Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 8 October 2026

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Samsung Electronics Posts Record Operating Profit in Q3 2026

Samsung Electronics reported preliminary operating profit of 107.4 trillion won for the third quarter of 2026, up 782.5% year on year and above market expectations. Revenue and operating margin also reached records, driven by surging demand for AI chipsets; full net-profit and divisional details are due later this month.

Rosan Reports Rp1,010 Trillion in Investment Realisation in First Half of 2026

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani told President Prabowo Subianto that investment realisation reached Rp1,010.6 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 7.2% year on year and supporting more than 1.4 million workers. Downstreaming accounted for 35% of national investment, while three-quarters of investment was located outside Java; Rosan also highlighted the growing industrial contribution of North Maluku and its Rp31.1 trillion trade surplus in 2025.

Askrindo overhauls operations to improve services for MSMEs

State-owned insurer Askrindo is centralising three branch functions—finance and accounting, underwriting, and claims—to make services for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and KUR recipients faster and more consistent. The programme began in early 2025; national implementation of finance and accounting and general-insurance underwriting was under way by September 2026, while centralised BRI KUR claims are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.

90% of MotoGP Tickets Sold as State-Owned Enterprises Body Seeks to Boost Mandalika Tourism Industry

Around 90% of tickets for the 2026 Indonesian MotoGP Grand Prix at Mandalika have been sold ahead of the 9–11 October event. State-Owned Enterprises Body head Dony Oskaria says the race has helped expand tourism infrastructure and activity in the area, supporting Mandalika’s ambition to become a world-class sports tourism destination and an economic driver for West Nusa Tenggara.

Business Matchmaking Sustains Hopes for Kemuning Tea Farmers

A tea business founded by Eko Wuryanto in Kemuning has grown from a modest operation into a processor handling 5–6 tonnes a month and working with 26 local farmers. Bank Indonesia’s mentoring and buyer matchmaking have helped the business expand its products, reseller network and sales, while creating a more reliable market for local tea leaves.

KOI Says Asian Games Results Are a Chance to Improve the Sports Development System

Indonesia won five gold medals at the 2026 Asian Games, exceeding the government’s target of four, but all came from just four sports. Indonesian Olympic Committee chair Raja Sapta Oktohari says the results should prompt a deeper review of athlete development, talent identification and resource priorities, with decisions guided by data and aimed at widening and sustaining elite success.

Sarmuji Sets Target for Industry to Contribute 25% of Indonesia’s GDP—But When?

Industry Minister Sarmuji wants the industrial sector’s contribution to Indonesia’s GDP to rise from about 19% to between 20% and 25%, arguing that industry must grow faster than the national economy. He has not set a timetable, saying the government first needs to improve the industrial ecosystem and assess individual subsectors.

MP calls for stronger healthcare services to address the effects of forest and land fires

Sigit Karyawan Yunianto, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission XII, has urged the government to bolster healthcare services for people affected by forest and land fires, including round-the-clock health posts and oxygen facilities where needed. The Health Ministry says it is monitoring acute respiratory infection cases and has deployed medical supplies, air-quality testing support and reserve health workers to affected areas.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Vows to Ensure Papua’s Special Autonomy Funds Benefit the Public

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk says the ministry is overseeing the governance and distribution of Papua’s Special Autonomy Funds, with assistance for local governments that have yet to meet disbursement requirements. The second disbursement phase, targeting 45 per cent, is under way; authorities also urged local administrations to allocate and use 2026 Additional Infrastructure Funds promptly.

Riau Records Rp1.12 Trillion in Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax Revenue up to September 2026

Riau’s motor vehicle fuel tax revenue reached Rp1.12 trillion by September 2026, up 20.04 per cent year on year, with the increase partly attributed to a rise in registered tax collectors. The provincial government forecasts receipts of Rp1.51 trillion for the full year and plans to strengthen oversight while ensuring businesses pay tax in line with actual fuel sales.

Sleman Regent: Decision on Mataram Military Command land options still pending

Sleman Regency is ready to help provide land for the planned headquarters of Military Regional Command XXVI/Mataram, but the military has yet to make a final decision. The regency has proposed a site in Minggir as an alternative to Sidoluhur and says it may help fund the initial years of rent, while insisting that land-use and village-asset rules be observed.

MPR Deputy Speaker Bambang Pacul on MK Ruling over Gibran: ‘Let’s Take It Easy for Now’

MPR Deputy Speaker Bambang Wuryanto says the legislature should wait for due process following the Constitutional Court’s ruling on a challenge to Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s vice-presidential candidacy. The Court rejected the petition seeking Gibran’s disqualification but referred findings about the absence of documentation of his overseas education to other institutions for follow-up.

DAI Says Evolution of Compulsory Insurance Products Must Remain Relevant to Customers

Indonesian Insurance Council (DAI) chairman Yulius Bhayangkara says insurance innovation must deliver products that match the protection needs of households and businesses. The industry must adapt to technological, industrial, environmental and demographic shifts—including the transition to electric vehicles—while strengthening its business fundamentals, workforce and systems.

Indonesia Has No Shortage of Talent, but Lacks the Courage to Change the System, Says NOC Chief

National Olympic Committee of Indonesia (NOC Indonesia) chief Raja Sapta Oktohari says the country’s five gold medals at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games should prompt a review of its sports development system, rather than simply be celebrated as meeting the target. He called for the factors behind success in the four medal-winning sports to be identified and adapted to broaden Indonesia’s international achievements.

A New Measure of Success for the Security Forces

President Prabowo Subianto has urged senior TNI and Polri officers to judge their institutions not only by their strength and readiness, but by public trust and how quickly they assist citizens. His emphasis comes amid increasingly complex cyber and hybrid threats, prompting changes to training and recruitment that place greater weight on intellectual capability.

UK Scales Back Jerusalem Consulate After Dispute with Israel

Britain has withdrawn some diplomats and their families from its East Jerusalem consulate following an Israeli order to close the mission, while insisting the site will remain open as the UK Mission, Jerusalem. The dispute stems from British trade restrictions and sanctions targeting Israeli settlements and individuals linked to settler violence; London says talks are continuing and reiterates its support for a two-state solution.

PBNU’s First Meeting Discusses Organisational Regulations with Regional Leaders

More than 500 regional and overseas Nahdlatul Ulama leaders joined the new PBNU board’s first meeting to discuss changes to the organisation’s statutes and bylaws adopted at its 35th congress. The revisions standardise leadership elections, require cadre development, strengthen rules on assets and business entities, and bar the organisation’s top leaders from holding or seeking political office.

Jakarta strengthens institutional capacity to drive family-based economic growth

Jakarta’s Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection and Population Control Agency is strengthening UPPKA family business groups to help them overcome barriers such as limited capital, business management skills and digital marketing access. The initiative aims to improve product standards, build partnerships and make the groups sustainable engines of household economic independence; the city had 252 UPPKA groups in 2025.

Prabowo calls for stronger TNI-Polri solidarity amid global challenges

President Prabowo Subianto briefed 800 senior military and police officers on Indonesia’s geopolitical and security position, urging closer coordination between the TNI and Polri. Officials said the meeting was intended to align strategic priorities and guide responses to emerging risks, including cyber, information and hybrid threats.

Education Minister Urges Schools to Strengthen Journalism Education

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti has called for stronger journalism and media-literacy education in schools to broaden young people’s career options and help them assess information critically. The Education Ministry and the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) hope renewed training programmes will equip students to resist disinformation and foster national literacy.

Elon Musk Attacks India’s Wealthy Elite Over Lack of Priority

Elon Musk accused powerful interests in India of blocking Starlink to protect their market position, citing the country’s persistent rural internet-access gap. The Indian government says Starlink is subject to the same licensing and security-review process as its two satellite-communications competitors, and that none has yet received security clearance to proceed to spectrum allocation.

Bamsoet Responds to Constitutional Court Ruling on Gibran’s Diploma

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo said the Constitutional Court’s decision not to hear a challenge concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational qualifications does not alter his position. The court ruled that the applicants lacked legal standing, while stating it found no evidence that Gibran held a high-school-equivalent diploma when he registered as a vice-presidential candidate.

Indonesia can achieve 8% growth through housing, AI and green energy, Hashim says

Presidential Envoy for Energy and Climate Hashim Djojohadikusumo said housing, digital infrastructure and green technology could help Indonesia reach annual economic growth of 8% or more. He highlighted the sector’s links to 185 industries, limited access to affordable internet and plans for 100 gigawatts of solar power, while stressing that growth must be balanced with environmental protection.

Central Java Government to Expand Mangrove Planting Ahead of Giant Sea Wall

The Central Java provincial government and the Java North Coast Management Authority plan to step up mangrove planting in Demak’s Sayung district before construction of the Giant Sea Wall begins. The initiative is intended to strengthen coastal protection while supporting local livelihoods, amid a range of Pantura challenges including erosion, tidal flooding and land subsidence.

Telkomsel Opens Door for NextDev Start-ups to Join Government Programmes

Telkomsel says it may connect start-ups in its NextDev incubator with relevant government development programmes, sharing its evaluation findings with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs. This year’s programme prioritises AI-focused technopreneurs, with 10 finalists set to receive mentoring to validate demand, strengthen their business models and improve operations.

Communications Minister Says Network Frequencies at Mandalika Will Be Secure During MotoGP 2026

Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid says 250 network frequencies have been prepared for the 9–11 October MotoGP event at Mandalika, following checks with organiser Dorna. The measures are intended to handle the expected crowds and ensure uninterrupted global television broadcasts and clear communications for riders and teams.

Deputy Environment Minister Urges Companies to Strengthen Forest and Land Fire Prevention in South Sumatra

Deputy Environment Minister Diaz Faisal Malik Hendropriyono has called on companies in South Sumatra, particularly those operating in fire-prone peatland areas, to strengthen prevention and mitigation efforts. The Indonesian Forest Concession Holders Association says it is ready to support fire-prevention infrastructure, including peatland rewetting, but local coordination and community concerns remain important challenges.

IEA Backs Faster Release of About 100 Million Barrels of Oil Reserves

The International Energy Agency’s members have agreed to accelerate the release of oil reserves pledged in March 2026, bringing around 100 million barrels to market as soon as possible. They also favour prioritising diesel releases amid tight supply, while the IEA says members retain substantial emergency stocks and could release more if needed.

Wayang Jogja Night Carnival 2026 Draws Large Crowds, Leaves One Tonne of Rubbish

The Wayang Jogja Night Carnival, held for Yogyakarta City’s 270th anniversary, attracted thousands of spectators but generated about one tonne of rubbish, mostly non-recyclable items. A 175-person cleaning crew cleared the venue in around 45 minutes, with the city’s environmental agency deploying trucks and three-wheeled vehicles.

A Surprising 11.35% of Indonesians Still Have No Educational Certificate

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data show that the share of Indonesians aged 15 and over with no educational certificate fell from 12.49% in 2022 to 11.35% in 2026, although the pace of decline has slowed. The government is expanding compulsory education to 13 years, including a year of pre-school, but the article cautions that the BPS figures cover a broader population and cannot be directly attributed to the new programme.

Jakarta to use AI to revitalise slum areas

Jakarta plans to revitalise 2.3 kilometres of slum areas in Kampung Bali, Kebon Melati and Kebon Kacang, with completion targeted for 2028. Governor Anung said AI would support planning, implementation and security monitoring, while stressing that the redevelopment must protect residents’ privacy, security and digital inclusion.

State Budget and Danantara to Become Two Engines of Growth

Indonesia plans to combine the state budget (APBN) with Danantara’s reinvestment of state-owned enterprise dividends to support its 6 per cent growth target for 2027. Officials say the approach must be matched by stronger household purchasing power and structural gains in productivity and productive capacity, while keeping the budget deficit within fiscal limits.

House in Army Housing Complex Used for Online Gambling; TNI May Investigate Officers

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) says it may question Army officers as it investigates suspected online gambling operations at a house in the Cijantung Army Housing Complex in East Jakarta. Eleven civilians have been detained and investigators seized computers, mobile phones and identity cards; the TNI says sanctions will follow if wrongdoing is proven.

Eddy Soeparno Says US$1 Billion Is Ready for Renewable Energy, but One Condition Must Be Met

Eddy Soeparno says investors have identified around US$1 billion in potential funding for Indonesian renewable-energy projects with a combined capacity of about 1.2 GW. He argues that turning this interest into operational projects depends on faster execution, more consistent policies and legal certainty, and investment terms that preserve project viability.

Timeline of Online Gambling Den Uncovered in Indonesian Army Housing Complex

The Indonesian Army uncovered a suspected online gambling operation at a house in its Cijantung housing complex after residents reported unusual activity. Eleven civilian suspects were detained and equipment seized, while the Army says investigations are continuing and any soldiers found involved will face action under applicable rules.

Industry Minister Sarmuji Calls for Public Service Days to Be Held Twice a Week

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji has asked the ministry to expand its weekly Public Service Day from once to twice a week, aiming to shorten queues for consultations with businesses and industry players. He said faster, more efficient services are essential as companies face intensifying competition and the government must keep pace with business needs.

Bandung City’s DPKP Maintains Trees Year-Round, Continuing Pruning and Renewal

Bandung City’s Housing and Settlement Areas Agency says routine tree pruning and safety work takes place throughout the year, not only before the rainy season. With urban planting space becoming increasingly scarce, the agency is focusing more on replacing and renewing trees, while pruning or removing those that could pose hazards.

Why Is Trump Urging China to Mend Ties with Japan?

Donald Trump reportedly urged Xi Jinping to repair relations with Japan and lift restrictions on exports, including rare earths, arguing that the measures threaten US industries and breach the US-China trade truce. Xi did not agree to link the dispute to US-China relations, while tensions continue over Japan’s Taiwan policy and Beijing has rejected Tokyo’s request for a summit between the two leaders.

Anthrax Cases Reported in Mulusan, Gunungkidul, Following Brandu Tradition

Gunungkidul officials say a resident tested positive for anthrax after villagers slaughtered and shared a goat that had died suddenly, a practice known locally as brandu. Soil tests were positive, and authorities have completed control measures; officials urge livestock owners to report sudden animal deaths so they can receive compensation under a 2025 regent’s regulation.

Jokowi Reveals Details of Meeting with Prabowo in Kertanegara

Former president Joko Widodo said his closed-door meeting with President Prabowo Subianto covered football, the economy and national politics, but not the Constitutional Court’s ruling concerning Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. Jokowi described discussion of the 2029 election as premature, urging politicians and government officials to focus on serving the public.

Netsafe: 8% of New Zealanders Have Experienced Sextortion

Netsafe research found that 8% of New Zealanders have personally experienced sextortion and 13% know someone who has, with 35% of victims reporting moderate to severe effects on their mental wellbeing. In response, Netsafe and Ignite Aotearoa have launched a pilot offering free counselling to victims of serious online crime, amid a rising number of reports of technology-facilitated abuse.

JKN Claims Reach Rp17.35 Trillion, with Heart Disease Among the Costliest Conditions, BPJS Says

BPJS Kesehatan’s National Health Insurance (JKN) programme recorded Rp191.33 trillion in claims in 2025, including Rp17.35 trillion for heart disease across nearly 30 million cases. Prudential Indonesia’s chief actuary says the figures underline the need for healthy habits, regular check-ups and financial preparation, while urging policyholders to understand their insurance benefits and terms.

Audit Board Finds Problems with Education Funds in 288 Local Governments

Indonesia’s Audit Board (BPK) found that education operational funds in 288 local governments were not managed fully in accordance with regulations, as part of broader financial issues totalling Rp49.28 trillion. Its review also identified weaknesses in local health-insurance contribution data and the collection of land and building acquisition taxes, and recommended repayments alongside improvements to financial governance.

Strong Financial Performance Earns Bank Mandiri Taspen State-Owned Enterprise Award

Bank Mandiri Taspen has received the Yearly Excellent Performance State-Owned Enterprise Subsidiary 2026 award, based on its 2025 financial performance assessment by The Asian Post. The recognition highlights the bank’s results during 2025 and, according to the company, is an impetus to sustain growth and continuous improvement.

Amran Considers New Rules to Stop Rubber Plantations Being Replaced by Oil Palm

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman says the government may formulate new support measures as farmers increasingly replace rubber with oil palm, threatening domestic rubber supplies. Rubber growers say ageing, low-yield plantations and inadequate support are driving the shift, and warn that without replanting and assistance the commodity could be at risk within a decade.

Four Indonesian Air Force Pilots Complete Solo Flights in Rafale

Four fighter pilots from the Indonesian Air Force’s 12th Squadron have completed solo flights in Rafale aircraft after training in France and simulator instruction in Indonesia. The qualification formally certifies them to fly the aircraft and is expected to strengthen the squadron’s operational readiness and the Air Force’s air-defence mission.

Corporate Defendant in Rp 1 Trillion Fictitious Investment Case Ordered to Pay Rp 33 Billion

PT Insight Investments Management has been convicted of corruption in a fictitious investment case in which state losses were assessed at Rp 1 trillion. The company was ordered to pay a Rp 650 million fine and Rp 33.11 billion in compensation after credit for funds already transferred to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK); the sentence is substantially below the prosecutors’ demand.

Masked Thieves Caught on Camera Stealing Safe and Phones from Depok Grocery Shop

Police have arrested three suspects over a burglary at a grocery shop in Sawangan, Depok, in which a safe containing Rp5 million and three mobile phones were stolen. The suspects, including two alleged burglars and a receiver of stolen goods, face up to seven years in prison under Indonesia’s Criminal Code.

Report: Pentagon Orders Preparations for Large-Scale Military Operations in Iran

The Pentagon has reportedly instructed US Central Command to complete preparations for a possible resumption of large-scale military operations in Iran, although President Donald Trump has not set a date or made a final decision. Sources say strikes could target energy, infrastructure and nuclear facilities, with the timing potentially influenced by US and Israeli elections; negotiations between Washington and Tehran remain stalled.

BSI’s E-Channel Services Return to Normal; Bank Urges Customers to Keep Data Confidential

Bank Syariah Indonesia says all its electronic-channel services are back to normal after customers reported access and transaction problems with its BYOND digital banking app. The bank apologised for the disruption and urged customers not to disclose PINs, one-time passwords or passwords, while remaining alert to scams impersonating BSI.

Regulatory Changes Put Foreign Investors on Alert, with Legal Certainty a Key Concern

Foreign investment and reinvestment are helping drive Indonesia’s downstreaming agenda, adding value to exports and supporting a larger trade surplus. However, officials and investors face challenges when regulatory changes alter previously anticipated investment conditions, including limits on foreign share ownership; Indonesia’s extensive list of reservations has also drawn complaints from other countries in investment negotiations.

Rupiah Weakens Amid Threat of US Military Strikes on Iran

The rupiah fell against the US dollar as renewed threats of US military action against Iran pushed up the dollar index, US Treasury yields and global crude oil prices. A decline in Indonesia’s consumer confidence index also weighed on the currency, while Bank Indonesia’s JISDOR reference rate weakened to Rp17,890 per US dollar.

Indonesia’s Healthcare Market Continues to Grow, with Government as Its Biggest Buyer

Indonesia’s healthcare spending reached Rp664 trillion in 2025, up 17.7% from 2020, with the government the sector’s largest purchaser, largely through the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. Despite strong domestic demand and growing exports, the industry remains reliant on imported pharmaceutical ingredients and medical products; the government is seeking to expand research, manufacturing capacity and market access for local producers.

Balikpapan Immigration Deports Nine Foreigners for Rule Violations

Balikpapan Immigration Office deported nine foreigners between January 2026 and October for violating residence permit rules, including overstaying and using permits for activities other than those declared. The office says it monitors foreign nationals through document checks and field inspections, and has asked residents to report suspected violations amid staffing constraints.

Starbucks to Close 250 North American Stores in Business Restructuring

Starbucks plans to close about 250 North American stores as part of its Back to Starbucks transformation, citing customer-experience shortcomings and weak financial prospects, while redirecting investment towards stronger locations. The restructuring is expected to cost US$300 million and comes alongside improved comparable sales, a reduced store-opening forecast and new shop designs; the closures do not apply to Indonesia.

Bandung Raya Faces Potential Waste Crisis as Sarimukti Landfill Nears Capacity at End of 2026

West Java officials warn that the Sarimukti landfill is expected to reach capacity by the end of 2026, while Greater Bandung generates about 5,000 tonnes of waste a day. The provincial government plans to compact waste in Zone 5 and build gravity walls to extend the site’s operating life, using technical assessments by ITB to guide the work safely.

Anti-Drone Task Force Begins Deployment at Bukit 360 Mandalika

An Indonesian National Police anti-drone task force has begun deploying at Bukit 360 Mandalika to prevent unauthorised drones from entering the circuit during the 2026 MotoGP. The operation will use signal jamming and return-to-home measures to protect riders, officials and spectators, while authorities have urged the public not to fly drones without permission from 9 to 11 October.

BKPM: Indonesia’s Investment in H1 2026 Employs 1.4 Million Workers

Indonesia recorded Rp1,010.6 trillion in investment during the first half of 2026, creating 1,448,000 jobs, according to the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry/BKPM. The ministry said these jobs came from realised private-sector investment projects and that direct investment employment has grown by an average of 22.4 per cent over the past five years.

RTS-Link launch pushed back to mid-February to allow smooth operations, says Anthony Loke

Malaysia’s transport minister Anthony Loke said the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link is expected to begin service around mid-February 2027, allowing time for independent safety assessments and final regulatory approvals. Construction remains on schedule for completion by the end of December, while shuttle-bus links and other traffic measures are being prepared for the service’s launch.

Health Ministry Director-General Outlines Transformation of Indonesia’s Healthcare System

The Health Ministry is planning fundamental changes to healthcare delivery, including referrals based on hospitals’ clinical capabilities, new inpatient room standards and the use of AI to support—not replace—doctors. It also plans to regulate emerging medical technologies, bring in foreign doctors for a maximum of two years to transfer expertise, and encourage investment to expand healthcare capacity and access.

UBSI Visual Communication Design Students Win Second Place in Infographic Competition with Focus on Farmer Regeneration

Three students from Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika’s Slipi campus won second place in the GANTARI 2026 Infographic Competition, using their entry to highlight the importance of farmer regeneration for Indonesia’s food self-sufficiency. Their achievement illustrates how visual communication can help make complex issues such as food security and the role of young farmers accessible to a wider audience.

Komnas HAM sets out six measures to improve free meals programme

Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights has recommended six measures to improve governance of the free nutritious meals programme, including better targeting of vulnerable groups, stronger oversight and food-safety controls, protections for kitchen workers, and public participation. It has submitted the proposals to the National Nutrition Agency, while also calling for prompt action on programme targets, food poisoning, victim recovery, law enforcement and regulatory revision.

Deputy Minister Urges Graduates of National Leadership Training to Take on Strategic Bureaucratic Responsibilities

Deputy Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Purwadi Arianto urged graduates of the National Leadership Training Level I to turn their learning into accountable, cross-sector action that benefits the public. The 42 graduates completed a programme featuring a new 2026 curriculum designed to strengthen their ability to translate national development priorities into coordinated policy.

Rp15 Quadrillion in Losses from Under-invoicing? Expert Calls for Verification

A claim that Indonesia may have lost US$908 billion, or about Rp15 quadrillion, through alleged export under-invoicing and transfer pricing should be treated as an initial estimate rather than a confirmed state loss, says an analyst. He says the trade-data gap must be verified against its sources, methodology, commodities, trading partners and timeframe before its fiscal impact can be established.

West Aceh regency trains 61 local young people in Japanese

West Aceh Regency is providing 61 young people with 75 days of Japanese-language, cultural and preparedness training before they leave for internships and work in Japan. The programme is intended to reduce local unemployment, with officials stressing that recruitment will use official channels to protect workers; the regency is also considering expanding overseas job placements next year.

Presidential Palace Welcomes 200 Students from Three Schools

Two hundred students from schools in Sukabumi, Purwokerto and Jakarta visited the Jakarta Presidential Palace to learn about its history, role in government and significance as a national symbol. The school programme is intended to extend learning beyond the classroom and strengthen students’ historical awareness and patriotism; it forms part of the government’s broader commitment to improving human resources and education.

Former President and First Lady to Face Torture Charges

US prosecutors in New York are expected to bring new criminal charges against former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, over the alleged torture of US citizens detained during his administration. The case adds to the couple’s existing legal troubles, while former detainees have described severe abuse in Venezuelan custody.

Tourism Ministry targets halal certification for MSME products in 1,500 tourist villages

The Tourism Ministry aims to secure halal certification this year for products made by micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in 1,500 tourist villages. By 31 July 2026, 31,729 certificates had been issued across 1,120 villages in 34 provinces, while the ministry says it is working to address gaps in business awareness, legal documentation and infrastructure ahead of mandatory halal requirements.

Indonesia sees critical minerals boosting domestic AI industry

Communications and Digital Affairs Deputy Minister Nezar Patria said Indonesia’s nickel and copper resources could help underpin AI infrastructure and strengthen the country’s place in global technology supply chains. He stressed that mineral downstreaming must deliver greater domestic value, jobs and capabilities while meeting environmental, labour and community standards, alongside investment in the energy and digital infrastructure needed for AI.

15 fastest-growing economies in Asia in 2026, ranked

Taiwan is forecast to lead Asia’s growth in 2026 at 11.0%, with Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam next, while developing economies in Asia and the Pacific are expected to expand by 5.0% overall. Indonesia is projected to grow by 5.2%, supported by domestic consumption, although higher energy costs, geopolitical tensions, financial conditions and climate disruptions pose risks to the region’s outlook.

Unpad Faculty of Law Highlights AI and Cyber Notary Developments in Notarial Studies

A new book chapter published by the Padjadjaran University Notariat Alumni Association examines how artificial intelligence and cyber-notary technology are reshaping notarial practice and legal education. Academics and alumni say the volume can inform teaching and future policy discussions, including possible updates to regulations governing notaries and land deed officials.

Finance Minister says Danantara dividends will not feature in 2026 and 2027 budgets

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara said Danantara dividend revenue has not been included in the 2026 or 2027 state budget projections, despite earlier expectations that the agency could remit around Rp120 trillion. He said the state investment agency’s contribution should instead be assessed through its strategic investments, including efforts to stimulate domestic activity, attract private-sector partners and create jobs.

BRAN Chief Meets Land Bank Leaders to Strengthen Agrarian Reform Cooperation

National Agrarian Reform Agency (BRAN) chief Dedi Prasetyo met Land Bank officials to discuss cooperation on land provision, access arrangements and community empowerment in support of agrarian reform. The agency’s first 100-day priorities include establishing its institutional foundations, addressing priority agrarian cases and strengthening data and coordination across government and other stakeholders.

Asita Targets Rp20 Billion in Transactions at Rinjani Travel Mart 2026

Asita West Nusa Tenggara expects the 2026 Rinjani Travel Mart to generate up to Rp20 billion in sales of tourism packages, surpassing last year’s Rp15 billion. The event will bring together 100 domestic and international buyers and sellers, promoting destinations across Lombok and Sumbawa and supporting sustainable tourism and regional economic growth.

PBNU Briefs More Than 500 Regional Officials on New Bylaws

Nahdlatul Ulama’s central board has briefed more than 500 regional and overseas branch leaders on revised statutes adopted at its 35th Congress. The changes standardise leadership elections, strengthen rules on governance and internal disputes, and prohibit the organisation’s top leaders from holding political office, as around 130 local boards approach the end of their terms.

New measles case reported in New Zealand’s capital

New Zealand health authorities have confirmed a measles case in Wellington, believed to be linked to international travel. Public health officials are tracing close contacts and locations visited by the patient, while urging vigilance and vaccination to limit the risk of further spread.

Indonesia Successfully Pushes for Resolution on Children’s Access to Nutrition at UN Human Rights Council

Indonesia secured unanimous adoption at the UN Human Rights Council of a resolution promoting equal access to adequate nutritious food for children, supported by more than 80 countries. The resolution highlights school meals, nutrition for pregnant and breastfeeding women, protection in emergencies and international support for developing countries, marking the first Council resolution focused specifically on children’s access to nutritious food.

Former KPU Chief Hasyim Says Education Ministry Is Responsible for Gibran Diploma Controversy

Former KPU chairman Hasyim Asy’ari says the Education and Culture Ministry bears responsibility for issuing the equivalency certificate relied on during Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s 2024 vice-presidential candidacy. His comments follow a Constitutional Court ruling that it had found no convincing evidence that Gibran held a senior secondary school or equivalent diploma.

Israel Orders UK Consulate in East Jerusalem to Close; London Refuses

The UK says its consulate in occupied East Jerusalem will remain open under the name UK Mission, Jerusalem, despite an Israeli closure order linked to British sanctions targeting illegal Israeli settlements. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said Britain does not recognise Israel’s legal authority to close the nearly 200-year-old consulate, and reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution.

PMI Jakarta Fundraising Sparks Controversy; Pramono Responds

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says donations to the Indonesian Red Cross’s annual fundraising campaign must be entirely voluntary, following reports of a circular specifying contributions by rank for provincial government staff. Jakarta PMI chair Beky Mardani denies issuing a fixed-amount demand and says he will investigate the circulated document; the campaign is authorised and its proceeds are subject to a public audit.

Gradiant Expands Operations in India with New Leadership, Five Contract Wins and 40% Team Growth

Water technology provider Gradiant has appointed Hari Prasad to lead its Indian business, alongside five new engineering, procurement and construction contracts across semiconductor, PCB and solar manufacturing. The company plans to grow its Indian workforce by more than 40% this year as demand rises for water systems supporting the country’s AI-related manufacturing expansion.

Only 55% of Villages Served by Community Police Officers; Deputy Police Chief Outlines Strategy to Strengthen Police Presence

Indonesia’s police force has 40,924 Bhabinkamtibmas officers, covering about 55% of the country’s 83,762 villages, and plans to focus recruitment on strengthening police services at local level. The force also cited patrol operations and its 110 call centre, which has handled 93.1% of recorded interactions, as part of efforts to improve public access and response.

Deputy Coordinating Minister: Fertiliser Governance Reform Supports Self-Sufficiency

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said streamlining subsidised fertiliser rules from 145 regulations to three, alongside a 20 per cent cut in retail price ceilings, would support Indonesia’s food self-sufficiency. The government is also seeking to protect at least 87 per cent of designated paddy fields, as part of a broader effort to secure the five foundations of agriculture.

Public Works Ministry acts to protect Lampung rice fields from seawater intrusion

The Public Works Ministry is accelerating measures to counter seawater intrusion threatening 8,000 hectares of farmland in the Pisang Irrigation Area in South Lampung. Work includes rehabilitating and clearing canals, repairing water-control gates and pumping river water to improve irrigation supplies and safeguard harvests.

Pertamina Reveals Cause of Queues at Petrol Stations in Denpasar and South Kuta

Pertamina says queues at petrol stations in Bali followed a delay in Pertalite deliveries, with supplies arriving on 7 October and another shipment expected on 11 October. Distribution has also been affected by a fuel tanker ship not yet docking at the Sanggaran depot and reported quota reductions of around 30–40 per cent at stations serving South Kuta.

Parole Revoked, Convicted Sex Offender Mas Bechi Returned to Prison and Placed in Special Cell

Mochamad Subchi Azal Tsani, known as Bechi, has returned to Malang Class I Prison after authorities revoked his parole, and is being held separately for the time being. The prison says the East Java regional corrections office will determine details of the remaining sentence; Bechi had been granted parole in August 2025.

Appeal ruling changes sentences; West Nusa Tenggara Prosecutor’s Office awaits MXGP defendants’ next move

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor’s Office is awaiting the three defendants’ decision on whether to appeal further after the provincial High Court changed the sentences in a corruption case involving land for the Samota MXGP circuit. Two private-sector appraisers were sentenced to two years in prison, while former Sumbawa land agency chief Subhan’s sentence was increased to two years and three months; the alleged state loss was about Rp6.7 billion.

Eddy Soeparno: Investment Certainty Is Key to Accelerating Indonesia’s Energy Transition

Eddy Soeparno says Indonesia must provide greater investment certainty to turn strong investor interest into viable renewable-energy projects, citing roughly US$1 billion in potential financing for projects totalling 1.2 GW. He called for faster project execution, consistent policies and legal frameworks, and competitive fiscal and administrative conditions, alongside legislation to support the energy transition.

Dozens of West Java Hospitals Agree to Cooperate to Strengthen Health Protection

Sixty-five regional public hospitals in West Java, alongside central government and private hospitals, have agreed to work together to improve residents’ access to healthcare. Governor Dedi Mulyadi said the arrangement should prevent administrative hurdles or inability to pay, including issues with BPJS Health membership, from leaving people without care, and called for local governments to identify residents’ needs earlier.

BPJS Kesehatan Payakumbuh Deploys JKN Ambassadors to Expand Service Education

BPJS Kesehatan’s Payakumbuh branch has deployed volunteers in two villages to explain the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme and help residents navigate official service channels. The initiative comes as authorities seek to sustain or achieve universal coverage, with participation and active-member rates varying across the three districts in the branch’s area.

Gradiant expands India operations with new leadership and five contract wins

Water technology company Gradiant has appointed Hari Prasad as managing director for India after securing five contracts across semiconductors, electronics and clean energy, including repeat work for a global chipmaker. The company says its India team has grown by 40% and that orders are set to more than double this year, reflecting rising demand for water treatment and zero-liquid-discharge systems as manufacturing capacity expands.

Indonesian Fashion Businesses Build Connections with Türkiye’s Community

Indonesian fashion brand Buttonscarves is seeking to establish stronger ties with Türkiye’s fashion and creative communities through local industry events. Its executives say understanding local culture and building personal relationships are central to entering the market, following the brand’s participation in two Istanbul events in September 2026.

Trump Fears Mohammed El-Sayed Could Win in Michigan, Says Democratic Candidate Wants to Stir Up Jihad

Donald Trump has attacked Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, calling him a radical extremist and terrorist sympathiser while urging Michigan voters to back Republican Mike Rogers. Recent polling reportedly puts El-Sayed ahead, though the race remains close, with the Council on American-Islamic Relations describing Trump’s use of his full name as a political tactic.

Pertamina Puts Petrol Stations on Standby Ahead of the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia

Pertamina Patra Niaga has prepared seven petrol stations across Central Lombok, West Lombok and Mataram to serve visitors and residents travelling to the Mandalika circuit for the 2026 Grand Prix. The company will also increase fuel supplies by 20–30% along tourist routes and roads to the circuit, backed by distribution infrastructure in West Nusa Tenggara.

Government Urged to Ensure Protection for Older Women

Indonesia’s National Commission on Violence Against Women has called on the government to protect older women’s rights and guarantee they can live safely, independently and with dignity. It recorded 213 cases of gender-based violence against older women in 2025, highlighting economic and psychological neglect and barriers to reporting, while raising concerns about conditions in care homes in Bandung.

IPB University’s LPA2I Trains 30 Start-ups to Calculate Business Valuations

IPB University’s Agromaritime Development and Innopreneurship Acceleration Institute (LPA2I) has trained 30 start-ups to calculate their business valuations and prepare valuation documents. The institute says these documents can help founders make strategic decisions, plan growth and engage with potential investors and partners.

Jakarta Council Panel Flags Lack of Dedicated Depots for Waste Trucks

A special committee of Jakarta’s regional council says the city’s 1,700 waste-collection vehicles have no dedicated parking depot, highlighting gaps in the infrastructure supporting rubbish collection. The panel is also examining changes to national waste-to-energy policy and possible revisions to Jakarta’s waste-management regulations, and has sought a six-month extension to complete its work.

Drinking Water Scheme in Surakarta Reduces E. coli and Stunting Risks

A community water-supply scheme in Margorejo, Surakarta, is providing piped water directly to homes amid widespread E. coli contamination in shallow wells and barriers to extending regular networks. The Master Meter system has served 50 households over the past year, supporting safer water access and local efforts to reduce stunting, with subsidised tariffs of Rp2,850 per cubic metre.

National Human Rights Commission: BGN Pledges to Follow Up on Recommendations on Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has pledged to act on findings and recommendations from the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) concerning the governance of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Proposed steps include targeting the programme more closely at vulnerable groups, extending social security coverage to workers and volunteers, strengthening local-government oversight and ensuring support for people affected by food poisoning; Komnas HAM also highlighted hygiene, wastewater and labour-protection shortcomings.

Hajj costs and the state’s role

Indonesia has set the average cost of organising the 2027 Hajj at Rp98.47 million per pilgrim, up by about Rp11.06 million, but pilgrims’ share will account for 55.5 per cent of the total. President Prabowo Subianto is also subsidising around Rp3 million per person, leaving an average balance of Rp23.05 million to be paid after the initial deposit and account benefits are deducted.

Transport Minister Outlines Newly Issued Presidential Regulation on Ride-Hailing, Which Goes Beyond an 8% Commission Cap

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi says Presidential Regulation No. 27/2026 gives ride-hailing drivers greater certainty, including a cap of 8% on app service fees. It also sets out provisions for partnership agreements, transparent fee information, data protection, algorithmic systems, complaints procedures and social-security cover.

Suspect in Fatal Assault Arrested in South Central Timor

Police in East Nusa Tenggara have arrested a 23-year-old man suspected of committing a fatal assault in Tasikmalaya, West Java. He was found at a family home in South Central Timor and will be handed over to Tasikmalaya City Police for further legal proceedings, highlighting inter-regional police cooperation.

East Kalimantan Governor Urges ITK to Strengthen Its Contribution to IKN Development

East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas’ud called on the Kalimantan Institute of Technology (ITK) to expand its contribution to regional development and the growth of the new capital, Nusantara (IKN), through research, innovation and practical solutions. He also urged cooperation among the provincial government, universities and students to ensure the success of the Gratispol education programme as a long-term investment in the region’s human resources.

Higher Education Minister Urges Students to Think in Solutions to Advance Indonesia

Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto urged student leaders to strengthen their analytical and leadership skills and use evidence to identify ways to address Indonesia’s challenges. He cited rising GDP alongside an increase in poor and vulnerable people and a shrinking middle class, arguing that economic growth has not benefited most Indonesians.

Indonesian investors rise by 1 million despite 7% stock market slump

Indonesia’s capital-market investor base grew by 1.03 million in September to 32.17 million, even as the Jakarta Composite Index fell 6.96% that month and foreign investors continued to sell shares. The article outlines new trading rules, the concentration of assets among older investors, and upcoming central-bank and MSCI decisions that could shape market volatility.

Applications Open for New Garuda Excellence Senior High School, with Hundreds of Scholarships Available

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has opened online applications for the 2027/2028 intake at the new Garuda Excellence Senior High School, with full scholarships planned for selected students. Applicants must meet age, school-year and academic requirements, with additional routes for STEM achievements and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Surabaya City Council Backs Equal Distribution of Education Grants to Islamic Boarding Schools

Surabaya is considering extending its regional education operating grants (Bopda) to around 117 Islamic boarding schools, aiming to give their pupils support on an equal footing with students in formal schools. A city councillor supports the move but says a clear legal basis, accurate targeting and sound financial management must be established before funds are disbursed.

Online Taxi Driver Robbed by Passenger in Pamulang; Car Stolen

An online taxi driver was attacked and robbed by a passenger in Pamulang, South Tangerang, in the early hours of 5 October. The assailant allegedly strangled and stabbed the driver before fleeing with his Toyota Calya; police are investigating.

Dony Oskaria: Danantara to Make Fundamental Changes to SOE Management

Danantara is restructuring 1,074 state-owned companies, aiming to reduce the group to about 200 stronger entities through liquidation, divestment, mergers and internal consolidation. COO Dony Oskaria also outlined governance reforms and new investment controls, with the transformation intended to help deliver at least Rp360 trillion in profits in 2026.

Singapore Records the World’s Worst Air Pollution Levels

Air quality in Singapore deteriorated as haze from forest and land fires in Sumatra spread across the region, pushing 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index readings into the unhealthy range. The pollution comes just before the Singapore Grand Prix, whose organisers say they are monitoring visibility, public health and circuit operations in consultation with authorities.

As Birth Rates Continue to Fall, Estonia Considers Compulsory Military Service for Women

Estonia is considering extending compulsory military service to women as falling birth rates threaten its future conscription targets. The country aims to recruit 4,100 conscripts from next year, but projections suggest targets for 2035–2040 could be difficult to meet by relying only on young men.

KPK summons 12 private-sector figures and a civil servant in Syah Afandin case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned 12 people from the private sector and a Langkat regency civil servant as witnesses in its bribery investigation involving suspended regent Syah Afandin. The case concerns alleged payments tied to 85 local government projects, while investigators are also probing suspected gratification worth up to Rp3.5 billion.

Unmuh Jember Legal Expert Raises Concerns over Restorative Justice in Drug Case Involving Regional Councillors

A legal expert at Muhammadiyah University of Jember says police must apply restorative justice cautiously in a drug-use case involving eight people, including three regional councillors. She warns that low quantities of seized drugs do not automatically qualify a case for restorative justice, and says the suspects’ legal status and the impact on public trust must be assessed objectively.

Ministry and BPOM partner to ensure fish quality for free meal programme

Indonesia’s Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry and BPOM will coordinate inspections, laboratory testing and food-safety support for fishery products supplied to the free meal programme. The partnership also aims to align fish production with programme demand and help fisheries MSMEs improve competitiveness and access export markets.

Mataram Souvenir Centres Ready to Welcome MotoGP Tourists

Businesses at Mataram’s souvenir centres say they are ready to serve local and international visitors attending the 2026 MotoGP. Hotel occupancy is also rising, with rates at three- and four-star hotels exceeding 85 per cent, signalling strong tourism demand ahead of the event on 9–11 October.

Survives Failed Lethal Injection, Christa Pike Now Has Pneumonia

Christa Pike, who survived two attempts to execute her by lethal injection in Tennessee, has developed pneumonia and is experiencing blood clots, difficulty swallowing and impaired movement. Her lawyer says doctors had diagnosed her as brain-dead and were preparing to withdraw life support before she regained consciousness and began speaking, an extraordinary recovery with no clear explanation.

Malaysia and Myanmar Discuss Refugee Repatriation at Putrajaya Meeting

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing discussed the voluntary, safe and dignified return of Myanmar refugees during a meeting in Putrajaya. Malaysia says 10,493 people have been repatriated so far, with Myanmar ready to accept another 3,000 to 4,000; Anwar said no Rohingya refugees have yet been returned.

Danantara Plans Merger of 23 Industrial Estates, Aiming to Become Southeast Asia’s Largest

Danantara is preparing to consolidate 23 industrial-estate companies under PT Kawasan Industri Indonesia, targeting management of about 35,000 hectares and an announcement on 5 November 2026. The merger is part of a broader shift away from relying on land sales towards an integrated business model offering infrastructure and investor services, with the aim of attracting investment and creating jobs.

PKS’s Position on MK Ruling Over Gibran’s Diploma: DPR Can Review It Within Its Remit, Says Pipin Sopian

PKS says it respects the Constitutional Court’s ruling on Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational qualifications, while arguing that the House of Representatives may examine the matter within its constitutional role. Party official Pipin Sopian also stresses the high ethical and constitutional standards expected of the president and vice-president, and calls for any follow-up to remain within the constitutional framework.

Man Accused of Ordering 2,000 Counterfeit Banknotes and Using Them to Buy Cakes and Fried Chicken at a Market

A man has been charged with circulating counterfeit Rp100,000 notes at Mengwi Market in Bali after allegedly ordering 2,000 notes online for Rp20 million. Police seized 1,299 counterfeit notes, and a Bank Indonesia expert confirmed they were fake, citing repeated serial numbers; the case is being prosecuted under Indonesia’s 2023 Criminal Code.

HSC Shares Vulnerable to Price Manipulation, OJK Steps Up Monitoring

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says a high shareholding concentration (HSC) designation does not itself imply a breach, but actively traded HSC shares will face further scrutiny for possible coordinated trading or price manipulation. The regulator is urging issuers to increase public shareholdings, while the Indonesia Stock Exchange has excluded HSC shares from its main indices; Bank of India Indonesia was recently added to the list after 99.95% of its shares were found to be held by a limited number of shareholders.

At Risk of Being Manipulated, OJK Keeps a Close Eye on Highly Concentrated Shares

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says shares on its High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) list will not be sanctioned simply for having concentrated ownership, but actively traded stocks will face further scrutiny for possible coordinated trading or price manipulation. OJK is urging issuers to increase public ownership, while the Indonesia Stock Exchange has excluded HSC stocks from its main indices; Bank of India Indonesia was recently added to the list after 99.95% of its shares were found to be held by a limited number of shareholders.

Health Minister Highlights Major Business Opportunities Behind Free Health Check Programme

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin says Indonesia’s Free Health Check (CKG) programme could spur substantial investment as it reaches hundreds of millions of people and increases demand for healthcare products and services. With annual national health spending currently at about Rp641 trillion, he believes it could rise to Rp1,200 trillion if health outcomes improve, while the government plans to promote price transparency and competition.

KPK Summons Kuansing DPRD Speaker Again as Witness in Regent Suhardiman Bribery Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has again summoned Kuantan Singingi DPRD Speaker Juprizal as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving inactive Regent Suhardiman Amby. Ten witnesses are scheduled to be questioned, as investigators pursue allegations that Suhardiman received a Toyota Land Cruiser in exchange for appointing Zulkarnain as regional secretary.

Prabowo launches Indonesia’s first electric vehicle battery export

President Prabowo Subianto has launched Indonesia’s first electric vehicle battery export shipment in Central Halmahera, presenting it as evidence that the country’s natural-resource downstreaming policy is advancing. The event formed part of a Rp180 trillion (US$10.2 billion) programme at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, which also saw the commercialisation of four projects and the groundbreaking of seven more.

Kemayoran 1 Nutrition Service Unit Reviews Free Nutritious Meals Programme After a Year

SPPG Kemayoran 1 in Central Jakarta has reviewed and upgraded its facilities and operational processes to maintain food safety and service quality in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. It says the improvements have enabled it to sustain production of about 2,700 meals a day, while feedback from schools and beneficiaries is being used to refine menus and distribution.

Education Ministry and PWI Join Forces to Strengthen Education and Journalism Literacy

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is working with the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) to strengthen education and journalism literacy, particularly in schools. Minister Abdul Mu’ti suggested journalism could become an extracurricular activity and urged media organisations to encourage students to consider journalism, while PWI chief Akhmad Munir highlighted opportunities to improve literacy and writing skills among teachers nationwide.

Rosan: Nickel Downstreaming Projects Account for Half of North Maluku’s Economy

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani says nickel and mineral processing contributes nearly half of North Maluku’s regional GDP, transforming the province from a raw-mining area into an industrial centre. The sector also helped generate a trade surplus of Rp31.1 trillion in 2025, while the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park has attracted billions of dollars in investment and employs 117,000 people.

Prabowo Jokes with Newly Appointed Coordinating Minister Sugiono: Want to Be Foreign Minister Again?

President Prabowo Subianto joked with Sugiono, newly appointed Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, during an event in North Maluku, asking whether he wanted to return to his previous role as foreign minister. Prabowo also teased National Economic Council chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan about their former commander-subordinate relationship, drawing laughter from ministers present.

Palestinian Electoral Commission Ready to Hold Parliamentary Election in Gaza

The Palestinian Central Elections Commission says it is prepared to organise a parliamentary election in Gaza on 28 November 2026 despite logistical challenges. The vote would be the first in two decades, and the commission says it has received eight candidate lists as nominations and registration continue.

Margaret Hamilton, NASA Apollo programme scientist, dies

Margaret Hamilton, who led the team that developed onboard flight software for NASA’s Apollo missions, has died aged 90. Her pioneering work helped make the crewed lunar landings possible and shaped the emerging field of software engineering; she was later awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

BPOM Chief: MBG Food Poisoning Caused by Failure to Follow Food Preparation SOPs

Indonesia’s Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) says food poisoning incidents linked to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme generally stem from meal-preparation procedures not being followed by service units. BPOM says prepared food should be served within about four hours and is working with the National Nutrition Agency and other authorities to tighten food-safety controls.

Woman with Stomach Pain Calls Police at Night to Ask Them to Buy Medicine in Kendari

A woman in Kendari contacted police during an overnight patrol, saying she was suffering from gastric pain and asking them to buy her medicine. Officers visited her boarding house after receiving her Instagram direct message and found she had no transport or family in the city.

PT ORI Invests Rp1.6 Trillion in Siak Industrial Estate; More Investment Expected, Says Regent Afni

PT Oriental Resources Indonesia has begun work on the first phase of a planned Rp1.6 trillion investment at the Tanjung Buton Industrial Estate in Siak, including palm-oil processing, biofuel and port facilities. Regent Afni Zulkifli says the project should support downstream processing, create opportunities for local workers and help diversify the region’s economy amid declining central transfers and oil and gas revenue sharing.

Industry Minister stresses that standardisation must not burden industry

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji says standards such as the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) should improve product quality and protect consumers without obstructing domestic manufacturing. He urged the government to distinguish standards intended to restrict imports from requirements that could impede production, particularly for export-oriented sectors, and said creating a supportive business ecosystem is the government’s responsibility.

Malaysia’s King Urges Schools in Haze-hit Areas to Close

Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim, has urged authorities to consider temporarily closing schools in areas affected by haze, as air pollution readings remain between 150 and 180 in several parts of the country. He also called for protective measures for older people and those with respiratory conditions; schools across Johor have already been ordered to close for two days, with lessons moving online from home.

Bandung City Government Does Not Ban Street Vendors from Trading as Long as They Follow the Rules

Bandung’s government says street vendors may continue trading provided they comply with rules on designated locations, stall design, cleanliness and operating hours. The city is preparing mayoral regulations to specify authorised trading areas, while enforcement will continue against permanent or makeshift structures that obstruct pavements and public facilities.

Resilient Amid Turmoil, Manulife Syariah Wins Award

Manulife Syariah Indonesia received the Best Shariah Life Insurance in Financial Resilience award at the Road to CNBC Awards 2026. The company says the recognition reinforces its commitment to sustainable sharia financial solutions and expanding insurance protection to more Indonesians.

Samsudin and Darto Struggle to Earn a Living After Welding Carts Are Damaged by GWM Tank

Two welders in Palmerah say a crash involving a GWM Tank left their welding carts and equipment damaged, preventing them from working. They are seeking compensation from the driver as the crash, which killed an online motorcycle taxi rider, is dealt with by authorities.

Indonesia plans food aid for 33.2 million families in fourth quarter

Indonesia plans to distribute 10-kilogram food aid packages to 33,244,408 families in the fourth quarter, backed by a Rp17.5 trillion budget and targeted at households in the four lowest socioeconomic groups. The government will also continue subsidised rice sales, while state logistics agency Bulog says its 4.5 million tonnes of rice stocks are sufficient to cover the programme.

PDIP Says Gibran Would Be Better Off Resigning, as He Says He Always Obeys the Law

PDIP politician Komarudin Watubun said Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming should resign following an Constitutional Court ruling concerning the absence of evidence of his senior secondary school certificate. Watubun said that if Gibran wished to demonstrate respect for the law, he should step down; otherwise, he argued, the House of Representatives should consider follow-up action, potentially including impeachment.

OpenAI’s 372 Mathematical Proofs Raise Concerns Among Experts

OpenAI’s release of more than 370 mathematical proofs has prompted concerns about verification, transparency and unequal access to private AI models, with experts warning that formally valid proofs may not be original or significant. The debate highlights calls for full disclosure of models, prompts and computing resources, while OpenAI says it intends to continue using difficult maths problems to test its AI systems.

North Maluku Industrial Park Employs 100,000 People, Says Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto said the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park in North Maluku has generated more than 100,000 jobs, with realised investment of about US$20 billion and a further US$7 billion planned. He also launched a US$10.2 billion downstreaming programme, including the first export of electric-vehicle batteries and 11 industrial projects, while stressing that expansion must be accompanied by environmental safeguards and responsible waste management.

Jakarta Urges Residents to Use Free Business Counselling Service

Jakarta’s Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection and Population Control Agency is encouraging families to access free online counselling to support entrepreneurship and improve household welfare. The city says the UPPKA programme can help create jobs and reduce unemployment; in 2025, Jakarta had 252 UPPKA groups, two-thirds of which operated in the culinary sector.

Wondr by BNI Strengthens Digital Services for Emerald and Private Clients

BNI has updated its wondr by BNI app for Emerald and Private customers, adding refreshed home, Products and Services, and Priority pages to make segment-specific banking, investment and lifestyle benefits easier to access. The update, available from 5 October 2026, also supports investment monitoring and advisory features, while eligible customers who have not yet joined Emerald can apply to upgrade online.

South Korea says it will recall ambassador from Ukraine

South Korea will recall its ambassador to Ukraine amid a diplomatic dispute over Kyiv’s disclosure that North Korean prisoners of war had been transferred to Seoul. Tensions have also been fuelled by allegations that South Korean fuel shipments to Russia helped ease shortages, while Seoul has demanded an apology and threatened further measures.

Open University Partners with Researchers to Develop Interdisciplinary Research

Universitas Terbuka is expanding research partnerships with universities and research institutions, focusing on areas including food security, artificial intelligence and sustainable development. Its FUSION 2026 conference is intended to foster collaboration that could support national innovation and Indonesia’s economic transformation, including through cooperation with BRIN.

Israel Closes British Consulate in Jerusalem After Sanctions Dispute

Israel has ordered the British Consulate in Jerusalem to cease operating, while allowing seven UK diplomats to remain in the building in a limited capacity under its new name, UK Mission, Jerusalem. The closure follows Israel’s response to sanctions imposed by Britain and other Western countries over settler violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, amid longstanding disagreement over Jerusalem’s status.

JCI Slips 1.88% to 6,031 as Investors Wary of US Treasury Yield Surge

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.88% to 6,031.28 on Thursday, reversing an early rise as selling pressure intensified through the session. Investors were also weighing elevated US Treasury yields, a stronger dollar and hawkish Federal Reserve signals, alongside domestic reserve and monetary data.

Suzuki Uses BYD Battery Technology for Small e-Sky Electric Car

Suzuki has launched the e-Sky, its first electric kei car for Japan, using BYD’s LFP battery technology to help keep costs competitive. With government subsidies, its entry price is expected to undercut rival models from BYD and Nissan, while Suzuki is targeting monthly sales of 1,000 units across three variants.

Three Convicted in Fake BPJS Employment Claims Corruption Case, Sentences of up to Seven Years

A Jakarta corruption court has sentenced three defendants over fraudulent work-accident insurance claims involving BPJS Ketenagakerjaan between 2014 and 2024. The sentences range from three to seven years in prison, with fines and substantial compensation payments also imposed.

Deputy Health Minister Dante Discusses the Urgency of Investing in Health and Quality of Life

Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono said health-sector investment must ultimately improve public health, safety and quality of life, rather than simply expand facilities or attract capital. He called for government and private-sector collaboration to strengthen domestic supply chains, research and manufacturing, and to develop health products and services capable of competing in global markets.

Antam Gold Price Falls to Rp 2.56 Million per Gram on Thursday

Antam gold’s price fell by Rp 15,000 to Rp 2,565,000 per gram on Thursday, with the buyback price also declining to Rp 2,366,000 per gram. The report lists prices across bullion sizes and outlines the income tax rates applied to purchases and buyback transactions.

Prabowo pledges to protect all domestic and foreign investments

President Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding investments from all sources, calling protection of investor partnerships a matter of national integrity. Speaking at the launch of a US$10.2 billion downstreaming programme in North Maluku, he cited about US$20 billion in realised investment at the IWIP complex, with a further US$7 billion planned, and more than 100,000 jobs created.

Prabowo: I See a Bright Future for Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s future looks bright after visiting industrial and downstream-processing operations at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park in North Maluku. He rejected claims that the country was heading for collapse, citing the development he witnessed and the upbeat mood among workers.

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Calls President Prabowo to Discuss Haze Response

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he had spoken with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto about tackling haze caused by forest and land fires in Kalimantan and other areas. Malaysia has offered cooperation, stepped up cloud-seeding operations and is seeking a special ASEAN environment ministers’ meeting on the issue.

Bulog Records Record Rice Stocks of 5.4 Million Tonnes in 2026

Perum Bulog’s rice stocks peaked at 5.4 million tonnes in 2026, a record, while procurement had reached 4.09 million tonnes by 6 October—exceeding President Prabowo Subianto’s 4-million-tonne target. The reserve is intended to protect supply and stabilise prices amid climate risks, while Bulog continues buying farmers’ paddy at the government-set price of Rp6,500 per kilogram.

Coordinating Minister urges empowerment to become the main tool for alleviating poverty

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has called for poverty-reduction policy to shift towards community empowerment, while maintaining social assistance for those who need protection. He said government programmes should be better co-ordinated and focused on raising incomes through skills training, jobs, business support, finance and market access.

KPK Summons PT Karya Putra Prima Commissioner in Customs Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the commissioner of PT Karya Putra Prima and three other people as witnesses in an alleged corruption case involving the Finance Ministry’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The investigation stems from a February 2026 sting operation and has since named eight people as suspects, including customs officials and executives of Blueray Cargo.

Oil and Gas Sector Promotes Community Empowerment, Turning Local Potential into a Sustainable Economic Force

Pertamina EP says its community programmes are intended to build lasting capacity and independence, rather than merely deliver short-term activities. In Jatibarang Field, its Jari Tangan programme supports sustainable horticulture and turns organic waste into useful products, linking local resources with longer-term social, economic and environmental benefits.

Jokowi Responds to Calls to Impeach Gibran, Says Democratic Mechanisms Must Be Followed

Former president Joko Widodo said any effort to impeach Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka should proceed through the democratic and constitutional mechanisms available. The calls follow the Constitutional Court’s rejection of a challenge over Gibran’s education qualifications, with the petitioners saying they will discuss taking their case to the House of Representatives.

Presidential Regulation Governing Gojek and GoFood Issued; GoTo CEO Responds

GoTo has welcomed Presidential Regulation No. 27/2026 on protecting the digital platform transport ecosystem and says it will comply and work with the government on implementation. The regulation provides for an 8% commission for two-wheeled passenger transport, already applied by GoRide, while rules for goods and food deliveries are still pending from the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs.

Bechi, Convicted of Sexual Abuse, Jailed Again and Placed in a Special Cell

Mochamad Subchi Azal Tsani, known as Bechi, has returned to Malang Class I Prison after the Directorate General of Corrections revoked his parole. Prison officials said he was cooperative and would initially be held in a separate cell, while the East Java corrections office is responsible for explaining how much of his sentence remains.

Palmerah crash kills ride-hailing driver; car driver detained

Police have detained a 40-year-old driver for questioning after a collision involving several vehicles in Palmerah, West Jakarta, killed a motorcycle ride-hailing driver and injured another rider. The investigation is ongoing, and police have not yet established the circumstances of the crash.

Data-Driven Recruitment: CVs and Interviews Are Not Enough to Assess Candidates

Recruiters increasingly use psychological assessments to complement CVs and interviews, which may not reveal how candidates think, work or respond to specific job demands. The article argues that better-informed selection can help businesses avoid poor hires that lead to longer onboarding, lower productivity and repeat recruitment costs.

UBSI to Build Entrepreneurial Spirit, Preparing 6,224 Students to Become Job Creators

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) will hold entrepreneurship seminars for 6,224 students across 17 campuses from 19 October to 7 November 2026. The programme aims to turn students from jobseekers into job creators by developing practical business skills, resilience and the confidence to pursue viable ideas.

State-Owned Enterprises Project Net Profit of Rp360 Trillion in 2026

BP BUMN chief and Danantara COO Dony Oskaria forecasts consolidated state-owned enterprise net profit of Rp360 trillion in 2026, attributing the outlook to recent performance and management improvements. He said profits could be reinvested to support economic growth, as the government seeks to complement the state budget with Danantara’s investment capacity.

President praises foreign partners who trust Indonesia as ‘brothers’

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would protect foreign investors and treat trusted partners as “brothers”, as he inaugurated 11 downstreaming projects and the country’s first electric-vehicle battery export shipment. The projects represent US$10.2 billion in investment, while investment in the Weda Bay industrial complex has reached US$20 billion and is expected to attract a further US$7 billion, with development having created more than 100,000 jobs.

JCI Closes 1.88% Lower at 6,031

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.88% to 6,031.28 on Thursday, with infrastructure, energy and basic materials shares leading losses. The decline came amid concern over global monetary policy and rising US Treasury yields, despite strong demand at a US bond auction that later pushed yields lower.

KPK Summons Directors of Sungai Danau Jaya and Binuang Mitra Bersama Prima

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned company directors and other witnesses as it expands an investigation into alleged corruption linked to tax examinations at the Banjarmasin Medium Tax Office. The case stems from a 2026 tax-refund bribery investigation in which authorities say officials and a company manager received Rp1.5 billion; the KPK has also reported seizing cash and gold during the probe.

MUI Weighs In on APBN Subsidy for 2027 Hajj Costs

MUI’s head of fatwa affairs has welcomed the government’s use of the state budget to subsidise the 2027 Hajj, describing it as the state supporting citizens’ religious needs. He said the subsidy does not undermine the requirement of istithaah, or the ability to perform the pilgrimage, and praised the early completion of funding discussions for allowing preparations and services to improve.

Sahroni Denies NasDem MP Proposed Gibran’s Impeachment, Calls It Hoax

NasDem treasurer Ahmad Sahroni has dismissed as a hoax a purported letter from party MP Tonny Tesar calling for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s impeachment. The report says the letter cited questions over Gibran’s educational qualifications, while the Constitutional Court ruled that the petitioners lacked legal standing and that it had no authority to disqualify him.

Telkomsel launches 12th NextDev programme to develop AI-powered entrepreneurial innovation

Telkomsel has opened the 12th edition of NextDev, an incubator for Indonesian technology entrepreneurs building digital solutions to social and environmental challenges, with this year’s programme focused on AI. Twenty entrepreneurs will enter validation and pitching stages, with ten going on to receive mentoring in technology, business and impact before presenting their progress at the 2027 NextDev Summit.

LPS Pays Rp46 Billion in Guarantees for Four Aceh Rural Banks Closed by OJK

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has paid Rp46.80 billion of the Rp47.07 billion in eligible deposits at four rural banks in Aceh whose licences were revoked by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The payments cover thousands of customer accounts, with the largest payout—more than Rp29 billion—made to depositors at BPRS Gayo Perseroda.

Comparing the Financial Statements of Banks and Insurers by Business Model

A comparison of Bank Amar Indonesia (AMAR) and general insurer Asuransi Harta Aman Pratama (AHAP) shows how their different business models shape their financial statements and risk profiles in 2024. AMAR’s figures centre on lending, deposits and liquidity, while AHAP’s reflect premiums, claims, underwriting and investments, underscoring why sector-specific indicators are needed to assess each company.

BNI updates wondr features for priority customers

BNI has updated its wondr by BNI digital service for Emerald and Private customers, adding easier access to banking, investment and exclusive benefits. Available from 5 October 2026, the features include investment advice, market updates, priority facilities and an online upgrade option for customers who qualify for Emerald status.

Calls to Boycott Indonesian Products Trend in Malaysia; Trade Minister Says Trade Will Be Unaffected

Calls on social media in Malaysia to boycott Indonesian brands followed the two countries’ meeting in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, but Indonesia’s Trade Minister Budi Santoso says the campaign will not affect bilateral trade. He described the reaction as temporary and said Indonesia’s trade attaché and embassy in Kuala Lumpur had reported that commercial activity was continuing as usual.

Jakarta Aims to Complete AI-Assisted Redevelopment of Central Jakarta’s Informal Settlements by 2028

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says the city plans to complete the redevelopment of a 2.3-kilometre area spanning Kampung Bali, Kebon Melati and Kebon Kacang by 2028, using AI for planning and monitoring. The project is intended to address poor housing conditions and demonstrate how technology can improve neighbourhoods, while ensuring privacy, security, fairness, accountability and digital inclusion.

Apindo Backs Proposal to Raise the Tax-Free Income Threshold

The Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) supports the government’s proposal to raise the personal income tax-free threshold, saying it could ease workers’ tax burden and help sustain middle-class purchasing power. The Finance Ministry is studying an adjustment for 2027, while Apindo stresses that the measure should be complemented by well-targeted support and more accessible incentives for businesses.

Amran Catches Agriculture Ministry Civil Servant Smoking During Working Hours as Many Desks Sit Empty

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman carried out a surprise inspection at two directorates in Jakarta, reprimanding staff over smoking and attendance, and ordering a one-week suspension for one employee. He also called for tighter oversight of free seed distribution, including an inspection by the ministry’s Inspectorate General, stressing that public funds must be accounted for.

Mataram City Government Optimistic Hotel Occupancy Could Exceed 90%

Mataram expects hotel occupancy to surpass 90% during the 9–11 October 2026 MotoGP, with bookings already above 85%, according to the city’s tourism office. The city is promoting its attractions and local businesses, including a culinary bazaar and live music, to draw visitors despite being outside the event’s immediate area.

Why the DPR Has Reopened Deliberations on the Broadcasting Law Revision

Lawmakers at the DPR’s Legislation Body clashed over the process for revising the 2002 Broadcasting Law, with Golkar’s Abraham Sridjaja urging the committee to address overlapping legislation and wait for a government representative before debating individual provisions. The committee rejected his proposal and continued deliberations, despite his warning that provisions could be debated again later in Commission I and delay the process.

British Man Finds Farmer Dead Beneath Motorcycle in Kintamani

A 49-year-old farmer was found dead on a plantation road in Kintamani, Bangli, after apparently suffering an accident while riding his motorcycle. A British man from Manchester discovered the body and sought help; police said the victim had injuries consistent with being crushed by the motorcycle.

President: Indonesia’s Downstreaming Is on the Right Track

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s first electric vehicle battery export from the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park demonstrates the success of its downstreaming strategy. He also inaugurated 11 industrial projects, citing around US$20 billion in investment and more than 100,000 workers at the site, while stressing that industrial growth must be environmentally responsible.

Deputy National Police Chief Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Workers and Businesses, with Tens of Thousands of Extortion Cases Tackled

Deputy National Police Chief Wahyu Hadiningrat said police had stepped up efforts to protect workers and businesses and support a secure investment climate from 2024 to 2026. Police reported handling 41,873 thuggery cases and 12,015 extortion or illegal-levy cases, while the clearance rate for reports involving business-sector disruption rose to about 71% in 2026.

KCIC: Kite Incidents Along Whoosh Line Down 65 Per Cent

KCIC recorded 26 incidents of kites becoming caught near the Whoosh high-speed railway in September 2026, down about 65 per cent from the monthly average of roughly 75 between June and August. The company credited public cooperation and said it continues round-the-clock patrols, with more than 530 security personnel deployed at stations and along the route.

Police Hunt Gang After Attempted Robbery in Depok; Four Suspects Arrested

Police have arrested four suspects after a motorcyclist was attacked with machetes and nearly robbed in Pancoran Mas, Depok. The victim suffered serious cuts, while the motorcycle was abandoned when its keyless system shut down the engine.

Audi RS5 Proves a Hit in Europe

Audi says its 2026 RS5 production run for Europe has sold out, with sales reaching twice the company’s projections. The strong launch suggests demand for high-performance cars remains robust despite the model’s shift to plug-in hybrid power, which combines electrification with the RS line’s performance focus.

Komnas HAM Issues Six Recommendations for Implementing the Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has issued six recommendations following its monitoring and review of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Its proposals include better targeting of vulnerable groups, stronger governance and inter-agency coordination, food safety and nutrition standards, and protections for programme workers; the supplied article text details only the first four recommendations.

Garuda Indonesia reactivates Denpasar–Sorong route until March 2027

Garuda Indonesia will resume flights between Denpasar and Sorong from 25 October 2026 until March 2027 as tourist-season demand picks up, after suspending the route in April. The airline will also add a Saturday service on the Jakarta–Sorong route, expanding travel options and air connectivity to Sorong.

Bantul Manpower Office Prepares Measures to Curb Lay-offs

Bantul’s Manpower and Transmigration Office is planning short- and long-term measures to limit lay-offs, including mediating disputes, referring affected workers for health insurance assistance, and expanding job placement and training services. The office recorded 290 reported lay-offs through September 2026, citing factors such as company efficiency, contract expiry and worker resignations.

Customs Uncovers Shipment of 1.3 Million Illegal Cigarettes Disguised as E-commerce Parcels

Jember Customs seized 1,343,120 cigarettes without excise stamps in two operations in Jember and Bondowoso, East Java, after discovering them hidden in e-commerce delivery parcels. The shipments had an estimated value of Rp2 billion and threatened Rp1.31 billion in state revenue; two people have been named suspects in the first case.

State-owned Agrinas Palma to Hire 10,000 Workers, with Wages Up to 120% Above Regional Minimum

PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara plans to recruit about 10,000 workers within three months, chiefly plantation harvesters, as it takes on a larger area of land. The state-owned company says wages could reach around 120% of the regional minimum wage, while the hiring drive is intended to raise productivity and create jobs in surrounding communities.

Prabowo calls investors who trust Indonesia ‘brothers’

President Prabowo Subianto launched a downstreaming programme worth about US$10.2 billion in North Maluku, covering the first export of electric-vehicle batteries, four projects entering commercial operations and seven new industrial projects. He pledged to protect investors, as the government cited US$20 billion in realised investment at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park and a further US$7 billion in planned development, which has created more than 100,000 jobs.

Baznas Pushes for Village Zakat Collection Units to Maximise Agricultural Zakat Potential

Indonesia’s National Zakat Agency (Baznas) is urging the establishment of Zakat Collection Units (UPZ) at village level to channel agricultural zakat more effectively and help reduce rural poverty. It plans to replicate a model from Jatisono village, where an agriculture-based UPZ has supported local economic independence and strengthened community ties.

Prabowo Surprised Sherly Tjoanda Received the Loudest Applause: ‘The Election Is Still a Long Way Off’

President Prabowo Subianto joked about the enthusiastic applause for North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda, quipping that the next election was still a long way off. He made the remarks while greeting officials at an event in the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, where he also discussed downstream industry projects and Indonesia’s natural resources and investor partnerships.

Prudential Indonesia Named Best Life Insurer for Sustainable Growth

Prudential Indonesia received CNBC Indonesia’s award for Best Life Insurance in Financial Resilience & Sustainable Growth, recognising its financial strength and efforts to maintain customer trust. The company said it would continue expanding access to financial and health solutions, including through PRUMapan, a life insurance product aimed at younger generations.

Danantara defends delay in financial statement

Danantara says preparing its first consolidated financial statement for 1,074 state-owned enterprises has taken time because the figures must be checked across the group to avoid double-counting; the report has cleared EY’s audit and is now under review by the state audit board, BPK. The overdue accounts have raised transparency concerns, although Danantara expects future reporting to be faster and forecasts combined SOE profits will rise from Rp 326 trillion last year to Rp 360 trillion this year.

President Prabowo: Indonesia’s Future Is Bright

President Prabowo Subianto rejected claims that Indonesia is heading for collapse, saying the country’s future is bright and reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting investment. He pointed to more than US$20 billion invested in the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, with a further US$7 billion planned, and reported employment of more than 100,000 people as evidence of the benefits of downstream processing.

Heading to Bandung on the Morning Whoosh? Try the LRT Jabodebek, Trialling a 5.30am Departure from Dukuh Atas

LRT Jabodebek is trialling a 5.30am service from Dukuh Atas to Halim, timed to connect with the first Whoosh high-speed train to Bandung, which departs at 6.25am. By 8 October, the early service had carried 109 passengers, including 31 who alighted at Halim, offering an initial indication of demand for improved public transport links between Jakarta and the intercity rail service.

Mataram Tourism Office Prepares Dozens of SME Bazaar Stalls for MotoGP

Mataram’s tourism office will set up 20 stalls for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) at Teras Udayana during the 2026 MotoGP event. The two-day bazaar, alongside live music, is intended to promote the city’s culinary and craft products and give visiting spectators more opportunities to explore Mataram.

Egypt Proposes Korean Integrated Industrial Zone at Suez Canal

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi has proposed establishing an integrated Korean industrial zone within the Suez Canal Economic Zone to deepen economic ties with South Korea. The proposed hub would serve as a regional production and export base, supported by incentives for investors and access to markets across Africa, Europe and the Arab world.

Tabanan Police Chief Attends Destruction of Evidence from 38 Criminal Cases

Authorities in Tabanan destroyed evidence from 38 criminal cases that have concluded with final, legally binding verdicts, including 25 narcotics cases. The substantial quantities of drugs seized underscore the continuing need for enforcement alongside prevention, education and cooperation across government and the community.

DPD RI Partners with BRIN and ICMI to Prepare Regulations on AI and Climate Change

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has signed memorandums of understanding with BRIN and ICMI to strengthen research-based legislation and public policy. The collaboration will support studies on artificial intelligence regulation, climate change, political costs and other strategic issues, with the aim of grounding policy in evidence and regional needs.

OJK says IDX is still preparing rules amid Danantara’s interest

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) must amend its internal rules and articles of association before it can offer shares to non-member investors as part of a demutualisation. Danantara has expressed interest in acquiring a 5–10 per cent stake, but timing will depend on the exchange’s preparations and approval from existing shareholders.

Prabowo Inaugurates Rp180 Trillion Projects and Urges Businesses to Protect the Environment and Water

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated downstream-processing projects worth US$10.2 billion (around Rp180 trillion) at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park in North Maluku, including the first export of electric-vehicle batteries. He urged companies to safeguard environmental standards, worker safety and water and air quality, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting investors.

Data transparency seen as key to cross-border music royalties

Indonesian and WIPO officials say transparent, traceable data is essential to ensure that music use and royalty flows can be monitored and verified across borders in the digital era. They stressed that the challenge is as much about governance, incentives and consistent information-sharing as it is about technology, with international cooperation needed to improve accountability.

Danantara Optimistic Consolidated SOE Net Profit Will Reach Rp360 Trillion

Danantara COO Dony Oskaria expects consolidated state-owned enterprises to post net profit of at least Rp360 trillion in 2026. He said the profits could support economic growth through dividends reinvested in strategic projects, while the Finance Ministry has said Danantara will not pay dividends into the state budget in 2026 or 2027.

Fire Destroys Eight Homes and Kiosks in Kemayoran, Leaving Debris Strewn About

A fire in the densely populated Kebon Kosong neighbourhood of Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, destroyed eight buildings, including homes and kiosks. Firefighters deployed 23 fire engines and 74 personnel; the blaze’s cause remains under investigation, although it is suspected to have started in a building marked off by police.

Christa Pike, the First Person in the US to Survive a Lethal Injection

Christa Pike, a Tennessee death-row inmate, regained consciousness after two lethal-injection attempts on 30 September, in what her lawyers and experts describe as an unprecedented case in the United States. Her lawyer says she is now suffering serious medical complications, while the circumstances of the failed execution remain unexplained.

Pertamina Patra Niaga adjusts fuel supply arrangements in Bali

Pertamina Patra Niaga is dynamically adjusting fuel supply in Bali after a delay in Pertalite deliveries, seeking to maintain availability across the island. A shipment arrived on 7 October, with the next scheduled for 11 October 2026, while the company works to restore supplies and urges the public to use fuel responsibly and rely on verified information.

Myanmar Ready to Receive 4,000 More of Its Nationals Returning from Malaysia

Myanmar has agreed to receive 3,000–4,000 of its nationals held in Malaysian immigration detention centres, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. More than 10,493 Myanmar nationals have already been repatriated, and further returns are to take place gradually and voluntarily, with human rights and humanitarian protections prioritised.

Jokowi Takes Firm Stance as Gibran Impeachment Calls Emerge

Former president Joko Widodo said any effort to impeach Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka must follow the mechanisms set out in the constitution and applicable law. His comments came after the Constitutional Court issued a ruling concerning Gibran’s educational qualifications in a dispute over the 2024 presidential election result.

North Sumatra Provincial Government Develops 9,624 Hectares of Garlic to Boost Food Self-Sufficiency

North Sumatra is developing garlic cultivation across 9,624 hectares in nine regencies, aiming to raise productivity, strengthen farmers’ capacity and secure buyers for the harvest. The province is targeting wet-harvest yields of 20 tonnes per hectare, as part of a national effort to achieve garlic self-sufficiency.

Illegal Papua Arms Network: 17 Suspects, 13 Have Reached Stage II

Police have processed 17 suspects in an illegal firearms and ammunition network uncovered in Papua, with 13 cases now at the second prosecution stage. Investigators seized ammunition, magazines, a locally made firearm and rusted World War II-era gun barrels, and say they are pursuing other links in the network.

Drowsy Driver’s Box Truck Crashes into Lorry on Jagorawi Toll Road towards Bogor

A box truck collided with a lorry at kilometre 25 of the Jagorawi Toll Road while travelling from Jakarta towards Bogor, leaving the box-truck driver injured. Police said the crash occurred at about 12.40pm and was believed to have been caused by the driver falling asleep at the wheel.

Two Years of Prabowo’s Government: Downstreaming Surges and Strengthens National Investment

Indonesia recorded Rp1,010.6 trillion in investment in the first half of 2026, up 7.2% year on year and creating more than 1.4 million jobs, Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani said. Downstreaming’s share of national investment rose from about 25% to 30%, with more than 75% of investment realised outside Java; North Maluku is emerging as a processing hub, exporting higher-value nickel and cobalt products rather than relying solely on raw ore.

Business Transformation Boosts GDPS Revenue by 24 Per Cent

Garuda Indonesia Group’s GDPS reported a 24.6 per cent rise in revenue in 2025 compared with 2024, as it shifted from supplying workers to providing integrated business process outsourcing solutions. Revenue has grown by about 85 per cent since 2021, while non-aviation sectors’ contribution is approaching 40 per cent and is projected to exceed half by 2030.

Duplicate Kapuas I Bridge Begins Opening to Heavy Vehicles

Pontianak is preparing the new duplicate Kapuas I Bridge for heavy vehicles to improve logistics flows and ease traffic pressure in the Tanjung Raya area. Vehicle weight, length, height and operating times will be regulated and tested, with the National Road Implementation Agency’s head responsible for setting the bridge’s permitted load capacity.

KPK Summons Kuansing DPRD Speaker and Two Regency Officials

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Kuantan Singingi DPRD Speaker Juprizal and two local government officials as witnesses in a bribery investigation involving inactive regent Suhardiman Amby. The case concerns alleged buying and selling of public posts, while investigators are also examining possible gratification linked to the release of forest areas.

Trump sued over alleged use of public funds for campaign advertising

The Democratic National Committee has sued Donald Trump, alleging that his administration used taxpayer funds to produce political advertisements in breach of rules governing public spending. The complaint seeks to bar the administration from using government appropriations for political advertising, while Trump has said he would cover the costs with personal funds and donations to his political organisation.

DPD RI Partners with BRIN and ICMI to Promote Research- and Data-Based Legislation

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has signed cooperation agreements with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and the Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI) to strengthen the evidence base for legislation and public policy. The partners will focus, among other issues, on proposed artificial intelligence regulation, climate change and political costs, with the aim of making policy more responsive to regional and public needs.

National Commission on Disabilities urges local governments to fulfil six disability rights

Indonesia’s National Commission on Disabilities has called on local governments and disability organisations to work together to strengthen rights protections, highlighting six areas that remain insufficiently addressed nationwide and in individual regions. The concerns cited include freedom from stigma, inclusive education, healthcare and assistive devices, employment and workplace accommodations, and social welfare; the report does not specify the sixth area.

Communications Minister Says Frequencies for Indonesian MotoGP Will Run Smoothly

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid says more than 250 frequencies have been secured for the 9–11 October MotoGP Indonesia at the Mandalika Circuit, with no disruption expected. The government has also prepared extra mobile base stations and asked operators to expand capacity to accommodate spectators, international broadcasts and increased airport traffic.

FXT Receives Official Nominations in Finance Magnates Awards 2026 for Broker of the Year, Most Innovative Broker and Best Overall Broker

FXT has received official global nominations in seven categories at the Finance Magnates Awards 2026, including Broker of the Year, Most Innovative Broker and Best Overall Broker. The awards combine votes from traders and industry professionals with a judging panel’s assessment; voting closes on 16 October, with winners due to be announced on 6 November 2026.

Indonesian Artists Win Grand Prizes at MR.D.I.Y. Regional Art Competition

Two Indonesian artists won the regional Grand Prize awards in the general and student categories at the 2026 MR.D.I.Y. Regional Art Competition, hosted by Indonesia and featuring participants from Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. The competition attracted nearly 2,500 entrants, while selected works will also be shown at Art Jakarta and a dedicated exhibition in Jakarta.

Portrait of Putin’s Latest Fury in Ukraine, Called His Most Brutal Yet

Russian strikes hit Kyiv and other areas of Ukraine, killing at least 28 people and injuring around 100. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the assault as among the most brutal of the war, with the highest death toll reported in Pryluky, including five children.

Prabowo: IWIP development has employed more than 100,000 people

President Prabowo Subianto said development of the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) has generated more than 100,000 jobs, alongside investment of about US$20 billion and plans for a further US$7 billion. He also launched a US$10.2 billion downstreaming programme, including the first export of electric vehicle batteries and 11 industrial projects, while stressing the need for environmental and safety safeguards.

Prabowo on the Character of Eastern Indonesians: Loyal Until Death

President Prabowo Subianto said visits to eastern Indonesia energise him, linking this feeling to his own family background. Speaking at an industrial event in North Maluku, he urged companies to account for workers’ food needs and described eastern Indonesians as hard-working, emotionally quick to react and deeply loyal.

Riau Police RAGA Teams Patrol High-Risk Areas from Dumai to Kuansing

Riau Police’s rapid-response RAGA teams conducted night patrols across Dumai, Kepulauan Meranti, Kuantan Singingi and Rokan Hilir to deter motorcycle gangs, street crime, thuggery and illegal street racing. Police said the patrols found no significant incidents, while officers combined inspections with community engagement and early-warning efforts.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Urges Sekolah Rakyat Carers to Work with Sincerity and Compassion

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has urged carers and boarding-house supervisors at Sekolah Rakyat to support pupils with empathy and commitment, beyond simply fulfilling formal duties. He said the programme combines education with social rehabilitation and character-building, aiming to help children from disadvantaged families break the intergenerational cycle of poverty.

BMKG Forecasts a Shorter Rainy Season: When Will the 2027 Dry Season Begin?

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) expects the 2026/2027 rainy season to be shorter than usual across 482 seasonal zones, covering 51.9% of the country’s land area, with many areas entering the season in November or December 2026. The agency forecasts that the earliest areas will enter the 2027 dry season in January, while El Niño conditions are expected to persist into early 2027 and could reduce rainfall and intensify heat and drought.

Bechi’s Conditional Release for Sexual Violence Conviction Revoked

Indonesia’s Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has revoked the conditional release of Muhammad Subchi Azal Tsani, known as Mas Bechi, who was convicted of sexually abusing and raping a female student at an Islamic boarding school. Following the revocation, he was returned to Malang Class I Prison to serve the remainder of his seven-year sentence; officials said his release had initially been granted under the applicable corrections law after he had served two-thirds of his term and was assessed as well-behaved.

Sultan Wants Blood Donation Drives in 38 Provinces to Be More Than Ceremonial for DPD RI’s 22nd Anniversary

To mark its 22nd anniversary, Indonesia’s Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) held a blood donation drive in cooperation with the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI). DPD RI chair Sultan B Najamuddin said the initiative should become a regular tradition, with drives staged gradually at the council’s offices in all 38 provincial capitals, strengthening its practical engagement with local communities.

Prabowo Says First EV Battery Export Shows Indonesia’s Downstreaming Strategy Is Bearing Fruit

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s first electric vehicle battery export demonstrates that its industrial downstreaming strategy is producing results and will continue. At an event in the Weda Bay industrial park, he also urged companies to support surrounding communities and safeguard air, water and waste management as industrial development expands.

Indonesia Targets 6% Growth as Suahasil Calls for Higher Household Consumption

The government is pursuing 6 per cent economic growth in 2027, with Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara saying household consumption and government spending must grow faster than their current rates. The government also plans to align the state budget with the Danantara Investment Management Agency to lift investment growth to around 7 per cent.

Medisca and EUROAPI form strategic partnership to strengthen API access for pharmaceutical compounding

Medisca and EUROAPI have partnered to expand access to European-manufactured active pharmaceutical ingredients for the North American compounding market, with exclusive supply arrangements for selected products. The companies also plan to broaden the API offering, explore additional markets and collaborate on peptides, supporting Medisca’s strategy in personalised medicine.

Prabowo Launches Construction of New Rp121 Trillion Projects in North Maluku

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated the groundbreaking of seven strategic downstreaming projects worth US$6.8 billion (about Rp121.8 trillion) at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park. The projects, part of an 11-project investment programme, aim to expand Indonesia’s electric-vehicle battery and renewable-energy supply chains and are expected to create more than 10,000 jobs.

Prabowo launches US$10.2 billion downstreaming projects in North Maluku

President Prabowo Subianto launched a US$10.2 billion package of downstreaming projects in North Maluku, including four facilities entering commercial operations and the groundbreaking of seven more. He said domestic processing of mineral resources should retain more value in Indonesia and called on industrial operators to maintain strict environmental safeguards.

KNEKS Partners with Universities to Strengthen Collaboration on Developing Sharia Economy and Finance Talent

The National Committee for Sharia Economy and Finance (KNEKS) is working with two university associations to align an integrated talent-development programme spanning academic knowledge, practical skills and leadership. The discussions also highlighted closer links between universities, industry and communities, with research and the upcoming AFEBI congress expected to support the development of Indonesia’s sharia economy ecosystem.

Jokowi Says Gibran Impeachment Bid Must Follow the Constitution

Former president Joko Widodo said any effort to impeach Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka must proceed through constitutional and democratic mechanisms, following a Constitutional Court ruling that questioned evidence of Gibran’s overseas educational qualifications. The court said it could not disqualify him after his inauguration, and dismissed the petition on standing grounds; Jokowi referred questions about Gibran’s future eligibility to the relevant election authorities.

Electricity Consumption in Morowali and Weda Bay Reaches 15.9 GW, Exceeding Singapore’s

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said installed and planned electricity capacity at industrial areas in Weda Bay and Morowali totals 15.9 GW, above Singapore’s total consumption of about 13.1 GW. He also outlined plans for a complete electric-vehicle battery supply chain, including recycling, alongside new downstream-processing projects worth approximately US$10.2 billion.

Prabowo: First Battery Export Proves Downstreaming Strategy Is Right

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia’s first electric vehicle battery export demonstrates the success of the government’s downstreaming strategy to increase the added value of natural resources. The launch also marked four projects entering commercial operations and seven beginning construction, with total investment across the 11 projects reaching US$10.2 billion (about Rp180 trillion).

West Lampung strengthens coordination to accelerate clean energy transition

West Lampung Regency is seeking central government support to develop local renewable energy resources, particularly geothermal power and micro-hydro plants. The administration has outlined priorities including improving project governance and supporting the extension of Star Energy’s preliminary survey and exploration assignment, while stressing environmental safeguards and benefits for local communities.

InJourney Seeks to Raise MotoGP Mandalika’s Economic Impact to Rp5 Trillion

InJourney and government and MotoGP partners are strengthening cooperation to sustain the Indonesian Grand Prix at Mandalika and maximise its tourism and economic benefits. The event is estimated to generate nearly Rp5 trillion in economic impact, involve up to 3,000 local workers and 600 small businesses, while drawing record crowds and prompting extra flights and near-full accommodation bookings.

NCCN Highlights Collaboration to Improve Global Cancer Outcomes at Meetings in North America and Asia

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is working with Philippine medical and government organisations to adapt evidence-based cancer treatment guidelines for local use. The initiative covers several major cancers and is intended to support integration into national health policy under the country’s National Integrated Cancer Control Act, while a new agreement with the International Gynecologic Cancer Society may extend similar work elsewhere.

Ombudsman: Mandatory Halal Certification Is a Public Right and People Are Entitled to Halal Services

Indonesia’s Ombudsman has backed the planned implementation of mandatory halal certification in October 2026, describing access to halal services as a public right and the policy as a fulfilment of state responsibility. The watchdog will monitor the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) to prevent maladministration, while both institutions pledged to improve transparent and responsive public services.

Perada Batik Brings Tradition and New-Generation Taste Together at INACRAFT

Pekalongan-based Perada Batik is showcasing contemporary designs at INACRAFT, combining traditional hand-drawn and stamped batik techniques with experiments in materials and colour. The business, revived in 2012 after a three-generation break in its family batik tradition, aims to preserve the craft while appealing to younger consumers.

Dasco: 2027 State Budget Must Promote Job Creation and Equality

Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad says the 2027 state budget should drive job creation, productivity and the real sector while reducing social and regional disparities. He also highlighted Parliament’s passage of 20 bills into law and said deliberations on 13 further bills would continue in the next sitting period.

Not Phones: This Is Samsung’s Biggest Source of Revenue, Delivering Trillions in Profit

Samsung’s provisional third-quarter operating profit surged 782% year on year to 107.4 trillion won, driven primarily by booming demand for memory chips used in AI data centres. Long-term supply contracts and rising chip prices have made its semiconductor business a much larger profit engine than smartphones, while Samsung is also partnering with France’s Mistral AI to develop its own technology.

Jakarta Council Panel Flags Lack of Parking Depots for 1,700 Waste Vehicles

A Jakarta City Council panel says the city’s 1,700 waste collection vehicles have no dedicated parking depots, forcing them to use other locations. After field inspections and reviews of waste facilities, the panel is seeking a six-month extension to examine findings, national waste-to-energy policy and possible revisions to Jakarta’s waste regulations.

Two Scientists Win 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for Solving the Mystery of Homochirality

Japanese chemist Kenso Soai and French scientist Henri Kagan have won the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for work explaining how homochirality can emerge spontaneously. Their research into asymmetric organic synthesis and autocatalysis has had important implications for chemical reactions used in pharmaceutical production, and Soai’s win marks a second consecutive year in which a Japanese scientist has received the prize.

After a Year in Operation, Sekolah Rakyat Students Can Join Student Exchanges

A student from Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Atas 21 in Surabaya has taken part in a student exchange at Khon Kaen University in Thailand, combining classroom learning with opportunities to present Indonesian culture. The programme highlights how the government-backed school initiative is offering students educational experiences abroad alongside residential support intended to aid their personal development.

No Need to Go Abroad: Icon Cancer Centre Opens in Bali

Icon Cancer Centre has begun providing oncology services at Bali International Hospital, offering Indonesian patients an alternative to seeking cancer treatment overseas. Its CEO says 13 foreign doctors have received permission to practise at the hospital and around 30% of innovative oncology medicines previously unavailable in Indonesia are now accessible there, alongside plans to build local healthcare capacity through training and collaboration.

OJK Says FTSE Status Shows Global Investor Confidence in Indonesia

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says FTSE Russell’s decision to keep Indonesia in the Secondary Emerging Market category signals continuing confidence among global investors. The regulator welcomed the absence of Indonesia from FTSE’s watchlist, while noting that scrutiny of market-integrity reforms—including ownership transparency and free-float rules—will continue ahead of a further update before the December 2026 index review.

Merger of Four State-Owned Construction Firms Targeted for Completion Next Month

Danantara and the State-Owned Enterprises Regulatory Agency aim to merge Nindya Karya with Brantas Abipraya, and Adhi Karya with PT PP, by the end of November 2026. The mergers are intended to strengthen the companies’ fundamentals, with non-core asset sales used to reduce debt and future financing shifted from corporate borrowing to project-based funding.

Kalikotes Residents Turn Riverbanks into Productive Land to Strengthen Food Security

Residents of Gemblengan in Klaten are using hydroponics and riverbank plots to grow vegetables and fruit, with the initiative earning praise from the regent. Beyond generating produce for sale, Central Hidroponik Tirta Arum aims to meet local food needs, teach residents efficient growing techniques and support food security at community level.

Residents in Klaten’s Kalikotes Turn Riverbanks into Productive Land

Residents of Gemblengan village in Klaten are using hydroponics and riverbank plots to grow vegetables and fruit, supporting local food security while creating an opportunity to sell surplus produce. Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo praised the community initiative, which also provides residents with practical education in efficient food cultivation.

NTB Provincial Government Pushes to Turn Research into Leading Products

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government is seeking to commercialise research and build higher-value local products, including natural medicines and cosmetics. Working with the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM), universities and businesses, it is promoting regulatory guidance and the BRIDGE programme to help research reach industry and local SMEs secure certifications and wider market access.

KPK Summons Five Witnesses After Naming Suspects in North Sumatra Road Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned five witnesses as it investigates alleged corruption in road construction projects in North Sumatra. The summons follow the announcement that eight people had been named as suspects in the expanded investigation, which covers six projects worth about Rp231.8 billion.

KM Virgo Captain Named Suspect and Charged with Negligence

Police have named four people, including the captain of KM Virgo Transport-8 and three employees of its shipping company, as suspects over a vessel accident that killed around 80 people near Masalembo in September 2026. All four have been detained and are being held at the South Kalimantan Regional Police detention centre.

Foreign rail passengers in Yogyakarta rise 7.8%: KAI

KAI reported that foreign passenger traffic across its Yogyakarta-area operations rose 7.8% in January–September 2026, with departures up 6.5% and arrivals up 9.1% year on year. Yogyakarta Station handled the largest share of both groups, while KAI attributed the increase to improved facilities and services and said rail connectivity could benefit local tourism businesses and MSMEs.

Danantara Records 30% Rise in Downstreaming Investment Share

Danantara CEO Rosan Perkasa Roeslani said downstreaming accounted for 30% of Indonesia’s total realised investment in the first half of 2026, up from 25% over the previous two years. National investment reached Rp1,010.6 trillion, growing 7.2% year on year and generating more than 1.4 million jobs, with over three-quarters of downstreaming investment located outside Java.

Video: Finance Ministry on the Urgency of Policyholder Protection for Indonesia’s Economy

Indonesia’s Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has been mandated under the 2023 Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law to guarantee insurance policies, protecting policyholders and supporting the insurance industry’s stability. A Finance Ministry official says the long-planned scheme is important given the industry’s annual growth and Rp773 trillion in investments, and discusses its prospects in an interview.

Downstreaming’s Share of Investment in Indonesia Rises to 30% in Two Years

Downstreaming accounted for 29.7% of Indonesia’s investment in the first half of 2026, reaching Rp300.1 trillion, up 6.9% year on year. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said its share had risen from about 25% over the past two years, with mineral processing dominant and most downstream investment located outside Java.

Prabowo: We Are Predicted to Collapse Every Month, but I See a Bright Future for Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto pushed back against recurring predictions that Indonesia would collapse, saying he is optimistic about the country’s future. Speaking at the launch of 11 downstreaming projects and the first electric-vehicle battery export in North Maluku, he cited the enthusiasm of workers at the industrial site as a source of confidence.

KPK also confirms seized items during questioning of Rita Widyasari

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioned former Kutai Kartanegara regent Rita Widyasari about seized evidence and asked a private-sector witness about assets held in their name. The questioning forms part of a money-laundering investigation linked to alleged gratification involving plantation permits and coal-sector revenues, as well as three corporate suspects.

Evident Study: Deputy Ministers and Deputy Agency Heads Play a Role in Boosting Their Institutions’ Image

Evident Institute says deputy ministers and deputy agency heads can significantly shape public perceptions of their institutions, though negative coverage may overshadow their achievements. Its year-long review highlights investment deputy minister Todotua Pasaribu’s measurable investment and employment results, and communications deputy minister Angga Raka Prabowo’s role in public-policy communications, while noting the study is exploratory and does not assess officials’ performance.

New Development in North Sumatra Road Project Corruption Case: KPK Questions Seven Padangsidempuan and South Tapanuli Officials

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned seven officials from the Padangsidempuan city administration and South Tapanuli regency administration in its investigation into alleged bribery linked to road construction and preservation projects in North Sumatra. The case remains at the general investigation-warrant stage, and the KPK has not yet publicly named any suspects.

Jokowi Reveals Talks with Prabowo: Football, the Economy and Politics

Former president Joko Widodo said his two-hour meeting with President Prabowo Subianto covered football, the economy and politics, but not a Constitutional Court ruling on vice-presidential candidate eligibility. Asked about the possibility of his son Gibran Rakabuming Raka running in the 2029 presidential election, Jokowi said it was too early to discuss and that everyone should focus on their work for the public.

After Queues, Pertamina Adjusts Pertalite Fuel Supply Pattern in Bali

Pertamina says a delayed Pertalite delivery arrived in Bali on 7 October, prompting adjustments to supply arrangements to maintain availability and restore normal service. The next delivery is scheduled for 11 October 2026, as the company monitors stocks and urges the public to use fuel responsibly and rely on verified information.

Health Minister Wants to Emulate Singapore to Prevent Healthcare Budget Waste

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin says Indonesia is shifting towards prevention, citing Singapore’s longer life expectancy and lower per-capita health spending compared with the United States. The government is expanding nationwide health screenings and seeking private investment to improve access to modern medical facilities outside Java.

Benyamin S Award Judges Visit Three Village Festivals in West Jakarta

The Benyamin S Award judging team visited festivals in three West Jakarta finalist villages, assessing local initiatives and progress across the award’s four categories: clean, comfortable, beautiful and prosperous. The visits also serve as preparation for the finalists’ in-person presentations on 15 October, as Jakarta looks to encourage year-round festivals ahead of the city’s 500th anniversary.

DPD Marks 22nd Anniversary with Push for Simultaneous Blood Drives in 38 Provinces

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) is marking its 22nd anniversary with a blood donation campaign, which it plans to extend to its offices in all 38 provincial capitals. Council chair Sultan B Najamuddin said the initiative should become a regular tradition, while the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) highlighted its role in bolstering blood supplies and wider community resilience.

Rosan Records Rp300.1 Trillion in Downstreaming Investment

Indonesia recorded Rp300.1 trillion in downstreaming investment in the first half of 2026, accounting for 29.7 per cent of national investment and rising 6.9 per cent year on year. Mineral processing attracted the largest share, while more than three-quarters of downstreaming investment was located outside Java; the government also cited growing energy demand and plans to expand into new industries.

Man Arrested After Assaulting Woman and Ransacking Her Stall in Bogor

Police in Bogor have arrested a man accused of assaulting a female trader and scattering goods at Griya Bukit Jaya Market. Investigators are questioning him; police say the dispute was reportedly triggered by an argument over where the woman had disposed of rubbish.

Gowa Regent’s Aide Not Yet a Suspect, Police Clarify

Indonesia’s Corruption Crime Eradication Corps has corrected an earlier report that HA, described as a close aide to Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang, had been named a suspect. Police say only the regent has been designated a suspect in the alleged extortion and money-laundering case; the earlier statement confused HA with another set of initials, HT.

How the Health Ministry Plans to Improve Healthcare Services in the Regions

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin says significant gaps remain between healthcare services in regional areas and major cities, particularly in the treatment of stroke and heart disease. The government plans to use a US$4 billion World Bank loan to distribute medical equipment across 514 districts and cities, while regulation and private-sector support will also be needed to improve access.

Police Arrest Young Man Suspected of Sexually Assaulting a Minor in Penjaringan

Police in North Jakarta have arrested a 20-year-old man suspected of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl in Penjaringan. The case has been referred to the Women and Children’s Services Unit, and the suspect could face charges under Indonesia’s 2023 Criminal Code.

Prabowo Reaffirms Commitment to Protect All Investment in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto said the government would respect and safeguard domestic and foreign investment, describing the protection of trusted partners as a matter of national honour. His remarks came as he launched downstreaming projects worth US$10.2 billion, including an initial electric-vehicle battery export, at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park.

Sungrow Master 2026 Vietnam Finale Raises Technical Skills Standards in Solar Power

Sungrow has concluded its 2026 installation skills competition in Vietnam, bringing together hundreds of solar installers and renewable energy professionals for practical training and timed assessments. The programme aims to improve installation quality and safety as Vietnam accelerates its clean-energy transition, while the Da Nang event also hosted the global debut of Sungrow’s new three-phase hybrid inverter.

Houthi Attacks Escalate, Three Killed in Strikes on Saudi Airports

Three people were killed and 36 injured in Houthi attacks on airports in Abha and Riyadh, while separate strikes disrupted a passenger flight at Aden airport. The attacks come amid a sharp escalation in fighting between the Houthis and Yemen’s Saudi-backed government, threatening a UN-mediated truce that has largely held since 2022.

Denpasar City Government and Kura Kura SEZ Expand Free Health Checks to Detect Serious and Communicable Diseases Early

Denpasar City Government and the Kura Kura Special Economic Zone have expanded free health checks to improve access and support early detection of serious and non-communicable diseases. The integrated service, aimed at local residents and workers, includes general screenings, dental and eye care, blood donation and access to treatment, with referrals available through the national health insurance system.

Baznas: Indonesia’s Rural Agricultural Zakat Potential Reaches Rp13 Trillion

Indonesia’s National Zakat Agency (Baznas) estimates that zakat from rural agriculture could generate Rp13 trillion nationwide. The agency says village-level data and institutional management could improve distribution to farmers in need, drawing on a successful pilot in Demak as a model for wider adoption.

Nusantara Sejahtera Investama Partners with BSN and Mirae Asset Sekuritas to Expand Retail Government Bond Distribution

FUNDtastic+ has added Bank Syariah Nasional and Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia as distribution sub-agents for retail government securities (SBN), bringing its network to four partners. The company says the expanded network will widen public access to investment channels and help deepen Indonesia’s retail SBN investor base.

Prabowo Pledges Government Protection for All Investments in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto said the government would respect and protect every investment made in Indonesia, regardless of the investor’s country of origin. Speaking at an export launch and the inauguration of 11 downstreaming projects in North Maluku, he described investor partnerships as a matter of national honour and said investment at the IWIP industrial estate had exceeded US$20 billion.

BPS Reveals Urban–Rural Gap in Meat Spending: The Facts

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reported that per-capita meat expenditure in March 2026 was higher in urban areas than in rural areas, with the largest disparities for beef and broiler chicken. Rural residents spent more on native chicken, buffalo and pork, while total monthly per-capita consumption expenditure rose year on year to Rp1.66 million.

Resident Calls 110 After Foreigner Climbs on His Car Like Spider-Man, Praises Police for Rapid Response

A Jakarta worker said a foreign national blocked his car on Jalan Gatot Subroto, climbed onto its bonnet and spat on the windscreen, prompting him to call the police emergency line 110. He praised officers for following up quickly, while urging police to increase patrols at congested locations.

Prabowo’s Coalition Parties Respond to Constitutional Court Ruling on Vice-President Gibran’s Educational Credentials

Parties in President Prabowo Subianto’s governing coalition have offered differing responses to the Constitutional Court’s ruling on challenges to Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s vice-presidential candidacy. While several parties urged respect for the decision and an end to prolonged controversy, the ruling’s findings on his educational documents were also described by PKS as evidence that the candidacy requirements had not been met, with the issue potentially informing future election-law revisions.

Prabowo Says Investors Who Trust Indonesia Are Considered Family

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia regards investors and partners willing to work with the country in new areas as family, pledging to protect their investments. He made the remarks at the launch of downstreaming projects worth US$10.2 billion, including the first electric vehicle battery exports and 11 industrial projects at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park.

Gang of Thugs’ Motorbike Robbery in Depok Foiled After Keyless System Cuts Engine

A man was attacked by a group of around 20 assailants in Pancoran Mas, Depok, and suffered serious injuries when they tried to rob him. The gang briefly took his Honda PCX, but it stopped because its keyless remote remained with the victim; police are investigating.

Kemayoran 1 Nutrition Service Unit in Central Jakarta Tightens Checks on Free Nutritious Meal Ingredients

The Kemayoran 1 Nutrition Service Unit (SPPG) in Central Jakarta says it inspects ingredients from receipt through preparation and distribution under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The kitchen, which has operated since August 2025 and prepares about 2,700 portions daily, uses stock-rotation systems and food-quality checks to safeguard meals for schoolchildren, toddlers and mothers.

Indonesians Are Eating Less Rice, Yet Production Is Surging

Per-capita rice consumption in Indonesia fell over the past five years, even as national production rose sharply in 2025 and exceeded estimated demand. Higher rice prices mean households are spending more despite consuming less, while uneven distribution and potential El Niño impacts remain concerns for supply and price stability.

Cross-Sector Collaboration to Boost the Economic Impact of MotoGP Mandalika 2026

InJourney, Danantara, government ministries and MotoGP’s commercial rights holder are working together to sustain the Indonesian Grand Prix at Mandalika, where its economic impact is estimated at nearly Rp5 trillion. Rising attendance, additional flights and local employment illustrate the event’s growing role in tourism and the regional economy, while organisers say its longer-term legacy includes skills development and international opportunities for local talent.

AI Is Changing the World of Work: Why Should Young People Go to University?

Artificial intelligence is automating and assisting with more tasks, but the article argues that university remains valuable for developing deeper expertise, critical thinking and human skills that technology cannot replace. It also urges universities to adapt their teaching and highlights UBSI’s technology programmes and career support, while recognising that higher education is not the only route to success.

KPK Probes Payments to Ministry of Manpower Officials in K3 Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating alleged payments from occupational safety and health (K3) service companies to officials at the Ministry of Manpower. The inquiry includes testimony from four private-sector witnesses and follows a case in which 14 people, including former Deputy Manpower Minister Immanuel Ebenezer, have been named suspects over alleged extortion in the processing of K3 certificates.

Deputy National Police Chief Outlines Police Achievements in Supporting Asta Cita: ‘Police Are Always with the People’

Deputy National Police Chief Wahyu Hadiningrat said the police’s core duties—maintaining public order, enforcing the law and serving the public—are encapsulated in the new slogan “Police Are with the People”. He said the force would support all eight Asta Cita priorities and help ensure government programmes are carried out safely.

Gibran’s Political Prospects After the Constitutional Court Ruling

The Constitutional Court’s ruling concerning Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s secondary-school qualification has prompted debate about its potential impact on his political future and the responsibilities of the KPU and parliament. Gibran says he will respect the court process and continue supporting President Prabowo’s government, while a Sukabumi politician’s removal of his portrait has fuelled local controversy.

Gojek backs Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026

Gojek has welcomed a new presidential regulation governing the protection of digital platform-based transport, including a mandated 8 per cent commission arrangement for motorcycle passenger services. The company says it has already applied the commission scheme to GoRide and is awaiting implementing rules for goods and food delivery, while highlighting its driver welfare initiatives.

Pertamina Puts Seven Petrol Stations on Standby Ahead of Mandalika Grand Prix

Pertamina Patra Niaga has prepared seven petrol stations in Central Lombok, West Lombok and Mataram to serve residents, visitors, officials and competitors ahead of the 2026 Indonesian Grand Prix. The company will also raise fuel supplies by 20–30 per cent along tourism routes and roads leading to the circuit to meet expected demand.

Vegetable Garden Made from Recycled Water Jugs at Purwosari State Primary School in Sleman

Purwosari State Primary School in Sleman has turned more than 500 discarded water jugs into growing containers, using liquid organic fertiliser made from leftovers from the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The integrated garden teaches pupils about agriculture, food security and waste management, while its abundant harvests are sold locally and proceeds returned to classroom needs.

NasDem Calls Circulating Impeachment Motion Against Gibran a Hoax

A purported parliamentary motion calling for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s impeachment has circulated online, but NasDem officials say it is fabricated and does not represent the party. NasDem says it respects the Constitutional Court’s ruling and is awaiting its leader’s direction, while Gibran and former president Joko Widodo defended the issue by citing differing education systems across countries.

German Tourist Killed in Collision with Ukrainian Driver in Mandalika

A German tourist was killed after the motorbike he was riding was struck by a Nissan Navara driven by a Ukrainian national near the Mandalika Circuit in Central Lombok. The car overturned and hit a lamp post; its Ukrainian driver and two Russian passengers were taken to hospital for treatment.

Witness Describes Horrific Fatal Crash Allegedly Caused by Reckless GWM Tank Driver in West Jakarta

A witness says a GWM Tank struck several vehicles in Palmerah, West Jakarta, killing an online motorcycle-taxi driver and injuring others. The vehicle reportedly continued driving after hitting roadside objects and parked vehicles before overturning; the driver was detained by residents.

Introducing ‘The New Sick Man of Europe’: France

France is facing mounting fiscal pressure, with a 2025 budget deficit of 5.1% of GDP and public debt at 115% of GDP, while political deadlock has obstructed spending cuts. Rising bond yields and borrowing costs have revived concerns about a sovereign debt crisis, with investors also watching for risks of wider contagion across the eurozone.

Co-ordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment Urges Climate Information to Be Included in Village Development Planning

Indonesia’s Co-ordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment says climate information should inform village development plans and budgets, helping communities prepare for climate change and El Niño. The ministry also advocates linking disaster preparedness and climate adaptation programmes with poverty reduction, livelihoods and food security, particularly for poor and vulnerable households.

Rosan Says Downstreaming Accounts for 30% of National Investment

Investment in downstream processing accounted for 30% of Indonesia’s total realised investment in the first half of 2026, up from 25% two years earlier, according to Danantara CEO Rosan Perkasa Roeslani. He highlighted the concentration of downstream investment outside Java and major nickel-related projects in North Maluku, which are expected to create more than 10,000 jobs.

BULOG Accelerates Distribution of Feed Corn under SPHP, Assures Adequate National Stocks

BULOG says it has distributed 76.7% of its 2026 feed-corn allocation under the SPHP programme, selling corn at Rp5,000 per kilogram to support livestock farmers. It reports national government stocks of 98,442 tonnes and is moving supplies between regions while procuring domestic corn to build reserves and support farmers.

Expert: Energy Transition Is an Investment to Reduce Economic Vulnerability

A University of Jember economist says accelerating the energy transition would make Indonesia less exposed to fossil-fuel price shocks, protect energy affordability and create new sources of growth. She points to subsidy reform, targeted support for vulnerable households and careful planning for affected workers and coal-producing regions as essential to a fair and accountable transition.

Indonesia retains FTSE secondary emerging-market status, OJK says

FTSE Russell has kept Indonesia in its secondary emerging-market group and left it off its Watch List, a decision OJK official Hasan Fawzi said reflects continued confidence in the country’s capital market. The assessment recognised reforms on ownership transparency, shareholder disclosure, investor classification and free-float requirements, signalling progress in efforts to strengthen market integrity and investability.

Nearly Five Centuries Old, Indramayu Ready to Become an Engine of Economic Growth

West Java Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan has urged Indramayu to prioritise human-resource development, stronger local economic capacity and improved connectivity as the regency approaches its 499th anniversary. The area’s substantial rice production and potential in industry, energy and other sectors could support growth, but unemployment and poverty remain significant challenges requiring cooperation across levels of government.

Jakarta Partners with South Korea to Tackle Urban Challenges Using AI

Jakarta is preparing to join a strategic Indonesia–South Korea partnership on artificial intelligence, drawing on its digital infrastructure, including 102 data centres. Governor Pramono Anung says AI could support neighbourhood revitalisation without evictions, as well as public services, data-led policymaking and urban mobility, with safeguards for privacy, security and inclusion.

Downstreaming Investment Reaches 30% of Total Investment

Investment in downstream processing accounted for about 30% of Indonesia’s Rp1,010.6 trillion in realised investment in the first half of 2026, while total investment grew 7.2% year on year and supported more than 1.4 million jobs. The government is pursuing downstream projects across 28 commodities and eight sectors, with plans intended to lift exports and value added, alongside expanded energy, digital and advanced manufacturing infrastructure.

KKP partners with BPOM to ensure fish quality for the Free Nutritious Meals programme

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) will coordinate inspections, testing and support for fish businesses to safeguard seafood quality and safety, including supplies for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The agreement brings together 46 KKP technical units and 83 BPOM units, and is intended to accelerate processing certification, align fish production with programme demand and help fisheries businesses reach export markets.

Prabowo’s Directive: Protect Investors as You Would Your Own Family

President Prabowo Subianto has told government officials to respect and protect all investors in Indonesia as they would their own families, stressing the government’s commitment to securing investment from any source. The announcement came at the launch of downstreaming projects worth Rp180 trillion at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, where Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said the wider project pipeline totals US$10.2 billion, with four projects completed and beginning commercial operations or exports.

House Fire in Kemayoran, Explosion Heard Before Blaze

A fire at a semi-permanent house in Kebon Kosong, Central Jakarta, affected 43 people from eight families. Fire crews deployed 23 pump trucks and 74 personnel, while the cause remains under investigation; illegally parked vehicles and narrow roads hampered the response.

Russian Ambassador: Germany to Sever Ties with Moscow Completely

Russia’s ambassador to Germany, Sergey Nechayev, says Berlin is pursuing a complete rupture in relations built up over centuries, citing the closure of Russian diplomatic and cultural facilities. Germany has announced the closure of Russia’s consulate general in Bonn and termination of the operating agreement for the Russian House in Berlin, while Moscow has imposed reciprocal measures.

Jokowi visits Prabowo on night of MK ruling on Gibran

Former President Joko Widodo met President Prabowo Subianto at Prabowo’s residence on the night the Constitutional Court ruled on a challenge to Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s educational credentials. The Court dismissed the petitioners for lack of legal standing, while noting that documents submitted by Gibran demonstrated school attendance rather than graduation or completion.

Smoke from Forest and Land Fires Disrupts 180 Flights in Central, East and North Kalimantan in One Week

Smoke from forest and land fires affected 180 flights across Central, East and North Kalimantan between 28 September and 4 October, down from 304 the previous week. Central Kalimantan accounted for the largest share, while reduced visibility reached a low of 100 metres at two airports; aviation authorities say safety remains the priority in operational decisions.

PDI-P Calls on Gibran to Resign as Vice-President

PDI-P central board member Komarudin Watubun said Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka should resign after the Constitutional Court’s ruling on whether he met the educational requirements for the 2024 vice-presidential election. Watubun also urged the House of Representatives to follow up within its authority, including considering impeachment, while the court’s findings have drawn attention to Gibran’s school credentials.

Central Java Steps Up Mangrove Planting Ahead of Giant Sea Wall Construction

Central Java is expanding mangrove planting and community-led coastal protection in preparation for the planned Giant Sea Wall along the north coast of Java. The province says the initiative complements its Mageri Segoro programme and addresses multiple coastal threats, including erosion, tidal flooding and land subsidence.

Bos Travel Sent 50 Pilgrims Using Additional Hajj Quota After Raising It with Gus Alex

Ali Muhammad Amin, director of PT Al Amin Ahsan Travel, told a Jakarta corruption court that his company sent 50 pilgrims on an additional Hajj quota in 2024, after he had proposed their names to former religious affairs minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s aide, Ishfah Abidal Azis, known as Gus Alex. The testimony comes in a case in which prosecutors allege that Yaqut and several associates caused state losses of Rp622.09 billion through corruption involving additional Hajj quotas for 2023–2024.

East Kalimantan records 3,085 hectares of harvested kepok bananas

East Kalimantan’s Food, Crops and Horticulture Agency says the province has harvested kepok bananas across 3,085 hectares, producing a total of 129,386 tonnes. East Kutai is the leading contributor, while the agency is promoting cultivation through improved seedlings and balanced fertilisation to support food security and farmers’ incomes.

KAI Plantation Freight Grows 16.48%, with 480,000 Tonnes of Commodities Moved by Rail

KAI transported 480,121 tonnes of plantation commodities between January and September 2026, up 16.48% year on year, as its overall non-coal freight volume also increased. The growth comes amid expansion in Indonesia’s agriculture and exports, and points to rail’s potential role in moving large, regular shipments from production centres to processing facilities, ports and markets.

South Jakarta Transport Agency Removes 16 Illegally Parked Motorbikes Near Gandaria City Mall

South Jakarta’s Transport Agency removed 16 motorbikes parked illegally near Gandaria City Mall after residents complained that they were obstructing access and narrowing the road. The owners will receive inspection reports and traffic fines, while officials say enforcement will continue to improve public access and safety.

Prabowo Tells IWIP Operators to Protect Water and Air and Manage Waste

President Prabowo Subianto has urged operators at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) to safeguard the environment as downstream industrial projects expand, with particular attention to water and air quality and waste management. The newly launched programme includes an electric vehicle battery export, four industrial projects entering commercial operations and seven new projects, representing a total investment of US$10.2 billion (about Rp180 trillion).

IDX-KSEI Announce That 99.95% of BSWD Shares Are Held by a Small Group of Investors

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) and KSEI say a small group of shareholders collectively held 99.95% of Bank of India Indonesia (BSWD) shares as of 2 October 2026, leaving only 0.05% outside the group. The disclosure follows a trading suspension imposed after a sharp share-price rise; the exchanges stressed that concentrated ownership does not by itself indicate a regulatory breach.

Mob Attacks Man Arrested over Rape of Teenager with Special Needs in North Jakarta

Police have arrested a 20-year-old man accused of raping a 15-year-old girl with special needs in Penjaringan, North Jakarta. The suspect, who lives near the victim, was attacked by residents when apprehended; police say he and the evidence are now at the local station as investigators continue their inquiry.

Central Lombok Regency Government strengthens digital security

Central Lombok Regency is stepping up cybersecurity measures to protect government information systems, public data and services from hacking and data leaks. Officials are being trained to recognise threats such as phishing and to adopt safer practices, including strong passwords, multi-factor authentication and prompt incident reporting.

Kepri SPPG Head: 9,204 Volunteers Employed in Free Nutritious Meals Programme

A total of 9,204 volunteers are working across 235 kitchens delivering Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in the Riau Islands, according to data as of June 2026. The staffing supports operations in all seven regencies and cities, with volunteer numbers and daily allowances varying by kitchen; recruitment is handled by the foundations managing each kitchen.

Six KAI Regions Record Double-Digit Growth as Rail Mobility Strengthens from Java to Sumatra

Passenger activity at KAI stations rose 8.51% year on year to nearly 90 million boardings and alightings in January–September 2026, with six operating regions posting double-digit growth. West Sumatra recorded the strongest increase at 22.21%, while Jakarta remained the largest market by volume; the figures are being used to inform region-specific capacity and service planning.

Prabowo Reaffirms Commitment to Protect All Investment in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto said the government would respect and safeguard all investment in Indonesia, whether domestic or foreign, describing the protection of trusted partners as a matter of national honour. He made the pledge at the launch of downstreaming projects worth US$10.2 billion at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, where reported investment has reached about US$20 billion and the site employs more than 100,000 people.

KPK Questions Rita Widyasari About Evidence in Money-Laundering Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioned former Kutai Kartanegara regent Rita Widyasari about seized evidence in an alleged money-laundering case, while also examining assets held in another witness’s name. The investigation is linked to alleged gratification worth Rp436 billion and three coal companies recently named as suspects; Rita said PT Bara Kumala Sakti belongs to her mother and denied knowing about a reported payment to a singer and politician.

KPK Warns Nusron Not to Delay Law Enforcement

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) plans to resummon Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid after he failed to attend an initial questioning in an alleged corruption case involving his ministry. The KPK says repeated delays could create the perception that he is obstructing the legal process; the investigation concerns alleged bribery over building-use rights in Bogor, in which Rp106.3 billion was seized and eight people have been named suspects.

Retired TNI Officers Seek DPR Support to Impeach Vice-President Gibran

The Forum of Retired TNI Officers plans to petition the DPR, MPR and political party leaders for support to impeach Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, citing Article 7A of the Constitution. The move follows renewed scrutiny of a Constitutional Court ruling that noted a lack of convincing evidence about whether Gibran met the high-school education requirement, although the court dismissed the election-result petition.

Sherly Gets the Loudest Applause; Prabowo Jokes: ‘The Election Is Still a Long Way Off!’

President Prabowo Subianto joked about the enthusiastic applause for North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda, saying the next election was still a long way off, during a ceremony launching downstream-processing projects in Halmahera. The event marked the launch of 11 projects at Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, with reported total investment of around Rp180 trillion, including an initial ceremony for an electric-vehicle battery project.

A Dozen or More Homes in Kampung Melayu Burn in Suspected Electrical Fault

Seventeen homes in East Jakarta’s Kampung Melayu caught fire, with an electrical fault suspected as the cause pending an investigation. Firefighters contained the blaze and rescued 70 residents from 16 households; no deaths were caused by the fire, and damage estimates are still being compiled.

Cassava Bioethanol Production Costs Rp8,000 per Litre: Will Agrinas Sell at a Loss?

State-owned Agrinas Palma Nusantara says integrated cassava cultivation and processing could keep bioethanol production costs at about Rp8,000 per litre, below the government’s ethanol purchase benchmark of roughly Rp10,800. The company is exploring bank-financed, business-to-business projects and plans to map up to one million hectares for food and energy crops, a proposal it says could generate substantial employment and save foreign exchange.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Adjusts Fuel Supply Patterns, Maintains Energy Availability

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s Jatimbalinus regional unit is dynamically managing stocks and adjusting supply routes to maintain fuel availability, particularly in Bali, after a delay in Pertalite deliveries. The company says a shipment arrived on 7 October and the next is scheduled for 11 October 2026, while it works to restore supplies and urges the public to use fuel responsibly and rely on verified information.

Home Electric Vehicle Charging Gains Popularity in West Java

PLN’s West Java distribution unit had 7,125 home-charging customers by August 2026, including 2,034 additions since January, as adoption continues to grow. A temporary discount on installation and electricity use aims to make home charging more accessible, while rising national customer numbers and consumption point to the closer integration of electric-vehicle charging into household energy use.

Indonesia aims to raise manufacturing’s share of GDP above 20 per cent

Indonesia aims to lift manufacturing’s contribution to GDP from about 19 per cent to above 20 per cent, with a longer-term target of 21 to 25 per cent. Industry Minister Sarmuji said manufacturing must grow faster than the overall economy, highlighting its role as a key driver; the sector accounted for 19.07 per cent of GDP in 2025 and grew 5.30 per cent that year.

Minister Bahlil’s Tactical Move to Maximise Nickel’s Economic Value Through a Moratorium

Economists have backed Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s proposal for a temporary moratorium on new facilities producing semi-finished nickel products, arguing it could help address global oversupply and improve the value Indonesia gains from its nickel resources. They say the measure should be paired with consistent supply management and deeper investment in higher-value downstream products, including battery materials and cells.

Zulhas: Government Support for the Coconut Industry Should Not Be Doubted

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan said the government is committed to developing Indonesia’s coconut sector from upstream production through downstream processing. He pointed to funds collected from the palm oil industry as a source of support for new coconut varieties and downstream development, and urged cooperation among central and regional governments, businesses and academics.

President launches 11 downstreaming ecosystems worth US$10.2 billion

President Prabowo Subianto launched 11 downstreaming ecosystems valued at US$10.2 billion (around Rp180 trillion) at the Weda Bay industrial estate in North Maluku. The event also marked the first export of electric vehicle batteries, highlighting the government’s push to expand domestic mineral processing and battery production.

Lorde Wears ‘Free Palestine’ Jacket, Taking a Swipe at Billionaire Robert Kraft?

New Zealand singer Lorde posted a photo wearing a jacket marked “Free Palestine” and tagged billionaire Robert Kraft, following controversy over Macklemore’s removal from Ed Sheeran’s US tour. Macklemore said Kraft had campaigned for his removal, while Kraft described the rapper’s pro-Palestinian statements and Gaza imagery as deeply offensive to the Jewish community; Macklemore maintained that criticism of Israel is not criticism of Jewish people.

Forest and Land Fires in Barito Kuala Come Close to University, Destroy Residents’ Homes

Forest and land fires in Barito Kuala, South Kalimantan, spread towards Universitas Islam Kalimantan and disrupted campus activities with dense smoke. The blaze also destroyed two residents’ homes, while hundreds of firefighters worked to dampen the area; satellite data recorded 28 hotspots in the regency over the preceding 24 hours.

Three Defendants in BPJS Fake Claims Corruption Case Sentenced to Up to Seven Years

A Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced three defendants over fictitious employment accident insurance claims involving BPJS Ketenagakerjaan during 2014–2024. The former company executive received seven years in prison, while two former claims verification staff were sentenced to four and three years; all were also ordered to pay fines and substantial compensation.

Deputy Coordinating Minister for the Economy: Indonesia Must Become a Leading Player in AI Development

Deputy Coordinating Minister for the Economy Dradjad Hari Wibowo said Indonesia must move beyond merely adopting artificial intelligence and aim to lead its development, while managing risks such as job displacement and data centres’ water use. He argued that investment in data centres, AI, semiconductors and digital talent could help accelerate the country’s ambition for 8 per cent economic growth.

Not Just the Captain: Three Company Executives Also Implicated in Fatal KM Virgo Accident; All Four Detained

Police have detained four suspects in the fatal 13 September accident involving KM Virgo Transport 8, including the captain and three employees of the vessel’s operator, PT Virgo Karya Shipping. Investigators say they are examining whether the company figures were involved through negligence, participation or assistance, and have charged the suspects under shipping and criminal law provisions.

Pertamina Tanker Crews and Petrol Station Operators: The Energy Workforce Behind the Pertamina Grand Prix

Pertamina Patra Niaga’s tanker crews and petrol station operators are working to maintain fuel distribution and service as visitors arrive in Lombok for the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia. Their efforts support mobility across the island during the international motor-racing event, scheduled for 9–11 October.

Two Indonesian Nickel Industrial Parks Use More Electricity than Singapore

The Weda Bay and Morowali industrial parks have a combined installed and planned electricity capacity of 15.9 GW, exceeding Singapore’s total electricity consumption of 13.1 GW. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said the power is needed to support nickel processing and the electric-vehicle battery supply chain, as President Prabowo inaugurated 11 downstreaming projects worth US$10.2 billion in North Maluku.

Mas Bechi’s Parole Revoked

Indonesia’s Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has revoked the conditional release granted to Muhammad Subchi Azal Tsani, known as Mas Bechi, who was convicted of raping a female student at an Islamic boarding school. The decision was received by the Malang Probation Office on 6 October 2026 and was to be formally conveyed to him during a reporting visit, although he had not appeared by early afternoon on 8 October.

DKI Says Case of Teacher Accused of Molesting Student at SMKN 27 Under Investigation

Jakarta’s Education Department says a teacher at SMKN 27 accused of molesting a student has been removed from teaching duties while a multi-agency team investigates. The team will determine the teacher’s culpability and any sanctions, while the department is arranging support for the student and says it will follow legal proceedings if the case constitutes a criminal offence.

Jokowi Responds to Constitutional Court Ruling on Gibran’s High School Qualification

Former president Joko Widodo says education systems differ between countries and argues that Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka must have completed the equivalent earlier stages because he holds a bachelor’s degree. The Constitutional Court rejected a challenge over Gibran’s eligibility, while finding that the attendance certificate used in his overseas education equivalency documentation did not prove completion of high school.

DPR proposes using fines on companies responsible for forest and land fires to fund environmental restoration

A member of the House of Representatives’ Commission XII has proposed directing fines imposed on companies responsible for forest and land fires towards restoring the affected environment. He said penalties should both deter companies and ensure they pay for ecological damage, with fines calculated to reflect the losses caused.

Sultan: DPD Offices Should Be More Than Mere Liaison Offices

DPD RI Chair Sultan B. Najamudin has called for the regional offices of the national body to play a stronger role in serving communities, rather than functioning only as liaison offices. A blood donation drive marking the DPD’s 22nd anniversary is set to become a regular programme across its 38 provincial-capital offices, while also fostering coordination among local government, businesses and the public.

Trade Ministry Records 641.1% Surge in Digital Gold Transactions

Indonesia’s Trade Ministry reported that digital gold transactions reached Rp299.5 trillion from January to August 2026, up 641.1% year on year. Commodity futures trading also grew, while the ministry highlighted the need for greater consumer literacy and tighter oversight to guard against illegal investment risks.

PKB Urges MK Hearing Evidence to Inform Improvements to Election Governance

PKB lawmaker Khozin says evidence presented during proceedings at the Constitutional Court (MK) could provide substantive guidance for improving Indonesia’s election administration. He said the findings should inform the House of Representatives’ Commission II as it revises the Election Law, including reforms to the work of the KPU and Bawaslu and to administrative and factual verification.

Rosan Says Downstreaming Accounts for 30% of National Investment

Investment in downstream industries accounted for 30% of Indonesia’s total realised investment in the first half of 2026, up from 25% over the past two years, according to Danantara CEO Rosan Perkasa Roeslani. He said more than three-quarters of downstream investment was located outside Java, while 10 strategic projects in the Weda Bay industrial park carry a combined investment of US$10.2 billion and are expected to create more than 10,000 jobs.

DayOne Files Registration Statement for Proposed Initial Public Offering

Singapore-headquartered data centre operator DayOne has filed a registration statement for a proposed initial public offering, with Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, BofA Securities and Citigroup serving as underwriters. The number of American depositary shares and the price range have yet to be set; the company operates data centres in Indonesia and other markets across Asia-Pacific and Europe.

The Era of Starlink Connecting Directly to Mobile Phones Is Getting Closer

The US Federal Communications Commission plans to vote on auctioning 25 MHz of spectrum and is seeking public comment on a further 482 MHz for satellite-based direct-to-device services. The proposals could help satellite operators such as SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon extend mobile connectivity to areas without reliable coverage.

Home Affairs Ministry Urges Local Governments to Improve BPHTB Services

The Ministry of Home Affairs has called on local governments to make land and building acquisition duty (BPHTB) services faster, more transparent and digitally integrated. Clear service deadlines and links between local authorities, land-de deed officials and the land agency are intended to improve legal certainty for property transactions and investment while optimising local revenue.

US to bring new torture charges against Venezuela’s Maduro

US prosecutors are expected to bring new charges against ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, over the alleged torture of American detainees during his rule. Flores is also seeking release from jail to house arrest on health grounds, while prosecutors oppose the request, citing flight risk and danger to the public; the couple already face drug-trafficking and firearms charges.

Video: Healthcare Policy Breakthroughs: Fast, Precise and Patient-Focused

At CNBC Indonesia Health Summit 2026, Health Ministry Director General Azhar Jaya outlined efforts to strengthen regulations and policies to improve healthcare services. The discussion also featured medical and healthcare industry leaders and explored the future of healthcare investment as a means of bolstering resilience and supporting the national economy.

Jokowi Says Gibran’s Impeachment Must Follow Constitutional Procedures

Former president Joko Widodo says any effort to remove Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka must follow democratic procedures and the Constitution, while expressing respect for the Constitutional Court’s ruling on his educational qualifications. The Court said it found no convincing evidence that Gibran held a foreign education certificate or diploma that could be equated with the minimum secondary-school qualification required under election law.

Jokowi Responds to Calls to Impeach Gibran Following Degree Controversy

Former president Joko Widodo has urged those calling for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s impeachment to follow constitutional and democratic procedures. The Constitutional Court rejected a challenge to Gibran’s 2024 vice-presidential candidacy, while its ruling said it had found no persuasive evidence that he held an overseas qualification equivalent to an Indonesian senior secondary-school certificate.

Free Nutritious Meals Trialled with Buffet-Style Service

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency is trialling buffet-style serving for its Free Nutritious Meals programme at a junior high school in Batang, Central Java. The approach lets pupils choose food and portion sizes, while aiming to keep meals warm and fresh and encourage mindful food choices.

Police Name Three More Suspects over Fatal Virgo Transport Ship Accident

Police have named three company officials as additional suspects in the fatal accident involving the KM Virgo Transport 8, bringing the total number of suspects to four. Investigators are examining possible negligence and assistance by both the ship’s operator and the company, with all four suspects detained as the inquiry proceeds under maritime and criminal law provisions.

IPB’s Faculty of Agriculture backs competency-based research into bioethanol development

IPB University’s Faculty of Agriculture is working with PT Agrinas Palma Indonesia on research into bioethanol made from maize, sorghum and cassava. The study will examine feedstock production, processing and economic viability, with the university stressing that evidence-based, multidisciplinary research is essential to support Indonesia’s energy self-sufficiency goals.

Macron Showcases the M51.3 as Putin Has the Sarmat: Which Nuclear Missile Is More Powerful?

France has test-fired its submarine-launched M51.3 ballistic missile as tensions with Russia and wider European security concerns intensify. Though Russia’s Sarmat is substantially larger and designed for a heavier payload, the two systems serve different strategic roles: the M51.3 emphasises the stealth and survivability of a submarine-based deterrent, while the Sarmat is a land-based intercontinental missile.

Commission II Pledges to Prioritise Public Participation in Drafting Election Bill

Indonesia’s House of Representatives Commission II says public participation will be central to drafting amendments to the 2017 Election Law, with the drafting working committee set to gather input from stakeholders during the current recess. The committee will also consider Constitutional Court rulings, as Parliament says the bill should be developed transparently and strengthen the quality of democracy.

Indonesia committed to safeguarding all investments, president says

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia would respect and safeguard all investments as the country attracts major funding for nickel processing and related projects. The pledge comes amid concerns among some businesses about tighter mining quotas, higher taxes and a new pricing formula, while projects launched at Weda Bay represent billions of dollars in investment.

Danantara: Pelni-Pelindo Merger Unlikely Due to Differences in Business Models

Danantara COO Dony Oskaria says a merger between port operator Pelindo and shipping company Pelni is unlikely because they operate in distinct industries, despite both being maritime businesses. He said potential consolidation between Pelni and ferry operator ASDP could be considered, while stressing that mergers should focus on companies with similar business activities to improve efficiency.

SMU School of Accountancy launches Applied AI Track for future accounting and finance professionals

Singapore Management University’s School of Accountancy is introducing an Applied AI Track in its Master of Science in Accounting programme to prepare professionals to use, evaluate and govern AI in accounting and finance workflows. The curriculum covers technologies such as generative and agentic AI, with an emphasis on human oversight, professional judgement and accountability as AI adoption grows across the sector.

MUI: Hajj Subsidy Demonstrates the State’s Commitment to Serving Worshippers

The Indonesian Ulema Council says government subsidies included in the Hajj travel cost framework show the state’s commitment to meeting citizens’ religious needs. It welcomed the timely completion of Hajj financing discussions and urged the Hajj Ministry, under parliamentary oversight, to ensure high-quality services and bring arrangements for the Dam sacrifice into line with Saudi rules and Sharia principles.

Bangka Belitung Food and Drug Agency Ensures Free Nutritious Meals Are Safe for Students

The Pangkalpinang Food and Drug Agency says it is testing meal samples, inspecting kitchens and training meal-preparation teams to prevent food-related illness under the free nutritious meals programme. All nutrition service units must obtain a hygiene and sanitation certificate, following poisoning cases reported in other areas.

Police Name Three Virgo Transport Company Officials as Suspects

Police have named three officials of the company behind the KM Virgo Transport 8 as suspects in an alleged shipping offence linked to the vessel’s sinking, bringing the total number of suspects to four, including its captain. All four are being held as investigators examine alleged negligence and possible corporate involvement in the accident that killed and injured passengers and caused property losses.

Finance Minister: Consumption Must Grow Strongly to Achieve 6% Growth

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says household consumption must grow by more than 5.4% and government spending by more than 5.6% for Indonesia to meet its 6% economic growth target in 2027. The government also plans to coordinate the state budget with Danantara to lift investment growth to 7%.

Trade Minister: Calls to Boycott Indonesian Products in Malaysia Will Not Disrupt Trade

Trade Minister Budi Santoso said online calls in Malaysia to boycott Indonesian products are a temporary reaction and have not affected bilateral trade. The ministry is monitoring the situation through Indonesia’s trade attaché and embassy in Kuala Lumpur, with commercial activity continuing as usual.

Prabowo to Sherly Tjoanda: ‘The Election Is Still a Long Way Off’

President Prabowo Subianto drew attention to the loud applause when he greeted North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda, joking that the next election was still a long way off. The exchange took place at a ceremony marking the launch of 11 downstream-processing projects and the first export of electric-vehicle batteries, with a combined value of Rp180 trillion.

Chinese Actor Wang Xing Was Sold Three Times in Four Days After Being Trafficked to Myanmar

A Chinese state documentary says actor Wang Xing was abducted after being lured to Thailand with a fake acting job, then sold three times in four days in Myanmar before a joint search operation found him. It also details Beijing’s failed negotiations with four powerful crime families in northern Myanmar and a subsequent crackdown that led to arrests, death sentences and the sentencing of more than 41,000 repatriated people for telecom fraud.

DPR Closes Parliamentary Session as Puan Highlights Prison Governance and Fixed-Term Contracts

At the close of the first parliamentary session of 2026–27, House Speaker Puan Maharani outlined issues requiring scrutiny, including prison governance, fixed-term and outsourced workers’ protections, disaster response and social assistance. She also reported on legislative and budget work, including the passage of 20 bills and approval of the 2027 state budget, before MPs begin a month-long recess on 9 October.

Drone food-delivery trials underway in Bali

A three-month pilot by SKYY Network, Nuanu Creative City, Café del Mar Bali and Grab Indonesia is testing drone deliveries between North Kuta and Tabanan, using a hybrid model in which drivers complete the final leg. The trial will assess technology, infrastructure, safety, regulation and customer experience, including the feasibility of BVLOS flights near Ngurah Rai airport, while evaluating how drones could complement rather than replace existing delivery services.

Video: The Urgency of Regulatory Reform to Support Cancer Treatment

At CNBC Indonesia Health Summit 2026, Icon Cancer Centre ASEAN chief executive Serena Wee discussed how government regulatory reforms can improve healthcare services for cancer patients. She highlighted the need for appropriate specialist care, clear access to services, and financial and family support throughout treatment.

PDI-P’s Komarudin Urges KPU Members Involved in Gibran’s Candidacy Not to Be Reappointed

PDI-P politician and House Commission II member Komarudin Watubun says election commissioners involved in verifying Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s 2024 vice-presidential candidacy should not seek another term, citing ethical concerns. The KPU says it accepted Gibran’s high-school equivalency certificate because it was issued by an authorised institution, had previously been accepted for his 2020 Solo mayoral candidacy, and had not been revoked; it says no grounds for clarification arose during verification.

Supporting Sade Residents, BRI Insurance Pays Claims and Provides Social Responsibility Assistance

BRI Insurance and state-owned microfinance company PNM have supported residents of Sade Traditional Village in Lombok Tengah following an August 2026 fire. Assistance includes help to restore businesses, health checks and insurance claim payments, with company leaders stressing the need for a broad recovery that restores livelihoods as well as meeting immediate needs.

Jepara Pilots Buffet-Style Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Jepara Regency has begun piloting a buffet-style format for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at one school, with plans to extend it to nine schools. Officials are monitoring nutrition, hygiene, food safety and orderly service before deciding how the model might be improved and rolled out more widely.

KM Virgo Captain Named Suspect and Held at South Kalimantan Police Detention Centre

Police have named four people as suspects in the KM Virgo Transport 8 accident, which occurred on 13 September 2026 and caused deaths, injuries and property damage. The suspects include the vessel’s captain and three employees or representatives of its shipping company; investigators are examining alleged negligence and possible participation or assistance in the incident.

Deputy Coordinating Minister Hanif Says Food Aid to Begin in October

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq says fourth-quarter food assistance is set to be implemented from October, with 33.2 million beneficiary families due to receive rice. The government has allocated about Rp17.5 trillion, while Bulog says national stocks are sufficient and a subsidised rice programme will continue to help keep prices affordable.

Four State-Owned Construction Firm Mergers Set for November; Danantara Explains Waskita-Wika’s Prospects

Danantara says four state-owned construction companies are expected to complete two mergers by the end of November 2026: Nindya Karya with Brantas Abipraya, and Adhi Karya with PP. Waskita Karya and Wijaya Karya will not be included yet, as both require extensive financial restructuring, including efforts to address Wika’s debt of Rp34 trillion and consider retaining Waskita’s toll-road assets.

Apartment Building Partly Collapses in Istanbul, Seven People Trapped

A seven-storey apartment building in Istanbul’s Maltepe district partially collapsed early on Thursday, trapping seven people beneath the rubble. Rescuers have evacuated five people, while they have made contact with four of those still trapped and continue searching for three others.

Elnusa Petrofin Strengthens Fuel Resilience Ahead of the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia

Elnusa Petrofin is preparing fuel distribution across Lombok for the expected rise in mobility during the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia, deploying 28 tankers and additional staff to serve 72 petrol stations and 45 Pertashop outlets. The company has also prioritised key ports and stations near the Mandalika circuit, while adjusting delivery schedules and emphasising operational safety.

Prabowo to launch 11 downstreaming projects in North Maluku

President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Halmahera will feature an estimated Rp180 trillion (US$10.2 billion) downstreaming programme, including the first export shipment of electric vehicle batteries and the launch of 11 projects at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park. The projects comprise four commercialisation initiatives and seven groundbreakings, forming part of the government’s wider effort to accelerate downstreaming and energy transition under the newly established coordinating ministry.

Police Name Three More Suspects in KM Virgo 8 Accident Case

Police have named three employees of PT Virgo Karya Shipping as additional suspects over the fatal sinking of the KM Virgo Transport 8, citing suspected negligence and possible complicity. They have been detained for 20 days as investigators examine whether the company bears responsibility; the disaster has left 80 people dead and 55 missing.

Japan’s Takaichi Keeps Agriculture Minister in Post Despite Controversy

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi says she will not dismiss Agriculture Minister Kazuo Yana, despite mounting opposition pressure over his remarks about cuts to road budgets. Yana has apologised and withdrawn part of his account, while denying that he pressured the Land Ministry; opposition lawmakers say public spending must not be used for political retaliation or rewards.

Prabowo Surprised by Loud Applause for Sherly Tjoanda: ‘The Election Is Still a Long Way Off’

President Prabowo Subianto joked about the enthusiastic applause Maluku Islands Governor Sherly Tjoanda received when he greeted her at a nickel downstreaming and electric-vehicle battery export event. He noted that the same reaction had greeted her at a farmers’ and fishers’ gathering in Gorontalo earlier in the year.

IPI’s 2026 National Working Meeting Seeks to Strengthen the Librarian Profession in the AI Era

The Indonesian Librarians Association’s 2026 National Working Meeting set five transformation priorities, including professional advocacy, organisational reform, digitalisation and stronger professional knowledge-sharing. The association says its decisions must be converted into measurable programmes, while also addressing librarians’ skills and ethics in response to artificial intelligence.

OJK Revokes Business Licence of PT Porto Ventura Kapital

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revoked PT Porto Ventura Kapital’s business licence after the venture capital firm failed to resolve the issues that led to its special supervisory status. OJK said the action follows the applicable regulations and is intended to promote a sound venture capital industry and maintain public confidence.

ACK Restaurant in Gianyar Catches Fire, Suspected Gas Leak

A fire at an ACK fast-food restaurant in Gianyar was reportedly caused by a leaking LPG hose, with no casualties. The blaze damaged a 4-by-10-metre building and caused estimated losses of Rp200 million, prompting police to remind the public to check cooking equipment and gas connections.

DKUMKM: 35 KDKMP Cooperatives in Bangka Belitung to Manage Tin Mines

Thirty-five Merah Putih village and urban-ward cooperatives in Bangka Belitung are set to manage tin ore mining in PT Timah’s mining licence areas, alongside 19 existing cooperatives already partnering with the state-owned company. The provincial government says training will cover regulations, trading arrangements, production capacity and occupational safety, with an emphasis on responsible and sustainable operations that can support local economies.

Consumer Confidence Index Falls to 118.1 in September, but Indonesian Consumers Remain Optimistic

Bank Indonesia’s Consumer Confidence Index fell to 118.1 in September 2026 from 120.9 the previous month, but remained in optimistic territory. Current economic perceptions eased, while expectations for income and employment over the next six months improved, indicating continued confidence despite a modest monthly decline.

Most Level-Crossing Accidents Occur at Unattended Sites; KAI Urges Road Users to Give Trains Priority

Around 67 per cent of level-crossing accidents recorded by KAI from 2023 to 11 August 2026 occurred at unattended crossings. KAI and government agencies are expanding safety measures—including closing illegal crossings, staffing and upgrading crossings—while reminding road users of their legal duty to stop and give trains priority.

South Jakarta Food Agency Promotes Local Produce as a Business Opportunity for Residents

South Jakarta’s Food Security, Maritime Affairs and Agriculture Sub-agency has trained 105 residents to turn local crops into higher-value food products and potential businesses. Participants also received processing equipment, with officials hoping the training will support household economic independence and local entrepreneurship.

Prabowo Launches First Electric Vehicle Battery Exports at IWIP

President Prabowo Subianto has launched Indonesia’s first electric vehicle battery exports and four industrial projects entering commercial operation at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park in North Maluku. He also marked the groundbreaking of seven further projects, bringing the total investment value of the announced projects to US$10.2 billion, or around Rp180 trillion.

Prabowo Launches EV Battery Exports and 11 Downstreaming Projects Worth Rp180 Trillion in North Maluku

President Prabowo Subianto launched Indonesia’s first electric-vehicle battery export and 11 downstreaming projects at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, with total investment of US$10.2 billion, or about Rp180 trillion. Four projects are entering commercial operations and seven are beginning construction, which Prabowo described as evidence that Indonesia’s downstreaming strategy is on the right track.

LRT City construction continues despite refund requests, says Danantara

Danantara says construction of the LRT City developments will continue even if consumers seek refunds, while stressing that quality and consumers’ interests must be protected. Adhi Karya has handed over 3,000 of about 5,400 units sold, with roughly 2,400 still awaiting delivery; Danantara is preparing a detailed project completion timeline.

Man Sentenced to Caning After Trafficking Woman for Sex Work in Dubai

An Italian man has been sentenced to eight years in prison, six strokes of the cane and a US$9,000 fine for trafficking a Singaporean woman to Dubai and forcing her into prostitution. The case involved false promises of marriage and travel to Qatar; the court heard that he arranged clients and accommodation and took all of her earnings.

Gibran Reported to Police over Diploma Fraud Allegations

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and the education ministry have been reported to police over alleged document forgery linked to the education certificate used to equate his overseas diploma with a high-school qualification for his 2024 election candidacy. The complainants say a Constitutional Court ruling, which found no convincing evidence of an equivalent diploma but could not affect his vice-presidential status, supports their complaint.

Pertamina Strengthens National Energy Transition from Solar Power to CCS

Pertamina says Indonesia’s energy transition must maintain reliable and affordable supply while developing lower-carbon energy in parallel. Its initiatives include a solar-and-battery project serving an island community in Batam, biofuel development and carbon capture and storage, alongside government efforts to attract investment in strategic energy and waste-to-energy projects.

Komnas HAM: Implementation of Free Nutritious Meals Programme Violates Human Rights

Indonesia’s National Human Rights Commission says the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has involved violations of several rights, including rights to health, adequate food, children’s welfare and freedom of expression. It urged reforms to the programme’s centralised and insufficiently transparent management, citing recurring food-poisoning cases, weak remedies and enforcement, and concerns over food safety and worker protections.

Prabowo Jokes with Sugiono: Have You Settled In? Do You Want to Be Foreign Minister Again?

President Prabowo Subianto joked with Sugiono, recently appointed Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, asking whether he had settled into the role or wanted to return to his previous post as foreign minister. Sugiono was moved in a cabinet reshuffle on 1 October, with Arrmanatha Nasir taking over as foreign minister.

DPR Commission II Still Reviewing Constitutional Court Ruling on Gibran’s Diploma

Commission II of the House of Representatives says it is awaiting the official copy of the Constitutional Court’s ruling concerning a challenge to Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s education credentials and vice-presidential candidacy. The Court rejected the petitioners’ legal standing and said it had no authority to disqualify Gibran, while noting that evidence presented in court did not include a document proving he completed an overseas education programme equivalent to senior high school.

Government Confirms Ride-Hailing Drivers Will Remain Partners

The government says online motorcycle taxi drivers will retain their partner status under Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026, which sets out protections for the digital platform transport ecosystem. The regulation clarifies the rights and responsibilities of drivers and app companies, while the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises will monitor partnership agreements and social protections. It also covers goods and food delivery, services used by around 15 million small-business merchants.

OJK Says FTSE’s Decision to Maintain Indonesia’s Status Is a Positive Signal

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) says FTSE Russell’s decision to keep Indonesia in the secondary emerging-market category signals continued confidence among global investors. FTSE also recognised Indonesia’s market reforms, while flagging ownership transparency, investor classification and free-float levels as areas of focus.

Nickel Industries and UPN Yogyakarta welcome 2026 scholarship recipients

Nickel Industries and UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta have welcomed five scholarship recipients from Sulawesi, the first beneficiaries under the company’s expanded programme at the university. The initiative adds to Nickel Industries’ education support, which has assisted 30 recipients since 2024, and aims to strengthen students’ skills and links between higher education and industry.

Unram Rector: Research Should Not Stop at Publication

Universitas Mataram Rector Sukardi says research should be developed into innovations that deliver tangible benefits to society, rather than ending with academic publication or prototypes. He welcomed BPOM’s engagement with the university and the BRIDGE programme, saying collaboration could help connect research with industry, regulation and the commercialisation of local innovations in West Nusa Tenggara.

IWIP Investment Set to Reach US$27 Billion, Employing 117,000 Workers

Investment at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) in North Maluku could rise from about US$20 billion to US$27 billion, according to Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani. Ten strategic projects worth US$10.2 billion are under way or completed, expanding the site beyond nickel processing into an integrated electric-vehicle battery supply chain; IWIP’s exports have reached US$11 billion.

Ministry of Manpower Wage Subsidy to Be Paid from October: Check Eligibility Using Your National ID Number

Indonesia’s Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU) is set to resume from October to December 2026, with an estimated 13.3 million workers due to receive Rp900,000 in a single payment. The government has yet to announce the full eligibility criteria, and the current online checker still displays 2025 recipient data, so it cannot yet confirm eligibility for the 2026 programme.

Hoax: Luhut Removed by President Prabowo and Replaced by Zulkifli Hasan

A fact-check found no official information that President Prabowo Subianto had dismissed Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan or appointed Zulkifli Hasan in his place. Luhut continues to serve as chair of the National Economic Council, and the viral post did not specify which of his government positions it claimed had changed.

Facing Cross-Border Marriages, Religious Affairs Ministry Strengthens Language Skills of Marriage Registrars

The Ministry of Religious Affairs is training marriage registrars to meet growing demand for cross-border and intercultural marriage services. The programme focuses on religious jurisprudence, Arabic and English, administration and digital literacy, with the aim of making public services more professional and responsive to changing communities.

Industry Minister seeks to optimise public services to boost industrial competitiveness

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji is urging the ministry to expand its themed public-service days and streamline procedures so it can respond faster to businesses. The ministry says face-to-face consultation capacity has risen more than fivefold since 2024, while its public-service index improved to 4.58 in 2025.

UBSI Graduate Rises to Managerial Role at Kopi Kenangan

Ninung Setyawati, a 2010 graduate of Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika, has become Compensation & Benefit Operation Manager at Kopi Kenangan after more than a decade of career development. She credits continuous learning, adaptability and the practical and interpersonal skills gained during university for helping her progress.

Fact check: Subsidised fuel purchases are capped at Rp30,000 per fill-up

A viral infographic claims that the government has imposed per-transaction caps on subsidised fuel purchases at petrol stations, but the figures are unfounded. The government is still formulating controls on distribution, while officials say no such nominal purchase limits have been set; cited criminal provisions apply only where the relevant elements of an offence are met.

Komnas HAM Highlights Problems in the Implementation of Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights says the Free Nutritious Meals programme has gaps in targeting, transparency and nutritional standards, with vulnerable groups not always reached effectively. It also raised concerns over ultra-processed foods and unclear employment protections for programme workers, urging improvements to both delivery and working conditions.

Prabowo Inaugurates 11 Downstreaming Projects Worth Rp180 Trillion at IWIP

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated projects valued at US$10.2 billion (about Rp180 trillion) at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park in North Maluku, including four projects beginning commercial operations and seven new projects entering construction. The investment spans nickel-based battery materials, EV batteries and components, aluminium, electric heavy equipment and solar-glass production, alongside Indonesia’s first export of electric-vehicle batteries.

Teacher Suspected of Harassing Students; Lessons Continue as Normal at Central Jakarta Vocational School

A teacher at SMKN 27 Jakarta has been suspended from teaching after allegations of harassment involving students, while officials say lessons are continuing as normal. Jakarta’s Education Agency is investigating and says it will follow legal procedures if evidence of a criminal offence emerges.

Energy Self-Sufficiency: Aceh Tamiang Mosque Receives Solar Panel Endowment

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, Bank Indonesia and the NUUR+ Consortium have provided a solar rooftop system to a mosque in flood-affected Aceh Tamiang. The 7,320-Wp installation is expected to improve electricity resilience, cut the mosque’s monthly power costs and reduce carbon emissions, while helping the mosque serve as a community hub during disasters.

Electricity Supply Is the Next Challenge for AI Infrastructure: DIGITIMES Examines the Shift to 800VDC Data Centres

Rising power demands from AI servers are pushing data-centre operators and suppliers to rethink electricity delivery, with 800VDC emerging as a potential architecture for next-generation facilities. DIGITIMES says the transition could reshape power semiconductors, server design and supply-chain competition, where system integration and reliable supply will matter alongside device performance.

One Person Arrested over Teenager’s Death in Bogor Was Not the Main Suspect

Police say the teenager arrested in connection with the death of a 16-year-old in Leuwisadeng, Bogor, was part of the group involved but did not carry out the fatal attack. Investigators are pursuing other suspects and believe the victim may have been mistakenly targeted; police say the incident was not a brawl.

Prabowo Launches 11 Downstreaming Projects and First EV Battery Export in North Maluku

President Prabowo Subianto launched Indonesia’s first electric vehicle battery export alongside 11 downstreaming projects valued at a total of Rp180 trillion in North Maluku. He said four industrial projects had entered the commercial stage and pledged that the government would protect investments and maintain strong partnerships with investors.

Trade Minister Says Chilli Prices Have Risen as Production Falls

Trade Minister Budi Santoso attributed rising chilli prices to seasonal and weather-related declines in production, with several varieties now selling well above government reference prices. He said the government is working with chilli farmers’ associations to support supply, while also warning that excessively low egg prices could force poultry farmers out of business.

Introducing Bali’s New Top Policeman: General Dr Pasma Royce, S.I.K., M.H.

Police Brigadier General Pasma Royce has been appointed Bali’s provincial police chief, replacing Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya as part of a wider rotation of Indonesian National Police officers. The article outlines Royce’s career, including senior criminal-investigation posts and his most recent role as deputy police chief in East Java.

Another Victim of Firecracker Incident at South Jakarta Maulid Event Reports Alleged Assault to Police

A woman has reported an alleged group assault to Jakarta police following a disturbance at a Maulid Nabi event in Pondok Pinang, which she says was triggered by loud firecrackers. She alleges she was assaulted after asking organisers to stop the noise, and says she has submitted evidence and will undergo a medical examination as the case proceeds.

Bittime Identifies Four Drivers of Crypto Markets, from Interest Rates to ETFs

Bittime says investors should monitor macroeconomic conditions, spot Bitcoin ETF flows, profit-taking and regulatory developments as they assess the crypto market in the fourth quarter of 2026. Bitcoin rose about 43 per cent in the third quarter, while Bittime also highlighted growth ambitions for its futures service and warned that leverage can magnify losses.

Danantara Keeps LRT City Construction on Track While Offering Consumers Refunds

Danantara says consumers can choose refunds while construction of the LRT City developments continues, with work having restarted in early October 2026. The agency is prioritising construction quality and is awaiting project-by-project completion timelines, while the case forms part of a broader push to improve state-owned enterprise management and protect consumer funds.

Trump Urges Xi to Improve Relations with Japan

Donald Trump reportedly urged Xi Jinping to ease tensions with Japan and lift Chinese export restrictions, arguing that the curbs also threaten US industries reliant on Japanese suppliers. Xi was said to have rejected the appeal, insisting that China-Japan disputes should not affect US-China relations and warning of rising Japanese militarism.

Jokowi on Gibran’s Impeachment: Follow the Constitutional Process

Former president Joko Widodo says any effort to impeach Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka must follow democratic procedures and the constitution. His comments follow a Constitutional Court ruling that found no convincing evidence of Gibran’s overseas education credentials being equivalent to the required secondary-school qualification, while dismissing the case on procedural grounds; Jokowi left questions about Gibran’s 2029 candidacy to the relevant election bodies.

Suahasil Says State Budget Designed to Flexibly Tackle Geopolitical Turmoil

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara says Indonesia’s state budget is designed to respond flexibly to global shocks, including geopolitical tensions and commodity-price volatility, while remaining subject to sound governance. The government is recalibrating the 2026 budget as revenue and spending outlooks shift, with a potentially larger deficit amid higher commodity prices and improved tax administration.

Hoax: Yusril Said Upholding MK Challenge Would Create Legal Chaos

A viral Facebook post falsely attributed to Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra a warning that granting a challenge over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s diploma and education requirements would create legal chaos. Yusril denied making the statement on his official Threads account and urged the public to scrutinise information before sharing it.

KPK Warns Nusron Wahid Not to Give Impression of Delaying Law Enforcement

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid to attend a rescheduled questioning as a witness in a corruption case, warning that repeated delays could undermine perceptions of law enforcement. Nusron missed an earlier summons, citing an internal ministry agenda; the case concerns alleged bribery linked to land-use rights for a Summarecon Agung development in Bogor, and eight people have been named suspects.

Tabanan Regent Plans Greenhouse for KPK-Donated Land, Which Is Not Yet Ready for Use

Tabanan Regency cannot yet use 2,000 square metres of land donated by Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), as the property must first be registered and transferred into the regency’s name. Regent I Komang Gede Sanjaya plans to build a greenhouse for seedling production, alongside a separate provincial plan to establish a large rice milling unit to strengthen local agriculture and food security.

Manpower Minister: Vocational Training Provides Skills Before Workers Enter the Job Market

Manpower Minister Yassierli says vocational training equips workers with practical skills aligned with industry needs, and highlights a government programme preparing 96 participants in Bantul for employment or self-employment. The free training covers seven fields, with applications and course availability accessible through the Ministry of Manpower’s SIAPkerja platform.

From Hong Kong, for Hong Kong: HKTDC marks 60 years of enterprise with exhibition and community art

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s anniversary exhibition highlights six decades of work helping businesses reach global markets and sets out plans to upgrade services and expand its presence in high-growth regions. A community art installation created with local students celebrates Hong Kong’s economic and urban landscape, linking the council’s trade-promotion role with local engagement.

False: Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai said shooting of civil servants in Wamena was not a human rights violation

Indonesia’s Ministry of Human Rights has denied a social media claim that Minister Natalius Pigai described the shooting of three civil servants in Wamena as not being a human rights violation. The ministry says Pigai never made the statement and urges the public to verify claims attributed to public officials before sharing them.

Kim Yo Jong Rejects South Korean Offer of Medical Equipment

Kim Yo Jong has denounced Seoul’s offer of medical equipment for a hospital in North Korea as a political provocation and an affront to the country’s sovereignty. The dispute follows reports of a planned US$6.75 million shipment, which required and received a UN sanctions exemption, and comes amid heightened tensions after a landmine incident in the Korean Demilitarised Zone.

Botched Execution Leaves Death-Row Inmate Confused: ‘Where Am I?’

Christa Pike, the only person in the United States known to have survived an attempted execution by lethal injection, has regained consciousness in hospital after Tennessee’s procedure failed. Her lawyers are seeking to preserve evidence as the state suspends executions pending an investigation into what happened.

Sahroni Candidly Sets Out NasDem’s Position on Gibran After Constitutional Court Ruling, Addresses Impeachment Letter

NasDem has not decided whether to take an institutional position on Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka following a Constitutional Court ruling concerning his educational qualifications. Ahmad Sahroni called a purported NasDem letter proposing Gibran’s impeachment fake, while party officials said they would verify the document and were still studying the ruling.

BGN Temporarily Suspends 16 SPPGs in the Riau Islands

The National Nutrition Agency has temporarily suspended 16 nutrition-service kitchens across Batam, Tanjungpinang, Natuna and Anambas for failing to meet requirements, including lacking hygiene and sanitation certificates. The suspension has interrupted free nutritious meal deliveries to some beneficiaries, while local task forces step up oversight; the programme currently reaches 679,402 people across the province.

Minister Says Ride-Hailing Drivers Will Remain Partners

The government says ride-hailing drivers will retain partner status under Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026, which sets out rights, obligations and protections across the digital-platform transport ecosystem. The rules also address delivery services, platform fees and fares, while a cross-ministry task force will oversee implementation.

Sleman Primary School Turns MBG Food Waste into Fertiliser for a Garden of Reused Water Jugs

SD Negeri Purwosari in Sleman converts leftovers from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and other organic waste into liquid fertiliser for vegetables grown in about 500 reused water jugs. The school’s integrated farming project teaches pupils about agriculture and food production, while surplus organic produce is sold to local residents and food businesses, with proceeds reinvested in classroom needs.

Commuter Cries as Green Line Trains Become Extremely Crowded During Disruption

A signalling failure at Tigaraksa station delayed Green Line services, causing severe overcrowding at stations and on trains. Passengers described missing several trains and struggling to breathe, while calling for earlier delay information so they could arrange alternative transport.

Viral Video Shows Sukabumi Deputy Council Speaker Removing Gibran’s Photo; PDI-P Says No Party Order Was Given

West Java PDI-P says Sukabumi City DPRD Deputy Speaker Rojab Asyari removed Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s photograph on his own initiative, with no instruction from the party. The provincial party leadership says it will investigate his motives and report its findings to the national leadership if necessary.

Dozens of Wooden Mosques in Georgia’s Adjara Region Face Extinction, a Forgotten Ottoman Heritage

More than 50 historic wooden mosques in Georgia’s Adjara region are threatened by age, weather, neglect and limited resources. The deteriorating buildings preserve the history of the region’s Muslim community, whose presence dates back to the Ottoman Empire, and activists fear some may not survive.

TransNusa Adds Fourth Daily Jakarta–Singapore Flight

TransNusa has increased its Jakarta–Singapore service to four daily flights, following recent growth from two to three frequencies as passenger demand and operating capacity rose. The additional service expands travel options on a key regional route, while the airline points to successive approvals from Singapore Changi Airport and recent passenger-growth recognition as evidence of its expanding operations.

Fugitive Abroad: PT TSI Director Arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport

Police have arrested PT TSI director Tatang Winata at Soekarno-Hatta Airport after he returned from Seoul, where he had fled while under investigation over the alleged illegal importation of used mobile phones and baby products. Investigators say he and another suspect helped arrange documents for the imports; authorities have seized evidence valued at Rp253 billion in the case.

JCI Falls More Than 1%: Here’s Why

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.03% by early afternoon, led down by losses in infrastructure, energy and basic materials stocks. Investors were also weighing global rate signals and rising US Treasury yields, which could put pressure on Indonesian equities and the rupiah despite strong demand at a US bond auction.

Komnas Haji Sees 2027 Hajj Costs as a Middle Ground

Komnas Haji says the agreed 2027 Hajj cost structure strikes a balance between easing pilgrims’ immediate expenses and preserving the long-term sustainability of Hajj funds. It also urges the government and parliament to establish a clear legal basis for the Rp3.2 million per-person state subsidy and to seek an MUI ruling on its religious legitimacy.

Rosan: Manufacturing Industry Accounts for Half of North Maluku’s GDP

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said manufacturing now contributes nearly half of North Maluku’s GDP, marking the province’s shift from a mining area towards an industrial centre. The province recorded a trade surplus of Rp31.1 trillion in 2025, driven largely by processed nickel exports, while downstream investment’s share of total investment rose to 35% in the first half of 2026.

Prabowo Reaffirms Commitment to Protect All Investment in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged that his government will respect and safeguard all investments made in Indonesia, highlighting foreign partners’ role in the country’s downstreaming projects. Investment at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park has reached US$20 billion, with a further US$7 billion planned, and the site has created more than 100,000 jobs.

BKPM Says Population Is Driving Investment in Indonesia’s Healthcare Sector

Indonesia’s large population and shortfall in domestic plasma supplies are attracting investment in plasma-derived medicines, according to BKPM. Japan’s Takeda plans to invest up to US$30 million in an initial two-year phase, including plasma banks targeted to begin operating in 2027, while assessing the possibility of building a local manufacturing plant.

Agrinas Granted 794,000 Hectares of Land in Papua, Half to Become Oil Palm Plantations

State-owned Agrinas Palma Nusantara has been tasked with managing about 794,000 hectares in Papua, with approximately 400,000 hectares earmarked for oil palm cultivation. The company says it will retain around 45% of the land for forests, conservation and Indigenous communities, and will assess land conditions before deciding how areas are used.

DPR Assures Public Participation Will Be Open in Election Bill

The House of Representatives has appointed Bahtra Banong to lead its working committee drafting the Election Bill, with public and political-party input set as an early priority. The committee plans hearings during the recess and says its schedule and progress will be shared publicly, including discussion of issues such as the 30 per cent quota for women’s representation.

PDI-P’s Komarudin: If Gibran Obeys the Law, Resigning Would Be Better

PDI-P politician Komarudin Watubun says Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka should resign following a Constitutional Court ruling that found no evidence of a senior secondary school certificate or equivalent in the case before it. If Gibran does not step down, Komarudin says Parliament could consider follow-up measures, including possible impeachment proceedings, although PDI-P’s parliamentary faction has yet to discuss the ruling. Gibran says he respects the court’s process and will focus on the President’s agenda, while former president Joko Widodo argues that education systems differ between countries.

Jokowi Comments on Constitutional Court Ruling and Gibran’s Diploma: Bachelor’s Degree Shows Earlier Education Stages Were Completed

Former president Joko Widodo said he respects the Constitutional Court’s ruling and urged all parties to respect Indonesia’s constitution. Responding to questions about the ruling’s findings on Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s secondary-school credentials, Jokowi argued that completing a bachelor’s degree indicates the earlier stages of education had been fulfilled, while noting that education pathways differ between countries.

Prabowo Launches Rp180 Trillion Projects, Witnessed by Budi Djiwandono and Haji Isam

President Prabowo Subianto has launched 10 strategic projects and Indonesia’s first electric-vehicle battery export at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, with a combined value of US$10.2 billion (Rp180 trillion). Four projects worth US$3.4 billion are already operational, while six more are beginning construction; the investment is expected to raise IWIP’s cumulative investment to US$27 billion and support 117,000 jobs.

Palace Denies Cabinet Reshuffle Was Intended to ‘Remove’ Jokowi’s Allies

Deputy State Secretary Bambang Eko Suhariyanto rejected claims that President Prabowo Subianto’s 1 October cabinet reshuffle was intended to push former president Joko Widodo’s allies out of government. He described the changes as routine and insisted the administration remained solid, while the reshuffle moved several ministers into new posts.

House Commission II to Review Constitutional Court Ruling on Gibran’s Education Requirements

The House of Representatives’ Commission II says it will comprehensively review a Constitutional Court ruling concerning whether Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met the education requirements for his 2024 candidacy. Although the Court dismissed the petition on standing grounds and said it could not disqualify Gibran after his inauguration, it also found no convincing evidence of an overseas education qualification equivalent to senior secondary school, leaving assessment of the documents to the competent authorities.

On ‘Indonesia in the Dark’, Prabowo Says He Sees a Bright Future for the Country

President Prabowo Subianto rejected claims that Indonesia is facing collapse, saying he sees a bright future for the country. Speaking at the launch of 11 downstream-processing projects and the first electric-vehicle battery export in North Maluku, he cited US$20 billion in investment at the Weda Bay industrial park, with a further US$7 billion planned, and said the investment had created 100,000 jobs.

After a New Regional Military Command Is Established

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 204 new TNI units at the military’s 81st anniversary ceremony, including six new regional military commands (kodam). The expansion changes reporting lines and headquarters, raising questions about how local knowledge and institutional experience will be preserved—particularly in strategically important border areas such as the Riau Islands.

Prabowo launches first EV battery exports and 11 projects at IWIP

President Prabowo Subianto launched Indonesia’s first electric-vehicle battery exports and four industrial projects entering commercial operation at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park, alongside the groundbreaking of seven more projects. The combined investment is valued at US$10.2 billion and is expected to create more than 10,000 jobs, reinforcing the role of downstream processing in Maluku Utara’s economy and Indonesia’s position in global battery supply chains.

NasDem Denies Issuing Letter Calling for Gibran’s Impeachment; Faction Still Reviewing Its Position

NasDem treasurer Ahmad Sahroni has denied that the party issued a purported letter proposing the impeachment of Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. He said NasDem had not decided to pursue impeachment, while the circulated document called on parliament to examine questions about Gibran’s education credentials during the 2024 presidential election nomination process.

Breaking: JCI Falls 1.03% to 6,083

Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 1.03% to 6,083.68 during Thursday afternoon trading, reversing an early gain as selling pressure intensified. Higher US Treasury yields, a hawkish Federal Reserve outlook and weakness across Asian equity markets weighed on sentiment, despite strong demand at a US 10-year bond auction helping yields retreat from recent highs.

BKPM Says Investment in Indonesia’s Healthcare Sector Is ‘Attractive’ — Here’s Why

BKPM says Indonesia’s large population and shortage of plasma supply make the healthcare sector an appealing investment destination. Japan’s Takeda has committed US$30 million for an initial two-year development phase, including plasma banks expected to begin operating in 2027, while assessing the possibility of a domestic plasma-derived therapy plant.

Government aims to build 10,000 permanent homes in Aceh Tamiang within two years

The government is accelerating plans to build more than 10,000 permanent homes for disaster-affected residents in Aceh Tamiang, bringing forward the construction schedule from three years to two. The wider programme calls for over 18,000 homes, with authorities also prioritising safe sites, essential utilities and access roads.

Egg Farmers Decry High Feed Costs as Trade Minister Weighs Subsidy

Trade Minister Budi Santoso says the government is considering subsidies to make poultry feed more affordable, with soybean meal among the possible targets, although the proposal still requires inter-agency discussions. Egg farmers told lawmakers that soaring prices for maize and soybean meal are driving up production costs and threatening the viability of small-scale farms.

Korem 162/WB Confirms Emergency Evacuation Readiness for MotoGP

Korem 162/Wira Bhakti says evacuation routes, personnel, vehicles and emergency equipment are being prepared for potential emergencies during MotoGP 2026 in West Nusa Tenggara. A joint roll-call at the Mandalika Circuit brought together the military, police, local government and other organisations to strengthen coordinated response and protect participants and the public.

Multi-vehicle crash in West Jakarta’s Palmerah kills ride-hailing motorcyclist

A multi-vehicle crash in Palmerah, West Jakarta, killed a 59-year-old ride-hailing motorcyclist and injured another woman on Wednesday night. Police say a GWM Tank minibus struck several vehicles and welding carts before overturning; the cause is still under investigation.

Ten Benefits of Prayer Revealed by the Prophet

The article outlines ten spiritual and physical benefits of prayer attributed to Prophet Muhammad, including its role in bringing tranquillity, divine mercy and protection from hell. It also cites hadiths emphasising prayer as foundational to faith and encouraging voluntary prayer at home and the upkeep of mosques.

How an Online Gambling Den at an Army Housing Complex in Cijantung Was Exposed

A suspected online gambling operation was uncovered at a service house in the KPAD Cijantung complex after residents reported suspicious activity. Eleven civilians were detained, while the Indonesian Army said the site and evidence had been secured for further investigation and vowed to act firmly if the allegations are proven.

Outsourced Workers’ Prospects Change Under New Rules on Contracts and Severance Pay

Indonesia’s newly passed Employment Protection Law caps outsourced workers’ contracts at four years and limits outsourcing to four specified fields. It also gives outsourced workers the right to severance pay if they are laid off, while employers’ association Apindo had sought a longer contract limit and broader scope for outsourcing.

El Niño Threatens India, with Food and Economic Crises Looming

El Niño is bringing below-average rainfall and low reservoir levels to India, putting crops, rural incomes and food prices at risk. The effects could spread across Asia through tighter supplies and higher prices, although India’s large food stocks and irrigation capacity may help cushion the impact.

Prabowo Teases Sugiono: Settled into His New Role, or Hoping to Become Foreign Minister Again?

President Prabowo Subianto joked with newly appointed Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono about whether he had adapted to the job or wanted to return as foreign minister. Sugiono, who replaced Pratikno, has since visited a primary school in Bogor, where he shared a free nutritious meal with pupils and gave them school supplies.

Prabowo Witnesses Indonesia’s First EV Battery Export

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the first export of electric-vehicle batteries produced at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park in North Maluku. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said 10 strategic projects worth US$10.2 billion are being launched or inaugurated at the site, with the projects expected to create more than 10,000 jobs.

Food Coordinating Minister: Coconut Is a Highly Strategic Commodity

Food Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan said the government is prioritising coconut cultivation and downstream processing, with the sector receiving special attention from President Prabowo. He said coconut offers strong economic returns and could support food security, renewable energy and livelihoods, as Indonesia seeks to capture more value from its annual production of about 2.1 million tonnes.

Labour Protection Law Shortens Outsourcing Contract Period, Says Apindo

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo), led by Shinta Kamdani, has responded to the newly passed Labour Protection Law, which caps outsourcing contracts at four years. Apindo had lobbied for a five-year limit and says it has also pressed its views on which types of work may be outsourced. The law also grants outsourced workers severance rights on termination and restricts the scope of outsourceable work, a change that will matter for employers and workers alike.

Palace Responds to Circulating Proposal to Impeach Gibran in Parliament

Deputy State Secretary Bambang Eko Suhariyanto says the government has not discussed a circulating proposal to impeach Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and will leave the matter to established legal procedures. The proposal, reportedly submitted by NasDem MP Tonny Tessar, cites a Constitutional Court ruling concerning evidence of Gibran’s secondary-school graduation; parliamentary leaders say they will verify the letter.

PKS Sikapi Putusan MK Terkait Ijazah Gibran

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has said it respects the Constitutional Court's ruling in case No. 01/PHPU.PRES-XXIV/2026, which found no valid and convincing evidence regarding Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's education credentials. PKS, through presidential staff head Pipin Sopian, called on the House of Representatives (DPR) to scrutinise the matter and strengthen ethical standards among national leaders. The statement highlights the continuing political attention surrounding the vice president's education requirements.

OJK Revokes Business Licence of Venture Capital Firm in SCBD

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revoked the business licence of PT Porto Ventura Kapital after determining that the firm could not be restored to financial health. The company must stop its venture capital activities, settle its obligations and convene a shareholders’ meeting to decide on dissolution and appoint a liquidation team.

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food: BPGMN Is the Right Strategy to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said the new National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN) can help redesign landscapes to withstand fires, particularly those caused by human activity. He called for evidence-based, systematic prevention rather than relying on weather-modification operations, as the government seeks to integrate peatland management, early detection and emergency response.

BNPT: Patterns of Extremist Exposure Evolve with the Digital Ecosystem

The National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) reports that 620 children aged 11 to 18 across 34 provinces were identified as exposed to extremism and violent ideologies through digital spaces between January and August 2026, including within the True Crime Community ecosystem. To address this, BNPT has signed a memorandum of understanding with 13 universities in the Special Region of Yogyakarta to strengthen prevention through education, critical thinking and community resilience. The move signals a shift towards early, community-based intervention rather than relying solely on state enforcement.

Prabowo Reveals Investment in IWIP Area Reaches US$20 Billion

President Prabowo Subianto said realised investment in the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) in Central Halmahera, North Maluku, has exceeded US$20 billion, with a further US$7 billion in development planned and over 100,000 workers reportedly employed. At the inauguration of 11 downstream projects and the first export of electric vehicle batteries, he pledged the government would protect all investments placed on Indonesian soil. The episode underscores the government's push for downstream industrialisation, though officials offered few details on the composition of the investment figures.

Deputy State Secretary: Gibran's Diploma Not Non-Existent, But Not Yet Found

Deputy State Secretary Bambang Eko Suhariyanto said the Constitutional Court's ruling on Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's education requirement has not yet affected his legitimacy, stressing that the court said the high school equivalent diploma was "not yet found" rather than "non-existent". He added that the government is awaiting further developments over the coming days, amid calls for a special committee (pansus) or DPR inquiry right (hak angket). The issue is significant as it touches on the eligibility criteria of the country's vice president and the government's stance on the court's ruling.

Agrinas Targets 20% Share of Indonesia's Biodiesel Market: Here Is the Plan

PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara (Persero), a state-owned palm oil company, aims to supply up to 20% of Indonesia's national biodiesel needs from its managed plantations. Its president director, Mohammad Abdul Ghani, estimates around 400,000 hectares could yield about 1.4 million kilolitres of biodiesel, which together with a 600,000-kilolitre Riau plant could approach 2 million kilolitres. The plan links plantation management to national energy security amid rising demand from the biodiesel blending mandate.

Aceh Singkil accelerates 108 post-disaster recovery projects

The Aceh Singkil Regency Government has instructed contractors to expedite 108 post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction projects ahead of the rainy season. While 75 packages have been completed, authorities are urging the timely delivery of materials to prevent weather-related delays.

Seven Students in Bukit Duri Found Truanting During Public Order Crackdown

The Bukit Duri subdistrict office in South Jakarta detained seven students suspected of skipping school during a joint "Rabu Tertib" enforcement operation, following public reports of disruptive activity at a local café. Authorities said some of the students were suspected of links to narcotics or synthetic cigarette use, and the crackdown also targeted unpermitted religious buildings, mass organisation posts on public land, and obstructive parking that hampers fire response. The operation highlights the local government's emphasis on inter-agency coordination and persuasive enforcement in dense residential neighbourhoods.

Electoral Bill Working Committee to Take Input During DPR Recess, All Issues to Be Discussed

The working committee (Panja) on the Electoral Bill (RUU Pemilu) has confirmed it will continue gathering input from stakeholders during the DPR's recess, with hearings and public consultations already scheduled. Committee chair Bahtra said the deliberations will extend beyond the issues that have drawn the most attention so far, with the schedule and progress to be published publicly. The move signals an effort to broaden public participation in shaping rules intended to improve both the quality of elections and democracy.

IDX Green Equity Designation: The IDX’s Move to Promote a Sustainable Investment Ecosystem

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has launched a designation that classifies listed companies as green equities or green equity transitions, using five principles intended to limit greenwashing and improve transparency. The scheme could help attract sustainability-focused domestic and international investors, while offering companies greater visibility; it does not replace conventional investment analysis or affect share valuations.

Dewi Asmara vows to oversee protection of sexual violence victims in Islamic boarding schools

Deputy Chair of House Commission XIII Dewi Asmara has pledged to monitor the handling of sexual violence cases at religious educational institutions following a hearing with the witness and victim protection agency LPSK, Komnas Perempuan and the Mataram child protection body. The commission agreed on four measures, including stronger inter-agency coordination, a joint meeting with House leadership, a review of remissions and parole for convicted sex offenders, and faster establishment of regional LPSK offices. The cases at the Ponpes ABW in Central Lombok and Ponpes MBS in Jombang highlight the urgent need for stricter child protection standards in religious schools.

King Cobra Nest with 23 Eggs Found in Jegu, Tabanan

The Tabanan Asih Reptile Foundation discovered a king cobra nest containing 23 eggs reported to be ready to hatch in Jegu village, Penebel district, on Thursday. A day earlier, the team relocated a pregnant female king cobra of about 2.3 metres found near a frequently used path in Timpag, Kerambitan, after residents reported it. The findings indicate that king cobra breeding is still occurring in Tabanan, and the foundation urges residents not to handle large snakes themselves but to report them to trained rescuers.

Thief Caught on CCTV Steals Laptop Left Behind by Commuter on Bekasi KRL Train

A commuter's laptop, left on an overhead rack in a KRL commuter train carriage at Kranji Station in Bekasi City, was allegedly stolen by another passenger, with the loss estimated at Rp 5 million. The incident, dated 2 October 2026, has been reported to police, and the Bekasi City Metro Police say they are investigating and pursuing the suspect. The case highlights ongoing concerns about passenger security on Jakarta-area commuter rail services.