarta has prepared four emergency programmes to support residents and frontline workers affected by wildfire haze in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan. The Rp223.4 million package includes respiratory care, medical home visits, family supplies and protective equipment, with at least 1,500 intended beneficiaries.

SBY Launches Novel ‘Diana Memang Manja’ in Memory of Late Wife Ani

Former Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has launched a novel inspired in part by his grief over the death of his wife, Ani Yudhoyono, and his return to the arts. At the launch, he described writing as a way to express personal feelings while encouraging young people to pursue their goals despite challenges.

Massive Attack Member Releases Songs for Gaza Documentary

Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja has contributed three original tracks and a remix to the soundtrack for Life Support, a documentary about international doctors working in Gaza. Proceeds from the vinyl album will go to the Health Workers 4 Palestine solidarity fund, while the film is now available on video-on-demand platforms and is scheduled for screenings in the UK and Ireland.

Netanyahu Wins Without a Majority as Germany Hopes for a More Moderate Israeli Government

Netanyahu’s bloc has come out ahead in Israel’s election but, like the opposition, lacks a parliamentary majority, leaving government formation uncertain. Berlin is withholding judgement while urging continued humanitarian access to Gaza, condemning settler violence in the West Bank and expressing hope for a more centrist Israeli government.

AAJI Says Shares Make Up Just 15% of Life Insurers’ Investments

The Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI) says equities accounted for about 15% of life insurers’ investment portfolios in the second quarter of 2026, with bonds remaining the largest allocation. AAJI says it has not advised insurers to cut equity exposure, leaving portfolio decisions to individual firms, which balance long-term policyholder liabilities, asset-liability management and diversification.

Kerobokan Prison Searched; 24 Inmates Test Positive for Drugs and Five Detained

A joint operation by Bali Police, the National Police Criminal Investigation Agency and the National Narcotics Agency at Kerobokan Prison found 24 inmates testing positive for methamphetamine or amphetamine, while five were taken in for further questioning. Officers also seized drugs, mobile phones and other items, prompting Bali Police to pledge tighter checks on inmates, staff, visitors and goods entering the prison.

MR.D.I.Y. Indonesia Revenue Rises 24.5% in Third Quarter of 2026

MR.D.I.Y. Indonesia reported revenue of Rp7.2 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, up 24.5% year on year, while net profit rose 12.9% to Rp894.3 billion. The retailer attributed growth to higher customer transactions and store expansion, and said its healthy balance sheet would support further expansion through year-end.

Colour-Coded Signs Installed at CSW Bus Stop, Helping Passengers Avoid Getting Lost

Colour-coded floor markings have been installed at Jakarta’s CSW Transjakarta stop and connecting pedestrian bridge to guide passengers between bus routes, the MRT and facilities. Commuters say the signs make the complex interchange easier to navigate, though one passenger warned that the text may be too small for older people to read.

This Week in the Indonesian Economy (23-29 Oct 2026)

Indonesia's energy sector dominated the week's news cycle, but beneath the headlines about gas diplomacy with Singapore lay a broader story of a government trying to assert sovereign control over its natural resources while wrestling with the fallout of a weakening rupiah and jittery capital markets.

This Week in Indonesian Politics (23-29 Oct 2026)

Indonesia's political week was dominated by fire, both literal and institutional: the smouldering diplomatic row with Singapore over transboundary haze, a cascade of corruption investigations spanning from cigarette excise stamps to disaster relief funds, and student protests that tested the Prabowo-Gibran government's tolerance for dissent on the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge.

This Week in Indonesian Business and Investment (23-29 Oct 2026)

Indonesia's financial markets endured one of their roughest weeks in years, as a confluence of global and domestic pressures tested investor confidence and forced policymakers into a sustained defensive posture.

Three of Lieutenant AG’s Elite Qualifications Revoked After Lieutenant Jihad Was Fatally Shot

Second Lieutenant AG has been named a suspect in the death of Second Lieutenant Jihad Ahmad Al-Rasyid at a Kopassus weapons depot and handed over to military police for further legal proceedings. Alongside the criminal process, the Army has revoked AG’s Para, Commando and Counter-Terrorism qualifications, citing an alleged failure to follow firearm-clearing procedures.

Religious Affairs Ministry outlines five agendas for pesantren directorate, from student protection to preaching

Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Ministry says its new Pesantren Directorate will focus on protecting students, improving recognition of pesantren qualifications, developing students’ technology skills, strengthening pesantren economic independence and expanding digital preaching. The ministry also highlighted uneven facilities, data-recording overlaps and educator welfare as challenges to delivering the agenda across the country’s roughly 42,000 pesantren.

Furore After Report Says World’s Richest Man in US Was Close to Chinese Spy

A New York Times report says US intelligence monitored Alice Huang, who was alleged to have links to Chinese intelligence and a close relationship with Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang. Nvidia denied that Megaspeed, a Singapore-based cloud provider linked to Huang, had access to trade secrets or that US authorities had warned the company; the controversy highlights the strategic role of AI chips in US-China rivalry.

Revealed: What Led Police to Raid Islamic Boarding Schools in Sukoharjo and Karanganyar

Central Java Police Chief Roy Hardi Siahaan said raids at Islamic boarding schools in Mojolaban, Sukoharjo and Karanganyar stemmed from an investigation into the burning of a pork-noodle stall on 12 September 2026. Officers seized weapons and other suspicious items, while a former terrorism convict identified as ST was arrested and is alleged to have injured two officers during the arrest.

Prajogo’s BRPT Posts 60.65% Profit Decline: Here’s Why

Barito Pacific’s net profit attributable to parent-company owners fell 60.65% year on year to US$229 million in the first nine months of 2026, despite consolidated revenue rising 56.3% to US$8.7 billion. The company said the comparison was affected by a high base in 2025, when it recognised a one-off bargain-purchase gain from its acquisition of Aster; energy-sector revenue and EBITDA also showed growth.

BSI Agent Transactions Grow 38.41% to Rp52.80 Trillion by August

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) reported that transactions through its agent network rose 38.41% year on year to Rp52.80 trillion by August 2026. With more than 135,000 agents nationwide, the bank says the network expands access to Islamic banking while creating supplementary income for local small businesses.

Attorney General’s Office Searches PT IPPS Office in ‘Transfer Pricing’ Case

Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office has searched and sealed the Jakarta office of PT IPPS as part of an alleged transfer-pricing corruption case involving pulp producer PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL). TPL has been named a corporate suspect, with investigators alleging manipulated product codes and inadequate tax reviews caused estimated state losses of around Rp2 trillion.

Indonesia pilots used cooking oil-to-aviation fuel initiative

Indonesia’s Cooperatives Ministry and Pertamina have launched a pilot in four village cooperatives in Central Java to collect used cooking oil for conversion into aviation fuel. The project is intended to create income for cooperatives, support rural green businesses and reduce pollution, while potentially opening opportunities to export sustainable aviation fuel.

Willie Salim Says He Was Invited to Youth Pledge Event and Was Not Paid

YouTuber Willie Salim has apologised for attending a Youth Pledge event near Bundaran HI organised by a group claiming to be students. He said he was invited, had no role in organising the event and received no payment, while acknowledging he should have investigated its context more carefully.

Video: MSCI Threatens the Stock Market; Investment Managers Strengthen Liquidity Risk Management

Amid continued pressure on Indonesian financial markets, investment managers are tightening governance, reassessing liquidity risks and diversifying portfolios. AMII chair Lolita Liliana says stronger credibility and transparency reforms by the exchange could improve investor confidence and help Indonesia avoid being classified as a Standalone Market.

Businessman Identifies Key Food Security Challenge, Warns Indonesia Against Half-Hearted Efforts

Agricultural entrepreneur Bahtiar says food production, particularly rice, is strong, but shortages persist in some regions because logistics and distribution remain inadequate. His company is working to connect surplus-producing areas with deficit regions, and he argues that food policy must address the whole supply chain rather than production alone.

How Lampung PDI-P Marked the 98th Anniversary of the Youth Pledge

Lampung’s PDI-P marked the 98th anniversary of the Youth Pledge with a padel gathering attended by more than 50 young people in Bandar Lampung. Party figures said the event was intended to connect with young people in spaces they choose and to promote sportsmanship and the values of unity associated with the pledge.

Bulog Semarang Says Paddy Collection Team Is Accelerating Procurement to Build Government Rice Reserves

Bulog’s Semarang branch is sending its Paddy Collection Team directly to harvesting sites to speed up purchases from farmers and strengthen the Government Rice Reserves (CBP). It has procured 188,000 tonnes of harvested paddy—about 103 per cent of its regional target—and currently holds around 81,000 tonnes of rice.

TBS Energi Utama (TOBA) Cuts Losses by 72% to Rp641.44 Billion

TBS Energi Utama’s consolidated net loss narrowed 72% year on year to US$35.4 million in the third quarter of 2026, although revenue fell 11% to US$257.3 million. The company said the loss included non-cash acquisition-related depreciation and amortisation, as well as one-off refinancing costs, and was in line with expectations as it transitions away from coal towards sustainable energy.

Watched by Kim Jong Un, North Korean Drones Attack Mock US Tanks

North Korea showcased attack drones, cruise missiles and a new 600mm Sniper multiple rocket launcher as Kim Jong Un called for faster development of unmanned and AI-enabled weapons. The display coincided with South Korea detecting about 10 short-range ballistic missiles, while Pyongyang’s claims of perfect accuracy and the systems’ battlefield capabilities remain unverified.

2026 Tax Target Still Achievable, DJP’s Efforts Deemed Maximal

Tax analyst Fajry Akbar says Indonesia’s 2026 tax revenue target remains attainable, citing the Directorate General of Taxes’ extensive collection and compliance measures. However, he warns that the required Rp440 trillion increase over 2025 is historically unprecedented, while tax refunds also affect the reported revenue figures.

Timah Records 55% Increase in Tin Ore Production

PT Timah reported that tin ore production rose 55% year on year to 18,883 tonnes of tin content in the first nine months of 2026, while refined tin metal output climbed 49% to 16,190 tonnes. The company attributed the gains to improved land and offshore mining operations, alongside expanded exploration intended to strengthen resource estimates and inform operational planning.

ASDP Waives Port Service Charges for the 2026–2027 Christmas and New Year Period

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry will waive 100 per cent of port service charges for ferry users during the 2026–2027 Christmas and New Year travel period as part of a government stimulus programme. The measure is intended to make ferry travel more affordable and reduce one component of the fare for people travelling between islands.

Xi Jinping’s Major Purge Sees 33 Chinese Party and Military Officials Expelled

China has expelled 33 senior Communist Party and military officials, the largest number on record, as Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign reaches further into the country’s political and military leadership. Supporters say the crackdown promotes clean governance, while analysts argue it may also help Xi consolidate power ahead of the 2027 Party Congress.

Government records completion of 250 national strategic projects with total investment of Rp2,396 trillion

The government says 250 National Strategic Projects (PSNs) had been completed between 2016 and 29 October 2026, representing Rp2,396 trillion in investment, while 30 projects remain under construction. Research by LPEM FEB UI estimates the programme has generated Rp3,344 trillion in economic output and supported 7.9 million jobs, with the Batang Integrated Industrial Estate cited as an example of local economic benefits.

Saving Trend Changes Tourists’ Spending Patterns

Tourists are still travelling, but many are cutting budgets and shifting towards cheaper transport and accommodation as consumers worldwide prioritise essential spending. Indonesia’s Deputy Tourism Minister Ni Luh Puspa said domestic and international trips continue to grow, despite the change in how visitors spend their money.

JK Offers Condolences, Remembers Yasuo Fukuda as a Friend of Indonesia

Former Indonesian vice-president Jusuf Kalla has offered condolences following the death of former Japanese prime minister Yasuo Fukuda, recalling him as a longstanding friend of Indonesia. Kalla said Fukuda had helped the country and consistently encouraged strong ties between Indonesia and Japan.

Indonesia Faces Potential Alumina and Aluminium Oversupply: What Is Driving It?

The Indonesia Mining Institute expects new bauxite-processing and aluminium projects to raise domestic output enough to create a potential surplus, even as Indonesia currently imports substantial volumes of aluminium. The expansion includes new alumina capacity in West Kalimantan and aluminium smelters in West and North Kalimantan; the institute says processing bauxite into aluminium can increase its value 80-fold.

WIKA Reports Rp15.8 Trillion in Sales in Third Quarter of 2026, Up 11.9%

State-owned construction firm Wijaya Karya (WIKA) reported third-quarter 2026 sales of Rp15.8 trillion, up 11.9% year on year, alongside a 57.9% rise in new contracts and stronger profitability. The company also reduced total debt by Rp1.42 trillion, but says comprehensive restructuring and capital recovery related to the high-speed rail project are needed to ease interest and project-loss burdens.

Iran Previously Rejected Peace Proposal as Qatar Mediator Returns to Tehran Today

Qatari mediators have returned to Tehran to pursue a US–Iran peace agreement, in an initiative coordinated with Washington, after Iran rejected an earlier draft as unacceptable. The latest effort follows a reported message from US Vice-President JD Vance to Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei, while negotiations remain stalled over navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran’s nuclear position.

China Angered as Hello Kitty Maker Ends Collaboration with Japanese Spy Series

Sanrio has apologised and ended a merchandise partnership with the Japanese thriller Vivant after depictions of Chinese agents torturing a Japanese spy provoked criticism in China. The controversy has drawn in the globally popular Hello Kitty brand amid worsening China–Japan relations, prompting Sanrio to promise stricter reviews of future collaborations.

Minister urges teenagers not to be afraid to speak up about mental health problems

Population and Family Development Minister Wihaji has urged teenagers experiencing mental health problems to speak openly and seek peer support through the government-backed Genre and PIK-R programmes. Citing survey findings that 34.9 per cent of teenagers experience mental health problems and 57 per cent feel ashamed or afraid to disclose them, he said the government is working to expand access to counselling and professional care.

Supreme Court Grants Appeal, Rules Gibran’s High-School Equivalency Certificate Invalid

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has granted Subhan’s appeal and ruled that the certificate equating Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s overseas high-school education with Indonesian standards is invalid and void by law. The decision overturns lower court rulings, while a separate challenge to the certificate remains before the Jakarta Administrative Court, although that claimant has said it is withdrawing its case.

KPK Searches Semarang Customs Office

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) searched the Semarang Customs Office, taking boxes and suitcases from the premises, though officials did not disclose details. The search follows operations at customs offices in Kudus and the office of PT Djarum as part of a case development announced by the KPK on 28 October 2026.

TBS Energi Utama’s Gross Profit Surges 105% through September 2026

TBS Energi Utama’s gross profit more than doubled to US$45.2 million in the first nine months of 2026, despite an 11% fall in consolidated revenue, as margins improved and sustainable infrastructure businesses expanded. Waste management and electric vehicles contributed 66% of revenue and 71% of adjusted EBITDA, while operating cash flow returned to positive territory.

Gibran Was Ready to Disclose His School Records at the Administrative Court, but the Lawsuit Was Withdrawn

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka said he had prepared education records, including certificates from primary school through university, for an open evidentiary hearing over the Education Ministry’s equivalency certificate. The plaintiffs, led by former deputy law minister Denny Indrayana, withdrew their case and walked out, alleging that the ministry had failed to produce evidence supporting the certificate.

National Police and Village Ministry Join Forces to Tackle Drugs and Unemployment in Villages

The National Police and the Ministry of Villages and Disadvantaged Regions plan to work together to curb drug trafficking in villages and help unemployed residents find work. The proposed Police Care for the Unemployed programme would provide skills training and connect participants—including people recovering from drug dependence—with employers, alongside the ministry’s village-development initiatives.

Andrea Bocelli Concert: UI Professor Discusses Economic and Social Impact

University of Indonesia professor Rhenald Kasali says international concerts can generate substantial economic spillovers, citing an estimated multiplier effect of Rp450 billion to Rp600 billion. He argues that the planned Andrea Bocelli performances in Jakarta and at Borobudur could boost tourism and bring social benefits, while stressing that public concerns and the event’s values should also be considered.

GoFood Merchant encourages food businesses to optimise digital promotions

GoFood Merchant is encouraging culinary businesses to use its promotional programmes to reach more customers and increase sales, while weighing discounts against stock, margins and operational capacity. The platform also advises merchants to track campaign performance and sales data to identify promotions that best suit their customers and business capabilities.

Governor Urges Faster Maintenance at Bengkayang Coal-Fired Power Plant to Resume Operations

West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan has urged the Bengkayang coal-fired power plant to complete maintenance about 25 days ahead of schedule, potentially allowing it to resume operations in mid-November. The accelerated work is intended to help restore electricity reliability amid rolling power cuts, with the governor also calling for public updates and insisting that safety and quality standards be maintained.

Trump will not allow Iran war to drag on, Vance says

US Vice-President JD Vance said President Donald Trump would prevent the conflict with Iran from becoming a prolonged war and would pursue the administration’s objectives. His remarks come amid continuing hostilities and after US-Iran talks collapsed over disagreements concerning navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Indonesia Has Just 19 Overseas Trade Offices, Far Fewer Than South Korea

Indonesia has 19 overseas trade-promotion centres, compared with 130 in South Korea, leaving the country behind several regional and global peers. Trade Minister Budi Santoso is seeking support to expand the network, which helps exporters find buyers; a related government programme recorded US$360 million in transactions from January to September.

Sultan HB X on Malioboro Demonstration: Do Not Break the Law

Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X said demonstrations are permissible but must not involve violence or other unlawful acts, following unrest in Malioboro on Wednesday night. He praised police for keeping a student demonstration orderly and said anyone involved in vandalism or carrying sharp weapons should face legal proceedings.

Fallen Trees Damage House and Power Cables After Heavy Rain in Bogor

Heavy rain and strong winds brought down trees in two districts of Bogor, damaging a garage and striking electricity cables. The city’s disaster management agency said its response team cleared the trees, with no injuries or deaths reported.

Delpedro and Co Win Supreme Court Appeal; Acquittal Becomes Final

Indonesia’s Supreme Court has rejected prosecutors’ appeal against the acquittals of four young activists accused of incitement and spreading false information in connection with the August 2025 demonstrations. The ruling makes their acquittals legally binding, although Khariq Anhar faces a separate case and has appealed a five-month sentence.

ITS: Nuclear and Renewable Energy Need Balancing Power Plants

An ITS energy systems professor says nuclear power and variable renewables such as solar and wind need flexible gas- or hydropower plants to balance supply and demand and maintain grid reliability. He also cautions that Indonesia’s limited gas reserves must be managed carefully to support balancing needs during the transition to a lower-emissions energy system.

Netanyahu Leads but Falls Short of an Overall Majority as Coalition Talks Set to Be Tough

Final results give Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc 53 seats, while the bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot has 48 and Arab parties hold a record 19, leaving no side with a parliamentary majority. Coalition negotiations are expected to be complex, amid debate over Arab parties’ role and accusations of election interference that election officials say are unsupported by evidence.

UGM Professor’s Name Also Used Without Permission in Indonesian Lecturer’s Journal Article Challenged by German Professor

A University of Gadjah Mada professor says she was named as a co-author of an Indonesian journal article without being informed or giving her consent. The dispute follows a similar complaint by German professor Ines Mergel, who says she never contributed to the article and has asked its corresponding author to remove her name.

Fisheries Ministry to Prioritise Fishermen’s Needs in 2027 KNMP Development

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is preparing to survey thousands of candidate sites for the 2027 Red and White Fishermen’s Village (KNMP) programme, which aims to develop 1,000 locations. The assessment will focus on local fishing communities’ needs, economic potential, site readiness and market access, with facilities intended to deliver sustainable benefits for fishing households.

Prabowo: Quality Education Requires Major Funding; State Assets Must Not Be Corrupted

President Prabowo Subianto said improving education is central to nation-building and requires substantial public investment, alongside safeguards to prevent the misuse of state resources. At the inauguration of SMA Taruna Nusantara’s Cimahi campus, he also stressed that the school should nurture future leaders from diverse backgrounds, with qualities extending beyond academic ability.

Shell Petrol Station Brand to Remain in Indonesia After Sale to Sefas Group

Shell Indonesia has completed the transfer of its fuel-station business to Sefas Group, with operations moving to PT Isla Energy Indonesia. Under a brand-licensing agreement, Shell branding and access to its fuel products will continue across the network, while Shell retains its lubricants business and manufacturing operations in Indonesia.

Pramono Responds to Proposal to Keep 76 Jakarta Parks Open 24 Hours

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has asked officials to refine a proposal to open 76 parks around the clock, saying he will make a decision after further discussions. The initiative emerged from a mapping exercise that also identified culinary and other tourism destinations, and forms part of the city’s efforts to extend access to public facilities and strengthen its global-city ambitions.

BI South Sulawesi forum secures Rp9.64tn in investment commitments and Rp818.5bn in export deals

The 2026 Sulampua Investment & Business Forum generated 17 letters of intent representing potential investment of Rp9.64 trillion and export commitments worth Rp818.5 billion, including Rp740.6 billion from South Sulawesi. The event also connected 47 MSMEs with 44 buyers from 20 countries and presented 43 regional investment projects, highlighting efforts to attract capital, expand market access and strengthen value-added industries across Sulawesi, Maluku and Papua.

2026 Wamena Food Festival Seeks to Boost Local MSMEs

Jayawijaya District Head Atenius Murip said Wamena’s first food festival, running from 30 October to 8 November 2026, is intended to stimulate local MSME growth and create new business opportunities. Thirty-one MSMEs are participating, with organisers hoping the event will help home-based businesses market their products and gain wider recognition.

Finance Minister says regional bonds must comply with regulations

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says any regional bond issuance must follow applicable rules, and warns that rising interest rates on central government bonds should be considered by prospective issuers. The Finance Ministry is continuing discussions with Jakarta, which is exploring funding options for projects; Governor Pramono Anung says the provincial government will follow the central government’s decision.

Indonesia assesses 1,000 sites for 2027 Red and White Fishing Villages

Indonesia’s Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry is assessing 1,000 potential locations for its 2027 Red and White Fishing Village (KNMP) projects, with survey work expected to continue until mid-December 2026. The assessment will identify community needs, fisheries potential and site readiness so facilities, market access and management plans can be tailored to local conditions; survey visits or proposals do not constitute official site selection.

Two Islamic Boarding Schools Searched After Sukoharjo Pork Noodle Stall Arson; Former Convict Sought

Central Java Police are searching for I, a former terrorism convict suspected of involvement in the arson of a pork noodle stall in Sukoharjo, and have searched two Islamic boarding schools in Sukoharjo and Karanganyar. The investigation followed the arrest of another former convict, ST, who allegedly attacked officers during his capture and identified I as a second suspect.

Woman Gives Birth Aboard Sangkuriang Train Early on Friday

A passenger gave birth to a healthy baby boy aboard the Sangkuriang train near Banjar after experiencing severe contractions and her waters breaking during the journey. KAI staff and fellow passengers assisted, and the mother and baby were taken to hospital; the railway operator also reiterated its travel requirements for pregnant passengers.

31 US Companies Eye Investment in Indonesia: Which Sectors Are They Targeting?

A delegation of 31 US companies, including Boeing, ExxonMobil, Google and Visa, visited Indonesia to discuss investment opportunities and strategic issues ranging from legislation to semiconductors and global supply chains. The government highlighted priority sectors and reported US investment of US$3.4 billion in the first three quarters of 2026, up from about US$3 billion in 2025.

Bandung Police Uncover Cannabis Tea Use and 12kg Haul Allegedly Controlled from Prison

Bandung Police have arrested a 27-year-old man accused of handling cannabis on instructions from a suspected prison-based controller, and seized about 12 kilograms of the drug. Officers also found cannabis being brewed and consumed like tea, prompting a warning about this form of misuse; the investigation is continuing to identify the wider network.

President: Education Is Key to Successful Nation-Building

President Prabowo Subianto said education at every stage of life is fundamental to national development, speaking at the inauguration of SMA Taruna Nusantara’s Cimahi campus. He called for public resources to be protected from corruption to finance quality education, and said access should be open to students regardless of background, with intelligence matched by integrity and moral character.

Riau Islands Labour Agency targets 90% employment rate for vocational graduates

The Riau Islands provincial labour agency aims for 90 per cent of vocational training graduates to find work, with the remainder expected to become entrepreneurs. The target is intended to help address the province’s 6.4 per cent unemployment rate, while training programmes are tailored to sectors such as shipbuilding, manufacturing and hospitality amid new investment, including planned data centre and AI projects.

Komdigi Explains Which Content Is Subject to the Four-Hour Takedown Rule

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs says the four-hour takedown requirement for disinformation and hate speech is governed by criteria and procedures set out across two ministerial decisions, rather than triggering automatic removal. Platforms’ compliance is monitored through the SAMAN system, with sanctions provided for under a separate 2024 decision.

Pramono to Hold Meetings in Every Jakarta District from November

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung will begin holding meetings across all 44 districts in November to hear local concerns and identify obstacles directly. He says the meetings, attended by regional officials and relevant agencies, are intended to give him a fuller picture than relying solely on favourable reports; the first three meetings are planned for next week.

Marking Its 27th Anniversary, Fisheries Ministry Holds Sea Clean-Up at Nizam Zachman Port

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries marked its 27th anniversary with a sea clean-up at Nizam Zachman Ocean Fishing Port and launched the Healthy, Litter-Free Sea (Laut SEBASAH) programme. The ministry aims to cut waste by 40%, prioritising plastic and promoting pyrolysis as a way to turn waste into energy, while calling for the initiative to continue beyond the commemorative event.

Arsenal and Manchester United Interested in Como Defender, but Real Madrid Lead the Race

Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing 21-year-old Como defender Jacobo Ramón, whose market value has risen to €45 million. Real Madrid are in pole position thanks to buy-back clauses allowing them to bring him back for €9 million in summer 2027 or €10 million in 2028; the Spanish club would otherwise retain a 50 per cent share of any sale until summer 2028.

BSI Recognises Agents for Expanding Access to Finance

Bank Syariah Indonesia and Danantara Indonesia have built a network of more than 135,000 agents, reaching remote and border areas where access to branches and ATMs is limited. Transactions through the network reached Rp52.80 trillion by August 2026, while the agents—many of them small-business owners—also gain an additional source of income.

ITS Urges Energy Diversification to Safeguard National Electricity Supply

An ITS lecturer says Indonesia should diversify its power sources, as coal-fired power plants still provide about 60 per cent of national electricity and domestic coal reserves are expected to last only around 30 years. He identifies nuclear power as a possible option, while stressing that technology readiness, fuel supply, financing and long-term costs must be carefully assessed, including for small modular reactors.

Cimahi Taruna Nusantara High School students hope to contribute to Golden Indonesia 2045

Students at Taruna Nusantara High School’s Cimahi campus say its education and character-building will help prepare them to contribute to Indonesia’s 2045 vision. They welcomed President Prabowo Subianto at the campus inauguration and highlighted the school’s academic, physical and leadership development, as well as its facilities.

After Receding, Flooding Returns to Bulak Barat, Depok, Following Heavy Rain

Floodwater has once again made a road in Bulak Barat, Depok, impassable after heavy rain, following a brief period when the water had receded. Residents say the area has suffered flooding for about four years, reportedly because a landslide of waste from Cipayung landfill blocked the river channel.

From Culture to Prosperity: Sukabumi Utara Urban Village Head Wins BSA 2026

Sukabumi Utara Urban Village Head Ali Syahidin has won the prosperous-category award at the 2026 Benyamin S Award, recognising the area’s development of cultural tourism, culinary attractions and community spaces. The Jakarta provincial government says the awards encourage urban villages to help build a clean, inclusive and prosperous global city while preserving local culture.

Indonesian Palm Oil Executives Summoned by Singapore Minister

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani says bilateral investment and business ties with Singapore remain strong despite Singapore’s questioning of executives from 10 plantation and forestry companies over haze prevention. He described the summons as a constructive opportunity to address the environmental problem jointly, while both governments reaffirmed their commitment to expanding investment cooperation.

BGN Says It Is Open to Criticism as DPR Deputy Commission IX Chair Awaits MBG Improvements

DPR Commission IX Deputy Chair Charles Honoris says repeated food-poisoning incidents under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme show that the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) must act on public recommendations, not merely listen to them. He cites nearly 60,000 people affected and calls for a fundamental review of the programme’s centralised kitchen model, while BGN head Sudaryono says the agency is making changes and is not opposed to criticism.

Baznas DKI Sends Emergency Response Team to Help Victims of Haze from Forest and Land Fires

Baznas/Bazis DKI Jakarta has dispatched a health-response team to Palangka Raya to support residents affected by haze from forest and land fires, prioritising children, young children and older people. The 30 October–6 November campaign aims to assist at least 1,500 people, while a fundraising drive seeks Rp3 billion to reach more than 20,000 beneficiaries.

Indonesian Agriculture Adopts Advanced Technology, Including Drones, with Significant Results

The Agriculture Ministry says mechanisation, including drone seeders and its Advanced Agriculture System (PM-AAS), is improving rice yields. Pilot projects planned across 15 provinces in 2026 aim to cover around 2,000 hectares, with reported yields rising from a conventional average of 6.32 tonnes per hectare to more than 10 tonnes, and as high as 13 tonnes in some locations.

Sangu Sampah: Turning Plastic Waste into Pocket Money

The Sangu Sampah programme at SDN 2 Bendorejo in Trenggalek encourages pupils to collect and sort recyclable waste, which is converted into points or pocket money they can save. The initiative combines environmental education with early financial literacy for students across educational levels.

Industry Minister Targets 85% Utilisation to Spur Manufacturing Expansion

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji aims to raise industrial utilisation from 66.13% to 80–85%, arguing that manufacturing growth has recently outpaced national economic growth. Strong investment and export contributions, alongside expanding activity indicators and robust domestic demand, underpin the sector’s resilience and potential for further expansion.

Itera Rector Wins Danantara Innovator Award

Itera Rector Elfahmi has received Danantara’s Applied Research and Industrial Impact Award for work turning Indonesia’s biodiversity into high-value products. He said research-based processing can raise the value of natural materials many times over, reduce reliance on imported research compounds and support commercial innovation tied to Lampung’s leading commodities.

Economist Warns Tax Drive Must Not Burden Businesses

Economist M Rizal Taufikurahman says Indonesia’s 2026 tax target may still be achievable, but cautions that aggressive collection measures could strain businesses and undermine future revenues. He argues that September’s 24.1% tax-revenue growth was partly driven by lower tax refunds, and urges targeted enforcement alongside careful spending, timely government payments and transparent fiscal adjustments if a shortfall emerges.

Mendukbangga: Improving the Nation Must Start with the Family

Population and Family Development Minister Wihaji said national improvement begins with healthy families, citing support for people preparing to marry, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, and young children during the first 1,000 days of life. He called for cooperation with the Indonesian Public Health Association, while a parliamentary commission deputy chair stressed that health must be treated as a foundation of national development and supported across sectors.

AirNav Indonesia showcases aviation navigation innovations in the US

AirNav Indonesia has presented digital, AI-based and satellite-signal monitoring technologies at a US aviation safety and security forum, highlighting efforts to modernise air navigation across Indonesia’s extensive archipelagic airspace. The initiatives include automated NOTAM drafting, real-time GNSS interference monitoring and potential collaboration on remote towers, satellite-based augmentation and precision landing systems.

Prabowo: We Must Not Repeat the Mistakes of Our Predecessors

President Prabowo Subianto urged Indonesians to learn from history, warning that divisions and failures of the past should not be repeated. At the inauguration of SMA Taruna Nusantara’s Cimahi campus, he also stressed unity, respect for diversity and the importance of instilling patriotism and integrity in students.