Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 November 2026

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Attorney General’s Office Hands Three PT PMM Corruption Suspects to Pangkalpinang Prosecutors

The Attorney General’s Office has transferred three suspects and evidence in an alleged corruption case involving PT PMM’s management of non-metallic mineral mining from 2018 to 2026 to the Pangkalpinang District Prosecutor’s Office. Prosecutors allege that the suspects manipulated mineral sampling and export documentation, allowing shipments to proceed despite laboratory findings of rare earth elements and radioactive substances.

Want to Grow Your Business and Keep the Profits Rolling In? Here Are Three Things You Mustn’t Overlook

Building a successful business depends not only on generating profits but also on earning the trust of customers and partners. The article highlights the importance of consistent quality, responsive communication and accurate results in sustaining customer relationships and long-term growth.

100 Mustahik Receive Job-Readiness and Soft-Skills Training in Lazismu–Ruang Amal Indonesia Partnership

Lazismu and Ruang Amal Indonesia are training 100 mustahik from Batang in sewing, weaving and soft skills, with support to secure jobs at companies in the Industropolis Batang Special Economic Zone. Government and programme representatives say success should be measured not only by training numbers, but by participants’ employment and ability to remain in work, amid a skills gap and local unemployment.

Creative Economy Ministry’s CreaFIN Programme Opens Financing Access for 50 Yogyakarta Creative Entrepreneurs

The Creative Economy Ministry has brought its CreaFIN financing-readiness programme to 50 creative economy practitioners in Yogyakarta, offering guidance on business models, investment strategies and financial management. The initiative, delivered with Bank Mandiri and local governments, aims to help creative businesses become more attractive to lenders and investors and support sustainable local growth.

PNM Promotes Ecosystem Recovery by Planting Endemic Trees

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has planted 5,850 tree seedlings across seven regions under its Green Impact programme, focusing on local vegetation and ecosystem restoration. At Mount Raung, 1,000 seedlings were planted, with the initiative also expected to protect water resources and provide potential economic benefits for nearby communities.

BSN stresses the importance of SNI and a quality culture for retail’s global competitiveness

Indonesia’s National Standardisation Agency (BSN) says stronger adoption of Indonesian National Standards (SNI) and a culture of quality can help retailers build consumer trust and improve the global competitiveness of domestic products. Trade Minister Budi Santoso said modern retail offers a strategic route for MSMEs to strengthen product standards, reach consumers and prepare for export markets, with MSME products making up about 80% of goods in modern retail outlets.

12 SMEs Take Part in Trade Expo Indonesia, with Export Potential of US$8.32 Million

Twelve SMEs supported by Bakti BCA generated 122 business-matching sessions and MoU signings at Trade Expo Indonesia 2026, with potential export deals estimated at US$8.32 million (Rp148.75 billion). The figure is 34.12% higher than the potential recorded at the previous year’s expo, as BCA seeks to prepare businesses for international markets through training, market access and banking support.

Indonesia urges nickel producers to curb output amid falling prices

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged nickel miners and industrial producers to restrain output as global prices fall to about US$15,000 per tonne amid an estimated 800,000-tonne surplus. He has directed officials to manage supply through tighter control of annual work-plan and budget approvals, arguing that production must be balanced against demand to protect the country’s finite resource wealth.

1945 Constitution Carries Heroes’ Legacy into Welfare, Says Social Affairs Minister

Social Affairs Minister Yusuf said Articles 31, 33 and 34 of the 1945 Constitution embody the heroes’ legacy by guaranteeing education, managing national wealth for public prosperity and protecting poor and neglected people. He cited the Sekolah Rakyat programme, which operates at more than 180 locations and serves about 45,000 students, with plans to expand enrolment to more than 100,000 next year and 300,000 in 2028.

UNNES GIAT 17 Students Promote OSS Business Registration for Fish Farmers

UNNES GIAT 17 students held a session in Tuntang, Semarang regency, to explain how fish farmers can obtain a Business Identification Number (NIB) through the Online Single Submission (OSS) system and strengthen their business groups. Formal registration can help small-scale operators access government guidance, financing and marketing partnerships, while organised groups may improve their bargaining power.

PLN EPI Secures LNG Supplies from the Masela Block for 18 Years

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia has secured a long-term supply of 2.5 million tonnes of LNG a year from the Masela Block, with deliveries targeted to begin in late 2030. The agreement is intended to support PLN power plants, underpin development of domestic gas resources and strengthen Indonesia’s energy security, alongside diversified supplies and expanded gas infrastructure.

AI Comic Drama Competition in East Java Aims to Strengthen Teachers’ Skills

Higgs Technology and East Java’s Education Office have held an AI comic drama competition as part of a programme to build teachers’ digital skills. After five weeks of online training, participants developed digital works based on local heroism, history and culture, while 15 selected teachers also received AI game-development training.

Jagorawi Toll Road Towards Bogor Still Congested Tonight Amid Bridge Repairs

Traffic on the Jagorawi Toll Road towards Bogor remained congested late on 2 November, with bridge repairs occupying the left and middle lanes between Dukuh and Cipayung. Jasa Marga said the works would continue until 6 November and urged drivers to proceed carefully; a contraflow had also been introduced earlier to ease congestion caused by rush-hour traffic.

Carrick Brushes Aside Future Speculation at Manchester United Ahead of Roma Clash

Michael Carrick says uncertainty over his future will not distract Manchester United as they prepare to face AS Roma in the Champions League. United are on a nine-match winless run and sit 17th in the Premier League, level on points with the relegation zone.

PHE Reports Oil and Gas Production of 945,000 Barrels of Oil Equivalent per Day

Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) reported production of 945,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day through September 2026, comprising 467,000 barrels of oil per day and gas output of 2,762 million standard cubic feet per day. The company also reported exploration and reserve gains, and says it will intensify drilling, production and well maintenance to meet its year-end operational targets while prioritising safety.

Governor: 49th Muhammadiyah Congress to Boost Regional Economy

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution says the 49th Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah Congress, scheduled for November 2027, is expected to stimulate the regional economy by drawing visitors from across Indonesia and abroad. The provincial government has pledged support, while organisers forecast up to one million visitors and plan an economic exhibition and international meetings.

Strengthening Synergy, Rai Wahyuni Backs Bali Posyandu Social Outreach in Tabanan

Ni Ketut Rai Wahyuni joined a Bali Posyandu social outreach in Tabanan, where 150 community health-post volunteers received food assistance and encouragement. Organisers stressed that strengthening volunteers’ capacity to deliver services across six Minimum Service Standards is vital to improving basic services, with Tabanan pledging to continue the programme for its 8,532 volunteers.

UNESCO: Number of Journalists Killed Rises 20%, Mostly in Conflicts

UNESCO says 189 journalists, media workers and social media content creators engaged in journalism were killed worldwide in 2024–2025, a 20 per cent increase on the previous period and the highest annual toll in eight years. Most deaths occurred in armed-conflict zones, with drone strikes implicated in a significant share; Palestine recorded the highest number of journalist deaths.

Former Sukoharjo Police Chief Examined by Police Internal Affairs After Removal Over Islamic Boarding School Raid

Central Java police confirmed that Sukoharjo Police Chief Andhika Dharma Sena and three other officers have been removed from their posts and are being examined by the National Police’s internal affairs division. The review follows a raid and search at Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school and is intended to establish objectively whether procedures were breached.

Women-led Regional SMEs Can Reach Wider Markets: What Needs Strengthening

Women entrepreneurs outside major centres have opportunities to expand their businesses, but stronger business networks, entrepreneurial capabilities and inter-regional cooperation are needed to help them reach wider markets. Newly elected IWAPI chair Tatyana Sentani Sutara has called on regional leaders to consolidate and work together as the organisation begins a new leadership term.

OJK Strengthens Sharia Financial Literacy through Pelita Syariah

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has launched Pelita Syariah, a programme that enlists religious leaders to promote understanding and use of Sharia-compliant financial services. Announced at the 2026 Sharia Financial Fair in Makassar, the initiative aims to extend financial education beyond urban areas, encourage informed consumer choices and help people avoid illegal financial practices.

Five Low-Cost Online Promotion Methods to Grow a New Business

Digital promotion offers start-ups an affordable way to reach customers as Indonesia’s e-commerce market continues to expand. Bank Indonesia recorded e-commerce transactions of around Rp487 trillion in 2024, up from Rp205.5 trillion in 2019; the article outlines five low-cost tactics, from social media and SEO to email, creator partnerships and giveaways.

French and Indonesian Foreign Ministers Discuss Comprehensive Partnership on G20 Atlanta Sidelines

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and his Indonesian counterpart, Arrmanatha Nasir, discussed implementing the countries’ Comprehensive Partnership during a bilateral meeting at the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Atlanta. They also reviewed defence cooperation and international issues, including Lebanon, Gaza and the importance of an open, secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

Ombudsman Stresses Public Safety as the Highest Law in Public Services

Indonesia’s Ombudsman says protecting the public must be the overriding principle in government services, including employment social security. It continues to receive complaints about extra requirements, weak complaint follow-up and unclear participant information, and plans to work with BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to improve service quality.

Jakarta PDDI promotes humanitarian values through blood donation drive

The Indonesian Blood Donors Association (PDDI) in Jakarta held its first school-based blood donation drive at SMK Kemala Bhayangkari Delog, aiming to foster humanitarian and social concern among students. The organisers hope the initiative will inspire other schools to hold regular drives and embed a culture of giving from an early age.

South Korea investigates leak of President Lee’s passport details

South Korea is investigating the disclosure of passport details belonging to President Lee Jae Myung and 167 others, and plans to reissue passports for Lee, his wife and affected officials. The Foreign Ministry said it treats the incident as a leak rather than a hack and is working with police to establish how the information was exposed and prevent further dissemination.

After NTT Child’s Death Linked to Inability to Buy Books, Laka Lena Pushes Social Welfare Bill

Following the death of a 10-year-old in Ngada, East Nusa Tenggara, reportedly amid his family’s inability to buy school supplies, Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena has proposed a regional bill to establish transparent community fundraising and distribution for poverty relief. He said the case underscored the need for earlier intervention and stronger protection for children and vulnerable families; the provincial government also addressed recovery needs for earthquake-affected residents in Flores.

Healthy Village Programme serves communities in remote parts of Mimika

The Amungme and Kamoro Community Empowerment Foundation (YPMAK) says its two-year Healthy Village Programme is bringing direct health services to remote communities in Mimika that lack government facilities. Working with local foundations, the initiative addresses malaria and stunting while complementing public services and supporting referrals for patients needing further treatment.

Indonesia shifts focus from wildfires to floods as rainy season begins

Indonesia’s disaster agency is moving cloud-seeding assets from provinces entering the rainy season to areas that remain dry and vulnerable to wildfires. It has also directed regional governments to prepare personnel, rescue equipment and community mitigation systems for floods and landslides during the 2026/2027 rainy season.

Officers Remove Car That Crashed into Road Barrier in Cengkareng

Eleven West Jakarta transport and public order officers removed an electric car whose axle broke after it hit a road barrier on Ring Road in Cengkareng, causing congestion. Jakarta’s transport agency reminded motorists that free towing assistance is available through its call centre.

33 Indonesian SMEs Explore Market Expansion in Sabah, Malaysia

Thirty-three Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises showcased products at the Big Sabah Sale 2026, seeking new customers and business partners in East Malaysia. Business-to-business meetings helped nearly half of the participants begin discussions on local distribution, while the event also drew 100,000 visitors and featured Indonesian cultural performances.

Badung Motorbike Buyer Fakes Test Ride, Then Makes Off with the Vehicle

A man posing as a prospective buyer allegedly stole a motorbike in Badung after asking to take it for a test ride. Police arrested the suspect in a Denpasar hotel room; he has been charged under Indonesia’s 2023 Criminal Code, which carries a maximum five-year prison sentence.

Boboho Reveals Febrie’s Words After Receiving Money from Tan Kian: ‘Have You Got Yours?’

Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta court that former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah asked whether he had received his share after businessman Tan Kian handed over Rp55 billion. Febrie is accused of extorting Tan Kian through Ferry and faces separate money-laundering charges involving assets and funds worth hundreds of billions of rupiah.

Indonesia open to electricity exports at the right price, minister says

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia may export electricity to Singapore only if the agreed price is commercially fair, while domestic power needs remain the priority. He has urged Danantara not to accept foreign pressure for discounted rates, as negotiations on green electricity exports continue and remain dependent on balanced pricing and adequate domestic supply.

Judge Asks About Watch in Photograph of Rp55 Billion Cash Pile; Boboho Explains

Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta corruption court that the Garmin watch photographed atop a Rp55 billion cash pile was his personal item, placed there as a keepsake and unrelated to the money. The cash is central to allegations that former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah extorted businessman Tan Kian; prosecutors also accuse Febrie and others of laundering more than Rp346 billion and US$440,990.

Pertamina’s Independent Energy Villages Generate Rp26 Billion in Annual Economic Value

Pertamina says its Independent Energy Village programme generates about Rp26 billion in additional economic value each year and benefits approximately 283,000 people. The initiative combines renewable energy with local economic development, and the state-owned energy company plans to expand it from around 310 villages to 732 by 2030.

MIND ID Sets Out Four Foundations to Strengthen Mineral Downstreaming

Indonesia’s state-owned mining holding MIND ID has identified four priorities for strengthening mineral downstreaming: securing reserves and resources, developing higher-value processing, building centres of excellence for projects and operations, and adopting adaptable, innovative technologies. It is also pursuing global technology partnerships and mineral investments abroad to support future supply and make downstream projects more competitive in global markets.

China calls for Middle East dialogue in talks with Iran, Saudi Arabia and Oman

China urged Iran, Saudi Arabia and Oman to pursue dialogue and a political solution to the Middle East conflict, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressing regional energy security and the safety of shipping lanes. Beijing also announced plans to send a Middle East envoy to the three countries later this month as it seeks to ease tensions and promote peace talks.

Truck Carrying 343 Logs Suspected of Illegal Logging in Meru Betiri National Park Intercepted; Two Arrested

Forestry officials in Banyuwangi intercepted a truck carrying 343 logs believed to have been taken from the Meru Betiri National Park conservation area and bound for Bali, arresting two men suspected of controlling the timber and its distribution. Investigators are examining the logs’ origin and transport documents and will probe whether others were involved in the trafficking network.

Modern retail a stepping stone to MSME exports, says trade minister

Trade Minister Santoso said the presence of MSME products in modern retail—now accounting for about 80 per cent of the range—can help businesses meet quality standards and become more competitive for export markets. The government is supporting their expansion through export assistance, overseas trade-promotion networks and agreements, including efforts to finalise the Indonesia–EU CEPA.

Ten Foreign Currency Exchange Outlets in Tegallalang, Gianyar, Found to Be Operating Illegally

Gianyar authorities found that 10 of 13 money changers inspected in Tegallalang were operating without the required permits, following public complaints. The outlets were marked as illegal and their exchange-rate boards removed; officials warned that businesses continuing to flout the rules could face closure.

Hashim Says Digital Tax to Begin on 9 November; Airlangga: ‘We’ll See’

Economic Affairs Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the proposed digital transaction tax, which presidential special envoy Hashim Djojohadikusumo says will begin on 9 November 2026, still needs further discussion with the Finance Ministry. The government has yet to clarify its collection mechanism or whether QRIS payments will be affected, while Hashim argues that better tax and customs collection could unlock up to Rp1,500 trillion in additional revenue.

Prudential Mobilises Volunteers to Clean the Banks of the Ciliwung River

Prudential Indonesia volunteers collected more than 361kg of rubbish along the Ciliwung River in Depok, while providing environmental, health and financial-literacy education to 50 pupils. The initiative highlights the health and flood risks associated with river pollution and forms part of the company’s sustainability work with local organisations.

DPR Commission III Deputy Chair Praises Police Chief’s Review of Officers over Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Incident

DPR Commission III Deputy Chair Moh. Rano Alfath has praised National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto for removing Sukoharjo Police Chief Andhika Dharma Sena following complaints over a search at Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. Rano called for a thorough, objective inquiry, support for affected students and closer engagement between police and pesantren to restore trust and prevent a recurrence.

Tulungagung Police Uncover Methamphetamine Network Allegedly Run from Kediri Prison

Tulungagung Police say they have uncovered a suspected methamphetamine network allegedly directed by an inmate at Kediri Class IIA Prison, following the seizure of 418.4 grams from a courier and a further 7.64 grams inside the prison. Six inmates tested positive for methamphetamine, while investigators have also arrested a woman suspected of involvement in the proceeds of the drug trade.

MP Calls for Forest Restoration to Follow Law Enforcement over Forest and Land Fires

Rina Saadah, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission IV, says prosecutions for forest and land fires must be accompanied by a clear plan for restoration and compensation. She argues that responsible parties should bear the costs rather than affected communities or the state, as police report naming 245 people and 20 companies as suspects.

BP Batam Pushes for Natural Gas Subsidies to Boost Competitiveness

BP Batam is urging the government to lower natural gas costs or provide subsidies, saying affordable energy is essential to sustaining existing industries and attracting new investment. The issue has also arisen in talks with Pupuk Indonesia over a proposed ammonia plant in Batam, which could support alternative maritime fuels and employ up to 8,000 workers during construction.

Indonesians Recruited as Russian Soldiers Promised Rp 400 Million Contracts and Rp 50 Million Salaries

Indonesian police have uncovered trafficking networks that recruited Indonesians to serve as mercenaries in Russia, promising contracts worth hundreds of millions of rupiah and monthly pay of up to Rp 50 million. Police identified 12 victims in one investigation, including one reported death, and arrested five suspects; a separate case involved seven male victims, four of whom were sent to Russia.

Eka Lestari Sinaga Calls for the Next Generation of Energy Leaders

Eka Lestari Sinaga, chair of the 2026 Energy Leadership & Business Conference, says cross-sector collaboration and youth participation are vital to Indonesia’s energy transition. The conference aims to bring together government, industry, universities and young people, while strengthening leadership succession and translating strategic discussions into practical cooperation and action.

Sumbawa People’s School Tender Targeted to Begin in Late November

Sumbawa regency plans to begin tendering for a multi-year People’s School project in late November 2026, after preparing access roads, clean water and a 15-hectare site. The school is designed for up to 3,000 pupils, with an initial intake of about 2,200; local officials have also called for building designs that account for the hot, coastal climate and provide green space.

Smallholder Replanting Reaches 438,000 Hectares as Palm Oil Industry Calls for Acceleration

Indonesia’s smallholder oil-palm replanting programme (PSR) has covered 438,217 hectares since 2016, involving nearly 197,000 growers and Rp12.48 trillion in assistance. The 2026 IPOS Forum issued six recommendations to improve land governance, legal certainty, export policy and programme effectiveness, with industry stakeholders urging faster replanting to raise productivity and sustainability.

Seven Foreign Nationals Deported from Bali for Offences Including Prostitution and Using a Fake Passport

Bali’s Ngurah Rai Immigration Office deported seven foreign nationals between 26 and 30 October 2026 for offences ranging from prostitution and passport fraud to overstaying their permits. All seven will be barred from returning to Indonesia as immigration authorities pledge tighter enforcement.

DTIIF 2026 forges strategic partnerships for national industry

Danantara Indonesia’s three-day DTIIF 2026 concluded with agreements spanning research, energy, digital infrastructure and electric transport, including cooperation among ministries, universities, research bodies and state-owned enterprises. The forum aims to bring research closer to industry and translate partnerships into implementation, strengthening Indonesia’s technological capabilities and industrial competitiveness.

Small Businesses Face Stiffer Competition and Need More Than Just Capital

As competition intensifies, Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises need support with business management, product development, marketing and networks—not merely access to capital. Bentoel Group’s Empower Academy provides six to eight months of incubation and mentoring, and has reached more than 200 beneficiaries and supported 125 microbusinesses across four locations since 2024.

Three Buleleng Residents Missing While Hunting Found Safe

Three residents who went missing while hunting in a forest south of Gerokgak Dam in Buleleng, Bali, were found safe after an extensive search by a joint SAR team. They were located several kilometres from the parking area, exhausted after spending the night in the forest in rainy weather, and were returned home after being evacuated.

600 People Evacuated from Florida Business Jet Crash Site

Authorities in Palm Beach County evacuated around 600 people after a business jet crashed, killing all nine people on board. Most evacuees lived in a nearby mobile home park, and temporary shelters were set up as reports described the aircraft’s final communications with air traffic control.

Indonesia-Singapore Tensions Rise, Putting Investment and Gas Supplies in Focus

Tensions have sharpened after Indonesian officials made critical remarks about Singapore amid disputes over forest-fire haze and reduced gas supplies, though both governments have sought to contain the fallout. The dispute is unfolding as President Prabowo faces domestic pressure and market volatility, while the two countries remain deeply economically interdependent, with Singapore the largest source of foreign direct investment in Indonesia.

Osco Letunggamu Promotes Indonesian Culinary Diplomacy in Russia as a Gateway to Business Cooperation

GEKRAFS international relations committee chair Osco Olfriadi Letunggamu says a recent Indonesian culinary diplomacy festival in Tver could help create creative-economy opportunities between Indonesia and Russia and introduce Indonesian food products to the Russian market. He says the festival should lead to sustained business ties, rather than remain solely a cultural showcase.

Pulogebang Residents’ Representatives Receive Rp100 Million for Supporting PAM JAYA Service Expansion

PAM JAYA has recognised community representatives from 15 Jakarta subdistricts for helping to expand its piped-water customer base, with Pulogebang receiving one of the highest appreciation awards, worth Rp100 million. The utility says community engagement and programmes such as free household connections are helping it work towards 100 per cent service coverage by 2029; it had reached 83.59 per cent by September 2026.

KPAI Calls for Child Protection Protocols During Law Enforcement Operations at Islamic Boarding Schools

Indonesia’s Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged police to apply strict child-protection protocols during law-enforcement operations in places where children live, including dormitories and Islamic boarding schools. The call followed a police search at a girls’ pesantren in Sukoharjo, where KPAI cited concerns about the timing and conduct of the operation and the absence of adult or legal accompaniment during initial questioning.

US and Israel Prepare for New Strikes as Iran’s Security Chief Calls Putin

Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the latest developments in the Middle East amid reports that the US and Israel are considering further military action against Iran. Tehran says it is prepared for both diplomacy and confrontation, while linking the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to Washington accepting its terms.

Social Affairs Ministry prepares decile-based PBI-JK funding-sharing scheme

The Social Affairs Ministry is modelling a tiered arrangement to share the cost of contributions for recipients of Indonesia’s National Health Insurance Contribution Assistance (PBI-JK), using household rankings in the national socio-economic data system. Under the proposal, funding would be shared among employers and district, city and provincial governments according to decile, with updated data intended to support a new budget proposal in 2027 and help achieve universal health coverage.

Police: Former Indonesian Military and Police Personnel Among Victims of Russian Mercenary Trafficking

Indonesian police say former members of the military and police are among people trafficked into recruitment as Russian mercenaries after being lured by overseas job adverts. Five police reports have been handled, with 13 suspects named and 58 victims identified.

Iqbal Plans Special School in East Lombok for Children of Indonesian Migrant Workers

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal has proposed a boarding school in East Lombok for children whose parents work overseas, with enhanced counselling and regular communication with their families. The province is also aiming to establish 10 Sekolah Rakyat schools for children from the poorest households; a newly inaugurated integrated school in North Lombok has 595 pupils.

Police Uncover Human Trafficking Case Involving Indonesians Recruited as Russian Mercenaries

Indonesia’s National Police have uncovered a human trafficking case in which Indonesians were recruited to serve as Russian mercenaries. Recruiters allegedly used social media to lure them with promises of high salaries and bonuses.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon: AI Adoption Must Remain Human-Centred

Culture Minister Fadli Zon says artificial intelligence in the cultural sector should be developed and used with people at its centre, including to promote Indonesia’s cultural wealth and support the growth of the cultural economy. At a technology forum, speakers also called for clear, adaptable AI regulations and alignment between policy, digital infrastructure, industry needs and talent capabilities to ensure responsible implementation.

Influencer Khiana Smith Spent Nine Days in Hospital in Bali with a Brain Infection

Australian influencer Khiana Smith was admitted to intensive care in Bali with bacterial meningitis, later also being diagnosed with pneumonia, after developing severe symptoms including intense headaches, dizziness and vision problems. After nine days in intensive care, she reported memory difficulties and said she hoped to recover sufficiently to travel home; the article also outlines symptoms, prevention and the fact that meningitis is not uniquely associated with Bali.

Horrifying Moment Private Jet Plunges in Florida and Becomes a Giant Fireball

A Learjet 60 crashed in a residential area of southern Florida, killing all nine people on board and prompting the evacuation of about 600 residents from a nearby mobile-home complex. Investigators are examining the cause after the pilot reported icing and turbulence before the aircraft lost altitude rapidly; severe storms were also present in the area.

Creative Economy Ministry Equips Padang Pariaman MSMEs to Expand Digitally

The Creative Economy Ministry has trained 80 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra, in digital business development, product innovation and stronger business management. The initiative aims to help local firms reach wider markets and support the growth of the area’s economy, including through opportunities linked to a coastal fishing village programme.

West Java Records Trade Surplus of US$22.09 Billion

West Java posted a cumulative trade surplus of US$22.088 billion in January–September 2026, as exports grew by 8.06 per cent year on year while imports edged down. Manufacturing accounted for nearly all exports, led by vehicles, electrical machinery and mechanical equipment; the United States was the province’s largest export market.

Meutia Hatta Moved by People’s Schools’ Implementation of Article 34 of the 1945 Constitution

Meutia Hatta has praised the government’s People’s Schools programme as a practical fulfilment of Article 34 of Indonesia’s Constitution, which mandates care for the poor and neglected. The programme combines education with nutrition, healthcare and other social support, and currently serves 44,000 pupils at 182 locations, with a target of 500 permanent schools by 2029.

Minister Bahlil: Indonesia Has Successfully Built a Nickel Downstreaming Industry

Indonesia has developed an integrated electric-vehicle battery ecosystem spanning nickel mining through to battery cells, Coordinating Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says. The country now has three battery plants, while nickel export earnings rose from US$3.3 billion in 2017 to US$40 billion in 2025, which Bahlil cited as evidence of the value added by downstream processing.

PGN’s Energi Mengajar Negeri Reaches More Than 1,300 Students in 10 Cities

PGN’s 2026 Energi Mengajar Negeri programme reached more than 1,300 students and educators across 10 locations, with 61 employee volunteers delivering educational activities over nearly six weeks. The state-owned gas company also supplied schools with learning and extracurricular equipment, including mobility aids for students with disabilities, tailoring assistance to each school’s needs.

Indonesia-China Investment Forum Discusses Building 1,000 Affordable Homes

Indonesia and China have agreed to plans for 1,000 affordable urban homes for low-income families, supporting President Prabowo Subianto’s two-million-home programme. The forum also showcased more than US$20 million in construction investment and technologies including 3D concrete printing, with participants seeking to deepen cooperation in housing and property development.

West Nusa Tenggara Records 0.56% Deflation in October 2026

West Nusa Tenggara recorded 0.56% deflation in October, driven mainly by lower prices for fish and broiler chicken as catches increased and demand eased after a national religious holiday. The statistics agency said abundant harvests also reduced shallot prices, while extreme weather and supply constraints pushed up prices for several vegetables and other goods.

Indonesia earmarks Rp2.6 trillion to subsidise microloans for women

Indonesia has provisionally earmarked Rp2.6 trillion to subsidise PNM Mekaar loans for low-income women running or planning micro- and ultra-micro businesses, with borrowing capped at Rp15 million per contract and a flat annual rate of 8 per cent. The nationwide rollout is scheduled for the second week of November after a pilot involving about 2,000 borrowers; the government says the lower rate will become permanent.

Indonesians Recruited as Russian Soldiers Receive Just One Month’s Training Before Deployment

Indonesian police have uncovered an alleged human-trafficking scheme that recruited Indonesian citizens as mercenaries for Russia, sending them to the battlefield after only a month of training. One suspect has been named, and five victims have so far been officially identified; investigators say the recruitment bypassed legal migrant-worker channels and used tourist visas.

Three train services in Daop 9 affected by landslide in Banyuwangi

A landslide on the Kalibaru–Mrawan railway section in Banyuwangi delayed three services operated in the Jember-based Daop 9 region by more than two hours. PT KAI said the obstruction was cleared by 2pm, with trains allowed to resume at restricted speeds as operations were gradually restored; affected passengers received service recovery assistance.

Social Affairs Minister: Heroes’ Legacy in the 1945 Constitution Guides Efforts to Improve Welfare

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf said the 1945 Constitution embodies the values for which Indonesia’s heroes fought, pointing to provisions on education, management of national resources and state support for vulnerable people. He cited the People’s School programme, which currently serves about 45,000 pupils, and outlined plans to expand it to 100,000 next year and 300,000 by 2028, with a longer-term capacity to educate at least one million children from disadvantaged families.

Ferry ‘Boboho’ Says Former Jampidsus Asked Him to Seek Rp50bn from Tan Kian

Businessman Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang told a Jakarta court that former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah instructed him to seek Rp50 billion from property businessman Tan Kian to prevent Tan from being named a suspect in the Jiwasraya corruption case. Febrie, along with two co-defendants, faces charges of extortion and money laundering, including alleged laundering of Rp354.62 billion.

Indonesia Expands Chinese Investment into the Renewable Energy Sector

Indonesia is seeking to channel more Chinese investment into renewable energy to support its net-zero target for 2060 or earlier, while attracting technology transfer and developing local skills. China’s investment in Indonesia totalled US$38.34 billion from 2021 to the first half of 2026, and the government is offering fiscal incentives and streamlined permits as it pursues investment in higher-value sectors.

Pintu and FEB UI Strengthen Students’ Crypto Financial Literacy

Crypto exchange Pintu and the University of Indonesia’s Faculty of Economics and Business held a campus programme on financial planning, investment risk and rational decision-making. Speakers stressed that crypto is a high-risk investment that should only be considered after investors have set financial goals, built a sound financial foundation and improved their understanding of the market; Indonesia had 22.93 million crypto investors in July 2026, according to the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Coko Cacao Expands Its Indonesian Cocoa Processing Business

Coko Cacao Company is expanding beyond ready-to-drink chocolate into supplying cocoa ingredients to food, beverage and cosmetics businesses, while building partnerships with farmers in six regions. The move aims to increase the value of Indonesian cocoa, though the company faces constraints in production capacity and supply consistency amid strong national production and export potential.

KPK Uncovers Alleged Djarum Excise Duty Scheme to Pay Less Than Assessed

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that an alleged scheme to manipulate PT Djarum’s excise payments has been operating since 2010. Investigators are examining whether officials arranged for the company to pay less than the amount assessed and are still probing possible payments to officials at the Finance Ministry’s Customs and Excise Directorate General.

KPK Suspects PT Djarum Excise Case Dates Back to 2010, with Payments Allegedly Manipulated

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that alleged corruption involving PT Djarum’s excise payments began in 2010, with arrangements allegedly made to ensure the company paid less than the prescribed amount. Investigators are examining historical documents and whether money was paid to officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, as the probe expands from a 2026 bribery operation.

Culture Ministry launches programme to build music industry professionals’ capacity

The Ministry of Culture has introduced capacity-building activities for music industry professionals as part of the Indonesia Music Conference 2026 in Makassar. Workshops, industry discussions and the Rock in Celebes festival are intended to strengthen professional skills, networks and regional music ecosystems.

KPK Suspects PT Djarum Has Not Paid Excise Since 2010

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that alleged corruption involving PT Djarum’s excise payments may date back to 2010. Investigators are examining whether arrangements led the company to pay less than the amount due and whether money was given to officials at the Finance Ministry’s Customs and Excise Directorate General.

BI Says Inflation Remained Well Contained in October 2026: Here Are the Reasons

Bank Indonesia said October inflation stayed within its 1.5–3.5 per cent target range, supported by coordinated central and regional government efforts, food-security programmes and consistent monetary policy. Headline inflation was 0.22 per cent month on month and 3.23 per cent year on year, while volatile food inflation eased monthly but rose annually amid lower chilli production and concerns about El Niño’s effect on supplies.

Indonesia Says It Cannot Export Electricity Soon, Casting Doubt on Singapore Deal

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia will not export electricity in the near future because domestic demand must come first, casting doubt on the planned supply of up to 3 gigawatts of clean power to Singapore. He also said electricity export permits rest with his ministry, warning state investment agency Danantara not to be swayed by foreign lobbying.

SPKS Calls on RSPO to Expand Purchases of Smallholders’ Physical Palm Oil Products

The Indonesian Oil Palm Farmers Union (SPKS) is urging the RSPO and its member companies to strengthen market demand for independent smallholders, including by buying more physical palm oil through cooperatives and improving transparency in credit trading. SPKS says that although the number of farmer groups selling RSPO credits rose by 36% in 2023–2024, total group income fell by 7%, highlighting a gap between certification growth and tangible economic benefits for farmers.

Badung Regency and Bali Province Step Up Search for Two Pelaga Landslide Victims

Two people remain missing after a landslide swept through Pelaga Eco Park in Badung, Bali, amid heavy rain, carrying away several accommodation buildings and triggering further slides. Badung and Bali officials have joined the search and pledged to review safety and environmental conditions at tourist sites, particularly in the regency’s northern areas.

Gerindra Expels Three East Java Regional Council Members Caught Up in Drug Cases

Gerindra’s party court has expelled three of its East Java regional council members over their involvement in drug cases, following a decision on 8 October. Separately, seven Surabaya police narcotics officers are being investigated by the East Java police professional standards unit over alleged procedural breaches after the arrests; Gerindra denies intervening in the case.

Police Name 13 Suspects in Russian Mercenary Trafficking Case

Indonesian police have named 13 suspects, including two Russian and one Ukrainian citizen, in cases involving the trafficking of 58 people recruited with promises of overseas jobs and high salaries. The victims were allegedly sent to Russia and directed to sign mercenary contracts, exposing them to conflict zones without adequate legal or workplace protections; the suspects face charges under Indonesia’s anti-trafficking and migrant-worker protection laws.

Bahlil Urges Nickel Producers to Hold Back Production to Support Prices

Coordinating Minister for Downstreaming and Energy Transition Bahlil Lahadalia has urged nickel businesses to curb production as prices remain around US$15,000 per tonne. He attributed the price weakness to an Indonesian-led global surplus of about 800,000 tonnes and said the government would use work-plan and budget approvals to manage supply.

Non-oil exports drive US$10.6bn Indonesian trade surplus in 2026

Indonesia recorded a US$10.6 billion trade surplus in the first nine months of 2026, as a US$34.21 billion surplus in non-oil and gas trade more than offset a US$23.60 billion deficit in oil and gas. Exports rose 5.58 per cent year on year to US$221.23 billion, while imports climbed 19.67 per cent to US$210.63 billion, led by raw materials and intermediate goods.

Madura Fish Farmer Develops Formula to Cut Catfish Harvest Time to Just 45 Days

Muzammil Andriansyah, known as Haji Aan, says a specially formulated feed developed through Raja Lele Indonesia can bring forward the first catfish harvest to 45 days, compared with the usual three to four months. He also claims it can cut feed costs by up to 50 per cent, and hopes the method will improve farmers’ efficiency and contribute to national food security.

18-Hectare Cannabis Plantation Found on the Slopes of an Estate in North Aceh

A joint law-enforcement operation uncovered and destroyed an 18-hectare cannabis plantation in North Aceh, where the crop was nearly ready for harvest. Authorities arrested three people suspected of owning the plantation, as part of efforts to stop the crop entering the illegal drug trade.

Concrete Mixer Truck Driver Accused over Fatal Bekasi Crash Faces up to Six Years in Prison

Police have named the driver of a concrete mixer truck as a suspect in a crash on Jalan Cut Mutia, Bekasi, that killed six people and injured six others. Investigators say preliminary findings indicate brake failure caused the truck to veer into a campus wall and strike people nearby; the driver faces up to six years in prison and a fine of up to Rp12 million.

Public Hearing Held for 69 National Commission on Disability Candidates; Selection Panel Says Process Is Free from Backroom Recommendations

Sixty-nine candidates for the 2026–2031 National Commission on Disability (KND) are taking part in public hearings, after which the selection panel will shortlist around 28 for further tests and recommend 14 finalists to the President. The panel says public input and verification of candidates’ records are central to a transparent, objective process, with the President making the final selection of seven commissioners.

US Midterm Elections Could Reshape Political Landscape: Is Trump’s Nightmare Beginning?

The article examines how the US midterm elections could weaken Donald Trump and the Republican Party, highlighting competitive races in Texas, Ohio, Michigan, Maine and Alaska. Democratic gains could obstruct Trump’s domestic agenda and trigger investigations, while election integrity concerns and a possible post-Trump struggle loom over the party.

Kakorlantas stresses personnel readiness at Christmas and New Year coordination meeting

National Police traffic chief Brigadier General Aries Syahbudin stressed the need for prepared personnel, cross-sector coordination and transport safety measures ahead of the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year travel period. He called for the swift completion of a joint decree on traffic and transport arrangements and proposed simulations on key roads and ferry routes, which will also help test plans ahead of the much busier 2027 Eid travel season.

Rp20,000 Cashback on Roblox Gift Cards at GoPay Games Until December 2026

GoPay Games is offering Rp20,000 cashback on Roblox Gift Card purchases of at least Rp40,000 from 1 October to 31 December 2026. The offer is limited to first-time GoPay Games users, must be activated at checkout and can be redeemed once per user, subject to availability.

KPK Suspects Djarum Excise Case Dates Back to 2010

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that alleged corruption involving PT Djarum’s excise payments began in 2010, with officials allegedly arranging for the company to pay less than the stipulated amount. The investigation is examining whether money was paid to customs and excise officials, as well as possible state losses estimated at trillions of rupiah.

PBNU Secretary-General Praises Police Chief’s Decisive Review of Sukoharjo Police Chief

Nahdlatul Ulama’s secretary-general has praised the National Police Chief for removing the Sukoharjo police chief and ordering an inquiry into officers involved in a search of the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. He called for the internal review to be transparent and fair while stressing that criminal investigations should continue objectively and that residents should remain calm.

Denny Indrayana and Others Set Out Five Steps After Gibran Certificate Ruling

Former Deputy Law and Human Rights Minister Denny Indrayana says he and others will pursue five avenues following the Supreme Court’s ruling that a certificate recognising Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s overseas high-school education is invalid. The proposed steps include seeking impeachment, ethical and criminal proceedings, administrative court action and an Ombudsman complaint over alleged maladministration; a separate plaintiff says he may seek enforcement if the ruling is not implemented.

Complete Documentation Is Key to Applying for a Home Renovation Loan

Borrowers seeking finance for home repairs are advised to prepare identity, contact, bank-account and income details, while estimating renovation costs and ensuring repayments are affordable. The article also describes Tunaiku by Amar Bank’s unsecured digital loan offer, including its stated loan limits, interest rate and application process.

Judge Expels Two Alleged Informants from Former Deputy Attorney General Febrie’s Trial

A panel of judges ordered two alleged informants to leave the Jakarta corruption court after Febrie Adriansyah’s lawyer said they had ignored an earlier warning. The lawyer alleged that information about witness testimony was being relayed to a witness due to testify later in the case, which concerns alleged extortion and money laundering involving Febrie.

Culture Ministry: Gala Indonesia Bercerita to Revive Oral Traditions

The Culture Ministry has launched Gala Indonesia Bercerita and its Indonesia Bercerita Training Centre to cultivate a new generation of storytellers and sustain oral traditions. Training will be held at four locations, combining cultural and historical material with creative approaches intended to engage younger audiences.

NTB Police Name Two Bima Activists as Suspects in Methamphetamine Case

West Nusa Tenggara Police have named two of five activists from Bima as suspects in an alleged methamphetamine trafficking case, citing sufficient evidence gathered during a six-day investigation. The other three were not charged: two will undergo rehabilitation after testing positive for drugs, while a woman was released after testing negative.

Ministry expands internationalisation of Indonesian language in Russia

Indonesia is seeking to expand the global reach of its language through BIPA classes, academic partnerships and stronger Indonesianist networks in Russia. The government’s 2025–2045 roadmap sets targets for international use, while officials cite rising index scores and more than 234,000 active BIPA learners across 62 countries; challenges in Russia include teacher shortages and limited learning materials.

Legislator stresses cross-sector collaboration to prevent child bullying

DPR RI Deputy Chairman Ahmad Doli Kurnia Tandjung has called for cooperation between government and civil society to combat bullying and violence against children. He said the newly initiated ADK Movement would be promoted with support from six parliamentary commissions and several ministries, while Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi welcomed the initiative.

Bekasi Police Name Cement Mixer Truck Driver a Suspect

Bekasi police have named the 58-year-old driver of a cement mixer truck as a suspect after it struck 12 people waiting at a bus stop, killing six and injuring six others. Investigators are conducting further examinations, including a scientific accident analysis, while the driver faces a charge carrying a maximum six-year prison sentence.

TASPEN Open to Selectively Increasing Equity Investments

State pension and insurance fund TASPEN says it may increase its equity investments, subject to market conditions, company fundamentals, valuation and alignment with its liabilities. Its equity and mutual fund allocation is currently around 10%, while it reported 2025 profit of Rp1.04 trillion and investment returns of Rp9.87 trillion.

Indonesia Seeks to Expand Chinese Investment in Renewable Energy

Indonesia is seeking to draw more Chinese investment into renewable energy, using China’s technology and supply-chain strengths to support its energy transition and 2060 net-zero target. Chinese investment in Indonesia totalled US$38.34 billion from 2021 to the first half of 2026, with the government aiming to steer future capital towards higher-value sectors while promoting technology transfer and local skills development.

PBNU Praises Police Chief’s Firm Response to Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Search Controversy: ‘Highly Responsive’

Nahdlatul Ulama’s executive secretary, Gus Gudfan Arif, praised National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto for removing Sukoharjo Police Chief Andhika Dharma Sena after a search at an Islamic boarding school sparked controversy. He called for a transparent internal inquiry, continued law enforcement against any alleged offenders, and calm in the community.

13 Suspects Named in Human Trafficking Case Involving Mercenary Recruitment, Including Russians and Ukrainian

Indonesian police have named 13 people as suspects in five human trafficking investigations involving the recruitment of Indonesians to serve as Russian mercenaries. The 58 victims were allegedly lured by promises of lucrative jobs and pay, then directed to sign mercenary contracts and risk deployment to armed conflict zones.

Ethnic Clashes Intensify as Death Toll Continues to Rise

Five members of the Kuki community have been killed in two separate incidents in Manipur, worsening tensions as protesters demand that the Indian government revoke its ceasefire agreement with armed Kuki groups. The Kuki-Naga conflict is unfolding alongside the longer-running violence between Kukis and Meiteis, which has killed more than 300 people and displaced tens of thousands since May 2023.

Palembang Feeder LRT and Teman Bus Services to Suspend Operations for a Week

Palembang’s transport authority expects selected Feeder LRT Musi Emas and Teman Bus routes to resume within a week after a temporary suspension that began on 1 November. The disruption stems from administrative updates and verification for 2026 transport-service procurement, including maintenance of the Online Single Submission system; other feeder routes remain operational.

UNM’s Rawamangun Campus Opens Enrolment for Working-Professional and RPL Classes

Universitas Nusa Mandiri’s Rawamangun campus is offering flexible undergraduate study options for working professionals and diploma graduates, including evening, weekend and blended-learning classes. Its transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) routes may allow eligible D3 graduates to complete a bachelor’s degree in around two semesters, subject to assessment and applicable requirements.

BI: September Trade Surplus Continues to Support External Resilience

Bank Indonesia says the trade surplus in September 2026 helped bolster Indonesia’s external resilience, with a surplus of US$3.36 billion following US$3.55 billion in August. The January–September surplus reached US$10.61 billion, supported by stronger non-oil and gas exports and a narrower oil and gas deficit.

Concrete Mixer Truck Driver Named Suspect After Six Killed in Bekasi Crash

Police have named the driver of a concrete mixer truck as a suspect after it crashed into people waiting at a bus stop in Bekasi, killing six and injuring others. Investigators suspect brake failure caused the vehicle to lose control; the driver faces charges under Indonesia’s Road Traffic and Transport Law, carrying a maximum six-year prison sentence and/or a fine of Rp12 million.

BPS: Chilli and Tomato Prices Drive Inflation in West Java, but It Remains Contained

West Java recorded monthly inflation of 0.2 per cent in October 2026, driven mainly by higher prices for chillies and tomatoes amid limited supplies, drought and pest damage. BPS said inflation remained within the controlled target range, while lower prices for chicken, eggs and jewellery gold helped offset the increase; regional authorities are urged to prepare for year-end demand pressures.

Ombudsman Issues Early-Warning Alerts to Improve Governance

Ombudsman RI Chair Nuzran Joher says the watchdog acts as an early-warning system to prevent administrative malpractice from escalating into corruption, collusion and nepotism. Jambi Governor Al Haris described the Ombudsman as a strategic partner in improving public services and said the provincial government would support its regional office, including by funding suitable office facilities next year.

PT SGN renews Klaten sugar cane plantations to boost sugar production

PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara is carrying out a ratoon-replacement programme in Klaten, Central Java, to improve sugar cane yields, strengthen raw-material supplies and raise farmers’ incomes. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, aims to revive the area’s historic role in Indonesia’s sugar industry through better cultivation practices and stronger partnerships with farmers.

Houthi Now Have Their Own War Machine, Raising Global Concerns

The Houthi movement has moved beyond reliance on weapons supplied by Iran and is increasingly assembling and producing arms in Yemen, using components sourced through international trade networks. Research cited in the article indicates that most seized shipments in 2024–25 contained components rather than complete weapons, complicating sanctions and interdiction efforts and potentially giving the group greater autonomy from Tehran.

Police Uncover Human Trafficking Scheme Recruiting Indonesians as Russian Soldiers; 13 Suspects Named

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency says it has named 13 suspects in a human-trafficking case involving the recruitment of Indonesians as mercenaries in Russia, allegedly through social media promises of exceptionally high pay and bonuses. The cases span five police reports handled by national and regional units, with victims numbering in the dozens; investigators are pursuing a wider network, including one suspect on the wanted list.

Culture Ministry Urges Academics to Broaden Perspectives on Human History

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has urged international academics to give greater attention to island communities and maritime environments when studying human history. Speaking at the 23rd Indo-Pacific Prehistory Association congress in Yogyakarta, he highlighted ancient rock art in Sulawesi as evidence of the region’s significance to understanding human expression and migration.

North Jakarta administration involves 18 telecom operators in overhead cable reorganisation

North Jakarta’s public works agency has completed the relocation of 5.6 kilometres of telecommunications cables along five roads in Tanjung Priok into integrated utility ducts, with removal of the old cables and poles due by December 2026. The city says active services will not be disrupted and plans to extend the programme to other areas as Jakarta seeks to move all overhead cables underground within five years.

BI: October Inflation Remains Within Target Range Thanks to Central–Local Government Coordination

Bank Indonesia said consumer price inflation in October 2026 remained within its 1.5–3.5 per cent target range, supported by coordination with central and regional governments and consistent monetary policy. Headline inflation eased to 3.23 per cent year on year, while volatile food inflation rose to 5.81 per cent amid lower chilli production in key regions.

Notes from an Umrah Pilgrimage Amid Houthi Drone Threats

Despite reports of Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia, an 80-person group of Gontor alumni travelled for Umrah and found daily life in Madinah and Makkah proceeding normally. The account also highlights transport challenges for pilgrims in Makkah, including unpredictable shuttle buses on Ajyad Street and the need for more accessible routes to the Grand Mosque.

KPK Probes Activities of Pemalang Deputy Council Speaker with Suspended Regent

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning Pemalang legislators about their activities with suspended Regent Anom Widiyantoro, while also examining private-sector participation in local government projects. The inquiry forms part of a case stemming from a July 2026 sting operation, in which the KPK named four people suspects in two alleged extortion schemes involving Anom and purported efforts to influence case handling at the commission.

Indonesia Seeks Chinese Investment and Green Technology to Strengthen Energy Transition

Indonesia is seeking to attract more Chinese investment and technology for renewable energy, while encouraging investors to diversify into higher-value sectors beyond basic industries. Chinese investment in Indonesia totalled US$38.34 billion from 2021 to the first half of 2026, and the government is offering fiscal incentives as it pursues its 2060 net-zero target.

One Person Detained After Viral Video Shows Alleged Rp20,000 Extortion at Depok Red-Earth Site

Police detained a man after a viral video showed a resident being asked to pay Rp20,000 while his child played at a vacant plot in Sukmajaya, Depok. Officers say they found a notebook containing records suspected to be related to extortion and are investigating the detained man, including conducting a urine test.

Bahlil Says Electricity Exports Can Proceed If Buyers Accept Indonesia’s Proposed Price

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia may continue electricity exports if buyers agree to the price set by the government, with domestic supply taking priority otherwise. The price was calculated by the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, and negotiations over green electricity sales to Singapore remain a key condition for cross-border trade.

Dozens of Green Investment Victims Report to Police, Losses Total Rp5.7bn

Police in Jakarta are investigating allegations that Econext Venture Indonesia defrauded investors through a purported green-technology investment scheme, with 99 victims reporting combined losses of Rp5.7bn. Investors say promised returns and withdrawals stopped after the company’s app became inaccessible in 2025; they are seeking an investigation and the return of their funds.

Airlangga and Other Ministers Brief Prabowo: Economy Remains Resilient, Manufacturing Expands

Economic ministers told President Prabowo Subianto that key indicators point to continued resilience, with Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI rising to 54 in October. The country also recorded a US$3.36 billion trade surplus in September and export growth of 5.58% year on year over January–September, while annual inflation stood at 3.23%.

IMI 2026 National Working Meeting Expected to Boost Automotive Activity and Pekanbaru’s Economy

Pekanbaru will host the Indonesian Motor Association’s 2026 National Working Meeting, drawing officials from across Indonesia. Riau IMI chair Agung Nugroho said the event could invigorate local automotive activities and generate economic benefits for Pekanbaru’s hotels, restaurants, transport providers and other businesses.

KPK Probes Flow of Private-Sector Money to BNPB Personnel

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning witnesses about alleged payments from private parties to personnel at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), in a case involving emergency funds for disaster response. The investigation follows the arrest of 15 people and the naming of five suspects; the KPK has also seized assets worth Rp5.47 billion and notified military authorities about the alleged involvement of active-duty personnel.

China Envoy to Tour Middle East in Support of Regional Peace

China’s special envoy for Middle Eastern affairs, Zhai Jun, is due to visit Iran, Oman and Saudi Arabia in early to mid-November to promote peace and security. Beijing says the wider diplomatic visits, including trips to countries in the Horn of Africa, are intended to encourage dialogue and reconciliation, ease tensions and prevent further escalation.

Febrie’s Defence Team Seeks to Have Boboho’s Phone Produced in Court, Explains Why

Former deputy attorney general Febrie Adriansyah’s defence team has asked the court to produce Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang’s phone and forensically examine the metadata of a photograph of Rp55 billion allegedly received from businessman Tan Kian. The request came as Ferry testified that he accepted the money to prevent Tan Kian being named a suspect in the Jiwasraya corruption case; Febrie denies the allegations, while prosecutors accuse him of extortion and money laundering.

Police Name Suspects in Recruitment of Indonesians to Fight for Russia

Indonesia’s National Police say they have named multiple Indonesian and foreign nationals as suspects in human-trafficking investigations involving the recruitment of Indonesians to serve in Russia’s military and fight in Ukraine. Authorities say victims were promised civilian jobs before being sent to conflict zones, and have warned that such offers expose recruits to serious danger and lack legal and employment protections.

Jakarta’s Rice Production Forecast to Reach 712 Tonnes in 2026

Jakarta’s Central Statistics Agency (BPS) forecasts rice production for food consumption at 712.56 tonnes in 2026, down 18.73 per cent from 876.77 tonnes in 2025. The decline reflects lower rice output and harvested area, based on provisional figures from the September 2026 Area Sample Frame survey.

Under VOC Rule, People Were Taxed for Long Fingernails, Queue Hairstyles, Gambling and Prostitution

The article recounts the unusual taxes imposed on Chinese residents under Dutch colonial rule, including head taxes and levies on queue hairstyles, gambling, brothels and long fingernails. It describes how these taxes were administered and notes that resistance to the queue requirement grew among younger generations before the custom was abolished in 1911.

Named Suspect in Harassment Case, Serang City Council Member Seeks to Avoid Detention

Pandeglang police have named a Serang City Council member, identified as DK, a suspect in an alleged sexual harassment case involving a woman from Pandeglang Regency. His lawyer has asked that he not be detained, citing his cooperation with investigators, while police say the request is the suspect’s right and will be referred to senior officers for consideration.

OJK integrates development of all sharia finance sectors through blueprint

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has launched a blueprint to coordinate development across the country’s Islamic finance sectors, including banking, capital markets, insurance and digital financial services. It sets three strategic priorities—building a healthy and innovative industry, creating an inclusive ecosystem, and harmonising regulation and supervision—supported by measures on technology resilience, talent and links to social funds.

Bangladesh Garment Workers’ Protest Turns Violent as They Demand 140% Pay Rise; Police Vehicle Set Ablaze

Thousands of garment workers in Bangladesh have clashed with police while demanding a monthly minimum wage of 30,000 taka, more than double their current pay, amid rising living costs. The unrest threatens production and export deliveries, even as the government plans to establish a wage board and warns it will act firmly against unlawful protests.

Gekrafs Strengthens Creative Economy Network in China Through Overseas Chapters

Indonesia’s National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) has established four overseas chapters in Guangzhou, Beijing, Shenzhen and Shanghai to connect Indonesian creative businesses with opportunities in China. The initiative aims to foster partnerships in areas ranging from product promotion and digital industries to investment and cultural exchange, supporting the sector’s international growth.

November domestic flight fuel surcharge capped at 40%: Ministry

Indonesia’s Civil Aviation Directorate General says airlines may impose a fuel surcharge of up to 40% on domestic economy flights in November, unchanged from October, but stresses that this is a ceiling rather than an automatic fare increase. Airlines can charge less, subject to fare regulations and service standards, while the ministry monitors compliance and reviews fuel prices to balance affordability, airline operations and connectivity.

Agriculture Ministry Promotes Sugarcane Replanting to Revive Klaten’s Sugar Hub

The Agriculture Ministry is promoting sugarcane replanting in Klaten, Central Java, to restore the district’s role as a major sugar-producing centre. The programme is intended to raise cane yields and sugar recovery through crop replacement and stronger cooperation among government, PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara, farmers and other stakeholders, supporting national sugar self-sufficiency.

Maluku BKSDA Seizes Four Cockatoos from the KM Pangrango

Maluku’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency has seized four cockatoos found aboard the KM Pangrango at Ambon’s Yos Sudarso Port. Authorities are investigating the birds’ origin, ownership and transport permits, amid efforts to prevent illegal wildlife trafficking by sea; the offence can carry up to five years in prison and a fine of Rp100 million.

Road in Bangli Collapses After Heavy Rain, Cutting Access to Kintamani

Heavy rain caused a road in Pulasari, Bangli, to collapse completely, cutting off a route towards the Kintamani tourist area and Mount Abang hiking destination. No casualties or material losses were reported, but residents have been urged to use detours through Karangasem or Buleleng while repairs remain pending.

Makassar Converts Terminal Company into Perseroda to Open Up Investment and Business Opportunities

Makassar is converting its municipal terminal company into PT Makassar Membangun Indonesia, a regional limited-liability company intended to make private-sector partnerships and investment more flexible. The expanded business scope will extend beyond terminal management to areas including logistics, property, technology and asset commercialisation, while retaining public-service responsibilities and aiming to boost local revenue.

IMI 2026 National Work Meeting to Be Held in Pekanbaru, Chairman Moreno Confirmed to Attend

Pekanbaru will host the Indonesian Motor Association’s 2026 National Work Meeting on 3 November, with central chairman Moreno Soeprapto expected to attend and open the event. Riau IMI chairman Agung Nugroho says the gathering could boost the region’s automotive activities and bring economic benefits to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants and transport operators.

Lawyer: Rp106.3bn in ATR/BPN Case Evidence Unconnected to Summarecon

A lawyer for Summarecon Agung’s president director says the Rp106.3 billion seized as evidence in an alleged corruption case involving the Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ministry/National Land Agency did not come from, or relate to, the company. He also alleges that the Bogor land office blocked 12 land-use certificates even though only one was disputed; the case has led to multiple arrests and searches by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

Preventing Violence Against Children: Minister Highlights Positive Parenting in Families

Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi says strengthening positive parenting at home is essential to preventing violence against children. She also points to the Ruang Bersama Indonesia programme, which aims to address the issue at village level, as lawmakers voice concern over bullying and its serious consequences.

What We Know So Far About the Deadly Mixer Truck Horror in Bekasi

A suspected brake failure caused a concrete mixer truck to plough into people waiting at a bus stop in Bekasi, killing six and injuring six others. Police say the case involves a criminal element and are investigating who should be held responsible, while officials are also considering moving the bus stop because of safety concerns.

Human Trafficking Scheme Recruited Indonesians as Russian Mercenaries, Offering Rp620 Million Bonus

Indonesia’s National Police have uncovered a suspected human-trafficking network that recruited Indonesian citizens to fight as mercenaries in Russia, with five police reports covering 58 victims. Recruits were promised a bonus of about Rp620 million and monthly pay, but were sent to a conflict zone on tourist visas, without formal employment contracts or adequate legal and safety protections.

Timeline of the Biggest Theft: Rp114 Trillion Vanishes in an Instant

Binance says hackers gained unauthorised access through a DevOps engineer’s compromised laptop, leading to withdrawals affecting client assets worth US$6.3 billion. The exchange temporarily suspended withdrawals, says about US$3 billion has been frozen on the blockchain, and has covered the losses using its Secure Asset Fund for Users; investigators and blockchain firms are probing suspected links to North Korean hackers.

Sudaryono Nominated Again as APPSI Chair for 2026–2031

Thirty regional boards of the Indonesian Market Traders Association (APPSI) have backed Sudaryono for another term as its national chair, with the proposal to be submitted to the organisation’s November congress. The pre-congress meeting also endorsed President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes and reaffirmed APPSI’s commitment to advocating for traditional market traders.

Semeru Lahar Flood Hits Lumajang, Isolating Hundreds of Residents

A rain-triggered lahar flow from Mount Semeru breached the Glidik River embankment in Purorejo village, damaging three homes and putting 10 more at risk of collapse. The breach has cut off 117 households in Taman Sari hamlet, highlighting the disruption and danger to communities along the river.

Honor 700 Series Could Be Compatible with a 200 mm Teleconverter Lens

Leaked information suggests Honor’s mid-range 700 series may support a 200 mm teleconverter lens, bringing a long-range photography feature to a more affordable phone line. The series is reportedly due to debut in China in November 2026, although Honor has not confirmed its launch date or specifications.

Judge Orders Two Visitors to Leave Febrie Hearing Over Alleged Leaking of Boboho’s Testimony

A lawyer for former deputy attorney general Febrie Adriansyah alleged that a visitor was recording witness Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang’s testimony and relaying it to another witness, Lucy Kweek. The judge ordered the visitor out, and a woman and a man eventually left; Febrie is on trial over alleged extortion and money laundering involving billions of rupiah and US dollars.

Biofuel Downstreaming Drive Targets Higher Production Capacity

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy and Agrinas Palma have agreed to develop and operate a FAME-based biodiesel facility in Indragiri Hilir, Riau, as part of efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s biofuel industry and energy security. The agreement was among a range of partnerships announced at the Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum 2026, spanning research, healthcare, digital infrastructure, electric vehicles and industrial technology.

Rainy Season Begins: BNPB Urges Vigilance Against Extreme Weather and Flash Floods

Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has urged people to prepare for extreme weather and flash floods as the rainy season begins in November 2026. Residents in landslide-prone areas, along riverbanks and near embankments are advised to heed evacuation instructions, while authorities continue monitoring recent flooding and heavy rain around Mount Semeru.

Karangetang Volcano Erupts Three Times, Monitoring Post Says

Karangetang Volcano on Siau Island in North Sulawesi erupted three times during the monitoring period on Sunday, with ash reaching 1,000 metres and glowing lava avalanches observed on several slopes. The volcano remains at Level II (Alert), and authorities have advised people to keep clear of the hazard zones and prepare for potential lahars and flash floods.

Religious Affairs Ministry Develops ICBP, Using Marriage Data to Shape Family Resilience Policy

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing the Marriage Guidance Coverage Index (ICBP) using marriage data from its SIMKAH information system. The index is intended both to assess premarital guidance services and to provide local and central government bodies, universities and partners with evidence for more targeted family resilience policies, including measures addressing child marriage.

SPKS Warns of Risk of Farmers Leaving RSPO Certification

The Indonesian Palm Oil Farmers Union (SPKS) says falling group revenues and weak demand for smallholders’ RSPO credits could undermine the economic case for certification and prompt farmers to leave the scheme. It is urging the RSPO to improve market access and price transparency, and to publish data on suspended, revoked and unrenewed smallholder certificates.

PKB Opens the Door to an Inquiry Following Supreme Court Ruling on Gibran’s Education Certificate

The National Awakening Party (PKB) is seriously considering proposing a parliamentary inquiry into the government’s handling of the equivalency certificate used by Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka as part of his candidacy. PKB lawmaker Muhammad Khozin says Parliament may also pursue interpellation or a motion of opinion, while other parties have taken differing positions on the ruling that the certificate was invalid.

Further Searches Possible in Djarum Case

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it may conduct further searches as it investigates alleged irregularities in excise-tax administration involving companies affiliated with PT Djarum. The inquiry remains at an early stage, with the number of suspects, the state’s potential losses and the period under investigation still undetermined.

Army Chief General Tandyo Meets Australian Army Chief to Discuss Military Cooperation

Indonesian Army Chief General Tandyo Budi R met Australian Army Chief Lieutenant General Susan May Coyle in Jakarta to discuss strengthening bilateral defence ties. Existing cooperation includes joint exercises, training, personnel exchanges and capacity-building, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to the strategic partnership and regional stability.

Lawyer Reports Alleged Informant in Courtroom During Former Jampidsus’s Trial

Febri Diansyah, lawyer for former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, complained to the Jakarta Corruption Court that a visitor was allegedly relaying witness testimony to another witness. The judge ordered security staff to remove the alleged informant, but no one had been removed by the start of the next session; the case involves allegations of extortion and money laundering against Febrie.

Surveyor Indonesia and IDX Partner to Help SMEs Enter the Capital Market

Surveyor Indonesia and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) have signed an agreement to strengthen the capital-market ecosystem and broaden funding access for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Their cooperation includes training and readiness support, alongside independent verification services intended to improve corporate information and governance standards.

Bali Police Assure Public of Safe Fuel Supplies over Christmas and New Year, Urge Residents Not to Panic-Buy

Bali Police say fuel stocks are sufficient for the 2026 Christmas and 2027 New Year period, with supplies at the Pesanggaran terminal covering between 13 and 20 days and further deliveries expected. Residents are being urged not to panic-buy or repeatedly use barcodes when purchasing fuel, while petrol stations have been asked to display notices against panic-buying.

Recognising Vulnerable Workers: Livin’ Berbagi Reaches 12 Locations

Bank Mandiri’s Livin’ Berbagi initiative has returned in November 2026, distributing 290 food and drink packages across 12 locations to vulnerable workers, including ride-hailing drivers and cleaners. The programme, which began in April, lets recipients obtain packages for Rp29 via Livin’ by Mandiri’s QR Bayar and is intended to strengthen the bank’s ties with local communities.

Tegalsambi Village in Jepara to Represent Central Java in National Village Competition

Tegalsambi Village in Jepara has advanced to the 2026 national village competition after winning first place in Central Java’s provincial contest. A Ministry of Home Affairs team is conducting a field assessment, examining governance, public services, economic empowerment, food security, environmental management and local development initiatives.

China Lashes Out at Former Philippine Diplomat, Says It Is Not Afraid of War

China’s embassy in Manila has strongly criticised former Philippine ambassador Jaime Yambao over an opinion column on Beijing’s conduct in the South China Sea, rejecting his claim that the US–Philippines defence pact deters China from attacking. The dispute also touches on the 2016 arbitration ruling, calls to expel China’s ambassador, and competing accounts of a battle during the Korean War.

UN Secretary-General Candidate Lana Nusseibeh Praises Indonesia as a Champion of Multilateralism

UAE candidate Lana Nusseibeh has praised Indonesia’s longstanding advocacy for multilateralism and developing countries, endorsing Jakarta’s call for the next UN chief to uphold international law, unite nations and deliver meaningful reform. Indonesia is closely monitoring the selection process, which remains inconclusive after the latest Security Council straw poll; the new secretary-general is due to take office on 1 January 2027.

Industry Ministry and Kadin seek stronger partnership to boost manufacturing

The Industry Ministry and the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) have pledged to deepen public-private cooperation as manufacturing activity expands, with confidence and PMI indices both above the 50-point growth threshold in October 2026. Their priorities include strengthening small and medium-sized industries, linking them more closely with larger manufacturers, and adding value to regional commodities such as sago, algae and coconut.

Eko Suwanto Urges Yogyakarta Regional Government to Integrate Digital Services Across Six Sectors

Eko Suwanto, chair of the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representatives’ Commission A, has urged the regional government to build an integrated digital ecosystem, backed by skilled personnel, secure infrastructure and reliable data. He says coordinated digital services could improve education and public administration, support local businesses and tourism, strengthen disaster preparedness, and accelerate research while helping address unemployment and inequality.

Bahlil Targets Rp165 Trillion in Non-Tax State Revenue from Mining in 2026

Coordinating Minister for Downstreaming and Energy Transition Bahlil Lahadalia is targeting non-tax state revenue from the mineral and coal subsector of Rp160 trillion–Rp165 trillion by the end of 2026. Receipts had already reached Rp141.94 trillion by 31 October, while Bahlil urged mining businesses to strengthen governance, carry out land reclamation and manage Indonesia’s natural resources responsibly.

Police Acknowledge Criticism over Sukoharjo Search and Stress Respect for Islamic Boarding Schools

Indonesia’s National Police have expressed regret over the impact of a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo, following complaints that female students and teachers were intimidated. Four Sukoharjo police officers, including the district police chief, have been examined and suspended while the police internal affairs division investigates.

Warteg Traders Could Be Driven Out of Business if Tax Is Imposed

Warteg owner Kusnanda has opposed a proposal to tax transactions at traditional food stalls, warning that higher prices could drive away customers and threaten businesses. With daily turnover already falling, he says a tax could push meal prices substantially higher and urges the government to reconsider the proposal.

Airlangga Says Indonesia’s Exports Are Rising as Economic Fundamentals Remain Resilient

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said Indonesia’s economic fundamentals remained strong, citing manufacturing expansion, trade surpluses and year-on-year export growth of 5.58 per cent through September 2026. Inflation stood at 3.23 per cent in October, with the government expecting measures including seasonal transport discounts to help maintain price stability and household resilience.

October 2026 Inflation Hits 3.23%, Airlangga Says Government Is Not Worried

Indonesia’s annual inflation reached 3.23% in October 2026, close to the upper limit of the government’s 1.5–3.5% target range. Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the rate remained manageable, citing the impact of higher commodity prices on farmers’ incomes and government measures including rice assistance, social aid and seasonal discounts to support purchasing power and consumption.

Out of Money in Bali, Ghanaian National Who Overstayed by 115 Days Reported by Residents

A Ghanaian national in Bali was found to have overstayed his immigration permit by 115 days after residents reported concerns about his circumstances and alleged disturbance to public order. Immigration officials say the case is being handled separately from three other foreign nationals detained over suspected online prostitution, and underscore that the overstay is an administrative immigration violation.

Gekira urges all members to follow Gerindra’s direction

Gekira chairman Nikson Silalahi has called on members of the Gerindra Party’s Christian-affiliated wing to maintain organisational discipline and avoid making statements on its behalf that diverge from the party’s official position. He said the organisation’s political stance must align with Gerindra’s decisions, while personal differences of opinion remain part of democratic life.

Vietnam scraps child organ donor proposal after backlash

Vietnam has withdrawn a draft proposal that would have allowed 15- to 17-year-olds to donate organs after death with parental or legal-representative consent, following public criticism over the risk of pressure or exploitation. The revised draft sets 18 as the minimum age for posthumous organ donation, while retaining tightly safeguarded provisions for minors to donate regenerative tissue to family members when no suitable adult donor is available.

Indonesia taps trade pacts to boost processed cocoa exports

Indonesia is seeking to use free trade agreements to expand exports of processed cocoa, as domestic grinding and third-quarter sales rose in 2026. The government is urging businesses to understand trade rules and documentation while addressing climate risks to cocoa supplies, aiming to turn trade pacts into sustained export gains.

South Jakarta Social Affairs Agency evacuates toddler sister of child killed in Kebayoran Lama

South Jakarta’s Social Affairs Agency has taken a three-year-old girl into care after her younger sister was allegedly murdered in Kebayoran Lama. Authorities are arranging protection and support for the child while seeking her family or relatives; police say two suspects have been named, including the victim’s mother, as the investigation continues.

Sukoharjo Police Chief Removed as National Police Reaffirms Commitment to Listening to the Public

National Police Chief Suyudi Ario Seto has removed Sukoharjo Police Chief Andhika Dharma Sena following a controversial search of the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. The force says the move reflects its commitment to public concerns, while four officers have been suspended and are facing parallel criminal and ethics investigations over allegations of intimidation involving female students and teachers.

Government Sees October Inflation of 3.23% as No Cause for Concern

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said annual inflation of 3.23% in October 2026 remains within the government’s 2.5% target, plus or minus one percentage point. The government plans rice assistance, social aid worth around Rp30 trillion and seasonal discounts to support purchasing power and consumption, as inflationary pressure comes mainly from volatile food prices and air transport.

Indonesia’s October manufacturing PMI reaches 54 on strong trade surplus

Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI rose to 54 in October 2026, its strongest expansion since March 2024, while the country recorded a US$3.36 billion trade surplus in September. Airlangga also reported inflation of 3.23 per cent year on year and said targeted travel discounts were being prepared for the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

Learning from Coal, Bahlil Prepares Strategy to Cut Nickel Production Quotas

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has instructed officials to consider cutting nickel production quotas under the 2027 work plans and budgets (RKAB) to address a global oversupply of nearly 800,000 tonnes. Drawing on the coal sector’s quota controls, the government expects the move to support prices and boost state revenue, despite likely objections from industry players.

PKP Plans to Target FLPP Financing for 40,000 New Subsidised Flats

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas plans to channel Housing Finance Liquidity Facility (FLPP) mortgages to support 40,000 new subsidised flats this year, reversing a period in which fewer than 200 flats were built over five years. Planned developments include projects in Meikarta, Manggarai and Kemayoran, as well as more than 1,200 units in Tangerang, as the government promotes high-rise housing to address land constraints in cities.

Modern retail drives poverty alleviation, says trade minister

Trade Minister Budi said local products now make up nearly 80 per cent of modern retail inventory, with retail access helping MSMEs meet quality standards and expand towards overseas markets. He cited export and Trade Expo Indonesia results as evidence of rising global demand, while ongoing trade negotiations and a network of 46 overseas trade representatives are intended to open further markets.

Sidoarjo Customs and Traders Join Forces to Combat Illegal Cigarettes

Sidoarjo Customs and East Java Customs officials are working with local traders to curb illegal cigarette sales through dialogue, education and enforcement. Officials say the illicit trade costs the state revenue and undermines compliant businesses; evidence seized in June 2026 was valued at Rp9.3 billion, with potential state losses of Rp6.06 billion.

UNM Quality Assurance Board Benchmarks Quality Assurance Practices at UGM in Yogyakarta

Universitas Nusa Mandiri’s Quality Assurance Board visited Universitas Gadjah Mada to learn about internal quality assurance systems, including evaluation mechanisms and the PPEPP cycle. The visit is expected to inform measurable improvements to UNM’s standards and help embed continuous quality improvement across the university.

KPK Reveals Latest Developments in ATR/BPN Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it is analysing information from Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid after he missed two summonses as a witness in an alleged corruption case involving his ministry. The investigation has named eight suspects and seized evidence including cash worth approximately Rp106.3 billion in several currencies; the KPK has urged Wahid to prioritise the legal process.

Flights to and from Muara Teweh, Central Kalimantan, return to normal

Flights at Haji Muhammad Sidik Airport in Muara Teweh have resumed after smoke from forest and land fires forced cancellations from 19 August. Services are operating with limited passenger numbers, though Wings Air cancelled its Tuesday flight for operational reasons; the resumption has spared travellers lengthy overland journeys to Palangka Raya and Banjarmasin.

iPhone 18 Pro Sales Rise in China, Offsetting Declines in the US

Sales of Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro models rose 29 per cent in China, helping offset declines in the US and Japan during the first three weeks of availability. Counterpoint Research said global sales of the Pro and Pro Max combined were up 3.1 per cent, with supply conditions and high Android prices supporting demand in China.

University Helps Purbalingga Residents Develop Honey Pineapples and Prevent Landslides

Universitas Perwira Purbalingga and Universitas AKPRIND Indonesia are supporting residents of Siwarak in developing honey-pineapple farming and processed products, alongside clean-water management and measures to reduce landslide risks. The 2026 Kosabangsa programme includes farming guidance, IoT-based environmental monitoring, conservation planting and plans to strengthen the village water system.

Juanda Airport Strengthens Staff Preparedness to Handle Potential Hazards

Juanda International Airport has conducted a fire-response exercise and a series of coordination meetings to test emergency procedures, staff readiness and cooperation among agencies. The activities aim to improve airport security and passenger services while helping stakeholders anticipate operational disruptions and emergencies.

TransJakarta Repairs and Repaints Busway Separators on Corridor 9 to Prevent Accidents

TransJakarta and Jakarta’s transport agency have completed repairs, repositioning and repainting of busway separators along Corridor 9, which runs between Pinang Ranti and Pluit. The work is intended to deter other vehicles from entering the dedicated lane, improve visibility and reduce collision risks, while supporting safer and more reliable bus services.

‘Harry Potter’ Sentenced to 34 Years in Prison in Thailand

Thai activist and human rights lawyer Arnon Nampa has received a further two years and eight months in prison for insulting the monarchy, bringing his accumulated sentence to more than 34 years. His lawyer says Thailand’s lèse-majesté law is being used as a political tool against opponents, while rights groups argue it has been used to suppress free expression since the 2020 protests.

Heroes’ families enliven Heroes’ Day in Kota Tua with angklung performance

Descendants and relatives of Indonesian national heroes performed angklung at the 2026 Heroes’ Day commemoration in Jakarta’s Kota Tua, alongside an exhibition of family memorabilia. Meutia Hatta said the event aimed to show younger generations that heroism is not merely history, but a continuing set of values and commitment to Indonesia.

Expect Delays: Bridge Repairs on the Jagorawi Toll Road at Km 9 until 6 November

Traffic congestion on the Jagorawi Toll Road towards Cibubur was caused in part by bridge repairs at Km 9+700, scheduled to continue until 6 November. Jasa Marga has introduced a contraflow between Km 5+500 and Km 11+700 to ease delays, which were also worsened by the evening rush-hour increase in vehicle volumes.

Creative Economy Gains Momentum as Local Content Investment Expands Employment

WeTV Indonesia says it has produced more than 57 local original series in six years, involving over 10,000 crew members and creative talents and generating demand for services across the production supply chain. The company plans to continue investing in local content and intellectual property, while a Tencent memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Creative Economy aims to support Indonesia’s creative and digital industries.

UB Transmigration Ministry team installs clean water system in Sorong

A team from the University of Brawijaya working with the Ministry of Transmigration has installed a clean water system at a health outpost in Sorong Regency, where households have limited access to water. The project is part of wider community empowerment work, including support for fishing, compost production, small businesses and agroforestry, with the ministry stressing that skills and technology transfer should create lasting benefits beyond the team’s assignment.

Police: Russian Mercenary Recruits Trafficked to Russia Received Only One Month of Training

Indonesian police say five people were trafficked through a recruitment scheme to serve as Russian mercenaries and were sent to the battlefield after just one month of training. A suspect allegedly organised recruitment and departures, earning commissions, while authorities say the number of victims may rise as the investigation continues.

Cardiovascular Technology Advances, but Doctors Face Clinical Challenges

Advances in cardiovascular medicine are expanding diagnostic and treatment options, while clinicians must decide when and how to use them safely for individual patients. At CARES 2026 in Jakarta, medical professionals discussed these decisions against the backdrop of Indonesia’s substantial hypertension and heart attack burden.

Bekasi Cement Mixer Truck Driver Named Suspect in Fatal Crash

Police have named the driver of a cement mixer truck a suspect after a crash in Bekasi that killed six people and injured six others. Investigators suspect brake failure caused the truck to veer into a campus wall and strike people nearby; they are combining traffic-accident analysis with expert assessments of the vehicle’s condition and roadworthiness.

Furore Over Tax on Sanitary Pads as Woman Files Constitutional Court Challenge

An Indonesian citizen has petitioned the Constitutional Court, arguing that the law governing VAT exemptions does not explicitly account for menstrual products as essential goods. She is asking the court to require objective and proportionate consideration of biological necessities, including menstrual hygiene products, when determining which goods qualify for tax relief.

BPS: South Sumatra Inflation Reaches 0.44% in October 2026

South Sumatra recorded monthly inflation of 0.44% in October, driven mainly by rising food prices, particularly rice, chillies and other horticultural produce. The provincial statistics agency warned that inflationary pressure could intensify in November and December, and urged local authorities to strengthen supply controls and price monitoring.

Bali Police Chief Calls for Search for Pelaga Landslide Victims to Be Intensified

Bali Police Chief Pasma Royce has urged rescuers to intensify efforts to find two people missing after a landslide swept away a glamping building at Pelaga Eco Park in Badung. A joint operation involving 123 personnel is continuing amid difficult terrain and the risk of further landslides and rising river levels.

Cracked Road at Mabes Hankam in East Jakarta Repaired After Residents’ Complaints

Jakarta’s Bina Marga Agency has repaired a long crack in Jalan Raya Mabes Hankam after residents warned it posed a danger to motorists, particularly motorcyclists. The repair followed public reports on social media, and the agency urged road users to remain cautious while thanking residents for reporting the damage.

Japan urges US military to strengthen discipline after Marine’s arrest

Japan’s defence minister has urged the US military to take seriously the arrest of a Marine in Okinawa for driving during a curfew, reportedly with a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit. The incident has renewed pressure for effective prevention measures and strict enforcement of restrictions imposed after another Marine was charged with the robbery and murder of a local woman.

Tax-Free Income Threshold Proposed to Rise in 2027 — What Could It Be?

Indonesia is considering raising the non-taxable income threshold (PTKP) in 2027, with officials still assessing its effects on household purchasing power and tax revenue. Employers’ association Apindo supports the proposal, saying it could ease workers’ tax burden, particularly for the middle class.

Bahlil: Electricity Exports Can Continue if Buyers Accept Indonesia’s Price

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia is willing to continue plans to export electricity, including to Singapore, provided buyers accept the price set by the government. He stressed that exports must be mutually beneficial and that domestic electricity needs will take priority if negotiations fail to produce an acceptable price.

The Internet Is Changing Completely: Google Sacrifices Cash Cow for AI

Google is expanding advertising into AI-powered search features as growth in its traditional Search business slows. The company says early results for sponsored AI Mode placements are promising, while CEO Sundar Pichai points to rising use of longer, more complex and multimodal queries.

Metro Jaya Police to Schedule Questioning of Betrand Peto

Metro Jaya Police say they will question the reported party in a case involving entertainer Betrand Peto after completing interviews with expert witnesses. The investigation has been upgraded from an inquiry to a formal investigation, with police working alongside Indonesia’s Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) on victim protection and possible restitution.

South Korea’s Direct Overseas Online Sales Hit Record in Q3 2026

South Korea’s direct overseas online sales rose 40.7% year on year to 1.09 trillion won in the third quarter of 2026, the highest Q3 total since 2020. Meanwhile, direct overseas online purchases fell for a second consecutive quarter, down 6.3% amid the prolonged impact of a strong US dollar.

Trade Minister: Modern Retail Access Is a Springboard for MSMEs to Reach Global Markets

Trade Minister Budi Santoso says selling through modern retail chains helps Indonesian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) improve quality standards and competitiveness, paving the way for exports. The government is supporting businesses through export programmes, international trade fairs and overseas trade representatives, while pursuing agreements including the Indonesia–EU CEPA.

Vice-President Meets Cocoa Farmers to Discuss Subsidised Fertiliser and Farming Equipment

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming has pledged to coordinate with the Agriculture Ministry over cocoa farmers’ access to subsidised fertiliser and modern equipment in Mamuju, West Sulawesi. Farmers also called for greater price stability, as the price of dried cocoa has fallen to Rp50,000 per kilogram from a previous peak of Rp180,000.

Latest National Police Chief Directive: Officers Who Use Vapes Face Sanctions

Indonesia’s National Police has banned all personnel from using vapes, both at work and outside working hours, citing the risk that e-cigarette devices could be used to conceal and circulate liquid narcotics. Violations may lead to disciplinary action, while officers found using vape liquid containing narcotics could face criminal prosecution; the public is also being asked to report breaches.

OJK integrates development of all Islamic financial services through blueprint

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has launched an integrated blueprint to coordinate the development of Islamic finance across banking, capital markets, insurance, pensions, financing and digital financial services. It sets out three strategic priorities and four supporting foundations, aiming to make Islamic finance more competitive and inclusive and a leading choice for Indonesians.

Australians Urged to Take Care with Raw Seafood

A Food Safety Information Council study has found that raw seafood consumption is widespread in Australia, while warning that marinades such as vinegar and lemon juice do not reliably eliminate parasites or other foodborne hazards. The council advises higher-risk groups to avoid certain raw or chilled seafood and recommends sourcing fish from trusted suppliers and handling it safely.

Former Sukoharjo Police Chief Investigated After Islamic Boarding School Search

Police headquarters’ professional standards division is investigating four officers, including former Sukoharjo Police Chief AKBP Andhika Dharma Sena, over a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. The inquiry into possible ethical breaches is proceeding alongside the criminal investigation, following complaints that the operation caused distress to female students and staff.

No Need to Wait for Mass Circumcision Events: Rumah Khitan Zidan MKI Offers Free Monthly Service

Rumah Khitan Zidan MKI provides free circumcision services for children at the end of each month in East Jakarta, giving families an alternative to occasional mass events. Organisers say the programme combines professional medical care with a modern technique, and hope it can reach more families across Indonesia.

Malang Police Chief Joins Interfaith Leaders to Maintain Public Order

Malang Police Chief AKBP Rulian Syauri has urged interfaith leaders to help preserve religious harmony and prevent security problems, including alcohol circulation and youth delinquency. In a meeting with the Malang Regency Interfaith Harmony Forum, he called for stronger cooperation among police, local government and communities, while noting that officers have seized more than 3,600 bottles of alcohol since he took up his post.

No Trace of Missing People on First Day of Pelaga Landslide Search; Mattresses and Shoes Found

Rescuers have yet to locate two people buried in a landslide at Pelaga Eco Park in Badung, Bali, after the first day of searching. Teams found a mobile phone, three mattresses and a pair of CAT shoes, while clearing debris and difficult access conditions are complicating the operation.

BPS Records Indonesia’s September 2026 Trade Surplus at US$3.36 Billion

Indonesia recorded a US$3.36 billion trade surplus in September 2026, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS). Exports totalled US$27.59 billion, while imports amounted to US$24.23 billion.

Government discusses proposal to raise the tax-free income threshold in 2027

The government says a proposed increase to the non-taxable income threshold (PTKP) is being considered for 2027, with officials assessing its potential effects on household purchasing power and tax revenue. Business leaders support the move, saying it could ease workers’ tax burden, particularly for the middle class.

PLN EPI Pushes to Strengthen Biomass Ecosystem and Accelerate Energy Transition

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) is seeking to develop Indonesia’s estimated 83.4 million tonnes of annual biomass potential through stronger supply chains and a wider range of bioenergy products. Its efforts include biomass co-firing at 52 power plants and expansion into products such as biochar, biomethane and sustainable aviation fuel, with local cooperatives and businesses expected to participate in the value chain.

Four Palembang LRT Feeder and Teman Bus Routes Suspend Operations

Four public transport corridors in Palembang, including one Musi Emas LRT feeder route and two Teman Bus Transmusi routes, have temporarily suspended services from 1 November 2026 amid procurement administration updates and verification in the government’s OSS system. Mayor Ratu Dewa said the city aims to resolve the administrative issues within three days, while other feeder routes continue to operate.

Food and Drink Inflation Rises, Putting Household Budgets Under Pressure

Food, drink and tobacco prices rose for a second consecutive month in October 2026, while personal care prices edged down, but economists caution that this does not by itself prove households are shifting spending away from non-essential goods. They warn that higher food costs could squeeze purchasing power, with El Niño, strong demand and a weaker rupiah posing further risks to inflation into the first half of 2027.

Feeder LRT and Teman Bus Corridor Services Temporarily Suspended, Disappointing Passengers

Palembang has temporarily suspended two Musi Emas LRT feeder corridors and two Transmusi Teman Bus corridors from 1 November 2026, leaving passengers to find alternative transport. The city says the disruption stems from procurement administration and OSS system verification issues, and expects to resolve them within several days so services can resume.

Meutia Hatta: The Essence of Heroes’ Day Is to Carry Forward the Spirit of Love for the Homeland

IKPNI chair Meutia Hatta says Heroes’ Day should do more than commemorate the past: it should pass on the values, patriotism and spirit of service embodied by national heroes to younger generations. She urged young Indonesians to help build a prosperous, respected country and uphold the principles of defending the nation.

Victims of Concrete Mixer Lorry Crash Receive Compensation as Bekasi City Police Ensure Their Rights Are Met

The families of two people killed in a concrete mixer lorry crash in Bekasi have received compensation from Jasa Raharja, with police helping to ensure their claims were processed promptly. The collision killed six people and injured six others; the lorry driver has been named a suspect as the investigation continues.

Severe Congestion on Jagorawi Toll Road Towards Cibubur; Contraflow in Place from Km 5 to 11

Traffic on the Jagorawi Toll Road towards Cibubur was severely congested on Monday evening, with queues reported from Cawang and again between Km 5 and Km 9+700. Jasa Marga said the congestion was caused by rush-hour traffic and bridge repairs, prompting a contraflow system from Km 5+500 to Km 11+700.

Police Name 13 Suspects in Human Trafficking Scheme Recruiting Mercenaries for Russia

Indonesia’s National Police have named 13 suspects in five human-trafficking investigations involving people recruited to serve as Russian mercenaries. A total of 58 victims were allegedly lured with promises of lucrative overseas jobs, signing bonuses and monthly salaries, then directed to sign mercenary contracts and trained for possible deployment to armed-conflict zones.

AllianzGI Optimistic About Indonesia’s Long-Term Economic Outlook

Allianz Global Investors chief economist Christian Schulz says Indonesia’s long-term growth prospects remain positive despite energy-price pressures and elevated global interest rates expected to persist into 2027. He says the challenges could spur policy adjustments, while warning that inflation, geopolitics and monetary policy will continue to shape markets and investment risks.

High Airfares and Haze Drive 13.69% Fall in Indonesians Travelling Abroad

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) recorded 600,605 trips abroad by Indonesian citizens in September 2026, down 6.69% month on month and 13.69% year on year. Higher international airfares and haze-related disruption were cited as contributing factors; domestic trips also fell monthly, while inbound visitor numbers remained higher than a year earlier.

Rupiah under pressure as Bank Indonesia expected to raise BI-Rate to 6% this month

Bank Permata expects Bank Indonesia to raise its policy rate by 25 basis points to 6% in November 2026, citing rupiah weakness, the prospect of a US Federal Reserve hike and risks of imported inflation. Although October inflation eased slightly, food prices remain a concern, while El Niño and global energy prices could keep inflation above 3% into the first half of 2027.

Huawei and Longgang International Arts Center Unveil Global-Standard Smart Arts Venue

Huawei and Longgang International Arts Center have launched a global smart-venue showcase in Shenzhen, alongside the opening of the D+ Digital Art Gallery. The project integrates digital infrastructure and intelligent technologies across construction and operations, with a focus on visitor experience, efficiency and lower energy use; an independent assessment rated the centre’s digital and smart performance as “excellent”.

Bali Police Inspect Petrol Stations and Pertamina Depot, Confirming Fuel Stocks Are Secure

Bali Police inspected fuel stocks and queues at four petrol stations and Pertamina’s Sanggaran depot, finding supplies stable and queues normal. Officials said stocks of Pertalite, Pertamax and diesel should meet Bali’s needs for between 13 and 20 days, with further deliveries expected, and urged the public not to panic-buy.

Pramono Delays PAM Jaya IPO, Citing Capital Market Conditions

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has postponed PAM Jaya’s planned initial public offering, saying weak capital-market conditions make it unwise to proceed immediately. He said the plan remains in place and could move forward in 2027 if the market improves.

Ferry Boboho Candidly Admits Receiving Rp22.5bn Fee for ‘Just Listening’ to a Case

Ferry Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta court he received Rp22.5 billion from PT Perwira Adhitama for legal consultations concerning an alleged steel-import corruption case, describing the service as listening to the client and offering advice. He also acknowledged receiving Rp18 billion from a defendant in the 4G BTS corruption case, while claiming most of it was repayment of a loan; his testimony forms part of the extortion and money-laundering trial involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah.

Argentina’s Economy Heads Towards Recession Amid President’s Policies

Economists say Argentina may have entered a moderate recession in the third quarter of 2026, following a 0.6% contraction in the second quarter and an expected further decline. President Javier Milei’s austerity and tight monetary policies have helped curb inflation, but weaker consumer demand, business closures and job cuts are hitting domestic industries, while export-focused energy, mining and agriculture continue to grow.

French Students Blockade Schools, Demand Improvements to Education Sector

Students blocked schools in several French cities after the autumn break, continuing protests that began in mid-September over facilities, teacher numbers and university capacity. The government has announced a €4 billion school renovation plan and 15,000 additional higher-education places, but student groups say the measures fall short; 41 schools were affected on Monday, a smaller scale than before the break.

Police Internal Affairs Examines Former Sukoharjo Police Chief and Three Officers

The National Police’s Propam division is investigating four Sukoharjo officers, including former police chief Andhika Dharma Sena, over the controversial search of the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. All four have been suspended while separate criminal and ethics proceedings continue, after reports that female students and teachers were intimidated during the search.

Indonesian Patented Innovations Targeted as Business Opportunities for Industry

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Intellectual Property is bringing patent holders together with industry and investors at the 2026 Indonesian Patent Business Forum in Jakarta. The three-day event will explore commercialisation across sectors including electric vehicles, green technology, healthcare and agro-industry, with the aim of turning domestic research into marketable products and services.

KPK Gives Latest Update on Djarum Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it is still investigating suspected irregularities in excise administration that may have caused state losses, with PT Djarum among the parties implicated. After searches in Kudus and Semarang, investigators are examining evidence and may conduct further searches; the preliminary estimate of losses is in the trillions of rupiah.

Indonesia to diversify fuel imports with supplies from China and India

Indonesia plans to diversify fuel imports by sourcing supplies from China and India, reducing its reliance on traditional suppliers such as Singapore. The government is preparing ministerial regulations to set out import mechanisms and governance, while current arrangements remain in place; the move is intended to strengthen energy resilience and improve fuel distribution.

iBox Says Woman in Nude Poster at Gresik Mall Is Not an Employee

Erajaya Swasembada, parent company of iBox, has clarified that the woman referred to in a nude poster displayed at a mall in Gresik is not an iBox employee. The mall removed the poster shortly after it was discovered and retained it as evidence, although footage of it had already spread widely on social media.

Prices Fall: Bahlil May Cut Indonesia’s Nickel Production in 2027

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia may adjust nickel ore output quotas in the 2027 work plan as prices have fallen to about US$15,400 per tonne amid an estimated global oversupply of up to 800,000 tonnes. The government is also considering a moratorium on new smelters producing only semi-finished goods, aiming to keep more processing and value creation in Indonesia.

Golkar Deputy Chair Urges Party Leaders to Discuss Gibran Eligibility Ruling Dispute

Golkar Deputy Chair Ahmad Doli Kurnia has urged political party leaders to meet soon to agree on a response to controversy over Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s candidacy eligibility. He said rulings by the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court have made discussions among party leaders increasingly urgent, while arguing that public interests and aspirations must guide any decision.

WeTV Boosts Investment in Local Series and Indonesia’s Creative Talent

WeTV says it has produced more than 57 local series in Indonesia over six years, engaging more than 10,000 crew members and creative professionals, alongside businesses supplying production services. Following a Tencent–Ministry of Creative Economy MoU signed at WCCE 2026, the company plans to continue investing in local content and intellectual property, while using its distribution network to expand Indonesian stories’ reach at home and abroad.

JK Urges Thousands of Graduates: Don’t Just Look for Jobs or Become Spectators in Your Own Region

Jusuf Kalla has urged 1,713 graduates of Pattimura University to create jobs through entrepreneurship and take an active role in developing Maluku’s natural resources. He warned that major investments such as the Masela gas project will not automatically benefit local communities unless workers gain the necessary skills, technology and research capabilities.

Supreme Court Rejects Chromebook Corruption Appeals; Lia Anggawari Remains Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison

The Supreme Court has rejected appeals by both prosecutor and defendant Lia Anggawari in a corruption case involving Chromebook procurement for the East Lombok education office, leaving her seven-year sentence in place. The case, involving Rp32 billion in 2022 special allocation funds, caused state losses estimated at Rp9.2 billion; the court also ordered several sums of cash evidence to be transferred to prosecutors for use in other cases.

Serang City Council Member Suspected of Sexual Abuse Allegedly Harassed Woman Twice

A Serang City Council member identified as DK has been named a suspect over allegations that he sexually abused a woman from Pandeglang Regency on two occasions, in January and February. Police say the retired military officer is being questioned and faces charges under the Criminal Code and the Sexual Violence Crimes Law.

West Sumatra Provincial Government Accelerates Construction of Batang Mangor Embankment in Pariaman

West Sumatra is accelerating reconstruction of a 154-metre embankment along the Batang Mangor river, backed by an additional Rp4.3 billion in regional transfers, to restore riverbank protection after 2025’s hydrometeorological disaster. With construction 26 per cent complete, officials aim to finish in early December so Pariaman can proceed with rebuilding the damaged Waterfront City road.

AllianzGI Explains Global Investment Rotation Towards AI and Opportunities in Indonesian Shares

AllianzGI Indonesia says global investors’ shift towards AI-related companies in South Korea, Taiwan and the United States is contributing to foreign selling in Indonesian shares, alongside other market factors. Despite more than US$5 billion in foreign outflows since the start of 2026 and a sharp weekly fall in the Jakarta Composite Index, the firm says Indonesia’s economic scale and diverse listed sectors continue to offer investment opportunities.

West Sumatra Local Governments Urged to Plan Measurable, Inclusive Economic Growth

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged West Sumatra’s local governments to develop measurable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth plans that make better use of regional potential and the demographic dividend. He said planning should be grounded in data, aligned with the Asta Cita agenda and translated into practical strategies that create jobs, raise productivity and account for future labour-market opportunities, including green jobs.

Indonesia’s free meals programme employs 1.03 million workers: BGN

Indonesia’s free meals programme has reached more than 58 million recipients and employs around 1.03 million people, while engaging over 80,000 food suppliers, including MSMEs. The National Nutrition Agency says it is tightening food-safety oversight, closing non-compliant kitchens and introducing operational reforms as the programme expands.

Police Uncover Human Trafficking Scheme Disguised as Recruitment of Mercenaries for Russia

Indonesia’s National Police have uncovered an alleged human-trafficking operation that recruited Indonesian citizens through social media with promises of high salaries and bonuses to serve as mercenaries in Russia. Five police reports involve 58 victims; several suspects, including Russian and Ukrainian nationals, have been arrested, while one suspect remains at large and one victim has reportedly died.

Boboho Says He Met Febrie Adriansyah Through Former Deputy Attorney General Arminsyah

Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta court that he was introduced to former special crimes prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah by former Deputy Attorney General Arminsyah. Febrie is accused of extorting Rp55 billion from businessman Tan Kian and, alongside two other defendants, laundering assets worth hundreds of billions of rupiah and US$440,990; the allegations have yet to be proven in court.

Stroke While Having Your Hair Washed: The Risks of Beauty Parlour Syndrome

Beauty parlour stroke syndrome is a rare condition in which excessive backward neck extension at a salon washbasin may restrict blood flow or injure an artery, potentially causing a stroke. Experts say there is no need for undue alarm, but recommend limiting neck strain and seeking urgent medical care if neurological symptoms develop after hair washing.

UNM Data Science Students Intern at BRIN, Develop AI-Based Research Intelligence

Three Universitas Nusa Mandiri Data Science students are interning at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), helping develop an AI-powered Research Intelligence system using Retrieval-Augmented Generation and bibliometric data. The project is intended to make national research information easier to explore and use, while giving students practical experience applying their data and AI skills in a government research setting.

Summarecon Insists Its SHGB Was Obtained Lawfully in ATR Case Investigated by KPK

Summarecon’s legal counsel denies that the company or its chief executive was involved in bribery, asserting that the Rp106.3 billion seized by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) came from within the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). He says the company’s building-use certificates (SHGB) were issued through lawful procedures, while the KPK is investigating alleged bribery and job-selling within the ministry and has named eight suspects.

Indonesian Embassy in Mexico City Promotes Indonesian Culture at Día de Muertos

Indonesia’s embassy in Mexico City showcased Balinese mythology and traditional costumes at Mexico’s annual Día de Muertos festival, highlighting shared traditions of honouring ancestors. The embassy said the event offered a major opportunity for cultural diplomacy, with Indonesia joining a parade featuring 47 delegations and around 4,000 participants.

BPGMN Strengthens Villages’ Role in Controlling Peatland Fires

The National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN) is prioritising village-level action to prevent and control forest and land fires, particularly in critical peat areas. Measures include mapping priority zones and improving peat rewetting infrastructure, while a river-fed water intake system in South Sumatra is intended to keep peat moist and reduce recurring fire risks.

Study: Retirement Does Not Make Australians Lonelier

A Monash University-led study tracking 7,434 Australians aged 55 to 75 found no significant change in loneliness in the three years before or after retirement. Instead, loneliness tended to rise steadily from the late 60s, suggesting ageing and major life events—not leaving work—are more closely linked to the issue.

Redmi M100 Pro Debuts with a 5,500mAh Battery and 1.5K OLED Display

Xiaomi’s Redmi M100 Pro has launched in China, featuring a 6.67-inch 1.5K OLED display, a 5,500mAh battery and 45W wired fast charging. The 12GB/256GB model is priced at 2,499 yuan (about Rp6.8 million), positioning it in the mid-range smartphone market.

OJK Urges Islamic Finance Industry Not to Rely Solely on Sharia Labels

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says Islamic financial institutions must go beyond Sharia compliance by developing competitive, customer-focused products and services. It also called for closer links between Islamic finance and the halal economy’s real sector, supported by a healthy and innovative industry, greater uptake by businesses and government policies.

Singapore Negotiates Indonesia’s Electricity Price; Bahlil: Danantara Must Not Be Lobbied

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia will not lower its proposed electricity export price to Singapore under lobbying pressure, insisting that any deal must be mutually beneficial. If the parties cannot agree on a price, the government will prioritise domestic electricity needs, leaving negotiations stalled for now.

Two Ninja-Clad Thieves Carrying a Machete Steal Motorbike in Bogor; Suspects Arrested

Police have arrested two men suspected of stealing a motorbike from a house in North Bogor, an incident captured on CCTV and widely shared online. The suspects allegedly wore black, ninja-like outfits and carried weapons; police say they were detained at separate locations.

Trade and services sectors underpin investment in Cirebon City

Cirebon City recorded verified investment of Rp2.976 trillion through September 2026, exceeding its annual target of Rp1.9 trillion, with trade and services identified as the leading sectors. The figure was revised down from Rp4.438 trillion reported through the OSS system after verification, while domestic investment accounted for Rp3.151 trillion and foreign investment Rp1.287 trillion in the unverified OSS data; five new hotels are among the service-sector projects.

Education Ministry Expands International Promotion of Indonesian in Russia

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is stepping up efforts to promote Indonesian in Russia through BIPA classes, academic partnerships and stronger networks of Indonesian studies scholars. The initiative aligns with the government’s 2025–2045 roadmap, as the number of active BIPA learners worldwide exceeds 234,000, while programmes in Russia continue to face staffing and teaching-material constraints.

Cianjur Education Office Moves Quickly to Repair Damaged Schools

Cianjur’s education office says more than 7,000 classrooms are damaged, with repairs funded through central and provincial government support as well as other sources. It aims to complete repairs at thousands of schools by 2028, while pupils at one school have spent three years studying in tents after a disaster destroyed their classrooms.

Indonesia Has the Power to Set Global Nickel Prices, Here’s the Evidence

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia could influence global nickel prices by managing production and supply to the international market. With global consumption at about 3.5 million tonnes and Indonesian output at 700,000–800,000 tonnes, he is considering lower production targets in the 2027 work plan and budget if prices remain weak.

Transjakarta Restores Exclusive Use of the Busway on Corridor 9

Transjakarta and Jakarta’s transport agency have completed repairs and improvements to the separators along Corridor 9, aiming to prevent other vehicles from entering the busway. The work is intended to reduce accidents, improve bus service intervals and make travel safer for passengers and other road users.

Joint team destroys 18-hectare cannabis plantation in North Aceh; three arrested

A joint team from the National Police’s Criminal Investigation Agency, the National Narcotics Agency and Lhokseumawe Police discovered and burned a cannabis plantation covering 18 hectares in North Aceh. Three people suspected of owning the plantation were arrested.

Industry Minister Urges Stakeholders to Capitalise on Positive Momentum in National Industry

Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji has urged stakeholders to use strong manufacturing indicators to accelerate growth, with Indonesia’s October 2026 industrial confidence index at 53.77 and manufacturing PMI at 54.0. The government and Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) say they will deepen cooperation, particularly to strengthen small and medium industries and expand the value added from regional commodities.

After Sanitary Towels Are Subjected to VAT, Woman Challenges Tax Law at Constitutional Court in Pursuit of Justice

Bernita Matondang has filed a judicial review petition at Indonesia’s Constitutional Court, seeking VAT-exempt status for menstrual sanitary towels as a basic necessity. Her challenge argues that the tax law’s list of essential goods eligible for relief omits these products; the petition is registered as case No. 406/PUU-XXIV/2026.

vivo Y32 5G Debuts with an 8,000mAh Battery and Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 Chip

vivo has unveiled the Y32 5G, a mid-range smartphone featuring an 8,000mAh battery, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor and IP68/IP69 ratings. The company has yet to announce its price or sales date, but the phone is listed with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.

Police Investigate After Patient Allegedly Harasses Nurse in Bantul

A nurse at a hospital in Sewon, Bantul, says a 57-year-old male patient touched her breast while she was checking his vital signs and administering antibiotics. She reported the incident to Sewon Police after hospital mediation, and officers are questioning witnesses before examining the alleged perpetrator.

Sukoharjo Police Criminal Investigation Chief and PPA-PPO Unit Head Also Removed from Posts

Four Sukoharjo police officers, including the district police chief, have been removed from their posts and are being investigated over alleged ethical violations during a search of an Islamic boarding school. The action follows complaints of intimidation of female students and teachers, with national police expressing regret over the psychological impact and promising a transparent, professional investigation.

KPK Says It Is Devising Strategy as Nusron Wahid Is Not Recalled

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says there is no obstacle to summoning Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid, who has twice failed to attend questioning as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving the handling of building-use rights for PT Summarecon. Investigators are evaluating their approach and preparing a strategy to avoid prolonging the case; the next summons will be announced once an official letter has been issued.

Jakarta Governor Urges PAM Jaya to Press Ahead with IPO Plans

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has instructed city-owned water utility PAM Jaya to continue preparing for an initial public offering, despite weak capital-market conditions delaying any near-term listing. He expects the market to recover next year and says Jakarta will retain majority ownership of both PAM Jaya and Bank Jakarta, with IPOs intended to strengthen transparency and professional management as well as raise capital.

Minister Yandri Says Japan Scholarship Selection Will Be Free from Interference

Village and Disadvantaged Regions Development Minister Yandri Susanto says scholarship places for young people from rural areas to study in Japan will be awarded solely on merit, with no intervention from officials. He urged applicants to take the selection seriously and said returning students should use their skills and experience to create jobs in their communities.

Consistently Supporting Others, Bank Mandiri Holds Mandiri Blood Donation Drive

Bank Mandiri, the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) and healthcare facilities held the seventh Mandiri Donor Darah drive simultaneously across 12 regions on 2 November 2026. Since its launch in April 2026, the initiative has collected more than 27,000 units of blood, supporting efforts to meet Indonesia’s estimated annual requirement of 5.6 million units.

AI Data Centre Pollution Could Erase 15 Years of US Emissions Cuts, Matching a Country’s Output

A Sierra Club analysis projects that AI data centres could drive US power-sector emissions to 2.1 billion tonnes by 2030, erasing the country’s greenhouse-gas reductions over the previous 15 years. Off-grid gas-fired generation alone could emit 460 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually—roughly equivalent to Mexico’s total emissions—while experts call for new clean-energy capacity to accompany data-centre expansion.

Denny Urges DPR to Take a Firm Stand After Supreme Court and Constitutional Court Rulings on Gibran’s Diploma

Former Deputy Law and Human Rights Minister Denny Indrayana has urged the House of Representatives (DPR) to use its right to express an opinion and pursue impeachment proceedings against Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, following court rulings concerning his high-school equivalency certificate. Gibran continued official duties in West Sulawesi as the legal and political dispute intensified; the Supreme Court’s cassation ruling annulled the certificate letter, though the article’s claims about its implications are attributed to Denny and the plaintiff.

BRIN Researchers Find Gamma Irradiation Keeps Bakpia Mould-Free for 50 Days

Researchers at Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) found that gamma irradiation can inhibit bacterial growth and delay mould formation in wet mung-bean bakpia for up to 50 days. The treatment did not significantly alter protein or carbohydrate content, although further work is needed to address Bacillus cereus and confirm appropriate doses and food-safety compliance.

BNPPDT Maps Infrastructure Needs in Border Regions under Bangun Beranda Negeri Programme

The National Agency for the Management of Border Areas and Remote Regions (BNPPDT) is preparing the Bangun Beranda Negeri programme to map local needs, including bridges, clean water and supporting facilities, and establish development priorities. The agency also plans to address straightforward facility problems from next year, while improving coordination with local stakeholders and pursuing legal approval for incinerators as a waste-management option.

Global Nickel Glut: Indonesia Supplies 65% of the World’s Nickel

Indonesia supplies about 65% of the world’s nickel, while the global market is facing an estimated 700,000–800,000-tonne surplus that has pushed prices below US$16,000 per tonne. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says the government will adjust national production quotas to reflect global demand and support prices; industry groups warn that domestic surpluses and regulatory burdens remain concerns.

Bareskrim Maps Cannabis Cultivation Hotspots After Destroying 122.86 Hectares of Cannabis Farms in Aceh

Indonesia’s Criminal Investigation Agency says it is mapping areas vulnerable to cannabis cultivation and distribution in Aceh, following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto to the National Police chief. Authorities have found and destroyed 122.86 hectares of cannabis farms across six districts, comprising an estimated 186,450 plants weighing about 93 tonnes when wet.

East Aceh Police arrest farmer growing cannabis in chilli field

Police in East Aceh have arrested a 45-year-old farmer accused of concealing 23 cannabis plants among chilli crops in Peureulak. The case followed a tip-off from residents, and the suspect and plants have been taken to the police station for further legal proceedings.

Bima Arya Urges West Sumatra Regional Governments to Plan Measurable, Inclusive Economic Growth

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged West Sumatra’s local governments to build data-led plans for measurable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth. He said they should harness the demographic dividend, identify regional growth drivers beyond government spending and ensure that economic gains are felt by communities, while aligning plans with future employment opportunities such as green jobs.

Two missing after landslide at Bali glamping resort

Two people remain missing after a landslide struck a glamping resort in Pelaga Village, Bali, following extreme rainfall; 21 of the 23 guests were safe. A 127-person multi-agency team searched the site and nearby river, while authorities reported weather-related incidents at 64 locations across the island and planned to resume the search on Tuesday.

BMKG Forecasts Moderate Rainfall Across Most of East Kalimantan on 1–10 November

BMKG expects most of East Kalimantan to receive moderate rainfall during the first ten days of November, although some areas may see lower totals and rainfall patterns will vary by region. Despite the forecast, the provincial disaster agency is maintaining its emergency alert for forest and land fires and drought, after recording 2,540 fires affecting more than 10,691 hectares from January to October 2026.

OnePlus Reportedly Has No Plans for a Compact Phone to Succeed the 15T

OnePlus is reportedly not planning to refresh its compact-phone line in the near future, leaving the 15T without a successor for now. A technology leaker says the company will instead introduce a phone with a larger display, while the current 15T remains exclusive to China.

On Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Raid, Central Java Deputy Governor Says: ‘We Will Stand by the Pesantren’

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin says the provincial government will support and assist Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school after police raided it during an investigation into the burning of a noodle and pork eatery. Police internal oversight units are investigating allegations that the search breached standard procedures, while the deputy governor has called for transparency in handling both cases.

Transport Ministry to Summon Mixer Truck Company After Bekasi Crash

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry will summon the company operating a mixer truck involved in a fatal crash in Bekasi after checks found the vehicle had not undergone mandatory periodic roadworthiness testing for six years. The collision killed six people and injured six others; authorities are investigating its cause and the ministry says it will reinforce compliance with safety requirements.

Poll: Nearly All Religious Groups Are Starting to Abandon Trump

A Pew Research Center survey finds that Democratic candidates lead Republicans nationally ahead of the 2026 US midterm elections, while approval of President Donald Trump has fallen across nearly all religious groups. White evangelical Protestants remain the most reliable Republican bloc and the only religious group in which a majority approve of Trump, but their approval has dropped 20 percentage points since early 2025.

Petrokimia Gresik to Build 600,000-Tonne Soda Ash and Ammonium Chloride Plant

Petrokimia Gresik and Rekayasa Industri have signed an EPCC contract for a plant in Gresik with combined annual capacity of 600,000 tonnes, due for completion in 34 months. The project is intended to reduce imports and strengthen domestic chemical supply, while using captured carbon dioxide from Petrokimia Gresik’s existing facilities as a soda ash feedstock.

Education Ministry: National Teachers’ Day Logo Highlights Teachers’ Central Role in Education

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education says the 2026 National Teachers’ Day logo underlines teachers’ importance and aims to foster greater appreciation and collaboration across the education sector. Its symbols represent teachers as guides and sources of inspiration, lifelong learning, and students’ development, while the circular motif marks the 81st anniversary of National Teachers’ Day on 25 November 2026.

October Inflation at 3.23%, Airlangga Says Government Is Not Concerned

Indonesia’s annual inflation reached 3.23% in October 2026, close to the upper limit of the government’s 1.5–3.5% target range, but Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said it remained under control. The government plans rice aid, social assistance worth around Rp30 trillion and seasonal discounts to support price stability and household purchasing power.

Democratic Candidates Lead in Battleground States in Latest Polls, Putting Trump at Risk?

A New York Times–Siena College poll finds Democratic Senate candidates ahead in seven states, including several traditionally Republican-leaning states, as the 2026 midterm election approaches. The results point to a competitive battle for control of the Senate, with voters’ concerns about living costs and fuel prices, alongside their assessment of President Donald Trump, shaping the contest.

FCB Records Sales of 600,000 Units Since Mid-2023

BYD’s Fang Cheng Bao has recorded cumulative sales of more than 600,000 vehicles since its launch in mid-2023, while expanding from SUVs into electric saloons. The company plans to raise production and accelerate November deliveries to address customer waiting times, as it prepares new models including the Ti 9 and Shark PHEV.

Sukoharjo Police Chief Removed After Controversy over Hamalatul Quran Islamic Boarding School Search

Four Sukoharjo police officers, including the district police chief, have been removed from their posts and are being investigated by the National Police’s Propam Division following a controversial raid on the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. The force has also reassigned three officers as it responds to complaints from students and the school’s caregivers.

Senator Meets the Public 2026: Regional Representative Council Ready to Voice Local Aspirations and Development Priorities

Indonesia’s Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), marking 20 years of representing regional interests, says it will step up efforts to amplify local aspirations and promote policies that benefit regional communities. A dialogue with government officials, academics and regional leaders will form part of its 2026 ‘Senator Meets the Public’ programme, with the first episode scheduled for 5 November.

Ibas Urges Gontor Female Students to Dare to Dream Big for a Golden Indonesia

MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) urged more than 2,000 female students at Gontor to pursue ambitious goals and help shape Indonesia’s future ahead of the country’s centenary in 2045. He said education, good character and practical contributions must go hand in hand, with faith and ethics guiding young people as they adapt to artificial intelligence and other challenges.

Puan: Healthcare assistance must be more accessible to the public

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has called for healthcare support to be made more accessible, particularly for families with limited access to information, following the death of a one-year-old child in South Sulawesi. She urged central and local governments to improve outreach, family support and community-level assistance, and to review how the child’s case was handled.

Rising PMI signals positive growth in Indonesia’s manufacturing sector

Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI rose to 53.8 in October 2026, its strongest expansion since March 2024, supported by record growth in new orders and exports. The Ministry of Industry said the momentum should translate into higher production, investment, exports and employment, while highlighting measures to strengthen the industrial ecosystem and business climate.

Blue Bird (BIRD) Boss Buys 675,800 Shares Worth Rp997.43 Million

Blue Bird president director Adrianto Djokosoetono purchased 675,800 shares in the taxi operator through six transactions on 29 October 2026, spending about Rp997.43 million. His holding rose to 133.39 million shares, while his voting rights increased to 5.3312%; he said he remains committed to retaining control of the company.

RANS Carnival Boycott: UMY Lecturer Says Cancel Culture Can Serve as a Social Sanction

UMY communications lecturer and media observer Fajar Junaedi says calls to boycott RANS Carnival illustrate how dominant public opinion and community norms can create social pressure, potentially silencing dissent. He links the controversy to cancel culture and the spiral of silence, while cautioning that individual musicians’ decisions to withdraw should be understood on their own stated grounds.

Industry Minister: Indonesia Has Huge Industrial Potential as Manufacturing PMI Rises Above 50

Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI rose to 54.0 in October 2026, its highest level in 31 months, as new orders and export orders strengthened. Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji said the government would seek to sustain the momentum by bolstering the manufacturing ecosystem, domestic products and export competitiveness.

Pertamina: Independent Energy Villages Generate Rp26bn in Economic Value Annually

Pertamina says its Independent Energy Village (DEB) programme generates around Rp26 billion in annual economic value and benefits approximately 283,000 people. Since its launch in 2018, the programme has expanded to about 310 villages, combining renewable energy development with local economic empowerment, food security and environmental initiatives; the company aims to reach 732 villages by 2030.

BMKG: Beware of High Waves in Several North Sumatra Waters from 3 to 6 November

BMKG has warned that strong winds could generate high waves in several waters off North Sumatra between 3 and 6 November 2026, potentially disrupting shipping. The agency urged small-boat fishers to take precautions when winds reach 15 knots and waves reach 1.25 metres, while also describing weather systems and warm sea temperatures contributing to rain-cloud formation around Aceh.

North Jakarta Municipality Moves Overhead Cables in Tanjung Priok into Underground Utility Ducts

North Jakarta’s Bina Marga sub-department has moved 5.6 kilometres of overhead cables along five roads in Tanjung Priok into integrated utility network facilities, as part of efforts to improve safety and the area’s appearance. Jakarta aims to move all overhead cables underground within five years, while the provincial government is preparing three governor regulations to guide utility network planning, fees and operators’ obligations.

Video: Danantara Indonesia Successfully Holds DTIIF 2026 — Here Are the Outcomes

Danantara Indonesia held the Danantara Technology Innovation Investment Forum (DTIIF) 2026 in Jakarta from 26 to 28 October, bringing together government and academic representatives, state-owned enterprise leaders, technology companies, investors and researchers. The forum focused on investment to advance technology, innovation and sustainable growth; the report promises further details on its discussions and outcomes.

Indonesia urges Hong Kong to open formal sectors to workers

Indonesia has urged Hong Kong to expand employment opportunities for Indonesian migrant workers beyond domestic household roles into sectors such as elderly care, hospitality and food services, supported by vocational training aligned with international standards. Bilateral talks also focused on protecting workers’ rights and improving coordination on complaints, permits and urgent cases involving exploitation or violence.

Iran Says It Could Reopen Strait of Hormuz in Two Days, but...

Iran says it could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days if the United States meets four demands, including ending the regional war, releasing frozen Iranian assets and lifting sanctions and its naval blockade. The proposal comes amid continuing indirect negotiations and heightened military threats, with the strait remaining a critical route for global energy shipments.

Nin Yayat’s Story: A Female Breadwinner Thriving in Later Life

Yayat Kurniawati, known as Nin Yayat, became the family’s breadwinner after her husband suffered a stroke in 2009, building a small food business in West Bandung and sharing her skills with other women. Her story highlights the economic pressures facing female-headed households and the role of universities, government and business in supporting women-led micro-enterprises.

Electricity Substation Collapses onto Resident’s Home in South Tangerang

A 400 kVA portal substation collapsed onto a house in Ceger, Pondok Aren, South Tangerang, after excavation work for a municipal long-storage project nearby. The incident briefly cut electricity to the surrounding area; there were no fatalities, and PLN crews dismantled the structure to secure the site.

Semeru Lahar Flood Breaches Glidik River Embankment, Isolating 117 Households

A rain-triggered lahar flood from Mount Semeru breached the Glidik River embankment in Purorejo village, Lumajang, damaging three homes and threatening 10 others. The incident has left 117 households isolated in Taman Sari hamlet, according to the Lumajang Regional Disaster Management Agency.

Bali Police Chief Monitors Search and Rescue Operation at Pelaga Eco Park Landslide

Bali Police Chief Pasma Royce has monitored a search and rescue operation at Pelaga Eco Park, where two people remain missing after a landslide swept away a glamping building and damaged three others. A joint team of 123 personnel and local residents is carrying out the search amid difficult terrain and risks of further landslides and rising river levels.

Rescuers search for missing fisherman in the Malacca Strait

Search teams are continuing their fifth day of operations for Abdul Mutalib, who fell overboard while returning from fishing off East Aceh after his boat’s steering mechanism broke. His companion survived, and police have urged fishermen to monitor sea conditions and carry adequate safety equipment.

Samsung Posts Record 1,450 Trillion Won Profit, Driven by Memory Business

Samsung Electronics reported record operating profit of 107.4 trillion won, with its memory-chip business accounting for the bulk of earnings. The company is expanding capital expenditure and forecasting growth in foundry operations, while announcing substantial dividends and a target of 90–110 trillion won in shareholder returns for 2026.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk Praises 100% Completion of Free Nutritious Meals Task Forces in Maluku, North Maluku and Tanah Papua

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk said all provincial and district/city governments in Maluku, North Maluku and Tanah Papua have completed forming task forces for the Free Nutritious Meals programme. She called for coordinated, on-site inspections of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) from the first week of November 2026, with assessments guiding whether each unit can continue operating, needs improvements or should stop.

Listyo Sigit Checks Merah Putih Cooperative in Jakarta, Confirms Medicine Outlet Is Available

Presidential Chief of Staff Listyo Sigit Prabowo inspected the Cakung Timur Merah Putih cooperative in Jakarta to check the availability of medicines and subsidised goods, following President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to make the cooperatives local economic hubs. The medicine outlet sells products supplied by state-owned pharmaceutical company Kimia Farma, while coordination among government agencies has established a distribution and sales framework to address earlier regulatory obstacles.

Two Guests Missing as Landslide Devastates Pelaga Eco Park Glamping Site

Two guests remain missing after a landslide swept away the glamping room they were staying in at Pelaga Eco Park, Badung, on Sunday night. The site was badly damaged, and search efforts by a joint SAR team were suspended for the night due to difficult weather and terrain, with operations due to resume on Tuesday.

Logawa Train Runs at Restricted Speed After Track Erosion Repairs

The Logawa train was the first to pass through a section between Ledokombo and Sempolan stations in Jember after crews completed repairs to rain-related track erosion. Trains can now use the line at a maximum of 5 km/h while railway staff continue monitoring the infrastructure and assessing its safety.

Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Search: Police Committed Multiple Child Protection Violations, Says KPAI

Indonesia’s Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged police to investigate transparently a raid and search at a religious study centre in Sukoharjo, Central Java, saying children’s rights and protection may have been disregarded. The commission called for an internal review of officers’ compliance with procedures and disciplinary or ethical action if violations are confirmed.

Tax Office Explains Digital Tax System; Personal Money Transfers Not Subject to VAT

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says its system for collecting VAT on foreign digital transactions is not a new tax and will not automatically apply to all overseas transactions. Personal transfers and remittances are not automatically subject to VAT, while eligible digital transactions will be taxed under existing rules and will not be charged twice if VAT has already been collected by an appointed e-commerce operator.

Despite Numerous Concerts, Jakarta Governor Says JIS Will Remain Persija’s Home Ground

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has reaffirmed that Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) will remain the home ground of Persija Jakarta, despite plans for numerous concerts. He said the pitch can be restored within two weeks of each concert, while improved transport links and interest in naming rights are also boosting the stadium’s appeal.

Government to Build Soda Ash and Ammonium Chloride Plant in Gresik to Strengthen Indonesia’s Chemical Industry

Pupuk Indonesia, Petrokimia Gresik and Rekayasa Industri have begun implementation of a 600,000-tonne-a-year soda ash and ammonium chloride project in Gresik. The facility is intended to reduce import dependence, supply inputs for NPK fertiliser production and use captured CO₂ as an industrial feedstock, supporting Indonesia’s industrial self-reliance and lower-carbon transition.

Transport Ministry: Domestic Flight Fuel Surcharge Cap to Remain at 40% in November

Indonesia’s Transport Ministry says the maximum fuel surcharge for domestic economy-class flights will remain at 40% of the applicable upper fare limit in November 2026, unchanged from October. The ministry stressed that this is a ceiling—not an automatic 40% ticket-price increase—and airlines may charge less while complying with fare rules.

Indonesia Sees Growth in Foreign Arrivals and Tourist Spending in 2026

Indonesia recorded a 5.01 per cent year-on-year increase in foreign tourist arrivals over the period cited, while September arrivals reached 1.43 million, up 2.31 per cent from a year earlier despite a monthly decline. Average spending per visit and length of stay also rose in the third quarter, with accommodation and food among the largest expenditure categories, underscoring tourism’s growing economic contribution.

Subhan Palal Outlines Legal Consequences for Gibran Following Supreme Court Ruling: ‘Legally Very Clear’

Lawyer Subhan Palal says the Supreme Court’s annulment of Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high-school equivalency certificate means it was legally invalid from the outset, and argues that this undermines the legal basis for offices Gibran has held. He also says benefits received under the annulled decision could potentially be reclaimed by the state, following the court’s decision to uphold Palal’s lawsuit.

Pupuk Indonesia and BP Batam Explore Natural Gas Opportunities for Ammonia Industry

Pupuk Indonesia and BP Batam are exploring the use of natural gas to develop an ammonia industry in Batam, which could support the maritime sector’s transition to lower-carbon fuels. The proposed plant would have annual capacity of seven million tonnes and could require around US$500 million in investment, with construction taking approximately three years once land and feedstock are secured.

Airlangga Reports Manufacturing PMI Rises to 54 to Prabowo

Co-ordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto told President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI rose to 54 in October 2026, its strongest expansion reading since March 2024. He also reported a September trade surplus of US$3.36 billion and year-on-year inflation of 3.23 per cent, while imports rose sharply amid greater demand for production inputs and capital goods.

Muhammadiyah backs Indonesian police crackdown on drug-laced vapes

Muhammadiyah says it supports government and police efforts to curb e-cigarette distribution, particularly vapes containing illicit drugs, citing its 2020 fatwa prohibiting vaping. The organisation’s Tobacco Control Network works with universities and affiliated institutions, while its religious council says implementation of the ruling rests with relevant bodies.

Police Transfer Sukoharjo Police Chief After Dispute Over Islamic Boarding School Search

Indonesia’s National Police have transferred Sukoharjo Police Chief Andhika Dharma Sena following complaints about a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. He and three other officers have been suspended and are undergoing ethics examinations, while the police say the search was part of an investigation into arson, threats and property damage.

Riau BNNP and Customs seize 5.2kg of methamphetamine from Malaysia

Riau’s National Narcotics Agency and local Customs officials seized 5.2kg of suspected methamphetamine hidden in a modified suitcase brought by a ferry passenger arriving from Malaysia. The suspect said he was promised Rp20 million to deliver the drugs; investigators believe the shipment was part of an international network targeting Riau and Medan.

Indonesia’s Sharia Stocks Prove Resilient Amid Market Volatility

Indonesia’s sharia-compliant stocks have proved more resilient than conventional shares during 2026 market volatility, helped by the exclusion of conventional banks from sharia indices and investors’ avoidance of margin financing. The market capitalisation of the Indonesia Sharia Stock Index reached IDR 5,658.68 trillion in August, with 622 securities listed as sharia-compliant, highlighting the sector’s scale and investment choices.

Ferry Boboho Admits Receiving Rp22.5bn, Prosecutor Surprised to Learn His Service Was Just Listening to Clients’ Problems

Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta corruption court that his law firm received Rp22.5 billion from steel distributor PT Perwira Adhitama Sejati as a retainer for legal consultations. Prosecutors questioned the size of the payment after he described the service as listening to company representatives’ concerns; he also denied that the money went to former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah.

104.86 Hectares of Cannabis Fields Destroyed in Aceh

Aceh Police and the provincial National Narcotics Agency destroyed 104.86 hectares of cannabis fields across six districts during a two-day operation on 31 October and 1 November 2026. The operation eliminated an estimated 157,290 plants weighing 78.645 tonnes, and officials said eradication would be accompanied by efforts to restore the affected areas for productive community use.

Lestari Moerdijat Calls for a Roadmap to Improve Teachers’ Capacity

Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly Lestari Moerdijat has urged the government to turn National Teachers’ Month 2026 into a measurable, sustained plan to improve teacher capacity. She pointed to gaps in certification and qualifications, called for equitable access to training and regular evaluation, and said professional development must be matched by lasting improvements in teachers’ welfare.

Pramono to Hold Meetings in 44 Districts from Tomorrow, Starting in Kembangan, West Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung will hold meetings across all 44 districts over roughly three months, beginning in Kembangan, West Jakarta. The meetings are intended to identify local government problems that have not reached the provincial level and, where possible, find solutions directly in the districts concerned.

China Boosts Sodium-Ion Batteries for Electric Commercial Vehicles

China is accelerating the use of sodium-ion batteries in commercial electric vehicles after a heavy-truck trial found they retained more than 90 per cent of their usable capacity at minus 40°C. HiNa Battery plans a 10 GWh-a-year production facility in Wuhan, while tax incentives and partnerships are supporting the technology’s development despite continuing challenges around energy density and cost.

Ferry Boboho Reveals Febrie’s Order to ‘Let Rp50 Billion Cool Down’

Witness Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang told a Jakarta corruption court that former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah instructed him to keep money received from businessman Tan Kian aside for the time being. The case concerns alleged extortion of Rp55 billion and money laundering, while Ferry—who prosecutors say acted as an intermediary—has not been charged and remains under witness protection.

Flash Floods Hit Tanah Datar in West Sumatra

Flash floods in Tanah Datar, West Sumatra, forced 15 families to evacuate and inundated homes, farmland and fish ponds. The BNPB said water levels were receding, while flooding was also reported across parts of North Sumatra and Aceh, with hundreds of people displaced and emergency response measures in place.

Forging a Path to Salt Self-Sufficiency from Rote’s Coast

Rote Ndao is being developed as a national salt industrial hub, with the aim of boosting domestic supply and reducing reliance on imports. The project is planned in phases across more than 1,300 hectares and builds on a long-standing tradition of salt farming among coastal communities.

Indonesia Supplies 43% of Coal Traded Worldwide

Indonesia supplied 540 million tonnes of the 1.3 billion tonnes of coal traded internationally in 2025, accounting for about 43% of global trade. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the government cut production quotas under its mining work-plan system to curb oversupply, lift prices and increase state revenue despite lower output.

Bima Police Chief Speaks Out as Residents Repeatedly Block Roads

Bima Police Chief AKBP M Anton Bhayangkara Gaisar says road blockades harm the public and may create further problems, urging residents to resolve disputes through dialogue instead. Police are offering to facilitate solutions and have highlighted the free, 24-hour Polri 110 hotline for complaints and assistance.

IDX Strengthens SME Readiness through Go Public Academy

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has launched the Go Public Academy for SMEs to prepare medium-sized businesses for potential initial public offerings. The programme focuses not only on access to capital, but also on improving corporate governance, transparency, risk management and the quality of financial and non-financial information.

Pidie Jaya Asks Culture Ministry to Save Historic Sites Hit by Disaster

Pidie Jaya Regency is seeking central government support to rescue 81 historical and cultural heritage sites, most of which were affected by catastrophic flooding in late November 2025. The regent warned that delay could worsen damage to sites such as the historic Madinah Mosque, and called for technical assistance, expert assessment and accelerated rehabilitation.

Sidoarjo’s Ketapang Leaves Break into the Australian Market

The Ocean Institute of Indonesia’s Sidoarjo campus has exported 100kg of ketapang leaves to Australia in a transaction worth about US$1,500. The shipment, developed through a vocational student project, highlights potential for locally sourced products and hands-on export training in Indonesia’s marine and fisheries sector.

Andre Rosiade Sends 1,000 Food Parcels and Two Pieces of Heavy Equipment to Help Flash-Flood Victims in Pandai Sikek and Sungai Pua

Gerindra politician Andre Rosiade has distributed 1,000 food parcels, two pieces of heavy equipment and cash assistance to communities hit by flash floods and landslides in Agam and Tanah Datar, West Sumatra. The equipment is intended to clear debris and restore drainage, while the aid comes as residents face damage to homes and agricultural land.

Andre Rosiade Distributes 1,000 Food Parcels to Flood Victims in West Sumatra

Gerindra politician and House of Representatives Deputy Commission VI chairman Andre Rosiade has sent 1,000 food parcels and two pieces of heavy machinery to communities hit by flash floods and landslides in Agam and Tanah Datar, West Sumatra. The aid is intended to meet immediate needs and speed up clean-up and recovery, while residents whose homes were severely damaged also received cash assistance.

Ad Linking US Aid to Israel with Food Prices Sparks Michigan Democrats’ Feud

A digital political advert linking US military aid to Israel with the cost of groceries has sparked a bitter dispute among Michigan Democrats ahead of the 3 November midterm election. Former Senate primary rival Haley Stevens condemned the advert as misleading and antisemitic, then endorsed Republican Mike Rogers, while Abdul El-Sayed’s campaign said it neither produced nor controlled the advert.

Gelora Party: Small-scale grassroots work is the foundation of political strength

Gelora Party chairman Anis Matta has urged members to link local grassroots efforts to the party’s broader political ambitions, as it launches a national membership recruitment drive ahead of the 2029 election. He said the party must build both a clear direction and sufficient strength to withstand global uncertainty and pursue electoral success.

Before Allegedly Setting Teenager Alight, Depok Grandmother Is Said to Have Abused and Shaved Her Head

A 64-year-old woman arrested for allegedly setting a 17-year-old girl alight in Depok is also accused of repeatedly abusing her and shaving her head. Police are investigating the alleged earlier abuse and assessing the suspect’s mental health; the victim suffered burns to 80 per cent of her body and remains in a coma.

Warning: Cheap Chinese Petrochemical Products Flooding Indonesia

Indonesia’s petrochemical industry meets only about 60% of domestic demand, leaving the remainder dependent on imports. Chandra Asri says lower-cost Chinese products, supported by government assistance and cheaper feedstocks, are intensifying competition, while local producers face imported naphtha costs and must improve efficiency and develop specialised products.

Sukoharjo Police Chief Suspended After Hamalatul Quran Islamic Boarding School Search

Indonesia’s National Police has suspended Sukoharjo Police Chief AKBP Andhika Dharma Sena and three other officers following complaints about a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Central Java. The four officers are being examined by the police’s internal affairs division, with officials acknowledging the impact on pupils and school staff.

Police arrest Medan prison employee over 599 drug-laced vapes

Medan police have arrested a prison employee suspected of making two deliveries of drug-laced vapes in return for Rp20 million, seizing 599 vapes during the latest operation. Investigators are examining whether others were involved and are pursuing the alleged supplier, while preliminary findings suggest the products were not sold inside the prison.

Central Java MUI Calls on Police to Thoroughly Investigate Search at Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School

The Central Java chapter of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged law enforcement to handle the search at Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo fairly, swiftly and transparently, and to take action against any officers found to have broken the law. It also called for the revocation of permits for non-halal food businesses that have caused public concern, tighter oversight of religious education institutions, and calm among the public.

North Lombok Regent Says No Child Should Drop Out Because of Poverty

North Lombok Regent Najmul Akhyar says the new Sekolah Rakyat programme will ensure that children in the region are not denied schooling because of their families’ financial circumstances, and that eligible pupils will not be charged fees. The integrated school currently enrols 595 pupils across primary, junior secondary and senior secondary levels, with students drawn from several districts in West Nusa Tenggara.

Prudential Indonesia Maintains Investments Amid Market Volatility

Prudential Indonesia says it is sticking to a cautious, long-term investment approach while a proposed change to Indonesia’s market status remains under consultation. The insurer reported assets of Rp58.9 trillion and investment assets of Rp52.4 trillion as at June 2026, and urged unit-linked policyholders to review their protection needs, risks and policy terms.

UNM Margonda’s Informatics Degree Prepares Graduates for Careers in AI and Cyber Security

Universitas Nusa Mandiri’s Margonda campus says its ‘Excellent’-accredited Informatics degree is designed to meet growing demand for expertise in artificial intelligence and cyber security. The programme combines practical, industry-oriented learning with modern laboratories and competency certifications, while the university also offers instalment-based tuition payments and waives building fees.

Emtek (EMTK) Sells Shares in Subsidiary PT Indopay Merchant Services

PT Elang Mahkota Teknologi has sold nearly all of its stake in payment services company PT Indopay Merchant Services to PT Maju Investindo Sejahtera and Starpay Pte. Ltd. The disposal ends Emtek’s control of IMS and forms part of a strategic effort to streamline and optimise its investment portfolio; the company said it would not materially harm its operations or financial position.

Digital Tax Revenue Reaches Rp58.75 Trillion in 2026 as Tax Office Steps Up Oversight and Broadens the Tax Base

Indonesia collected Rp58.75 trillion in taxes from the digital economy by 30 September 2026, covering e-commerce, crypto-assets, fintech and government procurement. The Directorate General of Taxes says it is strengthening oversight and broadening the collection base, amid public attention following Hashim Djojohadikusumo’s remarks about plans for digital taxation and the government’s target of raising the tax-to-GDP ratio to 9.26 per cent next year.

BTS Completes South American Concert Run, with 835,000 Tickets Sold Out

BTS completed 14 sold-out concerts across five South American cities, drawing more than 853,000 fans, according to its agency. The shows also generated substantial local spending and increased travel demand, while the group is set to continue its ‘ARIRANG’ tour in Asia and Australia, including Jakarta.

Supreme Court Ruling on Vice-President Gibran’s High-School Certificate: Administrative or Constitutional?

The opinion argues that the Supreme Court’s ruling invalidating the high-school equivalency certificate associated with Gibran Rakabuming Raka raises questions about any subsequent administrative decision recognising his overseas university degree. It calls for a transparent review of the degree-equivalency process and examines whether an election regulation can exempt candidates from submitting proof of high-school graduation without undermining statutory education requirements; the supplied article ends before completing its discussion of constitutional consequences.

Bali authorities arrest three foreign nationals in prostitution probe

Immigration authorities in Denpasar arrested three foreign nationals after resident tip-offs led officers to an online platform allegedly advertising sexual services. Officials said the suspects were detained for questioning and warned that enforcement against visa and other legal violations in Bali would be intensified.

BGN Empowers More Than One Million Workers Through Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says the Free Nutritious Meals programme has reached more than 58 million beneficiaries and engaged around 1.03 million workers, alongside more than 80,000 local MSME suppliers. As the programme expands, BGN says it is tightening oversight and making food safety, kitchen standards and transparent spending central to its next phase.

Jakarta Composite Index Closes Higher as Trade Surplus Boosts Investor Sentiment

The Jakarta Composite Index rose 0.79 per cent after Indonesia’s September 2026 trade surplus exceeded market expectations, supported by stronger-than-expected exports and slower imports. Indonesia recorded a US$10.61 billion goods-trade surplus in January–September, while investors also weighed stock-market reforms and regional gains.

Countries must pay more towards WHO, says Indonesian candidate

Indonesia’s Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, a candidate for WHO director-general, said member states should increase their mandatory contributions so regular funding exceeds half of the organisation’s budget. He also called for reprioritising WHO spending, bringing the United States back into the organisation and advancing a pandemic treaty to ensure equitable access to vaccines, treatments and diagnostics.

Land and Forest Fires Ease with Rain, but Underground Fires Have Yet to Be Fully Extinguished

Indonesia’s disaster agency says the area affected by forest and land fires has fallen to 742 hectares, with rainfall contributing to declines in several regions. However, peat fires and embers beneath the surface remain active, leaving the risk of new hotspots and renewed spread despite the rainy season.

Bali Disaster Agency Searches for Two Landslide Victims in Pelaga, One a Foreign National

Bali’s disaster management agency is searching for two people missing after a landslide at Pelaga EcoPark in Badung, including one foreign national; 21 of the 23 guests staying there survived. The landslide followed extreme rainfall, while response teams have deployed 127 personnel and search dogs; severe weather has caused damage at 64 locations across Bali.

Stronger village human resources key to accelerating rural development

At the opening of the 2026 Indonesia Village Expo in Batu, East Java, Riza said stronger skills and professional standards would help villages develop their potential and prepare local products for export. East Java is supporting village businesses with more than Rp85 billion in capital assistance and has designated 313 villages as export-oriented, while the province recorded 4,716 self-reliant villages in 2025.

Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Bali Fall 5.22% in September 2026

Bali recorded 650,169 foreign tourist visits in September 2026, down 5.22% from August but up 2.36% year on year. The provincial statistics agency described the monthly decline as a seasonal pattern, while Australia remained the island’s largest source market.

Bahlil Warns Mining Businesses Not to Manage Mines Like the Starving

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged mining companies and regional governments to curb excessive mineral and coal production, warning that oversupply depresses prices and reduces both company margins and state revenue. He cited production controls in coal as a measure that helped lift prices, and said restraint is also needed in nickel to protect the value of non-renewable resources for future generations.

Prolonged Stress: Could Brain Stimulation Therapy Help?

Seraphim Medical Center in Tangerang has introduced ExoMind, a repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) device, as an option intended to support brain health amid prolonged stress. A neurologist says the treatment stimulates targeted neural activity, including in the brain region involved in emotional regulation and decision-making, and is linked to the brain’s capacity for neuroplasticity.

Democrat Branded a Traitor for Backing Republican Senatorial Candidate over Abdul El-Sayed

Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens has drawn fierce criticism from party figures and staff after endorsing Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers over Democrat Abdul El-Sayed, whom she lost to in the primary. The dispute highlights divisions within the party over the Gaza war and threatens to disrupt planned campaign appearances, although polling currently gives El-Sayed an advantage.

West Jakarta FKDM Members Take Part in Fire Drill to Boost Preparedness

One hundred members of West Jakarta’s Early Awareness Forum (FKDM) took part in a fire-response simulation at the mayor’s office, learning how to use portable extinguishers and tackle fires, including those caused by gas leaks. The exercise comes as fires in the area rose 9.51% year on year in January–August 2026, with rubbish fires recording the sharpest increase, although residential and several other types of building fires declined.

JIS Concerts to Be Restricted as Pramono Tells Jakpro to Prioritise Persija

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has asked stadium operator Jakpro to limit music concerts at Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), keeping it primarily available as Persija Jakarta’s home ground. His request follows complaints about the pitch after a concert, with Jakpro tasked with improving turf maintenance and ensuring the surface is ready for matches.

Strengthening NU, Strengthening Indonesia

The article argues that improving the economic wellbeing of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) members would also strengthen Indonesia, particularly as technology and changing labour markets reshape livelihoods. It says government initiatives—including village cooperatives, the free nutritious meals programme and People’s Schools—could expand market access, incomes and educational opportunity for NU communities if supported by state-owned enterprises and implemented in line with NU’s principles.

Three Illegal Parking Attendants Arrested in Malioboro After Excessive Charges Go Viral

A joint team of police, transport officials and municipal public-order officers arrested three unlicensed parking attendants on Jalan Mataram after complaints about excessive fees in the Malioboro area went viral. They will face a minor-offence hearing on 9 November under local parking regulations, which carry a maximum three-month jail term and/or a fine of Rp50 million.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister: MBG Task Forces Established Across Papua at 100%

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk says all provincial and district/city task forces overseeing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme have now been established in Maluku, North Maluku and Papua. Field inspections of nutrition service units are scheduled to begin simultaneously in the first week of November 2026, with the findings informing whether each unit can continue operating, needs improvements or should cease operations.

BNN Says Cannabis from Aceh Farms Is Distributed to Drug Hotspots Across Indonesia

Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN) says cannabis cultivated in Aceh is channelled to drug hotspots and supplied to people within narcotics networks. Officials said traffickers choose remote growing sites to evade detection, as police and BNN reported destroying and discovering an 18-hectare plantation in North Aceh following a nationwide mapping of cultivation risks.

Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Raid: Central Java Deputy Governor Backs School and Calls for Transparency

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin said the provincial government would support and provide assistance to Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school following a police raid connected to an arson investigation. He called for transparency in both the handling of the raid and the case involving the burning of a noodle and pork stall, while police internal affairs units investigate alleged procedural violations.

Customs Case Defendant Says Ahmad Dhani Contacted Him; Dhani Explains

Former customs intelligence official Budiman Bayu Prasojo told a Jakarta court that musician and MP Ahmad Dhani contacted him once to ask for help after goods belonging to a relative were detained. Dhani confirmed contacting Customs, saying the shipment contained incense sent by a relative from abroad; he denied ever meeting Bayu. Bayu is separately charged with accepting Rp7.6 billion in gratuities.

Rumah Zakat Provides Education Assistance to 24 Orphaned and Underprivileged Students in Tangerang

Rumah Zakat has distributed cash education assistance to 24 orphaned and underprivileged students in Tangerang City and Regency, helping with school costs and daily needs. The programme is intended to support students from low-income families in continuing their education, with one recipient, a sixth-form primary pupil raised by her mother, expressing gratitude for the donors’ support.

Bluebird Revenue Reaches Rp4.57 Trillion Through September 2026

PT Blue Bird Tbk reported revenue of Rp4.57 trillion through the third quarter of 2026, up 10.9 per cent year on year, with taxi services accounting for about 70 per cent of the total. Cumulative EBITDA rose 9.8 per cent to Rp1.09 trillion, while the company is expanding services, optimising its fleet and preparing for stronger mobility demand in the fourth quarter.

After Police Allegedly Point Guns at Female Students, National Commission on Violence Against Women Says Legal Process Does Not Justify the Act

Indonesia’s National Commission on Violence Against Women has criticised an alleged police search at an Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo, where female students and teachers were reportedly intimidated and forced from their dormitory without headscarves. The commission says legal enforcement must respect human rights and has called for an independent, transparent review of any procedural violations, alongside psychosocial support and protection for those affected.

Being Asked for Your ID and Photographed When Entering a Building May Breach the Law

Privacy and cybersecurity experts say buildings’ collection of visitors’ identity cards and facial images may breach Indonesia’s Personal Data Protection Law if the data is excessive, poorly explained or retained insecurely. They call for less intrusive verification methods and note that the government has yet to establish the data-protection supervisory body required under the law.

Ombudsman: Transparency Is a Form of Respect for the Public

Indonesia’s Ombudsman says access to information reflects respect for the public, accountability and integrity, rather than merely fulfilling administrative requirements or pursuing a rating. The agency is strengthening its information services and dispute-handling practices, with the Ombudsman and the Central Information Commission stressing their shared role in protecting the public’s rights.

Pramono to Hold Meetings in 44 Districts to Find Solutions to Residents’ Problems

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo plans to meet with officials in all 44 districts over about three months to address local problems that have not reached the provincial level. He says the meetings will differ from the existing development-planning process and are intended to give him a direct understanding of residents’ concerns.

Trade Minister Says Modern Retail Is a Catalyst for Poverty Reduction

Trade Minister Budi Santoso says modern retail can help reduce poverty by bringing local products into retail networks and expanding opportunities for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Local goods now account for nearly 80 per cent of products in modern retail outlets, while selected MSMEs have secured major transactions and export footholds.

Heavy Rain Triggers Landslides and Fallen Trees in Trenggalek, BPBD Explains Causes

Heavy rain over two days in Trenggalek, East Java, caused landslides and fallen trees, damaging public facilities and infrastructure and leaving one person with minor injuries. The district disaster agency reported incidents across five subdistricts, with emergency teams clearing roads and restoring traffic.

Subhan Speaks Out on Gibran After Supreme Court Annuls High-School Equivalency Certificate

H. M. Subhan, who challenged the high-school equivalency certificate issued for Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, says the Supreme Court’s decision means Gibran should resign. The Court allowed Subhan’s claim on appeal and annulled the certificate, although the case had previously been rejected at first instance and upheld on appeal.

Metro Jaya Brimob Patrols Kampung Bahari After Drug Raid

Metro Jaya Police’s Brimob unit has stepped up patrols in North Jakarta’s Kampung Bahari following a joint operation targeting suspected drug trafficking. Police said 29 people were detained and several types of suspected narcotics seized, while officers urged residents to report suspicious activity.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Praises 100% Completion of Free Nutritious Meals Task Forces in Maluku, North Maluku and Tanah Papua

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk praised local governments in Maluku, North Maluku and Tanah Papua for completing the establishment of Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) task forces at provincial and regency/municipal levels. The task forces will inspect nutrition service units from November 2026 to assess food safety, facilities and operational readiness, with recommendations determining whether each unit may continue operating.

Boyolali Police Chief Replaces AKBP Andika as Sukoharjo Police Chief

The National Police have appointed Boyolali Police Chief AKBP Indra Maulana Saputra to lead Sukoharjo Police, replacing AKBP Andika Dharma Sena, who was removed following controversy over a dawn search at an Islamic boarding school. Three other officers were also removed over the search, which police say will be reviewed amid complaints from students, parents and the school community.

595 Sekolah Rakyat Pupils from Across West Nusa Tenggara Attend School Orientation in North Lombok

A total of 595 pupils from Sekolah Rakyat schools across West Nusa Tenggara gathered in North Lombok for the school orientation programme, alongside the inauguration of an integrated Sekolah Rakyat campus. The event highlighted the government’s commitment to widening access to inclusive education for children from low-income families and included free health checks for all participating pupils.

BUMA (DOID) Sets Up New Subsidiary Outside Mining: Here’s Why

BUMA International Group has indirectly established PT Bestari Mitra Talenta (BEST), a new subsidiary focused on administrative support, telecommunications and information technology services. The company says BEST will support the group’s operational needs and that its establishment will have no material impact on operations, legal matters, financial conditions or business continuity.

AllianzGI Says Money Market Funds Remain Popular with Indonesian Investors

AllianzGI Indonesia says investors continue to favour money market funds and short-duration fixed-income funds amid market uncertainty, while interest in equity funds has yet to show similar growth. Although mutual fund investor numbers have risen sharply, assets under management and net asset value have come under pressure, underscoring the importance of risk awareness, diversification and a long-term investment perspective.

Is Drinking Iced Drinks During the Rainy Season Really a Cause of Flu and Coughs?

An Indonesian specialist says cold drinks do not cause flu or coughs in healthy people; these illnesses result from viral infections. Cold drinks may, however, trigger symptoms in people with asthma or allergic rhinitis, while humid weather, indoor crowding and flooding bring other seasonal health risks.

Police Suspend Sukoharjo Police Chief Following Pesantren Complaint

Indonesia’s National Police have suspended Sukoharjo Police Chief AKBP Andhika Dharma Sena and three other officers after complaints about a search at the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. The four are undergoing an internal ethics investigation; the search was reportedly part of an inquiry into arson, threats and damage to a food stall, and authorities say female officers and child-protection support were present.

Astonishing! These Are the Countries Where Finding a Job Is Most Difficult

South Africa, Slovakia, Greece and Italy recorded the longest median unemployment durations among 42 countries in 2025, at more than 12 months, while Mexico had the shortest at 1.2 months. Research suggests prolonged unemployment can reduce applicants’ chances of being hired, with negative effects becoming more apparent after about a year, and may also carry psychological costs.

Central Java MUI Speaks Out over Search of Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding Schools

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in Central Java has urged local authorities to revoke licences for non-halal food businesses found to be causing public disturbance, while calling on the Ministry of Religious Affairs to ensure unlicensed religious schools comply with national principles. The statement follows police searches of two Islamic boarding schools over an alleged attack on a pork noodle stall; police say two suspects, both former terrorism convicts, have been named, while those detained during the searches were released as witnesses.

Couple in Bontang Faked Pregnancy and Buried a ‘Baby’ That Turned Out to Be a Pillow

A couple in Bontang, East Kalimantan, admitted fabricating a pregnancy and the death of a baby, after mourners discovered that the shrouded bundle prepared for burial contained pillows. Police said the woman acted out of fear of being judged by her family and in-laws as unable to conceive, and urged the public not to spread unverified information on social media.

Bogor Begins Drafting Indigenous Peoples Regulation to Provide Legal Protection

Bogor Regency’s government and council have agreed to move forward with a draft regulation on the protection and empowerment of Indigenous customary-law communities. Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi says it would provide a legal basis for safeguarding their cultural and social heritage, while potentially supporting tourism and improvements to customary villages.

Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro: Indonesia Targets Market of 2 Billion People in Muslim-Majority Countries

Indonesia is seeking to expand access for its leading products across the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) market, which has a population of more than 2 billion, by strengthening digital trade and cooperation among member states. Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri highlighted the opportunities presented by the market’s young population and pointed to ASEAN initiatives, including digital payments and the proposed Digital Economy Framework Agreement, as possible models for wider connectivity.

School Literacy Ambassadors Encourage Reading Among Young People

Jakarta’s Library and Archives Agency says school literacy ambassadors can help foster a reading culture among young people, and is equipping them with skills ranging from public speaking to writing. The 2026 Book Camp in North Jakarta brought together 85 student ambassadors from 40 senior secondary schools to develop their understanding of literacy as critical thinking, creativity and social awareness, as well as reading.

88% of Danantara’s Assets Held in Deposits

PT Danantara Investment Management had Rp140 trillion in assets as of April 2026, but 87.9% remained in cash and cash equivalents, most of it in domestic bank deposits. Its investments totalled Rp16.63 trillion, with a further Rp4.86 trillion channelled through subsidiaries, raising questions about how quickly the state-linked investment manager is deploying its funds.

BNPB Confirms Families of Two Landslide Victims in Lumajang to Receive Government Aid

The East Java provincial government will provide Rp20 million in bereavement assistance to the family of each of the two people killed in a landslide in Lumajang, alongside food parcels and building materials. The disaster agency says heavy rain triggered the landslide and has urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert as severe weather continues to pose a risk.

Protest over Tax on Sanitary Pads: YLKI Says State Must Not Burden Women’s Basic Biological Needs

The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has urged the government to remove VAT on sanitary pads, arguing that they are an essential health need rather than a luxury. It says the tax disproportionately affects women on low incomes and calls for more progressive revenue-raising measures, alongside a review of taxes on other menstrual products.

Airlangga Reveals Latest on PFII’s Operational Plans

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto has not set a start date for the Infrastructure Investment Facilitation Centre (PFII), saying preparations are still under way. The government is drafting implementing regulations and studying Dubai’s model for an International Financial Centre, with Jakarta planned as the first location, followed by Bali.

Mistaken for a Rat Carcass, West Lombok Residents Find Infant’s Body in Drain

Residents in Bakong hamlet, West Lombok, found an infant’s body in a drainage ditch after a passer-by followed a foul smell on Monday morning. Police attended the scene and took the body for further examination; the case is being handled by West Lombok Police.

Transjakarta Insists All Vehicles Use Tyres That Meet Safety Standards

Transjakarta says its entire fleet uses tyres that comply with safety standards and undergoes checks before entering service, following online discussion about tyre quality. The company said a bus tyre that burst near Proklamasi stop was punctured by a nail, and passengers were moved to a replacement bus.

Indonesian Copper Foil Exports Surge 1,163% in September 2026: Here’s Why

Indonesia’s exports of copper and copper products rose 165.97% year on year in September 2026, led by strong growth in refined copper, copper wire and copper foil. The figures came as Freeport Indonesia resumed operations at its second smelter in Gresik, with the facility producing 5,000 tonnes of copper cathode in September after concentrate supplies began recovering.

Rupiah Weakens Again, Opening at Rp18,125 per US Dollar

The rupiah opened at Rp18,125 per US dollar on the first trading day of November, down 0.03% from Friday’s close of Rp18,120, according to Refinitiv data. The slight decline followed two consecutive sessions of gains and highlights continued market attention to currency movements amid economic and financial-market uncertainty.

Ukraine and Russia Report Cyberattacks on Emergency Alert Apps

Russia and Ukraine have each reported cyberattacks targeting their emergency and air-raid alert applications, with hackers allegedly spreading false warnings. The incidents came as a temporary ceasefire in Kherson ended and hostilities continued, amid a stalled diplomatic process and renewed discussion of military support.

Legal Wife of Madiun Murder Suspect Says: ‘I Didn’t Know’

Marta, the legal wife of Dwi Bagus Martono, says she was teaching at school when her husband allegedly killed his unregistered wife and her four-year-old son in Madiun. Police say the victims were killed in September and their bodies burned and ground up; the case came to light after their family reported them missing in October.

BPS Forecasts Central Java Rice Production at 5.14 Million Tonnes in 2026

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) forecasts Central Java will produce 5.14 million tonnes of rice in 2026, equivalent to 9.47 million tonnes of harvested dry paddy from January to September plus a further 1.36 million tonnes in the final quarter. Harvested area is expected to fall 3.4 per cent year on year, while Grobogan, Cilacap and Sragen are projected to be the province’s top rice-producing regencies.

Just Listening to His Problems: Boboho, Associate of Former Jampidsus Febrie, Received Rp22.5bn

Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta court he received Rp22.5 billion from PT Perwira Adhitama Sejati as a fee for listening to the company’s concerns over a steel-import corruption case. He denied passing any of the money to former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah, who is charged with extortion and money laundering; Ferry also testified about other funds, including money from a defendant in a separate BTS corruption case.

NTB Targets Migrant Workers’ Children and the Extremely Poor for People’s Schools

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal says the province will prioritise children from the poorest households and families of Indonesian migrant workers for enrolment in People’s Schools. The programme aims to tackle social and educational disadvantage through deeper support for pupils’ living conditions, including stronger counselling and communication with parents working abroad.

Sexual Services Cost Up to Rp13.7 Million; Three Foreign Nationals in Bali Allegedly Paid Website Administrator

Immigration officials in Denpasar say three foreign nationals suspected of advertising sexual services online may have had to share their earnings with a website administrator. The agency is investigating the alleged payment arrangement and any wider network, while seeking deportation and entry bans for the three over suspected misuse of their residence permits.

Karma Automotive unveils Eximius 1 hybrid sports car

Karma Automotive has unveiled the Eximius 1, a four-seat hybrid sports car with a V8 generator and electric motors producing a combined 1,195 hp. The first vehicle under the company’s bespoke development programme, it will be customised to its owner’s specifications and is due for delivery in 2027, with production of each model capped at nine units.

Bontang Woman Fakes Pregnancy and Buries ‘Baby’, Fearing She Would Be Branded Unable to Conceive

A woman in Bontang and her husband fabricated a pregnancy and a baby’s death, staging a burial in which the shrouded bundle contained pillows rather than a body. Police said the woman feared her family and in-laws would regard her as unable to conceive; investigators also confirmed she was not treated for childbirth at the hospital she had named.

Chandra Asri Invests Rp15 Trillion to Build New Businesses Beyond Petrochemicals

Chandra Asri is diversifying into energy, integrated infrastructure and mobility solutions to reduce its exposure to petrochemical market cycles, with a Rp15 trillion CA-EDC project expected to begin commercial operations in 2027. The company also reported a sharp recovery in nine-month 2026 revenue and earnings, while expanding logistics, fuel distribution and employment initiatives.

Chandra Asri (TPIA) to Build ‘Doomsday’ Naphtha Facility in Cilegon

Chandra Asri Pacific plans to complete a condensate splitter in Cilegon by 2027, producing an alternative feedstock with projected capacity equivalent to about 2.5 million tonnes a year. The facility is intended to give the petrochemical company greater flexibility if geopolitical disruption affects imported naphtha supplies, while imports will continue; the company also carries out regular maintenance to protect production reliability.

PEVS 2026 Draws 35,000 Visitors Over Four Days

Indonesia’s Periklindo Electric Vehicle Show 2026 attracted 35,257 visitors during its four-day run, which organisers say reflects public interest in electric vehicles. The event featured vehicle transactions and a range of automotive brands and transport operators, while Periklindo pledged to help connect industry players with the government to address sector challenges.

Today’s Five Most-Read International News Stories

The article rounds up five international stories attracting readers’ attention: a fatal Learjet crash in Florida and escalating tensions between the United States, Iran and Israel. Donald Trump claims the US could strike remaining suspected Iranian nuclear sites within minutes, while Iran warns any new war could last longer; reports also describe Israeli lobbying for an attack and Tehran’s designation of British military branches and MI6 as terrorist organisations.

Police Arrest Suspect over Theft of Two Box Trucks in East Jakarta’s Duren Sawit

East Jakarta police have arrested a 23-year-old man suspected of stealing two company-owned Isuzu box trucks in separate incidents in Duren Sawit in September 2026. The companies reported losses totalling Rp525 million, and the suspect faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of aggravated theft.

Bengkulu’s Coal and Rubber Reach Markets in India and Bangladesh, BPS Says

Bengkulu’s leading non-oil and gas exports are coal and rubber, with India, Pakistan and Bangladesh accounting for 68.74% of the province’s exports in January–September 2026. The province recorded a US$64.61 million trade surplus over the period, with no imports in September.

Sukoharjo Police Chief and Three Officers Removed After Pre-Dawn Search of Islamic Boarding School

Indonesia’s National Police have removed Sukoharjo Police Chief AKBP Andika Dharma Sena and three other officers following a pre-dawn search of the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school. Propam is investigating alleged procedural and ethical violations, while the police say the search was connected to a case involving the alleged arson and destruction of a local restaurant.

Medan Prosecutor’s Office Resolves Child’s Case Through Diversion

The Medan District Prosecutor’s Office has resolved a criminal case involving a child through diversion, an alternative to court proceedings under Indonesia’s juvenile justice system. The office says this is its sixth diversion case in 2026, reflecting an emphasis on restorative outcomes, victims’ interests and the child’s future.

Religious Affairs Ministry: MOOC Pintar Training Aims to Make Islamic Boarding Schools Safe for Children

The Religious Affairs Ministry has opened an online training course to help prevent and respond to violence and sexual abuse in Islamic boarding schools. The SafeKader programme equips staff to assess risks, identify warning signs, support victims and build lasting child-protection practices across pesantren.

JCI closes higher, supported by stronger-than-expected trade balance

Indonesia’s Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose 0.79 per cent to 5,096.83, with investors encouraged by a September trade surplus that exceeded expectations as exports outpaced forecasts and imports slowed unexpectedly. The market also responded to the Indonesia Stock Exchange’s exclusion of 81 high-shareholding-concentration stocks from benchmark index calculations amid an MSCI warning, while regional gains and developments in US-Iran diplomacy shaped sentiment.

Muhammadiyah Condemns Search of Girls’ Islamic Boarding School in Sukoharjo

Muhammadiyah has condemned what it describes as an intimidating and disproportionate police search of a girls’ Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo, particularly the treatment of 12 underage students. The organisation is calling for accountability, trauma support for the students and a review of police procedures, while police say the search was part of an investigation into arson, threats and vandalism and that complaints will be examined internally.

A ‘Blue Great Wall’ Rises on the Gobi Desert

A 2.97-billion-yuan solar project covering more than 14.6 million square metres in Xinjiang combines power generation with sand stabilisation and grass planting. Its first year is expected to produce 1.9 billion kilowatt-hours, helping supply the southern Xinjiang grid while saving an estimated 580,000 tonnes of standard coal and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 1.55 million tonnes.

Boboho Reveals Febrie Adriansyah’s Response When He Reported the Harvey Moeis Case

Ferry Yanto Hongkiriwang, known as Ferry Boboho, told a Jakarta corruption court that former deputy attorney-general Febrie Adriansyah had advised him not to get involved in the legal case against Harvey Moeis. Boboho gave the testimony while appearing as a witness in Febrie’s alleged extortion and money-laundering case.

Victims of ‘Green Investment’ Fraud Report Case to Metro Jaya Police, Losses Reach Rp5.7bn

Dozens of investors have reported an alleged green-investment fraud to Jakarta’s Metro Jaya Police, claiming losses totalling Rp5.7 billion. Police say the case remains under investigation, while victims say the company’s app stopped working and their funds became inaccessible in 2025.

BNPB: Families of Two Landslide Victims in Lumajang to Receive Compensation

Families of a father and his nine-year-old daughter, who died in a landslide in Lumajang, East Java, will receive Rp20 million in condolence assistance from the provincial government. Emergency response teams remain at the site as heavy rain and further extreme weather pose continuing risks, prompting BNPB to urge residents in landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant.

Constitutional Court Drama Triggers Crisis as President Calls Emergency Meeting

Polish President Karol Nawrocki has cut short a visit to Senegal and convened political leaders in Warsaw amid escalating protests over appointments to the Constitutional Tribunal. The dispute pits Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s efforts to remove judges he says are politically biased against the opposition PiS party, and has renewed concerns over judicial independence and the rule of law.

Salt self-sufficiency must secure supply for industry: Indef

Indef researcher Ahmad Heri Firdaus says Indonesia’s drive for salt self-sufficiency by 2027 must ensure industries can reliably access affordable raw materials and remain competitive. With annual demand of 4.8–4.9 million tonnes far exceeding domestic production of 1–2 million tonnes, imports may remain necessary during the transition while production capacity and downstream processing are expanded.

Economist: Widening Current Account Deficit Could Put Rupiah Under Pressure Amid Uncertainty

Permata Bank economists warn that Indonesia’s current account deficit could widen to 2.49% of GDP in 2026 and remain elevated in 2027, increasing pressure on the rupiah and foreign-exchange reserves. They also expect weaker trade surpluses, further Bank Indonesia rate rises and the possibility of the rupiah falling beyond Rp19,000 per US dollar next year.

DBS Group Named Asia’s Safest Bank for 18th Consecutive Year

DBS Group has retained Global Finance’s title of Asia’s Safest Bank for the 18th consecutive year, with the recognition reflecting its financial strength, risk management and governance. The annual ranking assesses long-term foreign-currency ratings from Moody’s, S&P and Fitch for the world’s 500 largest banks.

Danantara CIO Pandu Patria Sjahrir Highlights the Importance of Balancing Investment Returns and Strategic Impact

Danantara says its investment decisions will balance commercial returns with strategic impact, supported by disciplined financial and risk management. A US$1.5 billion waste-to-energy project’s bond issue attracted nearly four times the amount offered, while Danantara is preparing a pipeline of more than 40 strategic projects and targets US$20–30 billion in investment over the next two to three years.

Tax Office Clarifies Overseas Money Transfers Are Not Automatically Taxable

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Taxes says overseas transfers and remittances will not automatically incur VAT, clarifying that a system due to take effect on 9 November is a collection mechanism for qualifying overseas digital transactions, not a new tax. The clarification follows comments by Kadin adviser Hashim Djojohadikusumo suggesting banks, fintech firms and e-commerce platforms would begin collecting taxes, as the government seeks to raise state revenue.

Restaurant Kitchen Fire in Melawai Leaves One Person Injured

A suspected leak in an LPG hose sparked a fire in a restaurant kitchen in Melawai, South Jakarta, leaving one employee with minor injuries. Staff used a fire extinguisher to contain the flames before firefighters arrived; five fire engines and 20 personnel completed cooling operations within minutes.

Chinese Phones Fall Out of Favour as Xiaomi Finds a New Cash Cow

A global smartphone downturn, driven by soaring memory-chip costs and component shortages, has hit Chinese manufacturers particularly hard, with Xiaomi’s shipments plunging by more than 30% year on year in the third quarter of 2026. Xiaomi is offsetting pressure on its handset business with rapid growth in electric-vehicle deliveries, reporting more than 50,000 units in October and reaching about 61% of its 2026 delivery target by the end of that month.

Coordination under way on single-gate resource exports: Lahadalia

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said Indonesia is coordinating with DSI to channel strategic natural resource exports through a single gate, allowing shipments to go directly to destination countries. The phased policy, initially covering coal, crude palm oil and ferroalloys, is intended to strengthen export oversight and visibility of export proceeds, with full implementation targeted by 1 January 2027.

Japan launches new national agency to deal with disasters

Japan has launched a National Disaster Management Agency, staffed by more than 350 workers, to coordinate preparedness, emergency response and reconstruction amid fears of major earthquakes and other hazards. The agency will also push nationwide readiness reviews and improve evacuation-centre conditions, addressing gaps highlighted by the 2011 disaster and limited municipal planning.

South Korea Unleashes Huge AI Budget, Targets US$1 Trillion in Exports

President Lee Jae Myung has asked parliament to approve a record 2027 budget, with a sharp increase in spending on AI, semiconductors and data centres. South Korea is also counting on booming chip exports and private-sector investment to drive growth, while establishing a large fund for future industries and strengthening the infrastructure needed to support AI.

Indonesian Government Warns of Brokered Marriages Involving Foreigners

Lampung immigration officials have warned the public about alleged brokers arranging marriages between Indonesian women and foreign nationals, reportedly offering brides 60 million to 100 million rupiah. Officials say such commercial arrangements could lead to exploitation and are investigating the network, while stressing that properly documented mixed marriages are legal.

DayOne supports NVIDIA DSX POD reference design to advance standardised AI infrastructure

Singapore-based DayOne Data Centers says its modular, integrated delivery model will support NVIDIA’s DSX POD reference design, which aligns computing, power and cooling infrastructure for AI deployments. The company says prefabrication can cut data centre delivery timelines in Southeast Asia to eight to 12 months, helping customers bring capacity online faster as demand for AI infrastructure grows.

UNM Presents Awards as Rector Emphasises the Importance of Supporting Student Talent

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) has honoured students across nine categories spanning academic achievement, research, sport, entrepreneurship and creativity. Rector Prof Dwiza Riana said student success depends not only on individual effort but also on faculty mentoring and institutional support, including opportunities to compete nationally and internationally.

Police and BNN Destroy Cannabis Fields Often Planted in Hard-to-Monitor Areas in Aceh

Police, Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and Aceh police uncovered and destroyed cannabis fields covering about 25 hectares in North Aceh. Officials said growers deliberately chose remote, difficult-to-reach sites to avoid detection, while the harvested cannabis was distributed to areas across Indonesia, including known drug hubs.

Papua Pegunungan Proposes Four Sites for New Sekolah Rakyat Schools

Papua Pegunungan has proposed four sites, each around 10 hectares, for permanent Sekolah Rakyat schools to widen access to education. The Social Affairs Ministry supports the proposal in principle but requires land certificates and other administrative conditions before it can assess the locations; the provincial government also sought help addressing drought-related clean-water shortages.

P2MI Minister Urges Hong Kong to Open More Formal Job Opportunities for Indonesian Migrant Workers

Indonesia’s Migrant Workers Protection Minister Mukhtarudin has urged Hong Kong to expand formal-sector employment opportunities for Indonesian migrant workers, 99.92 per cent of whom are currently placed in domestic work. The two sides discussed care-sector schemes, skills alignment, workers’ rights and closer coordination on employment disputes and immigration matters.

Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Urges Islamic Boarding School Students to Reject Four ‘Great Enemies’ Allegedly Orchestrated by Foreigners

Deputy Religious Affairs Minister Romo HR Muhammad Syafi’i urged Islamic boarding school students to resist what he described as four major threats engineered by foreign forces, warning that they could undermine young people and divide the nation. Speaking at a scout gathering in Lebak, he also invoked pesantren alumni’s role in Indonesia’s independence struggle.

Sungrow advances integrated C&I microgrid solution in Southeast Asia

Sungrow says its integrated commercial and industrial microgrid solution combines system optimisation, AI-based energy dispatch and protection features to lower costs and improve power reliability. Deployed in Southeast Asian projects, including Indonesia, the system is intended to reduce reliance on diesel generation; a Solomon Islands hotel installation is reported to cut fuel costs and annual carbon emissions.

House of Representatives Awaits Political Parties’ Response to Supreme Court Ruling on Gibran’s High School Diploma Certificate

A House of Representatives member says the legislature cannot decide how to respond to the Supreme Court ruling on the validity of Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s high school diploma equivalency certificate without consulting the political parties represented in parliament. He is urging party leaders to meet promptly and agree on a recommendation, amid ongoing debate over a related Constitutional Court ruling.

Danantara Strengthens Indonesia’s Investment Reputation at TIME Forum

Danantara Indonesia’s participation in a TIME forum in New York offers an opportunity to raise the profile of Indonesia’s investment potential and connect with global stakeholders. Communications experts caution that visibility alone cannot secure investor confidence: credibility will ultimately depend on transparent governance, sound investment decisions and delivery on commitments.

Minister says electricity exports remain off Indonesia’s agenda

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says Indonesia will not export electricity in the near future because domestic demand remains unmet, and warns BPI Danantara against lobbying over export permits, which he says fall under his ministry’s authority. The position contrasts with ongoing Indonesia-Singapore discussions on green-power export pricing, a proposed cooperation that President Prabowo has assigned Danantara to implement.

Sukoharjo Police Chief Removed as Police Pledge Internal Reform

AKBP Andhika Dharma Sena has been removed as Sukoharjo Police Chief following a search of the Hamalatul Quran Islamic boarding school in Sukoharjo and Karanganyar. Three other Sukoharjo police officers have also been suspended and are being investigated by the police’s Professional and Security Division over alleged ethics violations; the National Police says the reshuffle is part of efforts to improve integrity and professionalism.

Bumibaru optimises unproductive land in Bogor for farming

Bumibaru is restoring previously unproductive plots in Cijeruk and Jonggol, Bogor, and matching crops to local soil conditions to support agricultural output and national food supply chains. The company is also seeking partnerships with food and FMCG businesses to provide agricultural commodities as production inputs.

US Weighs Resuming Strikes on Iran After Midterm Elections

President Donald Trump is considering a range of military and diplomatic options for Iran after the US congressional midterm elections on 3 November, although no final decision has been made. The reported scenarios include renewed strikes and continued pressure through a naval blockade, while Vice-President JD Vance has proposed resuming direct negotiations focused from the outset on Iran’s nuclear programme.

Indonesians Are Travelling Abroad Less Often: What Does It Signal?

Domestic trips by Indonesians rose to a record 938.84 million in the first nine months of 2026, while outbound trips fell 4.6 per cent year on year. Statistics Indonesia attributed the monthly decline in overseas travel partly to higher international airfares and haze, while foreign arrivals and visitor spending continued to grow.

North Jakarta City Government Encourages Students to Explore Literacy at Book Camp 2026

North Jakarta’s library and archives agency is using its three-day Book Camp 2026 to encourage students to see literacy as more than reading, with creativity, communication and expression also in focus. The event brought together 85 student literacy ambassadors from 40 secondary schools, aiming to build lasting collaboration and a more active literacy ecosystem.

Indonesian Police and BPOM to Draft Rules on Kratom Use and Misuse

Indonesia’s National Police and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) will discuss regulations to govern kratom, which officials say may have medicinal potential but also carries risks of misuse. The coordination aims to establish clearer oversight, amid warnings from the National Narcotics Agency about kratom’s potential use as a drug.

Sukoharjo Islamic Boarding School Raid Controversy: Police Chief and Three Officers Removed by National Police Headquarters

Indonesia’s National Police have removed Sukoharjo Police Chief Andika Dharma Sena and three other officers from their posts while an internal investigation examines a controversial search of a girls’ Islamic boarding school. Investigators are reviewing both the handling of a separate arson and vandalism case involving a pork-noodle stall and possible ethical breaches during the search.

Chandra Asri: Rp15 Trillion CA-EDC Project to Deliver Broad Economic Benefits

Chandra Asri says its Rp15 trillion CA-EDC facility in Cilegon is 85 per cent complete and is expected to begin commercial operations in the second half of 2027. The project is forecast to boost domestic chemical supply, replace imports and contribute up to Rp45 trillion to national GDP over 2027–2040, while supporting thousands of jobs.

20-Month-Old Baby Dies After Stepfather Repeatedly Dunks Him in a Bucket

A 22-year-old stepfather and the child’s 19-year-old mother have been named suspects in the alleged fatal abuse of their 20-month-old child in a public toilet in South Jakarta. Police say the couple cited financial hardship as their motive; investigators are continuing to establish each suspect’s role and are conducting an autopsy.

Indonesian MP urges sustained action after Jakarta drug raid

MP Adang called for a sustained, coordinated campaign against drug trafficking after a joint operation in North Jakarta arrested 27 suspects and seized firearms. He said raids should be followed by efforts to dismantle wider networks and trace criminal proceeds, alongside prevention, rehabilitation and community support.

MP Rajiv Donates Rp100 Million to Residents Affected by Forest and Land Fires

NasDem Party MP Rajiv has provided Rp100 million in aid to residents affected by forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan, coordinating with fellow MP Andina Thresia Narang to help ensure it reaches those most in need. He said the contribution reflects cross-regional solidarity and called for sustained cooperation and prevention to tackle recurring fires and their effects on public health and livelihoods.

Phapros Posts 311.58% Rise in Net Profit in Third Quarter of 2026

Phapros, a subsidiary of state-owned pharmaceutical company Kimia Farma, reported consolidated net profit of Rp31.60 billion for January–September 2026, up 311.58% year on year. Higher sales and improved margins supported the result, while the company also reported stronger operating cash flow and said it would continue cost controls and product development.

Telkom accelerates AI adoption among enterprise customers, building data and talent foundations

Telkom is promoting wider enterprise use of AI, with director Veranita Yosephine stressing that structured data and skilled staff are essential for turning experimentation into trusted business implementation. The company is expanding integrated offerings spanning connectivity, AI, data centres, cloud and cybersecurity to help businesses adopt the technology securely and improve operational effectiveness.

Jakarta governor backs police drug crackdown in North Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has voiced full support for the National Police’s crackdown on drug trafficking in Kampung Bahari and pledged the city administration’s cooperation in efforts to eradicate narcotics across the capital. A joint police and National Narcotics Agency operation on Sunday involved searches around railway tracks and nearby homes, with officers reporting resistance, seized evidence and detained suspects.

Central Java Provincial Government Collects 31,032.44 Litres of Used Cooking Oil from Civil Servants

Central Java has collected 31,032.44 litres of used cooking oil from 60,680 provincial civil servants and regional-owned enterprise employees, as part of a campaign linking environmental protection with public health. The province is also expanding Posyandu community health post roles to help residents access social protection, alongside launching a programme to strengthen volunteers’ support for vulnerable groups.

Indonesia to showcase 500 research products at science convention

Indonesia will exhibit 500 research products selected from about 850 proposals at the upcoming convention in Surabaya, which aims to connect research and innovation with industry and support economic growth and public welfare. The event will also address strategic priorities including food and energy security, healthcare, industrialisation and disaster resilience, and is expected to produce policy briefs to guide national research and policymaking.

Young Man Swept Away at Keramas Beach Found Dead

A 19-year-old man who was swept away by currents while swimming at Keramas Beach in Gianyar, Bali, has been found dead. A joint search team located his body about 100 metres east of the reported drowning site and ended the search operation after handing him over to his family.

Indonesian Coal Exports Transiting Singapore Could Reach 60 Million Tonnes

Energy and Mineral Resources Director General Tri Winarno said Singapore’s recorded coal exports may amount to 50–60 million tonnes, despite the city-state having no coal mines, and suggested the shipments could originate in Indonesia. His remarks follow Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s directive for Indonesian natural-resource exports, including coal and LNG, to be shipped directly to destination markets rather than routed through third countries.

Indonesia Cannot Yet Export Electricity, Bahlil Says Domestic Needs Come First: ‘We Still Need It’

Indonesia will not export electricity in the near future because domestic demand remains the priority, Coordinating Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said. He warned Danantara against lobbying on export approvals, which fall under the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, while negotiations continue over the price of planned green electricity exports to Singapore.

Mayday! Hysterical Recording of Private Jet Pilot Before Steep Crash in Florida

Radio recordings reveal that a Learjet 60 pilot reported ice build-up and moderate turbulence before declaring an emergency and describing an extreme loss of altitude. At least nine people aboard died when the aircraft crashed in Florida; US authorities are investigating, and it remains unclear whether storms contributed.

When hope grows from thirsty soil

Kaliwedi village in Sragen has transformed from a rain-fed farming community into a major rice-producing area, after investment in deep wells overcame severe water shortages. The village now has 108 wells irrigating about 250 hectares, enabling three harvests a year and sharply higher output, illustrating how local initiative, community support and financing can strengthen food security.

Angler Who Went Missing at Bogor Quarry Found Dead

A 43-year-old angler who was feared drowned at a former sand-mining quarry in Rumpin, Bogor, was found dead by a joint search and rescue team. His body was evacuated and handed over to his family; the search had been delayed by darkness and rubbish at the site.

Deputy Minister Urges Universities to Shape the Direction of AI Development

Deputy Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Nezar Patria has called on universities, particularly in Aceh, to help shape Indonesia’s AI ecosystem through talent development, research and practical adoption. He said Indonesia can compete by applying AI to improve public services and economic activity, while ensuring digital sovereignty, workforce readiness and collaboration among government, academia and industry.

Shopee and Creative Economy Ministry Help 200 Santri Build Digital Skills

Shopee and Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy have launched Santri Matic, a digital-skills programme for 200 students from 22 Islamic boarding schools in the Greater Solo area. The initiative aims to help santri use e-commerce and digital platforms to develop creative products, launch businesses and expand their economic opportunities; the organisers say they plan to roll it out nationally.

Indonesians’ Overseas Travel Falls as BPS Highlights Airfares and Haze

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) recorded 600,605 overseas trips by Indonesian citizens in September 2026, down both month on month and year on year, citing higher international airfares and haze-related flight disruption. Domestic travel also fell from August, although it remained above the level a year earlier and reached a January–September high since 2019; foreign arrivals increased year on year over the first nine months.

Serang City Council Member Named Suspect in Sexual Harassment Case

Pandeglang police have named DK, a serving Serang City Council member and former military officer, as a suspect over alleged indecent assaults on a woman on two occasions. Investigators have questioned eight witnesses and examined CCTV evidence, while DK’s lawyer says he will seek a suspension of detention.

Vice-President Gibran Calls for Tolerance in Kalumpang, West Sulawesi

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming urged Indonesians to protect unity, peace and tolerance while attending the centenary of the Gospel’s arrival in Kalumpang, Mamuju Regency. He praised the area’s interfaith harmony and called on residents, particularly young people, to resist misinformation and preserve local culture and traditions.

Bitter Pill for Trump: US Bankruptcy Filings Top 620,000

US bankruptcy filings reached 621,111 in the 12 months to September 2026, up 11.4% year on year, while business filings more than doubled compared with 2022. Major companies including Saks Global, Trinseo and Getty Images have sought bankruptcy protection or restructuring, amid debt burdens and rising operating costs. The increase predates Donald Trump’s return to office, though tariffs and other costs remain pressure points for businesses.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Receives Papua Highlands Proposal for Four People’s Schools

The Papua Highlands provincial government has proposed four sites for permanent People’s Schools, with two in Jayawijaya and one each in Yahukimo and Yalimo. The Social Affairs Ministry supports the plan in principle, but says land documentation and other site requirements must be completed before feasibility surveys can begin.