Archive: 17 February 2026
477 articles found
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:56 WIB
Tarique Rahman Sworn In as Bangladesh Prime Minister
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman has been inaugurated as the country's 11th prime minister following the first elections since the 2024 uprising that toppled the Awami League government. The BNP-led coalition secured a two-thirds parliamentary majority with 212 seats, whilst Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus handed over power after leading the interim government since August 2024.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:41 WIB
Mount Semeru Erupts Again Tonight, Ash Column Reaches 800 Metres Above Summit
Mount Semeru in East Java erupted eight times on Tuesday, with the largest event producing an ash column 800 metres above the summit. The volcano remains at Level III (Alert) status, with authorities enforcing exclusion zones of up to 13 kilometres in the southeast sector and warning residents of pyroclastic flows, lava avalanches and lahars along surrounding river valleys.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:40 WIB
Bogor City Council Finds Multiple Issues at Cibuluh Public Housing
Bogor City Council's legislative body discovered several problems at the Cibuluh low-cost rental flats during a field visit, including inadequate sanitation facilities, flood risks, and residency tenure rules requiring review. The findings will inform the drafting of a 2026 local regulation on public housing, with particular attention to disability access, elderly-friendly amenities, and worship facilities.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:34 WIB
Defence Minister inspects Infantry Battalion 888/Satria Sejati to ensure troop readiness
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin visited the Infantry Battalion 888/Satria Sejati headquarters in Rembang, Central Java, to review troop readiness alongside senior military officials including the TNI Deputy Commander. The minister urged soldiers to enhance their professionalism and nationalism, stressing that national defence must be built from disciplined, combat-ready units capable of delivering tangible benefits to the public.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:33 WIB
Ministry of Religious Affairs Urges No Raids on Restaurants During Ramadan: Mutual Respect Required
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Romo Muhammad Syafi'i has called on Indonesians to practise mutual respect during Ramadan, urging an end to vigilante sweeps of food establishments during fasting hours. Speaking after the isbat session to determine the start of Ramadan 2026, Syafi'i emphasised that non-fasting citizens, including those of different faiths, must not be denied access to food and drink, and that national unity should not be undermined by religious differences.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:12 WIB
Business Climate Reform Bolsters Investor Confidence in Indonesia
Indonesian academics and researchers argue that structural reforms to the national business climate — including regulatory certainty, legal enforcement, and fiscal resilience — are essential to securing long-term investor confidence.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:10 WIB
Jambi and West Sumatra Must Collaborate to Protect Batanghari River from Pollution
The Deputy Speaker of Jambi's provincial legislature has called for cross-provincial collaboration between Jambi and West Sumatra to combat mercury pollution in the Batanghari River caused by illegal gold mining upstream. The initiative would require coordination between two separate river basin authorities and involve reforestation, dredging, and mass clean-up campaigns, whilst academics have urged the establishment of green zones to protect aquatic habitats and safeguard clean water supplies.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 23:07 WIB
Al-Aqsa Mosque Imam Banned by Israel from Entering Mosque for One Week
Israel has banned Al-Aqsa Mosque's imam, Sheikh Muhammad Ali Al-Abbasi, from entering the mosque compound for one week without providing any stated reason. The ban, which comes just days before the start of Ramadan and amid escalating Israeli actions across the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, has been condemned by the imam as a serious matter, particularly as he had only recently returned to Al-Aqsa after a year-long hospitalisation following a car accident.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:59 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga Delivers Community-Based Waste Management Through SI CADIAK Innovation
Pertamina Patra Niaga has launched SI CADIAK (Smart Waste Management Innovation System), a community-based circular economy programme that converts agricultural and livestock waste into compost, bioethanol, and renewable energy in Nagari Padang Toboh, West Sumatra.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:58 WIB
Indonesian Modifications Break Into Japan as Aftermarket Industry Begins Global Push
Indonesia's National Modificator & Aftermarket Association (NMAA) showcased local aftermarket products and a culturally themed modified Toyota 86 at Osaka Auto Messe 2026, signalling the industry's ambitions beyond the domestic market. The participation represents a strategic effort to position Indonesian vehicle modification and aftermarket manufacturing as a credible force in the competitive Asian automotive customisation scene.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:57 WIB
Mount Semeru erupts again with eruption column reaching 800 metres
Mount Semeru in East Java erupted on Tuesday evening with an ash column reaching 800 metres above the summit, marking the eighth eruption of the day. The volcano remains at Level III (Alert) status, with authorities maintaining exclusion zones of up to 13 kilometres from the crater and warning residents of pyroclastic flow, lava falls, and lahar risks along several river systems.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:45 WIB
Indonesian government declares 19 February as start of Ramadan
Indonesia's Religious Affairs Ministry has officially set the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijri for Thursday, 19 February, following an Isbat meeting that combined astronomical calculations and physical moon-sighting observations. The decision differs from Muhammadiyah's determination of 18 February, owing to differing methodologies, with the government adhering to MABIMS criteria shared by Brunei, Malaysia, and Singapore that require a minimum hilal height of 3 degrees and elongation of 6.4 degrees.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:37 WIB
UN Reveals Israel Continues to Obstruct Humanitarian Operations in Gaza
The United Nations has confirmed that Israel continues to obstruct humanitarian aid operations into the Gaza Strip despite the ceasefire in place since October. A UN spokesperson reported that of approximately 50 coordinated aid initiatives between 6-11 February, Israeli authorities permitted only half to enter Gaza, highlighting significant ongoing barriers to relief efforts.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:36 WIB
Saudi Arabia Sets 1 Ramadan for Wednesday 18 February
Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon, setting the start of Ramadan 1447 H on Wednesday 18 February 2026. Indonesia, however, determined through its own isbat session led by Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar that 1 Ramadan falls on Thursday 19 February, as the hilal did not meet MABIMS criteria.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:22 WIB
Gerindra Legislator Urges Universities to Shift Focus from Job Seekers to Job Creators
A Gerindra Party legislator and chairman of the National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) has challenged universities to adopt graduate entrepreneurship as a key performance indicator, urging campuses to become incubators for new businesses rather than merely producing job seekers.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:20 WIB
Psychiatrist Offers Tips for Maintaining Mental Health During Ramadan
A psychiatrist in Batam has shared practical advice for maintaining mental health during Ramadan, explaining the neurological effects of fasting including blood sugar drops, cortisol changes, and the beneficial process of autophagy. The tips range from acknowledging fatigue, managing energy through sleep and diet patterns, breathing techniques, lowering perfectionist standards, positive self-talk, and spiritual self-care.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:19 WIB
Indonesian Ambassador Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Indonesia-Japan Relations
Indonesia's newly appointed Ambassador to Japan, Nurmala Kartini Pandjaitan Sjahrir, has formally commenced her diplomatic duties after presenting a copy of her credentials to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership across defence, economic, and people-to-people cooperation, signalling continued bilateral engagement between two key Asia-Pacific partners.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:19 WIB
AHY: President Prabowo Subianto Wants Batam to Become a Global Economic Gateway
Coordinating Minister AHY has revealed President Prabowo's ambition to transform Batam into a world-class economic gateway, leveraging its free trade zone status and strategic position to attract global investment. With Indonesia ranking 14th globally and 2nd in Southeast Asia for FDI destinations, and national investment realisation reaching USD 114.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:16 WIB
Indonesia's Green Investment Reaches Rp1,650 Trillion: 50,000 MW Target by 2025
Indonesia has set an ambitious renewable energy investment target of Rp1,650 trillion through to 2035, aiming to build 50,000 MW of clean energy capacity. With solar potential reaching 3,934 GW and new regulatory support, the principal challenges have shifted from resource availability to policy consistency and grid readiness to absorb the surge in green capacity.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:15 WIB
Business Climate Reforms Seen as Key Pillar of Indonesia's Investment Stability
The Indonesian government is intensifying efforts to remove bureaucratic bottlenecks hindering business and investment, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announcing a dedicated debottlenecking task force holding weekly meetings. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto linked the reforms to achieving 8% economic growth within five years, whilst former Finance Minister Chatib Basri urged accelerated deregulation to boost manufacturing and formal employment.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:13 WIB
Member of Parliament commends upgrade of four road sections in West Nusa Tenggara
A member of the House of Representatives' Commission V has praised the central government's completion of four road improvement projects on Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, with a combined contract value exceeding Rp76 billion. The projects, part of the 2025 Regional Road Presidential Instruction programme, aim to strengthen inter-regional connectivity in support of food and energy self-sufficiency as well as tourism development.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:13 WIB
Masjid Gedhe Kauman in Yogyakarta Holds First Tarawih Prayers as Congregants Overflow
Masjid Gedhe Kauman in Yogyakarta's Kraton district held its first tarawih prayers on Tuesday evening, following Muhammadiyah's determination that 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Wednesday, 18 February 2026. The decision is based on the Unified Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT), which uses crescent moon sightings from Alaska meeting the threshold of 5 degrees hilal altitude and 8 degrees elongation. The mosque was filled to capacity, with congregants spilling into the verandah areas.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:00 WIB
Village cooperatives not to kill off local small businesses: Ministry
The Cooperatives Ministry has assured that the Red and White Village Cooperatives programme will not displace existing small businesses, but rather integrate them as members with access to capital through savings and loan units. With over 80,000 village cooperatives now established nationwide, the government is accelerating construction of supporting infrastructure whilst coordinating across multiple ministries to ensure regulatory compliance.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 22:00 WIB
Indonesia's Film Industry Prepares to Enter a New Phase
The Indonesian Film Board (BPI) is driving a strategic restructuring of the national film industry through its Road to Congress IV 2026 initiative, featuring a phased pre-congress process to overhaul governance frameworks and develop a National Film Master Plan (RIPN). Acting BPI Chairwoman Celerina Judisari stressed the critical importance of data-driven policymaking and integrated strategies to attract both government support and private investment into the sector.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:56 WIB
FGM elimination part of human development investment: ministry
Indonesia's Health Ministry reports that female genital mutilation prevalence has only marginally declined from 52 per cent in 2013 to 46 per cent in 2024, with symbolic forms sustaining the practice's social legitimacy. The government has enacted Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024 officially banning FGM and Health Minister's Regulation No.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:55 WIB
Jakarta Deputy Governor Affirms Security Commitment During Lunar New Year Celebrations
Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to maintaining security and tolerance during Lunar New Year celebrations, following a monitoring visit to a temple in South Jakarta. The Jakarta administration organised a series of Imlek festivities from 12 February to 3 March 2026, positioning the events as inclusive cultural celebrations that embrace the Chinese-Indonesian community as an integral part of the capital's identity.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:43 WIB
Lunar New Year Celebrations Enliven Various Regions Across Indonesia
Chinese New Year 2577 was celebrated with vibrant lion dance performances, traditional rituals, and cultural festivities across multiple Indonesian cities, including Palembang, Borobudur Temple in Magelang, and Adi Soemarmo Airport in Solo.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:42 WIB
Minister of Religious Affairs and MUI Address Differences Over Start of Ramadan
Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar and the Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) have called for mutual respect following differing determinations of the start of Ramadan 1447 H/2026. The government set 19 February 2026 as the first day of Ramadan based on MABIMS crescent visibility criteria, whilst Muhammadiyah designated 18 February based on astronomical calculations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:38 WIB
1 Ramadhan 1447 H Falls on 19 February 2026; MUI Calls on Mosques Across Indonesia to Perform Qunut Nazilah for Palestine
The Indonesian government has officially declared 1 Ramadhan 1447 Hijriah to fall on Thursday, 19 February 2026, following an Isbat session led by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), KH M.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:36 WIB
Strengthening the National Electric Vehicle Ecosystem, PLN Ensures Integration and Easy Access
State electricity company PLN won two awards at the Indonesia International Motor Show 2026 for its electric vehicle ecosystem efforts, as the number of EVs in the country reaches approximately 103,000 units with 150 per cent growth. PLN has expanded its public charging station network beyond 5,000 units nationwide and continues developing its PLN Mobile digital platform as a comprehensive EV partner for consumers.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:35 WIB
Indonesia to acquire first aircraft carrier from Italy in 2026
Indonesia is set to receive the Giuseppe Garibaldi, a decommissioned Italian aircraft carrier, as a grant from the Italian government, marking the country's first acquisition of such a vessel. The carrier, built by Fincantieri and in service from 1985 to 2024, is expected to arrive before the 5 October anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, with the Indonesian government budgeting for retrofitting to meet navy operational needs.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:34 WIB
Rempang Now Stable, Transmigration Minister Optimistic Investment Climate Growing Stronger
Transmigration Minister Muhamad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara has declared that the Rempang transmigration zone in Batam has become significantly more stable over the past year, providing a crucial foundation for investor confidence. The government is coordinating across multiple agencies to develop the area whilst supporting affected residents, including the distribution of 16 fishing vessels to sustain livelihoods during relocation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:27 WIB
House Commission VIII on Ramadan Start Date Differences: Let Us Respect One Another
The chairman of House Commission VIII urged Indonesian Muslims to respond with mutual respect to differences in determining the start of Ramadan 1447 H, warning against allowing the disagreement to divide the nation. He expressed support for the Religious Affairs Minister's efforts to harmonise differing methodologies for determining Islamic calendar dates, including alignment with the Turkey-based global Islamic calendar.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:21 WIB
Three Messages from Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad at the 2026 Lunar New Year Celebration
Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad, alongside Deputy Mayor Li Claudia Chandra, delivered three key messages at the city's Lunar New Year celebration: reflecting on the past year's achievements, setting priorities for the current year, and defining long-term development goals. The mayor emphasised that Batam's multiculturalism and religious tolerance are fundamental strengths that underpin social harmony and regional progress.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:18 WIB
AHY Pushes Batam to Accelerate as Global Economic Gateway
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) reaffirmed the government's commitment to developing Batam as a gateway to the Southeast Asian and global economy. Speaking at a Lunar New Year event, he emphasised that under President Prabowo Subianto's leadership, Batam's strategic position as a hub for industry, trade, and investment must be consistently developed to deliver inclusive prosperity for its residents.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:13 WIB
UII Lecturer: Terror Against UGM Student Body Chairman Attacks Academic Autonomy
A prominent Indonesian academic has condemned a series of terror threats against the chairman of Gadjah Mada University's student executive body, calling it an assault on academic autonomy linked to the Prabowo-Gibran government's anti-criticism stance. The threats followed an open letter sent by the student body to UNICEF criticising President Prabowo's policies, particularly regarding child welfare and the free nutritious meals programme.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:12 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Addresses Difference in Ramadan Start Dates Between Government and Muhammadiyah
Indonesia's Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has called for unity after the government set 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah on Thursday, 19 February 2026, whilst Muhammadiyah declared fasting would begin a day earlier on Wednesday, 18 February.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:04 WIB
Indonesian Ulema Council Calls on Mosques to Hold Prayers for Palestinian Independence During Ramadan
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged all mosque imams across Indonesia to offer collective prayers for the safety of Gaza residents and Palestinian independence during Ramadan, which begins on 19 February 2026. MUI Chairman Anwar Iskandar called on major Islamic organisations including Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah to join the initiative, whilst also appealing for unity among Muslims despite differences in determining the start of the holy month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:01 WIB
BTN housing credit disbursement reaches 5.97 million units since 1976-2025
State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has disbursed 5.97 million housing credit units worth Rp555.11 trillion since 1976, with the majority directed towards subsidised mortgage segments. As BTN marks its 76th anniversary, industry bodies including REI and Apersi have praised the bank's pivotal role in Indonesia's housing ecosystem and its importance to the government's three million homes programme.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 21:00 WIB
Tuntang River Embankment Breached, Thousands of Residents Affected by Flooding in Grobogan and Demak
A breach at two points along the Tuntang River embankment in Central Java on 16 February 2026 triggered severe flooding across 42 villages in 10 sub-districts of Grobogan and Demak regencies, affecting approximately 3,924 people and severing the main Semarang-Purwodadi road.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:59 WIB
Lampung Governor Wants All Potholes Fixed Before Peak Mudik Season
Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has set a target to eliminate all potholes on provincial roads before the peak of the 2026 Lebaran mudik exodus, with 79.79 per cent of provincial roads currently in good condition.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:56 WIB
Transport Minister: Five Sea Crossing Routes Prepared for Java-Sumatra Transit
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi announced five sea crossing routes have been prepared to facilitate Java-Sumatra transit during the 2026 Lebaran holiday transport period. The routes connect various ports including Merak-Bakauheni and Ciwandan-Bakauheni, with a total of 829 ships, 31,345 buses, 255 ferry vessels, 392 aircraft, and 3,821 rail units mobilised nationwide to handle the annual exodus.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:52 WIB
Makassar City Government Issues Circular Mandating Nightlife Venues Close During Ramadan
The Makassar city government has issued Circular No. 11 of 2026 ordering the temporary closure of all nightlife entertainment venues, including karaoke establishments and massage parlours, throughout Ramadan and the Hindu holy day of Nyepi. Mayor Munafri Arifuddin affirmed that violators will face sanctions under existing regulations, whilst government activities including Ramadan Safari programmes will continue as normal.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:52 WIB
Crescent Moon Not Visible in Semarang: Ministry of Religious Affairs Hisab Rukyat Team Explains the Cause
The Ministry of Religious Affairs' Hisab Rukyat team failed to sight the crescent moon (hilal) in Semarang on 17 February 2026, as the lunar conjunction had not yet occurred at the time of observation, with the moon's position across Indonesia falling well below the MABIMS visibility criteria.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:49 WIB
Malaysia Sets 1 Ramadan on Thursday 19 February 2026
The Malaysian government has officially declared that 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026, following the approval of the Yang Dipertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim. The announcement came after crescent moon sighting observations were conducted at 29 locations across the country, marking the start of the Muslim fasting month for Malaysia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:47 WIB
Banten Provincial Government Prioritises Six Alternative Road Routes for 2026 Mudik Season
The Banten provincial government is prioritising repairs and maintenance on six provincial road segments ahead of the 2026 Lebaran homecoming season to support traffic flow towards coastal and southern tourist destinations. All pothole repairs must be completed ten days before Eid al-Fitr, while major construction projects along these routes will be temporarily suspended to prevent additional congestion during the peak travel period.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:46 WIB
Environment Minister: North Jakarta Must Become National Model for Waste Management
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has declared that North Jakarta must serve as the national model for waste management, given the area generates over 1,300 tonnes of waste daily. The minister inspected community-based waste management facilities including a waste bank and a Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) plant in Rorotan, whilst emphasising President Prabowo Subianto's directive for nationwide community clean-up drives under the Indonesia ASRI programme.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:46 WIB
Chinese New Year: Boen Tek Bio Temple in Tangerang Visited by Thousands of Worshippers
Thousands of worshippers flocked to the historic Boen Tek Bio Temple in Tangerang, Banten, over 16-17 February 2026 to observe Chinese New Year rituals including incense burning and prayers to various deities. The Year of the Fire Horse is interpreted as a year of challenges requiring caution, whilst the celebrations also underscore inter-faith harmony in the city ahead of the Cap Go Meh festivities in a fortnight.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:43 WIB
East Kalimantan Revenue Agency Pursues Non-Metallic Mineral Tax to Bolster Regional Coffers
East Kalimantan's Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) has launched an aggressive campaign to capture revenue from non-metallic mineral and rock (MBLB) taxes following an audit by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) that highlighted management shortcomings in regional revenue collection from 2024 to the third quarter of 2025.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:42 WIB
Viral Malaysian Potato Snack Brand Arrives in Indonesia
Malaysian shaker fries brand Happy Potato has officially entered the Indonesian market, opening its first outlet at Gajah Mada Plaza in Jakarta. The company's management cited Indonesia's dynamic food and beverage sector and growing demand among young consumers and urban families as key factors behind the expansion.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:41 WIB
Writers and Musicians Can Protect Copyright Through POP-HC System
Indonesia's Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) has launched an automated copyright registration service called POP-HC that can process applications in as little as five minutes. The system, which costs Rp200,000 per application and requires no physical visit to government offices, is designed to support the creative industry by providing rapid legal protection for intellectual property, with North Maluku reporting a notable increase in registrations from writers and musicians.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:41 WIB
PBNU Declares Start of Ramadan Fasting on Thursday 19 February 2026
The executive board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, has declared the beginning of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah to fall on Thursday, 19 February 2026. The determination was made following rukyatul hilal (new moon sighting) observations conducted at various locations across the country.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:38 WIB
Crescent Moon Not Sighted at 96 Observation Points Across Indonesia for Ramadan 1447 H
Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs declared that the crescent moon (hilal) marking the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah was not sighted at any of the 96 observation points across the country, with calculations confirming the moon remained below the horizon.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:36 WIB
Ministry of Religious Affairs' Hisab Rukyat Team Fails to Sight New Moon in Semarang
The Ministry of Religious Affairs' Hisab Rukyat team was unable to sight the crescent moon (hilal) during observation at UIN Walisongo Semarang on Tuesday 17 February 2026, as the lunar conjunction had not yet occurred and the moon set before the sun.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:36 WIB
Tangerang Environmental Agency: Cisadane River Water Quality Now Meets Standards
Laboratory tests confirm that the Cisadane River's water quality has been restored to meet regulatory standards following a pesticide contamination incident that affected a 22.5-kilometre stretch across three municipalities. The Ministry of Environment has prepared a lawsuit against PT Biotek Saranatama, the owner of the pesticide storage warehouse responsible for the pollution, citing provisions under the Environmental Protection Act.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:31 WIB
Health Ministry Reveals Root Causes Behind Persistence of Female Genital Mutilation in Indonesia
Indonesia's Health Ministry has disclosed that the prevalence of female genital mutilation (FGM) remains stubbornly high, falling only slightly from 52 per cent in 2013 to 46 per cent in 2024, with more than half of cases now taking symbolic or ritual forms that nonetheless sustain social legitimacy.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:29 WIB
Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh's PM after landslide election victory
Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Tarique Rahman has been sworn in as prime minister following his party's commanding two-thirds parliamentary majority, marking BNP's return to power after nearly two decades. Rahman faces pressing challenges including restoring political stability, rebuilding investor confidence and reviving the garment sector after the 2024 uprising that toppled Sheikh Hasina's government.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:28 WIB
SAR Team Evacuates Hiker Who Fell and Broke Leg on Mount Rante, Banyuwangi
A joint search and rescue team in Banyuwangi, East Java, successfully evacuated a 20-year-old hiker who slipped and suffered a broken left leg while climbing Mount Rante in the Ijen volcano area. The operation involved multiple government agencies including SAR, the regional disaster management agency, fire service, health department, police, and the Natural Resources Conservation Agency, highlighting the coordination of Indonesia's emergency response infrastructure.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:26 WIB
Welcoming Ramadan, Disaster Victims in South Tapanuli Celebrate with Cattle Slaughter
The North Sumatra provincial government provided four cattle to flash flood victims in Huta Godang village, South Tapanuli, to mark the start of Ramadan. The meat was distributed equally among all 500 households regardless of religion, with both Muslim and Christian families receiving shares as the community continues to recover from the disaster.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:25 WIB
Evacuation of KM Intim Teratai Passengers After Vessel Runs Aground at Makian Island
The passenger vessel KM Intim Teratai ran aground near Makian Island, prompting an evacuation of passengers. No further details were available in the source article, which contained only the headline and no substantive body text.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:25 WIB
Investment Tips for 2026: Avoid FOMO-Based Investing
Investment advisers are warning investors to avoid fear-of-missing-out (FOMO) driven decisions in the Year of the Fire Horse, which brings heightened emotional energy that can lead to overly aggressive financial choices. Allianz Global Investors senior economist Christiaan Tuntono projects selective growth across Asian economies in 2026, recommending focus on fundamentally strong instruments, particularly in the technology and artificial intelligence sectors.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:23 WIB
Indonesia's Perminas Seals Gabon Rare Earth MoU
State-owned mineral firm Perminas has signed a memorandum of understanding with Abu Dhabi-based New Energy Metals to develop rare earth value chains linking Gabon's Maboumine polymetallic deposit with downstream processing in Indonesia. The deal, overseen by sovereign fund Danantara, could extend to permanent magnet manufacturing and potential debt or equity participation in the Maboumine mine, as Indonesia pursues aggressive downstream industrialisation to reach its 8 per cent growth target.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:21 WIB
Crescent Moon Not Sighted at 45 Locations, PBNU Sets Start of Ramadan 1447 H on 19 February 2026
The executive board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, has declared the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah on Thursday, 19 February 2026, after its crescent moon observation teams failed to sight the hilal at all 45 monitoring points across the archipelago. Astronomical data confirmed the moon was still below the horizon at sunset, with the conjunction occurring after sundown across all Indonesian time zones, necessitating the completion of Sha'ban to 30 days.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:19 WIB
UGM Student Leader to Pigai: The State Must Be Present When There Is Terror
The chairman of Gadjah Mada University's Student Executive Board has criticised Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai for deflecting responsibility after student activists received anonymous terror threats following their criticism of President Prabowo Subianto.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:18 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister: Turkey's Global Hilal Calendar Shows Tomorrow Is Not Yet 1 Ramadan
Indonesia's Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar announced that the government has set 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah on Thursday, 19 February 2026, after the isbat session confirmed no crescent moon sighting across 96 observation points nationwide. The decision places the government one day behind Muhammadiyah, which had already declared 1 Ramadan as Wednesday, 18 February, based on its adoption of the Unified Global Hijri Calendar method with different astronomical parameters.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:17 WIB
Ahead of Ramadan, Tangerang residents gather for communal hair-washing in the Cisadane River
Hundreds of residents in Tangerang's Babakan subdistrict upheld a decades-old tradition of communal hair-washing in the Cisadane River to purify themselves ahead of Ramadan. The ritual, recognised by the local government as intangible cultural heritage, combines spiritual cleansing with community bonding as participants seek mutual forgiveness before the fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:17 WIB
Not Just Smart: Iwan Koswara Urges West Java Schools to Prioritise Emotional and Spiritual Intelligence
West Java provincial legislator Iwan Koswara has called on schools across the province to strengthen emotional and spiritual intelligence alongside academic achievement. The Commission V member of the West Java Provincial Parliament argued that education should not be solely oriented towards academic results, emphasising the need for a more holistic approach to student development.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:15 WIB
30 Tonnes of Subsidised Meugang Beef Sold Out in Banda Aceh's Affordable Market Programme
The Banda Aceh municipal government's subsidised beef market for the traditional Acehnese meugang celebration sold 30 tonnes of beef across 11 distribution points in three days, with prices set at Rp140,000 per kilogram versus the market rate of Rp180,000. The programme, run in collaboration with the local water utility and Bank Indonesia's Aceh representative office, aims to curb pre-Ramadan inflation and is expected to supply over half of the city's estimated 50-60 tonne meugang beef demand.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:14 WIB
Bali confirms number of foreigners legally employed in Bali's busiest tourist destinations
Bali authorities have released official confirmation regarding the number of foreign nationals legally employed in the island's primary tourism destinations. The announcement addresses ongoing immigration and labour policy concerns, providing clarity on foreign worker registrations in Bali's tourism sector.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:13 WIB
Bali Airport To Experience Surge In Tourist Traffic During Lunar New Year Week
Bali's airport will see significantly increased passenger volumes this week as tens of thousands of additional tourists arrive to celebrate Lunar New Year, temporarily boosting the island's tourism economy despite the broader low season. The surge underscores tourism's continued importance to Bali's economic activity and the region's appeal as a major destination during key cultural events.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:09 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Hopes Differing Ramadan Start Dates Will Not Cause Division
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has urged Indonesian Muslims to maintain unity despite a one-day difference in the start of Ramadan 1447 H between the government and Muhammadiyah. The government set 1 Ramadan as Thursday 19 February based on hilal observation and astronomical calculation, whilst Muhammadiyah designated Wednesday 18 February using its new Unified Global Hijri Calendar method.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:09 WIB
Lively 'Water War' Festival in Riau: Preserving Tradition and Strengthening Brotherhood
The annual Cian Cui water festival was held in Kepulauan Meranti, Riau, coinciding with Chinese New Year 2026 celebrations, drawing participation from across ethnic communities. Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan used the occasion to promote the force's "Green Policing" programme, linking cultural preservation with environmental protection of the region's coastal mangrove ecosystems and the development of creative economy through cultural tourism.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:08 WIB
Merak–Bakauheni Becomes Barometer for Smooth Lebaran 2026 Homecoming
State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has declared full readiness for the 2026 Lebaran homecoming season on the critical Merak–Bakauheni crossing, projecting 5.8 million passengers nationally and deploying 75 vessels with nearly 2,000 personnel. The government is supporting the effort with a Rp 911.16 billion transport stimulus package and a traffic-splitting strategy across four ports in Banten to prevent congestion on one of Indonesia's busiest maritime corridors.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:08 WIB
Andre Rosiade Champions Road to Nagari Garabak Data in West Sumatra, Targets Asphalting by 2027
Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade and Solok Regent Jon Firman Pandu have pledged to push for the construction of a paved road to the remote village of Nagari Garabak Data in West Sumatra, which has never had an asphalted road since Indonesian independence. The approximately 12-kilometre project is estimated to cost Rp 70 billion, with asphalting targeted to begin by 2027 at the latest, pending central government budget approval.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:07 WIB
Malaysian Government Announces Start of Ramadan Fasting on 19 February 2026
The Malaysian government has officially declared that Ramadan 1447 Hijriah will commence on Thursday, 19 February 2026, following the sighting of the new moon at 29 observation points across the country. The announcement was made by the Keeper of the Rulers' Seal on the directive of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, after obtaining the consent of Malaysia's rulers.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:06 WIB
Government Determines Start of Ramadan as Thursday 19 February 2026
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has officially declared that Ramadan 1447 H will commence on Thursday, 19 February 2026, following an isbat session in Jakarta. The decision was based on the MABIMS criteria, as the crescent moon's position across Indonesian territory on 17 February failed to meet the minimum altitude and elongation thresholds required for the month's commencement.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:04 WIB
Can Indonesia Stay Neutral? The Strategic Risks Behind Indonesia-Iran Relations
Indonesia faces a strategic dilemma as Iran intensifies outreach for economic and technological cooperation whilst US-Iran tensions escalate, forcing Jakarta to reassess its traditional "bebas dan aktif" (free and active) foreign policy.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:03 WIB
Coal Prices Strengthen, Supported by Sentiment from China, US, and Russia
Global coal prices mostly strengthened on Monday 16 February 2026, driven by China Shenhua Energy's US$19 billion restructuring deal, US President Donald Trump's federal support for coal-fired power plants, and supply disruptions from both Russia and Indonesia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:03 WIB
Solo Celebrates 281st Anniversary with Jenang Festival, Distributing 15,000 Portions to Residents
The city of Solo (Surakarta) marked its 281st anniversary with the Jenang Festival, a cultural event led by Deputy Mayor Astrid Widayani at the Ngarsopuro Corridor in Central Java. The festival distributed 15,000 portions of jenang, a traditional Javanese sweet, to residents as part of the city's efforts to preserve local culinary heritage and cultural traditions.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:02 WIB
Beneficial ownership rules aim to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing
Indonesia's Ministry of Law office in North Maluku has underscored the importance of beneficial ownership disclosure as a strategic tool to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and hidden corruption within corporate structures. Under Presidential Regulation No. 13/2018, all corporations must identify and report the individuals who hold ultimate control over ownership structures to the Ministry of Law.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:01 WIB
Temporary Shelter Residents in Agam Watch Isbat Session with Enthusiasm
Displaced residents of temporary shelters in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, eagerly watched the Ministry of Religious Affairs' Isbat session to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The survivors of the flash flood disaster expressed gratitude at being able to welcome the holy month despite living in temporary accommodation, with one resident mourning a daughter lost in the floods.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:01 WIB
Bali Transport Agency confirms smooth ferry crossing traffic during Lunar New Year holiday
The Bali Provincial Transport Agency reported no significant congestion at Gilimanuk Port during the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday period, with vehicle volumes remaining close to daily averages. Average inbound vehicles from 1-15 February stood at 5,557 units per day, with the peak on 15 February reaching only 6,788 units. Officials anticipate that congestion will likely occur in March, when the Eid al-Fitr and Nyepi holidays fall just one month after Imlek.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:01 WIB
Lampung Governor Pledges No More Potholes Ahead of Peak Lebaran Homecoming Traffic
Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has promised that all provincial roads under his authority will be pothole-free before the peak of the 2026 Lebaran homecoming exodus.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:00 WIB
ASPRINDO's Strategy to Strengthen Village Economies
The Indonesian Indigenous Entrepreneurs Association (ASPRINDO) has signed a cooperation agreement with the Indonesian Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) Association and the Village Community Development Movement to bolster rural economies. The partnership focuses on knowledge transfer, supply chain integration of local products, market digitalisation, and inclusive village investment, forming part of ASPRINDO's "Industrial Village" programme aimed at driving bottom-up economic growth.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 20:00 WIB
Crescent Moon Not Sighted During Observation at Al-Musyariin Basmol Mosque in Jakarta
Officials conducting the hilal (crescent moon) sighting at Masjid Jami Al-Musyariin Basmol in Jakarta on Tuesday 17 February 2026 were unable to observe the new moon needed to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The failed sighting at this location contributes to the government's nationwide rukyatul hilal process, which determines the official commencement date of the Islamic fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:59 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Urges Public Not to View Differences Over Ramadan Start Date Negatively
Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has called on Muslims not to let differences over the start date of Ramadan 1447 H cause division, following the official isbat session that set 1 Ramadan on Thursday, 19 February 2026. The decision was based on the MABIMS criteria, as the new crescent moon (hilal) did not meet the agreed visibility threshold of 3 degrees altitude with an elongation angle of 6.4 degrees.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:58 WIB
Government Sets Start of Ramadan as 19 February; Crescent Moon Not Sighted
The Indonesian government has officially declared 1 Ramadan 1447 H to fall on Thursday, 19 February 2026, following an isbat session held by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Observations across 96 locations nationwide failed to sight the crescent moon, with its position at approximately minus 2 degrees below the horizon, well short of the 3-degree threshold required under the MABIMS criteria agreed upon by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:54 WIB
Malaysian Muslims to Begin Ramadan Fasting on 19 February
Malaysia has officially announced that Ramadan 1447 Hijriah will commence on Thursday, 19 February 2026, following the sighting of the new moon at 29 observation points across the country. The declaration was made by the Keeper of the Rulers' Seal on the authority of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, after obtaining the consent of Malaysia's rulers.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:54 WIB
Tourism Minister Welcomes Lunar New Year Celebrations and Parade in Jakarta
Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana expressed support for Lunar New Year celebrations and parades in Jakarta, highlighting the involvement of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The minister noted that the proximity of the Lunar New Year holiday to Ramadan in 2026 presents a strategic opportunity to boost both domestic and international tourist movements, urging the tourism industry to deliver excellent service during the extended holiday period.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:54 WIB
Disaster survivors in Lut Tawar prepare for 'meugang' tradition
Disaster survivors in Toweren Uken village, Central Aceh, are preparing to observe the traditional Acehnese meugang meat-cooking ceremony ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, with many having returned to their own homes. President Prabowo Subianto has transferred more than Rp72.7 billion to 19 district and municipal governments in Aceh to fund the purchase of cattle for the meugang tradition among disaster-affected communities.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:51 WIB
UIN Ar-Raniry Aceh Distributes 1,600 Meugang Tradition Packages from UAE Government Aid
The state Islamic university UIN Ar-Raniry in Banda Aceh has distributed 1,600 meat packages following the Acehnese meugang tradition, along with 400 basic necessities packages, funded by the UAE government ahead of Ramadan.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:50 WIB
Lampung Governor: No potholes on roads before peak mudik exodus
Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has set a target to eliminate all potholes on provincial roads before the peak of the 2026 Lebaran mudik season, noting that the province serves as the critical gateway between Java and Sumatra. With provincial roads currently at 79.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:49 WIB
Government Sets Start of Ramadan 2026 on Thursday 19 February
The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially determined that 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday 19 February 2026, following an Isbat Session held at Hotel Borobudur in Jakarta. The decision differs from Muhammadiyah's determination by one day, owing to differing methodologies, with the government's ruling based on MABIMS criteria requiring a minimum hilal altitude of 3 degrees and elongation of 6.4 degrees — thresholds not met during Tuesday's observation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:49 WIB
Government declares 1 Ramadhan 1447 H falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026
The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Religious Affairs, has officially declared that 1 Ramadhan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026, following the results of the Isbat Session held on Tuesday evening. The decision was made after hilal (new crescent moon) sighting observations were conducted at multiple locations across the archipelago, including Mataram, Palangkaraya, Medan, Bandung, Makassar, and Serang.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:48 WIB
Ramadan Start Date Differs: Government Sets 19 February, Muhammadiyah 18 February
The Indonesian government has declared 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah to fall on Thursday 19 February 2026, one day after Muhammadiyah's determination of Wednesday 18 February. The discrepancy stems from differing methodologies — the government uses MABIMS regional crescent visibility criteria whilst Muhammadiyah now employs a Unified Global Hijri Calendar that accepts crescent sightings anywhere on Earth, including Alaska.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:48 WIB
TNI Kuala Task Force Acts Swiftly to Address Sedimentation in Aceh Tamiang
The TNI Kuala Task Force, working alongside Jhonlin, is making tangible progress in dredging operations to address sedimentation at the Kuala Peunaga estuary in Aceh Tamiang regency, Aceh province. The joint military-private sector effort underscores the government's commitment to maintaining critical waterway infrastructure in the region.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:47 WIB
Flooding in Grobogan Regency Affects 9,736 Households Across 45 Villages
Severe flooding struck Grobogan Regency in Central Java after heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers inundated 45 villages, affecting 9,736 households. Multiple river embankments collapsed, submerging residential areas with water up to one metre deep and flooding approximately 130 hectares of rice paddies ready for harvest. Joint teams comprising the regional disaster agency, military, police and volunteers have been conducting evacuations and distributing emergency aid to affected areas.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:44 WIB
Deputy Hajj Minister Dahnil Flooded by Netizens After Claiming Free Nutritious Meal Budget Does Not Cut Education Spending in State Budget
Deputy Minister of Hajj Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak faced a wave of online criticism after posting on X that the budget for the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme does not come at the expense of education spending in the state budget. Netizens flooded his comment section challenging the claim, reflecting widespread public scepticism over the government's budget allocation priorities amid the flagship welfare programme's rollout.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:44 WIB
A Closer Look at Arhanud 21, the Last Line of Defence Guarding Yogyakarta's Skies
The Air Defence Artillery Battalion (Arhanud) 21/Pasgat serves as the frontline unit responsible for securing the airspace over the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Based in Sleman Regency, the unit plays a critical role in Indonesia's territorial air defence infrastructure.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:43 WIB
Isbat Session Results: Crescent Moon Not Sighted, Ramadan to Begin Thursday 19 February
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has determined that 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday 19 February 2026, after the isbat session confirmed the crescent moon (hilal) was not visible above the horizon. The decision highlights the recurring split with Muhammadiyah, which set Ramadan a day earlier on 18 February using its newer Unified Global Hijri Calendar method, whilst the government urged mutual respect between the differing approaches.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:42 WIB
KIKA Says Natalius Pigai's Statement Normalises Terror Against Student Activist
The Indonesian Caucus for Academic Freedom (KIKA) has condemned Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai for dismissing terror threats against the chair of Gadjah Mada University's Student Executive Board (BEM UGM), accusing him of normalising repression and shirking his constitutional duty to protect citizens.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:40 WIB
Coordinating Minister AHY and Transmigration Minister Attend Lunar New Year Celebration in Batam
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara attended the Lunar New Year 2577 celebration in Batam, underscoring the city's strategic importance. Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad highlighted the city as a living example of Indonesia's diversity and social harmony, describing it as a "miniature of Indonesia" aligned with its vision as a Bandar Dunia Madani (Civilised World Port).
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:37 WIB
Temporary shelter construction in Langkahan pressed ahead despite heavy rain
Construction of 119 temporary shelter units for displaced residents in Krueng Lingka village, North Aceh, is being fast-tracked despite persistent rainfall ahead of Ramadan. Progress has reached 70 per cent after building material shortages—caused by simultaneous post-disaster reconstruction across Sumatra—were resolved with fresh deliveries, though completion has slipped from the original pre-Ramadan deadline to the second week of the fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:32 WIB
Minister's Special Staff: Red and White Village Cooperatives Will Not Kill Off Small Shops
The Special Staff to the Minister of Cooperatives has assured that the government's Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) programme will not undermine small businesses or traditional village shops. Instead, existing micro-enterprises will be incorporated as cooperative members with access to savings-and-loan facilities for capital development, reinforcing the programme's stated principle of mutual aid rather than competition.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:30 WIB
Understanding the D-8 and Indonesia's Chairmanship
Indonesia has assumed the chairmanship of the Developing Eight (D-8) organisation for 2026-2027, using the platform to strengthen economic cooperation among developing nations amid global uncertainty. The chairmanship focuses on five priority agendas including trade cooperation, halal economy, and blue and green economy, culminating in the 12th D-8 Summit to be held in Jakarta in April 2026 with an intra-D-8 trade target of USD 500 billion by 2030.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:29 WIB
Al-Azhar Grand Mosque Holds Bazaar and Itikaf Retreat Throughout Ramadan
Jakarta's Al-Azhar Grand Mosque has announced a comprehensive programme of Ramadan activities including a bazaar, free health services, Quran memorisation competitions, and a ten-night itikaf retreat. The mosque confirmed its readiness to commence tarawih prayers in line with the government's isbat ruling, with the Ministry of Religious Affairs determining that 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026, based on astronomical calculations under MABIMS criteria.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:29 WIB
Transport Minister demands standby vessels at every port berth during Lebaran exodus
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has ordered that every berth at every port must have a vessel on standby throughout the 2026 Lebaran travel period, citing the enormous traffic volumes expected at the Bakauheni and Merak crossings. Bakauheni port alone is projected to handle up to 813,750 vehicles as a departure point and 2.94 million vehicles as a destination, making the Java-Sumatra corridor one of the country's most critical transport bottlenecks during the annual holiday migration.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:29 WIB
Titiek Soeharto praises diversity of Lunar New Year celebrations at Jakarta's SCBD
Titiek Soeharto, Chair of House Commission IV, lauded the Lunar New Year festivities at Jakarta's SCBD district for showcasing the capital's cultural diversity, noting that attendees came from all communities, not just the Chinese-Indonesian population. The celebration, themed "Ride to Luck," blended Chinese traditions with Betawi culture and aligned with the DKI Jakarta provincial government's "Jakarta Melting Pot: Harmony in Diversity" programme promoting tolerance and urban tourism.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:27 WIB
Indonesian Consulate in Noumea: 130th Anniversary a Moment to Preserve Javanese Identity and Culture
Indonesia's Consulate General in Noumea participated in the commemoration of the 130th anniversary of the arrival of Javanese workers in New Caledonia, urging the diaspora to maintain their cultural roots. The event, attended by French and New Caledonian officials, highlighted the significant contributions of Indonesian descendants who now hold prominent positions across medicine, education, business, and local government.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:25 WIB
Police Arrest Suspect in Suitcase Murder at Abandoned House in Brebes
Police in Brebes, Central Java, apprehended a 45-year-old man suspected of murdering a 70-year-old victim whose body was discovered stuffed inside a suitcase at an abandoned house. The suspect was captured in Majalengka, West Java, less than 24 hours after the crime, and faces up to 20 years' imprisonment under the new Criminal Code.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 00:00 WIB
Indonesian Cabinet Ministers Extend Lunar New Year Greetings, Call for Unity and Prosperity
Senior ministers in Indonesia's Red and White Cabinet marked the 2026 Lunar New Year (Imlek 2577 Kongzili) with messages of national unity, diversity, and shared prosperity. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure AHY celebrated the occasion in Batam, praising the city as a "miniature Indonesia" and expressing hope that the Year of the Fire Horse would energise the nation's development agenda.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:21 WIB
BMKG: Beware of High Waves in North Sumatra Waters
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning for high waves of up to 2.5 metres in several North Sumatra waters from 18 to 20 February 2026, posing risks to fishing boats and barges. The agency attributes recent heavy rainfall across the region to cyclonic circulation patterns and low-pressure systems in the Indian Ocean, combined with warm sea surface temperatures fuelling convective cloud growth.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:20 WIB
Hundreds Join Traditional Hair-Washing Ritual in Cisadane River Ahead of Ramadan
Hundreds of residents in Babakan, Tangerang, participated in an annual communal hair-washing tradition in the Cisadane River to welcome Ramadan, despite the waterway having been previously contaminated by chemical waste. The city's cultural affairs office confirmed the ritual has been designated as intangible cultural heritage of Tangerang, and water quality tests showed levels had returned to normal, though fish from the river remain unfit for consumption.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:18 WIB
Heavy rainfall leaves 9,736 households across 45 villages in Grobogan affected by flooding
Severe flooding in Grobogan Regency, Central Java, has affected 9,736 households across 45 villages after heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers caused widespread inundation, with water levels reaching up to one metre in some areas. Multiple river embankments collapsed, approximately 130 hectares of harvest-ready rice paddies were submerged, and joint evacuation and emergency relief operations are under way as authorities monitor declining water levels whilst warning residents to remain vigilant.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:17 WIB
From Mangroves to Heaven
A new ethnographic book, "From Mangroves to Heaven: God Is Never Far Away," offers an intimate portrait of the Asmat people of South Papua through the pastoral letters of Bishop Aloysius Murwito OFM and the fieldwork of ethnographer Evi Aryati Arbay. Rather than treating Asmat as a mere object of study, the work foregrounds the voices of its people, their environment, and their faith, presenting the culturally rich wetland community as a centre of humanity.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:14 WIB
Serang Detention Centre Plans Iftar Gathering for Inmates and Families
The Class IIB Serang Detention Centre is organising a communal iftar programme allowing inmates to break fast with their families during Ramadan, as part of a humanistic approach to correctional rehabilitation. The facility has also arranged a full schedule of spiritual activities including congregational tarawih prayers and Quran recitation, alongside community service initiatives involving inmates cleaning a local grand mosque.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:10 WIB
Eight Million Muhammadiyah Members in East Java Begin First Tarawih Prayers Tonight
Muhammadiyah's East Java branch, comprising eight million members, commenced tarawih prayers on Tuesday evening following the organisation's independent determination that 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Wednesday 18 February 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:07 WIB
Some Aceh Disaster Survivors Return Home Ahead of Ramadan
Survivors of flooding and landslides in Central Aceh's Lut Tawar subdistrict have begun returning to their mud-damaged homes after three months of displacement, motivated by the desire to observe Ramadan in their own residences. The disaster affected 11,657 people across 26 villages, damaging 4,426 homes, and village leaders are now urging the district government to assist with mud clearance so remaining evacuees can also return.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 19:02 WIB
Bangladesh Parliament Inaugurated, Tarique Rahman Sweeps into Prime Minister's Chair
Tarique Rahman has been confirmed as Bangladesh's new prime minister after 297 newly elected MPs from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its Jamaat-e-Islami-led coalition bloc were sworn in. The election, the first since the July 2024 uprising that ended 15 years of Awami League rule, marks the country's return to elected government after 18 months under a Nobel laureate-led caretaker administration.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:59 WIB
Ahead of Ramadan, Deputy House Speaker Inaugurates Relocation of 8 Homes for Arjasari Landslide Victims
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal officially inaugurated the relocation of eight housing units for landslide victims in Arjasari Village, Bandung Regency, West Java. The ceremony included the handover of house keys and property certificates to beneficiaries, timed to coincide with the approach of Ramadan.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:57 WIB
Transport Minister: Lebaran 2026 Travel Movement Likely to Exceed Survey Figures
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi warned that actual Lebaran 2026 travel volumes could surpass the surveyed forecast of 143.9 million travellers, noting that last year's actual figure of 154.6 million significantly exceeded projections. Lampung province, though not among the top five national destinations, ranks as a favourite for Greater Jakarta residents, requiring particular preparedness at Bakauheni Port as the gateway to Sumatra.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:53 WIB
Start of Ramadan Set for Thursday 19 February 2026 as Ministry of Religious Affairs Confirms Crescent Position Falls Short of MABIMS Criteria
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that the crescent moon (hilal) position across the country on 17 February failed to meet the visibility criteria agreed upon by MABIMS member states, placing the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah on Thursday 19 February 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:53 WIB
Vibrant Lunar New Year Celebrations at Boen Tek Bio Temple in Tangerang
Hundreds of worshippers and residents gathered at the historic Boen Tek Bio Temple in Tangerang, Banten, to celebrate Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili (Year of the Fire Horse 2026). The festivثل served as both a religious observance and a symbol of enduring tolerance and communal harmony in Tangerang, with crowds filling the Pasar Lama district from early morning to collect angpao and participate in prayers.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:52 WIB
Andre Rosiade Inaugurates Telkomsel BTS in Garabak Data, Solok
Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade officially launched a Telkomsel base transceiver station in Garabak Data, a remote village in Solok Regency, West Sumatra, ending years of telecommunications blackout in the area. The BTS installation in this designated disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) region is expected to open access to digital services, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for previously isolated residents.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:51 WIB
Lut Tawar agriculture in Aceh stalled due to disaster-damaged irrigation
Agricultural activities in Lut Tawar sub-district, Central Aceh, remain paralysed some 75 days after devastating floods destroyed irrigation channels and buried farmland under mud and debris. The disaster damaged over 12,600 hectares of coffee plantations, 4,100 hectares of chilli fields, and nearly 2,800 hectares of rice paddies, leaving farming communities without livelihoods and facing a lengthy recovery period of at least a year.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:49 WIB
SAR Team Searches for Two Victims of Sunken Vessel in Makassar Strait
A joint search and rescue operation is underway in the Makassar Strait off Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi, for two missing passengers from the KLM Nur Ainun Balqis, which sank after being hit by large waves. Three survivors were found by local fishermen, whilst the search involving navy, police and SAR personnel has been expanded to a 309 nautical mile radius.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:45 WIB
Pidie Regency Distributes 119 Cattle from Presidential Aid for Meugang Tradition
The Pidie Regency government in Aceh distributed 119 cattle purchased with Rp2 billion in presidential aid funds to 5,547 families affected by hydrometeorological disasters for the traditional meugang celebration ahead of Ramadan. The recipients, spread across eight sub-districts and 59 villages, were identified as households whose homes were damaged by flash floods and landslides in late November 2025, with distribution carried out via a coupon system on the first day of meugang.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:44 WIB
Crescent Moon Visibility Fails to Meet Criteria, Theoretically Impossible to Sight
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed that the crescent moon (hilal) was not visible anywhere across the country on 17 February, failing to meet the MABIMS visibility criteria required for determining the start of Ramadan. With the moon positioned below the horizon at sunset, the ministry's astronomical calculations indicate that 1 Ramadan 1447 H will fall on Thursday, 19 February 2026, pending confirmation through the official isbat session.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:29 WIB
Indonesia and Malaysia expand research cooperation on food security and AI
Indonesia and Malaysia have agreed to establish joint working groups to advance research collaboration in food security and artificial intelligence. Higher Education Ministers from both countries met to formalise the partnership, which will involve universities under the Malaysia-Indonesia Academic Consortium (KAMI). The initiative reflects Indonesia's broader strategy to leverage international academic partnerships for applied research addressing national and regional development challenges.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:24 WIB
KIKA Condemns Terror Campaign against UGM Student Executive Board Chairman
The Indonesian Caucus for Academic Freedom (KIKA) has strongly condemned a series of terror attacks, intimidation, and threats targeting the chairman of Gadjah Mada University's Student Executive Board, who had publicly criticised the government's free nutritious meals programme.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:20 WIB
National Crescent Moon Observation Confirms Ramadan to Begin on 19 February
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that Ramadan 1447 H will commence on Thursday, 19 February 2026, after the crescent moon (hilal) observed on 17 February failed to meet the MABIMS visibility criteria. The hilal's altitude and elongation across Indonesian territory fell well below the minimum thresholds of 3 degrees and 6.4 degrees respectively, with official confirmation to follow through the government's isbat session.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:20 WIB
Seven Suitcases Belonging to Thai Tourists Stolen at Bromo, Police Form Special Team
Police in Probolinggo, East Java, have formed a special team to investigate the theft of seven suitcases belonging to Thai tourists at Mount Bromo, a major international tourist destination. The incident, which occurred on 15 February when the tourists' locked vehicle was broken into at Sukapura sub-district, has raised concerns about security at one of Indonesia's most prominent tourism sites. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses as the investigation continues.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:17 WIB
Insider Snaps Up Rp1.39 Billion in MDKA Shares — Bullish Signal or Red Flag for the Public?
A commissioner of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk (MDKA), Andrew Phillip Starkey, purchased 450,000 shares worth approximately Rp1.39 billion across two transactions in early February 2026, boosting his holding to 3.73 million shares. The insider buying, conducted amid a period of share price strength with MDKA gaining over 11 per cent in five trading days, is widely interpreted as a vote of confidence in the mining firm's long-term prospects amid robust global metals demand.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:15 WIB
Transmigration Minister Says Rempang Situation Now More Peaceful, Investment Climate Increasingly Conducive
Indonesia's Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanegara has declared the Rempang development area in Batam significantly calmer over the past year, creating a more favourable investment climate. The government has issued land ownership certificates to hundreds of residents relocated to Tanjung Banon, notably after President Prabowo Subianto's administration removed Rempang Eco City from the National Strategic Projects list following earlier community resistance.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:13 WIB
Traffic Police Assistance to Stranded Motorist on Cipularang Toll Road Earns Praise from National Traffic Corps Chief
The head of Indonesia's National Traffic Corps (Korlantas), Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, commended highway patrol officers and Jasa Marga staff for promptly assisting a motorist with a blown tyre on the Cipularang toll road. The incident was held up as an example of the "Polantas Menyapa dan Melayani" (Traffic Police Greet and Serve) programme, which aims to transform the police force's public image from one focused on enforcement to one centred on community service.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:13 WIB
Minister urges anticipating extreme weather during Eid travel season
Transportation Minister Purwagandhi has called for coordination with BMKG to mitigate extreme weather risks during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr travel season, including potential weather modification measures for ferry crossings. An estimated 143.9 million people are projected to travel during the period, with the government preparing over 35,000 transport units and establishing Eid travel command posts from 13 March.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:10 WIB
Al-Aqsa Mosque Imam Arrested by Israeli Police
Israeli occupation police arrested the Imam of Al-Aqsa Mosque, Sheikh Mohammad Ali Al-Abbasi, in the mosque's courtyard in occupied Jerusalem on Monday evening, 16 February 2026. The arrest comes amid an escalation of Israeli authority actions targeting Al-Aqsa Mosque, including restrictions on religious figures and worshippers' access, as well as increased settler incursions escorted by Israeli police.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 18:09 WIB
Hilal Below Horizon Across Indonesia: Situbondo Calculation Team Forecasts Start of Ramadan Fasting on Thursday
The Situbondo Calculation and Moon Sighting Body reported that the hilal (new crescent moon) was positioned below the horizon across all of Indonesia, meaning it could not be observed. As a result, the month of Sha'ban will be completed at 30 days, with the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah expected to fall on Thursday, 19 February 2026, pending confirmation from the government's Isbat Session.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:56 WIB
Overcast Skies and Rain Mean Ramadan Crescent Unlikely to Be Seen in Bandung
The BMKG's Bandung Geophysics Station predicted that the Ramadan 1447 Hijriah crescent moon (hilal) would not be visible in Bandung on 17 February 2026 due to thick cloud cover and light rain. Despite unfavourable conditions, the official hilal observation was still conducted at the Albiruni Observatory of Universitas Islam Bandung in coordination with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Regional Hisab Rukyat Body.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:55 WIB
Minister AHY Celebrates Lunar New Year in Batam, Praises City's Harmony and Progress
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) attended Lunar New Year 2577 celebrations in Batam for the first time, praising the city's multicultural harmony and strategic economic role. AHY underscored Batam's importance as a gateway to Southeast Asian and global economies, affirming the Prabowo government's focus on strengthening infrastructure and strategic economic zones.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:55 WIB
Crescent Moon Still Below Horizon in Lombok, NTB: BMKG Explains
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported that the crescent moon (hilal) remained below the horizon at the North Lombok observation centre, with a height of minus 1.268 degrees, making it astronomically unobservable. The observation is part of the nationwide hilal sighting across 133 points coordinated by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and BMKG to officially determine the start of Ramadan for Indonesian Muslims.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:53 WIB
BGN narrows Bali free meals scope during Chinese New Year break
Indonesia's free meals agency (BGN) has temporarily scaled back its flagship MBG programme in Bali during the Chinese New Year school holiday, redirecting resources to serve pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and toddlers through coordination with local health posts. Of the 178 MBG kitchens in the province, 147 are currently serving these priority groups across all districts, while meal distribution to schoolchildren remains on standby until classes resume.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:52 WIB
Ministry of Religious Affairs Rukyat Team: 1 Ramadan 1447 H Falls on 19 February 2026 by Astronomical Calculation
The Ministry of Religious Affairs' hilal observation team has announced that based on the MABIMS imkanurrukyat astronomical calculation, 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026. However, the official determination awaits the isbat session, as Indonesia's hilal position had not yet met MABIMS criteria at the time of the presentation, with the crescent moon expected to fulfil the required parameters two days later.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:50 WIB
Denpasar Mayor Faces Police Report Over Erroneous Claims About Health Insurance Deactivation
A community forum plans to report Denpasar Mayor I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Negara to police for falsely attributing the deactivation of subsidised health insurance (PBI JK) for higher-income brackets to a direct presidential order from Prabowo Subianto. The mayor has since apologised, admitting he misspoke and meant to reference Presidential Instruction No.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:50 WIB
Nightlife Venues and Massage Parlours in Makassar Shut Down for Ramadan
The Makassar city government has issued a circular ordering the temporary closure of all nightlife entertainment venues, karaoke establishments, and massage parlours during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah and Nyepi celebrations. Mayor Munafri Arifuddin emphasised the policy reflects the city's commitment to balancing economic activity with religious values and social order, whilst the tourism agency framed it as part of building an ethical and culturally respectful tourism sector.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:49 WIB
Ministry of Religious Affairs Isbat Session: By Hisab Calculation, 1 Ramadan Falls on 19 February
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has determined through astronomical calculation (hisab) that 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026, after the new crescent moon (hilal) was not visible above the horizon on 17 February, failing to meet MABIMS visibility criteria.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:44 WIB
Ramadan Crescent Moon Not Visible in Surabaya, Still Below Horizon
Observations conducted by Sunan Ampel Islamic State University in Surabaya confirmed the Ramadan crescent moon (hilal) was not visible on Tuesday, with its position at -1 degree 16 minutes — well below the MABIMS criteria required for the determination of the new Islamic month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:35 WIB
AHY Hopes Batam Will Continue Transformation Into Global Economic Gateway at Lunar New Year Celebration
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono attended the Lunar New Year 2577 celebration in Batam, expressing hope that the city will fulfil its original design as a strategic economic gateway to Southeast Asia and the world.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:33 WIB
UGM Student Body Chairman Criticises Government Over Activist Intimidation
The chairman of Gadjah Mada University's Student Executive Body has accused the Prabowo-Gibran administration of cowardice for its passive response to intimidation against government critics. Following BEM UGM's open letter to UNICEF about a child suicide in East Nusa Tenggara, student leaders received anonymous threats including kidnapping warnings, prompting a wider debate about civic freedoms.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:31 WIB
Aftermath of Cibubur Mall Fire Caused by Billboard Welding Sparks
A fire broke out at Ciputra Mall in Cibubur, Bekasi, on the ground floor above the main lobby entrance, triggered by sparks from a billboard logo welding project. The Bekasi City fire brigade extinguished the blaze within 40 minutes, with no casualties reported and the mall continuing normal operations despite an 8x6-metre area of damage.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:31 WIB
Local Sighting or Global Crescent? Weighing the Start of Ramadan 1447 H
An Islamic studies scholar examines the theological and astronomical debate over whether Indonesia should determine the start of Ramadan 1447 H based on local moon sighting (ru'yat) or accept global crescent observations, such as those from Alaska.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:25 WIB
Depok Police Chief Inspects Gayatri Temple, Ensures Lunar New Year Celebrations Are Safe
Depok Metro Police Chief Kombes Abdul Waras personally inspected Lunar New Year 2026 celebrations at Gayatri Temple in Tapos, Depok, declaring them safe and orderly. A combined force of 176 military and police personnel was deployed across worship sites, with three priority locations identified based on congregation size. Temple administrators reported increased attendance compared to previous years, citing improved security and a greater sense of religious tolerance.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:18 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya's Hopes for Prosperity as Indonesia Marks Lunar New Year 2026
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed hopes for Indonesia to become a prosperous and advanced nation as the country celebrated Lunar New Year 2026. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani and Coordinating Minister AHY echoed similar sentiments, emphasising national unity, diversity, and collective welfare as key themes for the year ahead.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:14 WIB
Ciputra Cibubur Mall Fire Allegedly Caused by Billboard Welding
A fire broke out at Ciputra Cibubur Mall in Bekasi, West Java, allegedly sparked by welding work on a billboard logo. The Bekasi City Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the blaze was brought under control by 14:22 local time, with sparks from the welding process identified as the suspected cause.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:13 WIB
South Sulawesi Hisab Rukyat Body Sets 1 Ramadan 1447 H on 19 February
The South Sulawesi Hisab Rukyat Body has determined that the first day of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026, after astronomical calculations showed the crescent moon (hilal) was not visible in Makassar's sky. The final determination rests with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, which was set to convene an isbat session to officially confirm the start of the fasting month nationwide.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:11 WIB
Lunar New Year 2026: Traffic Police Clear Toll Road Shoulders of Lorries, Traffic Flows Smoothly
Indonesia's National Traffic Police Corps (Korlantas) conducted enforcement operations to clear lorries illegally parked on toll road shoulders during the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday period, covering major routes including Cikampek, Cipali, and Jagorawi. Whilst traffic was generally reported as smooth, road repairs caused localised congestion, and a one-way traffic system was implemented on the Jagorawi toll road to manage return-holiday flows towards Jakarta.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:10 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Explains Hotel Venue for Isbat Session: Road Works Leave No Parking
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar explained that the Isbat session to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah was relocated from the Ministry's auditorium to Hotel Borobudur due to ongoing road construction on Jalan Thamrin that eliminated parking availability. The minister stressed the venue change was purely a technical matter and expressed hope that future sessions would return to the Ministry once road repairs are completed.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:08 WIB
Al Falah Ploso Islamic Boarding School Declares Start of Ramadan as 19 February 2026
The Al Falah Islamic boarding school in Ploso, Kediri, East Java, has declared 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah to fall on Thursday, 19 February 2026, based on its own astronomical calculations showing the crescent moon at a height of 11 degrees 57 minutes.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:05 WIB
Riau Police Chief Explores River Village, Urges Residents to Preserve Culture and Nature
Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan joined a river exploration eco-tourism event in Bokor Village, Meranti Islands Regency, promoting the force's "Green Policing" programme that integrates environmental protection into law enforcement. Beyond cultural and environmental advocacy, the police chief pledged material support for local fishermen, including boat engines to bolster the coastal economy across 166 small islands facing the Strait of Malacca.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:03 WIB
Daop 9 Stages Barongsai Performances to Celebrate Lunar New Year at Jember and Banyuwangi Stations
PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Operational Area 9 in Jember staged barongsai (lion dance) performances and distributed free refreshments at stations in Jember and Banyuwangi to mark Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:03 WIB
Flooded public cemetery fails to deter residents from visiting family graves ahead of Ramadan
Residents in Jakarta braved floodwaters at Semper Public Cemetery (TPU Semper) to visit family graves ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. The tradition of grave pilgrimages before Ramadan, in which Muslims pray for deceased relatives, continued despite the cemetery being submerged by flooding.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 17:00 WIB
The Great Spiritual Reset: Restoring the Spirit of Ramadan Amid the Currents of the Age
A prominent speaker was invited to deliver a grand sermon at the Quranic Garden of Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta on Saturday, 14 February 2026, to welcome the holy month of Ramadan. The lecture, addressed to university students, focused on reclaiming the spiritual essence of Ramadan in the face of modern challenges.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:59 WIB
Yogyakarta Rukyat Body Confident Crescent Moon Will Not Be Visible Today, Ramadan to Begin Day After Tomorrow
The Yogyakarta Hisab Rukyat Body (BHR DIY) has expressed confidence that the crescent moon (hilal) marking the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah will not be visible today, as it remains below the horizon at sunset across all of Indonesia. Despite this certainty, the body will proceed with formal observations at the Bukit Syekh Belabelu observation post in Bantul as a procedural requirement for the government's Isbat session, with Ramadan expected to commence the day after tomorrow.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:57 WIB
Indonesian Military Completes Armco Bridge Construction in Koto Malintang, Agam
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have nearly completed construction of an armco bridge in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, with an inauguration planned for 23 February 2026. The six-metre bridge replaces a crossing destroyed by flash floods in November 2025, restoring vital transport access for local farmers and schoolchildren who had been forced to take lengthy detours through neighbouring areas.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:56 WIB
Flash Flood Survivors in Agam Welcome Ramadan with Joy at Temporary Shelters
Survivors of flash floods and landslides in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, have expressed gratitude at being able to welcome Ramadan 1447 Hijriah from temporary shelters (huntara) built by Danantara and state-owned construction firm PT Nindya Karya. Some 35 households from two affected hamlets moved into the shelters on 14 February, with local authorities calling for continued support through to the construction of permanent housing.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:53 WIB
Expert Reveals Why Islamic Banks Are More Expensive
Handi Risza, Vice Rector of Paramadina University and Deputy Head of CSED-INDEF, attributes the perception that Islamic banking is more expensive to the sector's heavy reliance on murabahah (cost-plus sale) contracts with fixed margins, which appear costlier than conventional banks' initially lower floating rates.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:53 WIB
Trump Says US Currently in Negotiations with Cuba to Reach Deal
US President Donald Trump has announced that his administration is currently in talks with Cuba, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading the negotiations. The statement comes amid Washington's reimposition of a blockade on Cuba, including a fuel embargo, as part of broader efforts to pressure the communist government, while Trump declined to rule out military action against the island nation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:52 WIB
Four Armed Criminal Group Members Under Elkius Kobak Arrested in Dekai
Security forces arrested four members of an armed criminal group (KKB) led by Elkius Kobak in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua, with two suspects identified as perpetrators of a school arson attack. The same group is also linked to the fatal shooting of a Smart Air aircraft in Korowai Batu, South Papua, which killed two crew members, though no arrests have yet been made in that case.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:51 WIB
Minister of Religious Affairs Arrives at Venue for Isbat Session to Determine 1 Ramadan 1447 H
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar arrived at Hotel Borobudur in Central Jakarta for the isbat session to officially determine the start of Ramadan 1447 H. The session was relocated from the Ministry of Religious Affairs office due to ongoing road construction on Jalan Thamrin causing parking and access concerns. The minister confirmed all preparations were complete and urged all parties to await the official announcement following the session.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:51 WIB
Ministry of Women's Empowerment Pushes for Women's Involvement in Social Forestry Management
Deputy Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Veronica Tan has called for greater inclusion of women in social forestry management, arguing that administrative reforms are needed to ensure women workers are formally recognised and have direct access to economic benefits.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:49 WIB
BRIN Highlights Weaknesses in Single Global Hijri Calendar Concept for Determining Start of Ramadan
Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has raised concerns about the Single Global Hijri Calendar concept, arguing that its global reference lines fail to account for Indonesia's distinct astronomical and atmospheric conditions.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:45 WIB
Catholic Church in Kupang Holds Lunar New Year Mass
A Catholic church in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, celebrated Lunar New Year 2577 with a special Eucharistic Mass themed "Harmony in Diversity." The event at Santa Maria Assumpta Church, led by Parish Priest Father Rudy Tjung Lake, exemplifies Indonesia's interfaith and multicultural traditions, with the priest distributing traditional red envelopes (angpau) to children during the celebration.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:45 WIB
Nightlife Venues in Jakarta Required to Close During Ramadan, with Exceptions
The Jakarta provincial government has mandated the closure of nightclubs, discotheques, bars and other adult entertainment venues from one day before Ramadan through to one day after the second day of Eid al-Fitr. Exceptions apply to establishments located in four- and five-star hotels and designated commercial zones, provided they are not near residential areas, places of worship, schools or hospitals, with operating hours restricted to 8.30pm–1.30am. The policy, issued under Announcement No.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:43 WIB
Haedar Nashir Urges Muslims to Make Ramadan a Social Canopy
Muhammadiyah chairman Haedar Nashir has called on Muslims to respond wisely and with tolerance to differences in determining the start of Ramadan 1447 H, noting that such variations will persist until the Islamic world adopts a unified calendar. He urged the faithful to focus on the substantive purpose of fasting — attaining piety and strengthening social relations — rather than allowing disputes over dates to disrupt the holy month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:43 WIB
Tidal Flooding on North Coast Recedes, Surabaya-Gresik Traffic Returns to Normal
Tidal flooding that paralysed the Surabaya-Gresik corridor in the Osowilangun coastal area has receded, with the Surabaya municipal government deploying round-the-clock teams to clear underground drainage channels and operate pump stations. The incident highlights the need for cross-agency coordination between local and central government to manage major waterways, as Indonesia's meteorological agency BMKG has warned of continued tidal surge and extreme weather risks through 20-21 February 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:43 WIB
Inkoppas Urges DKI Jakarta to Consider Economic Impact of Smoke-Free Zone Regulation
The Indonesian Market Traders' Cooperative Federation (Inkoppas) has called on Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo to carefully assess the economic consequences of Regional Regulation No. 7/2025 on Smoke-Free Zones before issuing implementing guidelines. The federation warns that restrictions on tobacco product display, advertising and sales could severely harm small traders and market cooperatives, urging field studies before any governor's regulation is enacted.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:43 WIB
Pilgrim Visits Surge at Bogor's Dreded Cemetery Ahead of Ramadan
The Dreded Public Cemetery in South Bogor has seen a sharp increase in visitors as residents flock to pay respects to deceased family members ahead of Ramadan. The government is set to hold an isbat session led by Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:41 WIB
AHY Attends Chinese New Year 2577 Celebration in Batam, Urges Hard Work and Bold Transformation
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono attended the Year of the Fire Horse Chinese New Year celebration in Batam, calling on citizens to embrace the spirit of hard work, courage and transformation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:37 WIB
Hizbullah warns Israel of potential "painful" response
Hizbullah leader Naim Qassem warned that Israel would face a "painful" response if tensions escalate, whilst accusing the United States of directly supporting Israeli military operations and regional expansion. Speaking at a memorial ceremony, Qassem described Israel as an "expansionist entity" pursuing a "maximum pressure" strategy, and characterised Washington as a "full partner" in Israel's territorial and military campaigns.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:37 WIB
What Time Is Today's Annular Solar Eclipse and What Are Its Effects?
An annular solar eclipse occurred on 17 February 2026, though it was not visible from Indonesia as its path crossed Antarctica, southern Africa, and parts of South America. Indonesia's meteorological agency BMKG issued warnings about high waves in the Riau Islands, particularly around Anambas and Natuna, driven by active west monsoon winds coinciding with the eclipse period, urging fishermen and maritime transport operators to exercise caution.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:36 WIB
Police Deploy Tight Security for Lunar New Year Worship in Bengkayang
Bengkayang Police deployed 87 joint personnel to secure Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili celebrations across 38 temples and viharas in six sub-districts of Bengkayang Regency, West Kalimantan, with an estimated 3,315 worshippers attending. The operation included multi-layered security at houses of worship, coordination with fire services and the state electricity company, and traffic management at key intersections, with authorities reporting no security disturbances through midday.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:32 WIB
38 MSMEs Participate in Mimika Lunar New Year Market Festival
A total of 38 micro, small and medium enterprises participated in the 2026 Lunar New Year Market Festival organised by the Indonesian Chinese Social Association (PSMTI) in Mimika Regency, Central Papua. The three-day festival aimed to promote Chinese-Indonesian culture whilst boosting the local economy, with some stalls reportedly earning up to Rp3 million per day and the regional crafts council showcasing indigenous Kamoro tribal carvings and woven goods from local artisans.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:30 WIB
Yogyakarta Islamic Calendar Authority: Ramadhan Crescent Moon Impossible to Sight in the Region
The Yogyakarta Hisab Rukyat Board (BHR DIY) has confirmed that the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadhan 1447 Hijriah is impossible to observe in the region, as it sits 1.5 degrees below the horizon at sunset — well short of the MABIMS criteria requiring a minimum altitude of 3 degrees.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:28 WIB
BMKG Warns of Potential Extreme Weather in West Java Over Coming Week
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast light to heavy rainfall potentially accompanied by lightning and strong winds across West Java over the coming week. The warning underscores ongoing weather monitoring efforts by the state agency as the region faces heightened risks during the current season.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:27 WIB
Banten Provincial Government Sets Civil Servant Working Hours to 06:30–14:00 During Ramadan
The Banten Provincial Government has issued a circular adjusting civil servant working hours during Ramadan 2026, shifting the start time to 06:30 whilst maintaining the mandatory 35-hour weekly requirement set by a joint ministerial decree. The policy also introduces a Work From Anywhere arrangement on specific dates to support the management of Eid al-Fitr holiday traffic flows, with performance assessment and disciplinary sanctions remaining in full effect throughout the fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:27 WIB
Crescent Moon Not Visible in Ambon, Moon's Position Still Below the Horizon
The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported that the crescent moon (hilal) marking the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah was not visible in Ambon's skies, as the moon remained below the horizon at sunset. The agency said it would follow established procedures and defer to the central government's determination of the start of the Ramadan fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:24 WIB
Military and Police Secure Wamena-Kelila Road in Papua After Landslide
Joint military and police forces have been deployed to secure the Wamena-Kelila road in Papua after landslides triggered by heavy rain severed the route at five points. Authorities warn that delays in repairing the damaged road sections could disrupt the distribution of essential goods and drive up prices of basic commodities in the affected districts of Mamberamo Tengah Regency.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:24 WIB
DKI Jakarta Invites Elderly Residents to Join Lunar New Year Celebrations at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout
The DKI Jakarta provincial government invited 60 elderly residents to participate in the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, reinforcing the capital's commitment to being an inclusive, tolerant and age-friendly global city.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:24 WIB
At 76 Years Old, BTN Has Disbursed 5.97 Million Housing Loan Units Worth Rp555 Trillion
State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) marked its 76th anniversary having disbursed 5.97 million housing credit units valued at Rp555.11 trillion since its founding on 9 February 1950. The milestone underscores BTN's central role in Indonesia's housing finance sector as the country's principal mortgage lender.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:23 WIB
Follow-up Flooding Again Damages Residential Areas in Nagari Sungai Batang
A follow-up flood on 11 February struck Nagari Sungai Batang in Agam regency, West Sumatra, burying roads and homes under rocks and sand just weeks after clean-up from the original November 2025 flash flood had been completed. The recurring disaster highlights the ongoing vulnerability of settlements in the area and the futility of recovery efforts without longer-term mitigation measures.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:22 WIB
Perminas and NEM Sign Rare Earth MoU to Strengthen Upstream-Downstream Integration
Indonesia's newly established state-owned mineral company Perminas and Abu Dhabi-based New Energy Metals Holdings (NEM), backed by Danantara Indonesia, have signed an MoU to develop the rare earth value chain spanning Gabon's Maboumine resource and downstream processing in Indonesia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:21 WIB
Indonesian Foreign Minister Reaffirms Support for Palestine in Meeting with UN Envoy
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono met Palestine's Permanent Representative to the UN, Riyad Mansour, in New York ahead of a UN Security Council session on the Middle East, reaffirming Indonesia's commitment to a just and lasting peace through the Two-State Solution.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:20 WIB
Former US Special Envoy Highlights Indonesia's Strategic Role in Russia–Ukraine Conflict
Former US Special Envoy for Ukraine Kurt Volker has identified Indonesia as a potential key player in global geopolitics, particularly regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, urging Jakarta to position itself as an agenda setter at the G20 Miami summit. Volker suggested Indonesia could serve as a bridge between the West and the Global South, framing the conflict as modern colonialism, whilst also warning that purchasing Russian oil and gas effectively funds the continuation of the war.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:16 WIB
Thousands of Tourists Visit Thousand Islands During Lunar New Year Holiday
The Thousand Islands Tourism and Creative Economy Agency recorded 3,524 domestic and international tourists visiting the archipelago during the Lunar New Year holiday period of 14-16 February 2026. Visitors arrived through three main entry points, with Muara Angke Pier handling the largest share, reflecting strong demand for the destination and underscoring the area's growing importance to Jakarta's tourism economy.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:16 WIB
The Story of Aipda Sugeng's Mobile Coffee Cart: Bringing the Police Closer to the Community
A police officer in Surabaya has devised an innovative community policing programme called "Kobin" (Kopi Cak Bhabin), using a mobile coffee cart to foster informal dialogue with residents and gather intelligence on local security concerns.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:15 WIB
New Capital IKN Hosts Ramadan Moon Sighting for the First Time in East Kalimantan
Indonesia's new capital Nusantara (IKN) will serve as a hilal observation point for the first time to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, as part of 133 simultaneous monitoring locations across the country. The East Kalimantan office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs is coordinating with BMKG and MUI, with results to be reported to Jakarta for the Isbat Session that will officially determine the first day of fasting.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:12 WIB
Viral 'Wailing Wall': Visitors Asked Not to Wail at Jokowi's Residence
Former President Joko Widodo's private residence in Solo has gone viral after it was labelled "Solo's Wailing Wall" on Google Maps, prompting young people to film themselves wailing at the gates in an apparent political satire. Jokowi's adjutant confirmed there are no restrictions on visitors but urged the public to refrain from performing wailing acts at the property.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:11 WIB
Presidential cattle aid for 'meugang' tradition reaches Langkahan flood refugees
President Prabowo Subianto's cattle donations for the traditional Acehnese meugang celebration ahead of Ramadan have reached flood refugees in North Aceh's Langkahan district, an area devastated by flash floods in late November 2025. The Aceh government confirmed the president transferred more than Rp72.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:10 WIB
KM Intim Teratai Sinks off Makian Island in North Maluku, All 144 Passengers Safe
The fast passenger vessel KM Intim Teratai ran aground and capsized after striking a reef off Makian Island in South Halmahera, North Maluku, in the early hours of Tuesday morning. All 144 passengers were successfully evacuated to a nearby village beach using the ship's lifeboats, with the Ternate Search and Rescue Agency deploying additional rescue teams to the scene.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:07 WIB
Deputy Coordinating Minister Otto: Restorative Justice a Pillar of Health Law Enforcement
Deputy Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Otto Hasibuan has emphasised the importance of restorative justice in health law enforcement, aiming to prevent the criminalisation of medical professionals whilst protecting patient rights.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:05 WIB
Indonesia prioritises elderly pilgrims' protection in 2026 Hajj
Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah has outlined a preventive health strategy for the 2026 Hajj season, focusing on protecting elderly and high-risk pilgrims through tightened health screenings and fitness requirements before departure. The government is also optimising the Murur and Tanazul schemes in Saudi Arabia to reduce physical strain and overcrowding, and has proposed stationing medical personnel along key pilgrimage routes for faster emergency response.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:05 WIB
Sigi Regency Government Urges Village Heads and Sub-District Chiefs to Support Regional Cleanliness Programme
The Sigi Regency government in Central Sulawesi is pushing village heads and sub-district chiefs to implement the Pakagali Pakagaya Ngata cleanliness programme, a priority local government innovation aimed at fostering clean living and environmental health.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:04 WIB
Bogor's Tirta Kahuripan Water Utility Anticipates Supply Disruptions During Ramadan
Bogor Regency's municipal water utility, Perumda Tirta Kahuripan, has placed technical staff and rapid response teams on 24-hour standby ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, as the district remains under extreme weather alert through March 2026. The utility warned that landslides, flash floods, and elevated river turbidity could force production cutbacks, and urged customers to store reserve water supplies amid potential service disruptions.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 16:03 WIB
The Steadfastness of Our Surau
A reflective essay marks the enduring relevance of AA Navis's landmark 1956 short story "Robohnya Surau Kami" (The Collapse of Our Surau), which critiqued religious fanaticism at the expense of social responsibility. The piece draws a parallel between the story's themes and Imam Hamka, a Sumatran flood survivor who embodies quiet devotion and social service rather than performative piety.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:58 WIB
Cyber University Visits PT VAST on Industrial Education Trip
Cyber University conducted an industrial education trip (Edutrip) from 9-12 February 2026, which included a visit to PT VAST in Johor, Malaysia on its second day. The programme aims to expose students to real-world industry operations and bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice in the technology sector.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:55 WIB
Purbaya: Sharia Economy Must Become Mainstream, Not Merely a Label
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has called for Indonesia's sharia economy to move beyond mere rebranding of conventional financial terms and become a genuine pillar of national development strategy alongside the green and digital economies.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:55 WIB
Dugderan 2026 Becomes Momentum to Strengthen Harmony and Generational Transfer of Tradition
The Semarang city government held its annual Dugderan festival on 16 February 2026, marking the approach of Ramadan with a cultural parade involving thousands of participants from 16 sub-districts. Mayor Agustina Wilujeng highlighted innovations including the first-ever children's parade as a vehicle for cultural regeneration, and emphasised the festival's role in promoting interfaith harmony as it coincided with Lunar New Year and pre-Easter Lent observances.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:54 WIB
East Java Police Build Community Ties Through 'Kopi Cak Bhabin' Programme
East Java's community policing officers (Bhabinkamtibmas) have launched an innovative outreach programme called Kopi Cak Bhabin (Kobin), using bicycles equipped with coffee-making facilities to engage with residents during neighbourhood patrols. The initiative, funded from officers' personal resources and offering free coffee, was praised by a visiting delegation from the House of Representatives' Commission VII during a trip to Surabaya's Batik Okra Village.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:54 WIB
Transport Minister: Anticipating Extreme Weather During 2026 Lebaran Holiday Transport
Indonesia's Transport Minister has outlined preparations to ensure smooth ferry crossings between Java and Sumatra during the 2026 Lebaran holiday transport period, including coordination with the meteorological agency BMKG and possible weather modification measures. The government is also deploying additional joint personnel to manage traffic congestion and mitigate accident risks, with the official Lebaran transport command post set to begin operations on 13 March.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:50 WIB
Indonesia and Malaysia Ready to Strengthen Research and Higher Education Collaboration
Indonesia and Malaysia have agreed in principle to establish joint working groups in food security, green economy, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence, following a meeting between the two countries' higher education ministers. The collaboration will involve selected universities and researchers from both nations under the Malaysia–Indonesia Academic Consortium (KAMI), marking a significant step in regional research cooperation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:50 WIB
Chronology of Vicky Prasetyo's Alleged Embezzlement of Rp700 Million in Political Funds
Television presenter Vicky Prasetyo has been reported to police for allegedly embezzling Rp700 million from a woman named Nunun Lusida, who claims the funds were solicited as political campaign capital for a deputy regent candidacy in West Bandung Regency. The complainant states the promised candidacy never materialised, the money was never returned despite repeated demands and a formal legal notice, and the matter has now been filed with Cimahi Police.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:47 WIB
National algorithms and agents of change in the digital era
An opinion piece argues that Indonesia's national resilience now faces significant threats from digital algorithms that drive polarisation, disinformation and the delegitimisation of the state. Drawing on the author's experience at the National Resilience Institute's (Lemhannas) Values Consolidation Programme, the article contends that the battleground for nationalism has shifted from physical territory to algorithmic space, requiring new forms of national vigilance.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:47 WIB
Chinese New Year 2026: Dharma Bakti Temple in West Jakarta Implements Rotation Entry System
Dharma Bakti Temple in Tamansari, West Jakarta, has introduced a rotation entry system for the 2026 Chinese New Year celebrations, anticipating thousands of worshippers. The temple is operating around the clock but limiting evening visits to 7pm and managing crowd flow in stages due to limited indoor capacity.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:47 WIB
Muhammadiyah: Differences in Determining the Start of Ramadan Must Be Approached Wisely
Muhammadiyah Chairman Haedar Nashir has called on Indonesian Muslims to respect differences in determining the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, urging an attitude of wisdom and tolerance rather than mutual blame. The organisation has set 1 Ramadan as falling on 18 February 2026, based on astronomical calculations and the Global Calendar Parameter system, which identifies qualifying moon sighting conditions in the Americas to establish a unified global date.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:43 WIB
Lunar New Year Trinket Vendors on Jalan Pancoran Raya Vacate Their Stalls
Lunar New Year trinket vendors along Jalan Pancoran Raya in Jakarta's Glodok Chinatown district largely cleared out by Tuesday afternoon, leaving only one stall remaining on the holiday itself. Meanwhile, the nearby Petak Sembilan temple district saw heavy crowds at Vihara Dharma Bhakti, where security officers struggled to manage welfare-dependent individuals gathering to seek red envelope donations from worshippers.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:42 WIB
Disaster Survivors in Hutanabolon Welcome Baznas Emergency Mosque Aid
The National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has constructed a semi-permanent emergency mosque for displaced flood survivors in Hutanabolon, Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, ahead of Ramadan. Dozens of families who have been living in overcrowded temporary shelters since flash floods struck in November 2025 had been unable to perform regular prayers due to lack of space, prompting coordination with Baznas for the facility.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:42 WIB
Advisory Board: European Union Not Ready to Face Extreme Weather
The European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change has declared that the EU is unprepared for the worsening impacts of climate change. The advisory body is urging Europe to do significantly more to address the growing threat of extreme weather events.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:40 WIB
Muhammadiyah Chairman Urges Wise Response to Ramadan Start Date Differences
Muhammadiyah Chairman Haedar Nashir has called on Indonesian Muslims to respond wisely and tolerantly to the likely discrepancy over the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, with Muhammadiyah setting 1 Ramadan on Wednesday 18 February and the government expected to declare Thursday 19 February following its hilal observation session.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:40 WIB
Cibubur Mall Fire Caused by Welding Sparks from Billboard Logo Project
A fire broke out at Ciputra Mall in Cibubur, Bekasi, on Tuesday afternoon, caused by welding sparks from a billboard logo installation project. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within 30 minutes, with the affected area measuring 8x6 metres and no casualties reported.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:38 WIB
Lunar New Year Celebrations in Semarang: Mayor Emphasises Unity and City Harmony
Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng used the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations at the historic Sam Poo Kong temple to promote inter-ethnic harmony, announcing plans for Semarang to host the National Imlek celebration next year. The event engaged 250 MSME traders, generating notable economic activity, whilst the mayor highlighted the unique convergence of Lunar New Year, the pre-Ramadan Dugderan tradition, and the pre-Easter period as a symbol of the city's peaceful coexistence.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:38 WIB
Cyber University Studies Singapore Management University's Learning System Through Edutrip Programme
Indonesia's Cyber University, branding itself as the country's first fintech university, sent students and lecturers on an academic visit to Singapore Management University as part of a four-day edutrip across Singapore and Malaysia from 9–12 February 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:36 WIB
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Urges Kostrad Forces to Strengthen Combat Capabilities
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago visited the 2nd Infantry Division of Kostrad in Malang, East Java, urging the strategic reserve command to bolster its combat readiness as the nation's frontline ground defence force. He emphasised that elite forces must train continuously rather than only before operations, and called for competent, front-line leadership throughout the officer corps.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:36 WIB
Aceh Secretary Urges Acceleration of Disaster Relief Ahead of Ramadan
Aceh's Regional Secretary M Nasir has called on government agencies to expedite post-disaster recovery efforts, particularly the relocation of displaced residents from emergency tents to temporary shelters ahead of Ramadan.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:35 WIB
Temporary Shelter Residents Clean Surroundings Ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah
Residents of temporary shelters in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, displaced by flash floods in late 2025, are carrying out communal clean-up efforts ahead of Ramadan. Despite living in temporary housing, the community maintains traditional pre-Ramadan preparations, including clearing yards and repairing muddy access roads, whilst planning to use a nearby prayer hall for tarawih prayers during the fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:32 WIB
Bantul Regent: Staple food price rises will not exceed purchasing power
The Bantul regency government in Yogyakarta has assured residents that staple food price increases ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah will remain within the public's purchasing power. Local authorities are conducting daily market monitoring of essential commodities and report that current stocks, particularly rice, remain adequate with no significant price spikes observed.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:30 WIB
BRI Group Shines Again on Global Stage, Wins Four Prestigious Awards from Alpha Southeast Asia 2025
BRI Group secured four prestigious awards at the 19th ESG Green Finance Awards 2025 and 19th Annual Borrower Issuer Awards 2025 held by Alpha Southeast Asia in Singapore, making it the Indonesian financial institution with the most accolades at the event. The awards recognise the state-owned banking group's commitment to ESG-aligned financing instruments, including social bonds and sukuk, reinforcing its role in advancing financial inclusion and sustainable development goals.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:30 WIB
Prabowo Extends Lunar New Year Greetings: May It Bring Prosperity
President Prabowo Subianto conveyed Lunar New Year greetings to Indonesia's Chinese community, expressing hopes that the occasion would strengthen national unity and bring prosperity to all Indonesians. The 2026 Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse in Chinese astrology, which feng shui experts say carries powerful but volatile energy requiring careful management.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:29 WIB
Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Group Chases Female Israeli Soldiers in Protest Against Compulsory Military Service
A group of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men chased two female Israeli soldiers through the city of Bnei Brak, triggering clashes that required riot police intervention and resulted in 23 arrests. The incident reflects escalating tensions over the Israeli government's plans to end decades-long military conscription exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men, a policy the Supreme Court has already ruled unconstitutional.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:29 WIB
Papua's Baznas Urges Residents to Increase Zakat to Achieve Equitable Education
The National Zakat Agency (Baznas) of Papua Province is calling on residents to increase zakat contributions to support equitable access to education across the region. Through its Papua Cerdas (Smart Papua) programme, Baznas has already distributed first-phase scholarships to 1,070 students from disadvantaged families, positioning zakat as a key instrument in combating school dropout rates and alleviating poverty.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:28 WIB
Bangkit Sumatera - Disaster Preparedness Is Key! (1)
Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has stressed that disaster preparedness is the primary key to minimising risk and casualties when disasters strike. The agency's Head of Data, Information and Disaster Affairs called for strengthened public education, early warning systems, and cross-sector coordination to ensure rapid, accurate and measurable disaster response.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:27 WIB
Foreign Minister Sugiono Reaffirms Indonesia's Support in Meeting with Palestine's Permanent Representative to the UN
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono met with Palestine's Permanent Representative to the UN, Minister Riyad Mansour, in New York to reaffirm Indonesia's steadfast support for Palestine and its commitment to a two-state solution.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:27 WIB
Fire at Ciputra Cibubur Mall, Two Fire Engines Deployed
A fire broke out at Ciputra Cibubur Mall in Bekasi, West Java, on Tuesday afternoon, prompting the deployment of two fire engines. Authorities confirmed the blaze was extinguished but have yet to determine its cause, with social media footage showing flames at the front of the building accompanied by thick black smoke.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:26 WIB
The Story of a Muslim Caretaker at Amurva Bhumi Buddhist Temple
Zaini Arifin, a 38-year-old Muslim, has served for 15 years as a biokong (daily caretaker) at Vihara Amurva Bhumi in South Jakarta, embodying Indonesia's tradition of religious tolerance. Originally brought in as a Chinese cuisine chef, Zaini now manages temple operations, prepares food for worshippers, and has learned Buddhist traditions whilst maintaining his Islamic faith.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:24 WIB
Hundreds of Visitors Flock to Toa Se Bio Temple to Celebrate Lunar New Year
Hundreds of worshippers packed the Toa Se Bio Temple in Glodok, West Jakarta, for the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations, with festivities set to continue through to Cap Go Meh on the fifteenth day. Temple volunteers expressed hopes that the new year would bring peace and protection amid global concerns over conflict and economic crisis.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:22 WIB
BMKG: Crescent Moon Not Yet Visible in Makassar Skies Today
Indonesia's meteorological agency (BMKG) reported that the hilal (crescent moon) marking the start of Ramadan was not visible in Makassar's skies, with calculations yielding negative values as the moon set before the sun. The government is set to hold an Isbat session at Hotel Borobudur in Jakarta to officially determine the start of Ramadan 1447 H, whilst Muhammadiyah has already declared 1 Ramadan to fall on Wednesday, 18 February 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:19 WIB
BMKG Predicts Light to Heavy Rainfall in West Java Over Coming Week
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast light to heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and strong winds across West Java from 17 to 22 February 2026. The agency warned residents and local authorities to remain vigilant against hydrometeorological hazards including floods, landslides and fallen trees during the dry-to-wet season transition, and issued recommendations for community-level disaster risk reduction.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:18 WIB
Once Backing Revision, PDIP Now Criticises Jokowi for Wanting Old KPK Law Restored
The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has sharply criticised former President Joko Widodo for publicly supporting the restoration of the pre-revision Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) law, despite PDIP itself having been the driving force behind the controversial 2019 revision during Jokowi's presidency.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:17 WIB
Transmigration Minister says situation on Rempang is peaceful and stable
Indonesia's Transmigration Minister has declared that conditions on Rempang Island in Batam have been calm over the past year, fostering a favourable investment climate. The island has been designated as one of three new pilot projects for modern transmigration development, with the government providing fishing boats and planning comprehensive infrastructure to create economic growth centres rather than mere relocation sites.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:17 WIB
Indonesia explores digital payment technology cooperation with Vietnam
Indonesian firm PT Tasi Venture Indonesia and Yayasan Sakuranesia held exploratory talks with Vietnam's Alliex on cross-border digital payment technology collaboration aimed at strengthening Indonesia's MSME ecosystem. The proposed cooperation focuses on integrated transaction systems with real-time monitoring to improve financial transparency, enhance government aid distribution, and support Indonesian migrant workers' financial access.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:17 WIB
Grobogan-Semarang Road Cut Off: Central Java Governor Demands Armco Bridge Construction Be Expedited
Central Java Governor Luthfi has ordered the rapid construction of an armco bridge after a collapsed embankment on the Tuntang River severed the main Grobogan-Semarang road, a critical logistics and Lebaran homecoming route. The disaster, triggered by heavy rainfall on 16 February, has flooded 42 villages across 10 sub-districts in Grobogan Regency, affecting at least 9,000 households and inundating hundreds of hectares of farmland.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:16 WIB
Canada: Relations with China renewed following visa-free policy
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a renewed bilateral relationship with China after Beijing granted visa-free access to Canadian passport holders, effective 17 February 2026. The diplomatic thaw follows years of tension and accompanies broader economic negotiations, including a deal allowing tens of thousands of Chinese electric vehicles into Canada in exchange for tariff relief on Canadian agricultural products such as canola seed.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:14 WIB
Fire at Cibubur Shopping Mall Extinguished
A fire broke out at Ciputra Mall in the Cibubur area of Bekasi on Tuesday afternoon, prompting the deployment of two fire engines. Authorities confirmed the blaze was successfully extinguished, with cooling operations still underway at the site.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:10 WIB
Vicky Prasetyo Allegedly Embezzled Rp700 Million in Political Campaign Funds, Prompting Police Report
Television presenter Vicky Prasetyo has been reported to police for allegedly misappropriating Rp700 million intended as political campaign funds for a regional head election in West Bandung Regency. The complainant, Nunun Lusida, claims the funds were drawn from her retirement savings after Prasetyo promised her ex-husband a deputy regent candidacy, but neither the money nor the candidacy ever materialised.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:09 WIB
Indonesia seeks seamless digital link with Saudi Arabia for pilgrims
Indonesia's Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has called for stronger digital integration between Indonesian and Saudi Arabian systems to improve pilgrimage services, including optimisation of the Nusuk Masar platform. Speaking at the Saudi-Indonesian Umrah Co-Exchange in Mecca, the minister also proposed flexible mechanisms for replacing cancelled visa holders and digital channels for dam (compensatory sacrifice) procedures, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:06 WIB
Karet Bivak Public Cemetery in Central Jakarta Bustling with Visitors Ahead of Ramadan
Karet Bivak Public Cemetery in Central Jakarta is experiencing a surge of visitors as Indonesians observe the pre-Ramadan tradition of grave pilgrimage (ziarah kubur). The annual custom sees families gathering to pray at the graves of deceased relatives, with the cemetery's car park overflowing and flower vendors lining the surrounding streets. The tradition reflects the deep-rooted Indonesian cultural practice of honouring ancestors before the holy fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:06 WIB
Ahmad Luthfi Calls for Expedited Installation of Armco Bridge After Grobogan-Semarang Road Severed
Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has ordered the Public Works Department to accelerate the installation of an armco bridge on the main Grobogan-Semarang route after the Tuntang River embankment collapsed, severing the critical logistics and Lebaran homecoming corridor.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 15:01 WIB
PSM Makassar and Indonesia National Team Player Reported for Allegedly Assaulting Girlfriend
PSM Makassar striker Ricky Pratama, who has represented Indonesia's youth national team, has been reported to South Sulawesi Regional Police for alleged assault against a woman identified as AD. The case, filed under Article 466(1) of Law No. 1/2023 — Indonesia's new Criminal Code — has been forwarded to the General Criminal Investigation Directorate, marking one of the early applications of the revised penal code's assault provisions.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:55 WIB
Senior Police Officer Named Drug Suspect; Experts Say Punishment Should Be Harsher Than for Ordinary Citizens
Adjunct Senior Commissioner Didik Putra Kuncoro, the former Bima police chief, has been named a suspect in a drug possession case, drawing public scrutiny over police integrity. A prominent legal academic has argued that, if found guilty, the officer should face harsher penalties than ordinary citizens, citing provisions in the new Criminal Procedure Code and the police's duty to lead by example in combating narcotics.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:51 WIB
Chinese New Year in Depok: The Bathing Tradition at the Seven Wells of Gayatri Temple
Thousands of Chinese-Indonesian worshippers gathered at Gayatri Temple in Depok's Sumur 7 area to celebrate Chinese New Year 2026, continuing the distinctive tradition of ritual bathing at seven wells believed to carry different spiritual properties.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:51 WIB
Andre Rosiade Confirms Telkomsel BTS at Sitinjau Lauik Will Be Operational Before Eid
Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade inspected the construction of a Telkomsel base transceiver station (BTS) at the hazard-prone Sitinjau Lauik route in Padang, West Sumatra, to ensure mobile coverage for travellers ahead of the Eid homecoming season.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:50 WIB
Rokan Hilir Police Chief Personally Leads Patrol to Secure Chinese New Year Celebrations at Temples
The Rokan Hilir police chief led a joint patrol operation to secure Chinese New Year 2026 celebrations, visiting temples and public gathering points in Bangko sub-district. The dialogic patrol approach aimed to prevent crime and maintain inter-communal harmony, with officers engaging directly with temple administrators and worshippers to ensure a peaceful celebration.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:48 WIB
National Police Criminal Investigation Unit Arrests Drug Dealer in North Sumatra, Seizes 15 Kg of Heroin
The National Police's Directorate of Narcotics Crime arrested a heroin courier in North Sumatra, seizing 15 kilogrammes of the Class 1 narcotic. The suspect, Okto Jefri Sihombing, was apprehended on a road in Tanjung Balai Asahan and tested positive for methamphetamine, whilst a motorcycle taxi driver who served as his transport also tested positive for methamphetamine and cannabis.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:47 WIB
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar Delivers Profound Message at Lunar New Year 2577: Addressing Justice and Poverty Alleviation
Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar used his Lunar New Year 2577 address to highlight social justice as the foundation for tackling poverty, calling for fraternity and social solidarity among citizens. The message underscored the government's commitment to inclusivity towards the Confucian community and broader societal cohesion in the diverse nation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:44 WIB
China Strengthens Ideological Work, Xi Jinping Thought 'Taught' in Churches
China's state-controlled Three-Self Patriotic Church has endorsed new Communist Party regulations mandating ideological work across all sectors of society, including religious institutions. The regulations require the integration of Xi Jinping Thought into seminary curricula, congregational activities, and clergy training programmes, as part of a broader "sinicisation" campaign to align Christianity with national policy and socialist values.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:43 WIB
Welcoming Lunar New Year 2026, Lestari Moerdijat Urges Strengthening of Social Cohesion
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has called for the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations to be used as a strategic moment to accelerate national development through strengthened social cohesion. She emphasised that Indonesia's cultural diversity within its pluralistic society must be managed as a collective strength, arguing that the nation's major development challenges demand unified action from all elements of society.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:41 WIB
Foreign Investment Boosts Tourism in Central Lombok
Moroccan and Australian investors have committed to major tourism developments in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, with the Moroccan project valued at IDR 72 billion for a luxury villa complex and the Australian investor surveying 100 hectares for a long-stay resort targeting Middle Eastern and Muslim tourists.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:36 WIB
Ibas Urges Indonesians to Make Lunar New Year a Moment of National Harmony
MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) called on Indonesians to use the Lunar New Year 2577 celebrations as a moment for reflection on virtue, brotherhood, and national unity. Drawing on the symbolism of the Year of the Fire Horse, he urged the nation to channel its energy into accelerating development and strengthening economic resilience whilst preserving social harmony and diversity.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:35 WIB
Riau Police Chief and Military Commander Visit Rokan Hulu to Strengthen Security After Land Conflict
The Riau Police Chief and the 031/Wira Bima Military District Commander personally visited Rokan Hulu Regency to ensure security remains under control and to prevent escalation of recent land conflicts that have drawn public attention. The visit emphasised a collaborative approach between the military, police, local government, and community leaders, including dialogue with stakeholders in the agricultural sector to seek balanced and just solutions.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:32 WIB
MPR Deputy Speaker: Today's Lunar New Year Celebration Is a Symbol of Our Democratic Maturity
MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno from the National Mandate Party (PAN) declared that the open celebration of Lunar New Year in Indonesia represents the fruits of the 1998 reform movement and the nation's democratic maturity. He linked the spirit of national unity in diversity to President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious target of achieving 8 per cent economic growth, calling for collaboration across government, business and civil society.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:32 WIB
India's Adani to invest US$100 billion in AI-ready data centres by 2035
India's Adani Group has announced plans to invest US$100 billion in renewable energy-powered, AI-ready data centres by 2035, aiming to create the world's largest integrated data centre platform. The investment is expected to generate an additional US$150 billion in related spending across sovereign cloud platforms and server manufacturing, creating a US$250 billion AI infrastructure ecosystem in India over the next decade.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:30 WIB
Intim Teratai Vessel Sinks in North Maluku, Passengers Still Holding On Aboard Ship
A fast motor vessel, KM Intim Teratai, ran aground and capsized after being struck by large waves in the waters off Makian Island, South Halmahera, North Maluku, whilst en route from Babang Port to Ternate. Search and rescue teams are conducting ongoing evacuation operations, with some passengers having swum to shore while others remain aboard the listing vessel, and authorities report no casualties thus far.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:25 WIB
East Java NU Board: Crescent Moon Still Negative, Start of Ramadan Expected on 19 February 2026
The East Java branch of Nahdlatul Ulama's Falakiyah Institute is monitoring the crescent moon across 41 observation points to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 H, with current readings showing the hilal (crescent) remains below the horizon. This creates a potential discrepancy with Muhammadiyah, which has set 18 February 2026 as the first day of Ramadan, whilst NU predicts it will fall on 19 February 2026 based on its rukyatulhilal (direct observation) methodology.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:16 WIB
Prabowo: Happy Lunar New Year, Wishing Prosperity for All
President Prabowo Subianto extended Lunar New Year greetings whilst on a state visit to the United States to meet President Donald Trump. The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) estimated that the two-day Lunar New Year holiday could generate up to Rp 9 trillion in economic activity, driven by household consumption, tourism, and retail spending among Indonesia's 11.25 million ethnic Chinese population.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:09 WIB
Indonesia advances Nusa Penida as integrated green island destination
Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on Klungkung district to finalise a "Green Island" concept for Nusa Penida, encompassing waste management, renewable energy, vehicle restrictions and cultural preservation. The island, which drew around 1.1 million visitors in 2024, is seen as having significant untapped potential for sustainable tourism, with funding to come from loans, private contributions, CSR programmes and investors.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:07 WIB
Association Responds to Allegations of Illegal Fees in Halal Certification
The Indonesian Halal Inspection Bodies Association (ALPHI) has denied accusations of illegal fee collection in the halal certification process, insisting all charges comply with government regulations. The dispute emerged during a parliamentary hearing with the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH), whose head Haikal Hassan has pledged firm action against any inspection bodies found to be levying unreasonable charges, particularly on small and micro enterprises. ALPHI chairwoman Elvina A.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:02 WIB
Trump Revokes US Climate Rules, Risking Public Health for Cheaper Petrol Cars?
President Donald Trump has formally revoked the 2009 endangerment finding, a cornerstone scientific declaration underpinning over 16 years of US climate regulation, in what the White House calls the largest deregulatory action in American history. The move strips the Environmental Protection Agency of its authority to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act, effectively dismantling federal climate policy and slowing the transition to electric vehicles.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 14:00 WIB
Survey: Public Satisfaction with West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi Reaches 95.5 Per Cent
A survey by Indikator Politik Indonesia recorded a 95.5 per cent approval rating for West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi, approaching a national record for regional leaders. Whilst public services such as electricity, education, health and infrastructure scored highly, economic indicators remained weak, with capital access satisfaction falling below 50 per cent amid fiscal pressures from central government efficiency cuts.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:58 WIB
RSCM Claims Piprim's Transfer Has Not Affected Specialist Medical Education
The director of Indonesia's flagship Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) has claimed that specialist and sub-specialist paediatric cardiology training programmes remain unaffected following the controversial transfer of Dr Piprim Basarah Yanuarso to Fatmawati Hospital.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:56 WIB
Lunar New Year Holiday Spurs Travel and Tourism Surge Across Indonesia
Indonesia's 2026 Lunar New Year (Imlek) holiday triggered a major surge in domestic travel and tourism, with toll road traffic up nearly 30%, rail occupancy exceeding 100%, and Bali's main airport projecting 438,000 passengers over the holiday week. The travel boom particularly benefited Bandung, which received an estimated 1.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:46 WIB
Criminal Investigation Unit Arrests International Narcotics Network Boss at Kualanamu Airport
Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has apprehended Supriadi, alias Adi T, a fugitive suspected of controlling an international narcotics distribution network, at Kualanamu International Airport in North Sumatra. The arrest, carried out following a tip-off from immigration officials, resulted in the seizure of multiple mobile phones, bank cards, and travel documents, with investigators now pursuing the wider network.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:42 WIB
Human Rights Minister: Government Not Behind Terror Campaign Against UGM Student Leader
Indonesia's Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai denied government involvement in the intimidation of UGM Student Executive Board chairman Tiyo Ardianto, who received threatening WhatsApp messages and was stalked after criticising President Prabowo's administration over a child's suicide in East Nusa Tenggara.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:40 WIB
Prabowo to represent developing nations at Board of Peace first meeting: DPR
Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives Commission I Dave Laksono has affirmed that Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace's inaugural summit is a concrete contribution to inclusive and sustainable peacebuilding, not merely symbolic.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:39 WIB
Revealed: Relationship Between Former Bima Police Chief and Policewoman Entrusted with Drug Suitcase
Indonesia's National Police have clarified that the relationship between former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and policewoman Aipda Dianita Agustina, at whose residence a suitcase containing narcotics was found, was strictly professional. Didik has been named a suspect in drug distribution after testing positive via hair follicle analysis, despite initially returning negative results, and faces charges under the revised Criminal Code and Psychotropics Law.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:35 WIB
Feng Shui Expert Discusses Business and Investment Profit Potential in the Year of the Fire Horse
Feng Shui experts predict that the Year of the Fire Horse will bring higher market volatility, urging investors to align strategies with their individual risk profiles. Several business sectors linked to the fire element are expected to perform well, whilst more stable investment instruments are recommended for general investors unaccustomed to market turbulence.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:32 WIB
Indonesia targets stronger seafood exports with 2026 strategy
Indonesia's Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries has launched a 2026 strategy to boost seafood exports by helping local businesses comply with tightening US and EU certification requirements while pursuing tariff reductions with multiple trading partners. With seafood exports reaching US$6.27 billion in 2025 — up 5.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:31 WIB
Curug Cibeureum Trail on Mount Gede Closed Due to Landslide
The Mount Gede Pangrango National Park authority has temporarily closed the trail to the popular Curug Cibeureum waterfall after a landslide buried the path under 1.5 metres of debris spanning more than 15 metres. Manual clearance work involving local residents is under way, with officials urging tourists to await formal reopening announcements amid continued extreme weather warnings across the Cianjur and Sukabumi districts of West Java.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:27 WIB
Landslides Strike 59 Locations in Yogyakarta Amid Extreme Weather
Prolonged heavy rainfall across the Special Region of Yogyakarta triggered landslides at 59 locations across all five districts, injuring four people and displacing 16 residents. The extreme weather caused widespread damage to homes, public facilities, roads, and utility networks, with estimated losses of Rp21 million in Gunungkidul alone. The regional disaster management agency noted that the data remained preliminary and subject to further updates.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:24 WIB
Muhammadiyah Chairman Urges Muslims to Respond Wisely to Differences Over Start of Ramadan
Muhammadiyah Chairman Haedar Nashir has called on Indonesian Muslims to exercise wisdom and avoid mutual blame over differing determinations of the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Muhammadiyah set 18 February 2026 as the first day of Ramadan based on its own astronomical calculations, whilst the government held a separate isbat session to make its official determination.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:20 WIB
Central Tapanuli Hit by Flash Floods Once Again
Central Tapanuli regency in North Sumatra has been struck by yet another round of flash flooding after heavy rainfall on 16 February, marking the third major flood event since November 2025. The local government has established evacuation points at schools, community health centres, and government offices as previously unaffected areas are now also inundated.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:04 WIB
Pulau Karya Cemetery in Thousand Islands Crowded with Pilgrims Ahead of Ramadan
The public cemetery on Pulau Karya in Jakarta's Thousand Islands district is experiencing a surge in visitors as residents observe the traditional practice of grave pilgrimages ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Local authorities have undertaken cleaning and maintenance preparations to ensure visitor comfort, whilst urging pilgrims to maintain cleanliness at the site.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:04 WIB
Maggot House in Papua: When Organic Waste Becomes a Blessing
A pioneering maggot farming facility is being constructed in Sorong Regency, Southwest Papua, designed to convert organic waste into useful products. The 15-metre by 9-metre structure will be the first dedicated maggot house in the area, representing an innovative approach to waste management and sustainable agriculture in eastern Indonesia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:00 WIB
European Union Urges Israel to Reverse Illegal Annexation Decision in the West Bank
The European Union has called on Israel to rescind its recent decision to register large swathes of the West Bank as "state land," warning that annexation is illegal under international law. Israel's cabinet approved a proposal by senior ministers to formally register Palestinian land in Area C, reopening previously frozen land registration procedures and overturning longstanding Jordanian-era laws.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 13:00 WIB
American Cars Begin Gaining Acceptance in Japan
Japan is introducing a new certification system that will allow American-made vehicles meeting US safety standards to be sold without additional testing, as part of a bilateral trade agreement. Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are all considering importing their US-produced models — including the Camry, Tundra, Pilot, and Pathfinder — into the Japanese domestic market, a move expected to reduce distribution costs and broaden consumer choice.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:59 WIB
Traffic disrupted as Bailey Bridge Garoga 1 undergoes repairs
Military personnel and workers from state-owned contractor Wika are repairing the damaged Bailey Bridge Garoga 1 on the Trans-Sumatra highway at the border of Central and South Tapanuli in North Sumatra. The temporary bridge suffered damage and holes from hydrometeorological disasters, forcing traffic on both sides to halt whilst wooden planks serving as the bridge deck are replaced.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:59 WIB
OJK Confirms Buying and Selling Bank Accounts Is Illegal, Prone to Fraud and Online Gambling
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has spoken out against the proliferation of bank account trading on social media, declaring the practice illegal. The regulator warned that such transactions are not merely ordinary commerce but constitute criminal activity vulnerable to exploitation for fraud and online gambling.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:56 WIB
Missing for Two Days, Tangerang Student Found Dead at Pandeglang Beach
A 17-year-old student from Tangerang, Sammy Alvitrano Nurwahid Prasetyo, was found dead at Camara Beach in Pandeglang, Banten, after being swept away by waves whilst swimming. The Banten Search and Rescue Office conducted a two-day search operation before recovering the body approximately 50 metres from the incident site.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:55 WIB
Start of Ramadan May Differ, Here Is the Minister of Religious Affairs' Appeal
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has responded to the possibility of differing determinations for the start of Ramadan fasting this year. He urged the public to maintain tolerance and mutual respect should differences arise in the date's determination.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:50 WIB
What Are President Prabowo's Priorities During His U.S. Visit?
President Prabowo Subianto departed for a state visit to Washington to sign the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with President Trump, which would reduce U.S. tariffs on Indonesian goods from 32 per cent to 19 per cent in exchange for Indonesia exempting duties on most American products.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:50 WIB
Bangka Belitung Governor: Lunar New Year 2577 a Symbol of Tolerance and Togetherness
The Governor of Bangka Belitung, Hidayat Arsani, declared the celebration of Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili as a tangible reflection of local wisdom embodied in the phrase "Tongin Fangin Jit Jong," symbolising Malay-Chinese unity. The statement underscores the province's commitment to inter-ethnic tolerance and social cohesion in one of Indonesia's most culturally diverse regions.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:49 WIB
Seven Suitcases Belonging to Thai Tourists Stolen at Bromo, Authorities Highlight Illegal Parking Problem
Seven suitcases belonging to Thai tourists were stolen near the Sukapura Pavilion in Probolinggo Regency's Bromo tourism area, with local authorities linking the incident to illegal parking practices. The Probolinggo Regency government has urged visitors to use designated parking areas and avoid leaving valuables in vehicles, whilst police continue investigating with CCTV footage.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:49 WIB
Ahead of Ramadan, Indonesian Ulema Council Urges Sahur Wake-Up Calls Not to Disturb Others
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called on Muslims to exercise restraint when waking neighbours for sahur during Ramadan 2026, particularly in densely populated urban areas where not all residents observe the fast. Deputy Chairman Kiai Cholil Nafis urged the judicious use of loudspeakers and recommended a phased approach to wake-up calls, whilst also reminding communities that traditional door-to-door rounds must conform to Islamic teachings and not cause disturbance.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:48 WIB
Haedar Nashir Urges Muslims to Make Fasting a Force for Social Cohesion
Muhammadiyah Chairman Haedar Nashir has called on Indonesian Muslims to treat Ramadan fasting as a "social canopy" that strengthens community bonds and promotes peace, rather than allowing differences over the start date of the holy month to cause division. He emphasised that in the absence of a unified Islamic calendar, disagreements over religious dates should be met with wisdom and tolerance, urging the faithful to focus on the substance of worship and to serve as agents of peace in society.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:47 WIB
Joko Anwar's "Ghost in the Cell" receives enthusiastic reception at Berlinale 2026
Indonesian director Joko Anwar's latest film "Ghost in the Cell" sold out all four screenings at the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival, with audiences responding enthusiastically to its blend of horror, comedy, and social satire reflecting Indonesian life.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:47 WIB
East Java Conducts Ramadan Moon Sighting Observations at 21 Locations
The East Java regional office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs conducted rukyatul hilal (new crescent moon observation) at 21 locations across the province to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 H. The exercise involved cross-sector collaboration among government agencies, Islamic organisations, meteorological authorities, and Islamic astronomy experts, with results to be reported to the national Isbat Session for the official determination of Ramadan's commencement.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:44 WIB
National Road Agency Focuses on Repairing Roads in Five North Sumatra Areas Following Disasters
The National Road Implementation Agency (BBPJN) for North Sumatra is concentrating repair efforts on approximately 500 kilometres of roads across five regencies and cities damaged by disasters in late November 2025. With less than 20 per cent of repairs completed across 235 identified points, the agency faces ongoing challenges from weather-related landslides but is targeting full functionality ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:44 WIB
Muhammadiyah Calls for Tolerance Over Differing Ramadan Start Dates
Muhammadiyah chairman Haedar Nashir has urged Indonesian Muslims to respond wisely to differences in determining the start of Ramadan 1447 H, with Muhammadiyah beginning fasting on Wednesday, 18 February 2026 based on its own astronomical calculations. The Indonesian Council of Ulema (MUI) has acknowledged the likely divergence, whilst the Ministry of Religious Affairs conducted hilal observations at 96 locations ahead of its official isbat session.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:42 WIB
Cianjur Police: One-Way Traffic System Imposed as Vehicle Volume Rises
Police in Cianjur, West Java, have implemented early one-way traffic systems along the main Puncak-Cianjur route after recording a 20 per cent increase in vehicle volume during the extended Lunar New Year holiday. The traffic engineering measures, coordinated with Bogor Police, aim to prevent total gridlock during the peak return flow, with dozens of officers deployed at congestion-prone points along the Cipanas-Puncak corridor.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:42 WIB
EIGER Adventure Distributes 1,000 Garments to Landslide Survivors in Cisarua
Indonesian outdoor brand EIGER Adventure has donated 1,000 items of clothing — including jackets, warm clothing, t-shirts, and trousers — to survivors of a devastating landslide in Pasirlangu Village, Cisarua, West Bandung Regency, which claimed over 100 lives and displaced hundreds of families.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:36 WIB
Omani-Iranian Diplomats Meet in Geneva Ahead of US-Iran Nuclear Talks
Senior Omani and Iranian diplomats met in Geneva on Monday to finalise preparations for the second round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington, following the first post-conflict meeting in Muscat on 6 February. Tuesday's negotiations are expected to focus on regional maritime security and a potential framework for sanctions relief in exchange for nuclear concessions, with Oman continuing its longstanding role as a crucial back-channel mediator between the two adversaries.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:35 WIB
BKHIT: Whole Coconuts from Natuna a Top Commodity Ahead of Ramadan — Key Facts
The Animal, Fish and Plant Quarantine Agency (BKHIT) of the Riau Islands has recorded whole coconuts from Natuna Regency as the most sought-after commodity by other regions ahead of Ramadan. On Wednesday 18 February, some 148.89 tonnes were documented in shipments, underscoring the seasonal surge in demand for the agricultural product.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:34 WIB
Jakarta Residents Support Ban on Restaurant Sweeping During Ramadan: Tolerance
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has banned civil organisations from conducting sweeping raids on restaurants during Ramadan, a move supported by residents in Manggarai, South Jakarta, who cite tolerance and respect for the city's pluralistic society. Local residents and food stall owners expressed agreement with the policy whilst noting that many eateries voluntarily close during the day and reopen in the afternoon for iftar, reflecting a longstanding culture of mutual respect.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:33 WIB
Tina Wiryawati: Approaching One Year, West Java Governor's Performance Proven Strong
West Java provincial legislator Tina Wiryawati of the Gerindra faction has praised Governor Dedi Mulyadi's performance as he approaches his first year in office, highlighting achievements in economic recovery and employment. Her assessment aligns with a recent Indikator Politik Indonesia survey showing 95.5 per cent public satisfaction with the governor's performance across 23 governance indicators, all of which improved compared to the 100-day mark.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:33 WIB
Residents Recount Characters of Two Suspects in Junior High Student Murder at Former Kampung Gajah
Two teenage suspects, aged 16 and 17, have been arrested for the murder of a junior high school student in West Bandung Regency, sending shockwaves through their home village in Garut. The case highlights concerns over juvenile delinquency and school dropouts in rural West Java, with one suspect having been expelled from school and the other working as a wedding decorator despite being underage.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:33 WIB
Chinese Space Station Crew Welcome Year of the Horse with Cake and Wishes
The three-member Shenzhou-21 crew aboard China's Tiangong space station celebrated the Lunar New Year — the Year of the Horse — with festive decorations, traditional food, and video greetings beamed to Earth. Notably, the crew enjoyed a freshly baked cake from a space oven, a first for Tiangong celebrations, as their mission surpassed the 100-day mark with all scientific experiments and operations proceeding smoothly.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:29 WIB
Isbat Session for 1 Ramadan 2026 Held Today: Here Are the Full Stages
The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Religious Affairs, is holding the isbat session to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriyah at Hotel Borobudur, Jakarta, on Tuesday afternoon, 17 February 2026. The session serves as the official determination of when the fasting month begins.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:29 WIB
Why the Ministry of Religious Affairs Is Holding the Isbat Session at Hotel Borobudur This Afternoon
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has relocated its isbat session to determine the start of Ramadan 2026 (1447 Hijriah) from its usual auditorium to Hotel Borobudur in Central Jakarta, citing the need for greater room capacity. The session involves hilal (crescent moon) observation across 96 locations nationwide, with the official announcement of Ramadan's commencement expected at 19:05 WIB.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:23 WIB
China to Mandate Physical Controls in Vehicles, Reducing Touchscreen Reliance
China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology plans to require physical control mechanisms for key vehicle functions such as indicators, windows, and driver-assistance systems, effective for newly manufactured vehicles from July 2027. The regulation targets the trend of minimalist, touchscreen-dominated cockpit designs prevalent in electric vehicles, mandating that primary controls be blind-operable and accessible without excessive visual input.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:22 WIB
Ramadan Approaching: Prayers Recommended by Scholars to Welcome the Holy Month
Indonesian Muslims are preparing for Ramadan 1447 H, with Muhammadiyah setting the start date at 18 February 2026 whilst Nahdlatul Ulama awaits the government's isbat session through the Ministry of Religious Affairs, which points to 19 February. The annual divergence in methodology between Indonesia's two largest Islamic organisations highlights the recurring interplay between religious authority and state governance in determining key Islamic dates.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:16 WIB
Hundreds of Children in Cimahi Drop Out of School: The Various Causes
Cimahi Mayor Ngatiyana revealed that 776 children in the city had dropped out or failed to continue their education as of December 2025, driven by economic hardship, low motivation, early marriage, and employment.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:14 WIB
Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto Builds 516 km of Roads in First Year in Office
Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto oversaw the construction and reconstruction of 516.83 kilometres of roads during his first year in office, funded through the regional budget and village financial assistance across 40 sub-districts. The infrastructure programme also included bridge improvements, drainage works, rehabilitation of 3,406 uninhabitable housing units, and the construction of an 18.5-kilometre road in a village that had seen no development since before independence.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:11 WIB
Nirmala Nusantara Rice Cake Festival celebrates Solo's 281st anniversary
The city of Solo (Surakarta) marked its 281st anniversary with the Nirmala Nusantara Rice Cake Festival, a cultural celebration showcasing traditional Indonesian culinary heritage. The event highlights the role of local cultural festivals in preserving regional identity and traditions in Central Java.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:11 WIB
Nirmala Nusantara Jenang Festival Enlivens Solo's 281st Anniversary
Some 20,000 portions of jenang, a traditional Indonesian porridge, were distributed free to the public in banana-leaf containers during the Nirmala Nusantara festival marking Solo's 281st anniversary. The event, held in the Ngarsopuro district, aimed to preserve jenang as a traditional culinary heritage whilst boosting tourism to the Central Javanese city.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:09 WIB
Ramadan Yet to Arrive, but Shoppers Already Flock to Tanah Abang for Eid Outfits
Jakarta's Tanah Abang market is experiencing an early surge of shoppers hunting for Eid clothing weeks before Ramadan begins. Visitors from across the Greater Jakarta area are deliberately shopping early to avoid crowds and secure lower prices, signalling robust consumer spending in the lead-up to the festive season.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 12:09 WIB
BRI Group Wins Four Prestigious Awards from Alpha Southeast Asia 2025
BRI Group secured four awards at Alpha Southeast Asia's 19th ESG Green Finance Awards and Annual Borrower Issuer Awards in Singapore, reinforcing its position as Indonesia's leading ESG-focused financial institution. The awards recognised landmark bond and sukuk issuances by BRI, Pegadaian, and PNM totalling over Rp13 trillion, directed at micro-enterprise financing, financial inclusion, and women's economic empowerment.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:59 WIB
When Is the First Tarawih of 2026? Schedule and Isbat Session Results
The schedule for the first Tarawih prayer in 2026 hinges on the official determination of the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Muhammadiyah has set 18 February 2026 as the first day of Ramadan based on its own astronomical calculations, whilst the government's Ministry of Religious Affairs held its isbat session on the evening of 17 February to make the nationally binding determination.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:57 WIB
Amurva Bhumi Temple Officials Predict Lunar New Year Crowds to Last Up to Two Weeks
Officials at Vihara Amurva Bhumi in South Jakarta anticipate that crowds celebrating Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili will continue for approximately two weeks until the Cap Go Meh festival. A joint security operation involving 1,919 personnel from the police, military, municipal police and transport authorities has been deployed to safeguard celebrations at two temples in South Jakarta, reflecting the government's cross-sector commitment to ensuring public safety during the festivities.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:55 WIB
Chinese New Year: Indonesia Grants Sentence Cuts to 44 Inmates
Indonesia's government granted special remissions of 15 days to two months to 44 inmates — 43 adults and one juvenile — to mark Chinese New Year, following strict eligibility assessments. The policy serves both to reward positive behaviour and to address overcrowding in correctional facilities, with officials noting the reductions will save nearly Rp25.5 million in daily consumption budgets.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:54 WIB
Majority of Canadians concerned over US threat to sovereignty
A Nanos Research survey finds that nearly two-thirds of Canadians are worried about the United States potentially threatening their country's sovereignty. The concern is most pronounced among older citizens and women, reflecting deepening anxieties about bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:53 WIB
Tourist Vehicle Carrying 20 Passengers Overturns on Hill in Bogor
An overloaded tourist vehicle known as an odong-odong carrying 20 passengers overturned in Mekarsari, Rumpin subdistrict, Bogor regency, after failing to climb a steep incline. Three people sustained minor injuries in the single-vehicle accident, which highlights ongoing concerns about the safety and regulation of informal tourist transport vehicles in Indonesia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:53 WIB
APKLI Urges Pramono Not to Rush Smoke-Free Zone Governor's Regulation
The Indonesian Street Vendors' Association (APKLI) has called on Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo to delay issuing the implementing regulation for the capital's new smoke-free zone bylaw, warning that penalties on cigarette display could devastate 1.1 million small traders.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:51 WIB
Merah Putih Presisi Bridge in Kuansing Completed, Residents Express Appreciation for Police
The Riau Regional Police Emergency Bridge Task Force has completed the Merah Putih Presisi Bridge in Sangau Village, Kuantan Singingi Regency, as part of a presidential programme that is renovating 27 bridges across Riau Province. Local residents and community leaders expressed gratitude for the infrastructure improvement, which is expected to enhance transport access and stimulate the rural economy ahead of Ramadan.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:49 WIB
Gibran sends Chinese New Year wishes, lauds Confucian contributions
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka praised the Indonesian Confucian community's contributions to national harmony and tolerance in his address marking Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono echoed the sentiment, highlighting the significant role of Chinese Indonesians in national development, economic growth and employment creation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:48 WIB
Spring festival gala strengthens China-ASEAN cultural bridge
The Global Spring Festival Gala 2026, held in Nanning, China, has evolved from a simple satellite broadcast between China and Vietnam in 2007 into a major cross-border cultural exchange platform spanning all ASEAN nations. This year's edition featured sub-venues in Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos and Thailand, with performances blending traditional and modern elements led increasingly by Generation Z participants.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:47 WIB
DPR: Indonesia's Presence at BoP Ensures Developing Nations' Voices Are Represented
Indonesia's Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission I, Dave Laksono, has described the country's participation in the inaugural Board of Peace session as a strategic moment to ensure developing nations' voices are represented in global peace efforts.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:44 WIB
Lunar New Year marks arrival of Fire Horse Year for Confucian community
The Confucian community in Jakarta celebrated Lunar New Year 2577 Kongzili, marking the rare Fire Horse Year that occurs once every 60 years. South Jakarta Metropolitan Police coordinated joint security operations involving military, municipal government, and civil service police units at two major temples to ensure safe and orderly celebrations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:42 WIB
UMP Rector Backs Proposal to Make Business Creation a Graduation Requirement
The Rector of Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto has endorsed a proposal by the National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) chairman to make business ownership a key performance indicator for university graduates. UMP claims to have already implemented a "smart curriculum" encouraging students to establish enterprises whilst studying, including downstream processing of kopyor coconut products.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:42 WIB
UMP Rector Supports Business Creation as Student Graduation Requirement
The Rector of Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto has endorsed a proposal by the National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) chairman to make business creation a key performance indicator for university graduates. UMP has already implemented a "smart curriculum" programme encouraging students to establish enterprises whilst still studying, including downstream processing of kopyor coconut products.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:41 WIB
Some Jember and Bondowoso residents begin fasting earlier than rest of Indonesia
Residents surrounding the Mahfilud Dluror Islamic boarding school on the Jember-Bondowoso border commenced Ramadan fasting on Tuesday, two days ahead of the government and Muhammadiyah's determination. The pesantren uses the khumasi calculation system based on a 198-year-old classical Islamic text, highlighting Indonesia's enduring diversity in religious calendar determination alongside the official hisab and rukyat methods.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:40 WIB
At UN Security Council Forum, Foreign Minister Sugiono Reaffirms Indonesia's Commitment to Supporting Palestine
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono attended a UN Security Council meeting in New York from 16–18 February 2026, reaffirming Indonesia's commitment to Palestinian peace efforts and the reconstruction of Gaza. The visit included scheduled meetings with the UN Secretary-General, Palestine's Permanent Representative, and the British Foreign Secretary, as well as extending an invitation to the D-8 Summit to be held in Jakarta in April 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:37 WIB
Trump Warns Iran of Consequences if No Deal is Reached
US President Donald Trump has warned Iran of unspecified consequences should negotiations fail to produce an agreement, ahead of US-Iran talks in Geneva mediated by Oman. The discussions come amid repeated US military threats over Iran's nuclear programme, with Tehran insisting Washington's position has shifted towards greater realism, whilst previous negotiation efforts collapsed following an Israeli attack on Iran and subsequent US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:34 WIB
Muhammadiyah's Reasons for Setting 1 Ramadan 1447 H on 18 February
Muhammadiyah has set the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah on Wednesday 18 February 2026, one day earlier than the government's expected date of 19 February, based on its adoption of the Unified Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT) which uses global rather than territorial criteria for new moon sighting.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:26 WIB
Isbat Session to Determine Start of Ramadan Set to Be Held: Predicted Crescent Moon Position Today
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is holding the isbat session today to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 H, with the crescent moon's position on 18 February 2026 expected to comfortably exceed the MABIMS criteria of 3 degrees altitude and 6.4 degrees elongation.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:22 WIB
Audi E7X Electric SUV Set to Debut at Beijing Auto Show 2026
Audi's large electric SUV, the E7X, will make its public debut at the Beijing Auto Show starting 24 April 2026, having recently been spotted undergoing cold-weather testing in China without camouflage. The vehicle, developed through Audi's partnership with Chinese firm SAIC, offers up to 671 hp and a range of up to 751 km, and whilst designed primarily for the Chinese market, speculation suggests it may eventually be sold internationally.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:20 WIB
What Is on Prabowo's Agenda in the United States?
President Prabowo Subianto has embarked on a state visit to Washington D.C. with two key agenda items: signing a reciprocal trade agreement with President Trump that would reduce US tariffs on Indonesian goods from 32 to 19 per cent, and attending the inaugural Board of Peace summit.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:19 WIB
Kebonagung–Gubug road severed after Tuntang River embankment collapses
The main road linking Demak to Semarang via Kebonagung–Gubug has been cut off after a 25-metre section of the Tuntang River's left embankment collapsed early on Monday, eroding approximately 20 metres of the provincial concrete carriageway. Traffic has been diverted to the northern coast (Pantura) route whilst emergency repairs involving the military, police, and regional disaster agency continue round the clock.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:19 WIB
Pertamina Boosts 3 kg LPG Supply in Greater Banyumas Ahead of Ramadan
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is distributing an additional 69,440 cylinders of subsidised 3 kg LPG across the Greater Banyumas region in Central Java to pre-empt a surge in household energy demand during Ramadan. The top-up forms part of a broader 1.1 million-cylinder supplementary allocation for Central Java and Yogyakarta, representing 75 per cent above normal daily distribution levels, aimed at stabilising supply and supporting inflation control during the fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:18 WIB
Meugang tradition marks start of Holy Ramadan in Meulaboh
The Acehnese community in Meulaboh, West Aceh, observed the traditional Meugang celebration ahead of the start of Ramadan 2026. Meugang is a centuries-old Acehnese cultural tradition held three times a year — before Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha — centred on the communal preparation and consumption of meat dishes, reflecting the deep integration of Islamic practice with local cultural identity in Aceh.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:18 WIB
Meugang Tradition Welcomes the Holy Month of Ramadan in Meulaboh
The Acehnese community in Meulaboh, West Aceh, observed the traditional Meugang celebration ahead of Ramadan, with seasonal traders selling buffalo and beef at the local market. Meugang is a deeply rooted Acehnese cultural tradition centred on meat dishes, held three times a year before Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:16 WIB
Foreign Minister Sugiono Attends UN Security Council Meeting to Discuss Palestinian Peace
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono travelled to New York for a UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East, reaffirming Indonesia's commitment to Palestinian peace efforts and Gaza reconstruction. The minister is also scheduled to meet the UN Secretary-General, the Palestinian Permanent Representative, and the British Foreign Secretary, whilst promoting the upcoming D-8 Summit to be held in Jakarta in April 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:15 WIB
PDI-P: Lunar New Year a Moment to Strengthen National Spirit of Mutual Cooperation
PDI-P Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto called on Indonesians to use the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations as an opportunity to reinforce the nation's spirit of gotong royong (mutual cooperation) and social solidarity, particularly in light of natural disasters affecting several regions. The statement underscored PDI-P's commitment to inclusive nationalism and religious freedom, whilst highlighting the contributions of Chinese-Indonesians to nation-building.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:15 WIB
Iran Holds Military Exercises, Affirms Security of Strait of Hormuz
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting "full 24-hour intelligence dominance" over the critical waterway through which more than 80 oil tankers and container ships pass daily.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:14 WIB
61 per cent of free nutritious meal beneficiaries in Riau Islands are Batam residents
Batam city dominates the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) in Riau Islands province, accounting for 340,524 of the 550,830 beneficiaries, reflecting its status as the most populous area in the province. Distribution continues during the school holiday period for pregnant women, nursing mothers, toddlers, and Islamic boarding schools, with Ramadan-menu meals for schoolchildren set to resume nationally on 23 February.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:13 WIB
Mahfilud Duror Islamic Boarding School Congregation in Bondowoso Begins Fasting Today
The Mahfilud Duror Islamic boarding school community in Bondowoso, East Java, has begun observing Ramadan fasting ahead of the government's official determination. The pesantren uses a distinctive "khumasi" (five-day) calculation system rather than the moon-sighting (rukyatulhilal) or astronomical calculation (hisab) methods employed by state authorities, highlighting the ongoing diversity of religious practice in determining Islamic calendar dates in Indonesia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:13 WIB
UAS Jokes with Helmet-Wearing Woman at Kampar Police Grand Sermon: "Truly Disciplined"
Kampar Police in Riau held a grand Islamic sermon featuring popular preacher Ustaz Abdul Somad ahead of Ramadan 2026, attended by the Riau Police Chief and hundreds of residents. Beyond the light-hearted moment of UAS joking with a helmet-wearing attendee, the event served as a platform for police to urge public vigilance on security ahead of Ramadan and to issue safety warnings regarding the traditional Balimau Kasai river bathing ritual.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:12 WIB
Trump Participates Indirectly in Dialogue with Iran
US President Donald Trump has confirmed he will participate indirectly in nuclear talks with Iran taking place in Geneva, describing the discussions as highly significant. The second round of indirect negotiations sees Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi facing off against US special envoy Steve Witkoff, amid heightened tensions including the deployment of a second US Navy carrier strike group to the Middle East.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:04 WIB
1,900 Joint Personnel to Guard Ramadan in Jakarta
Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit has deployed 1,900 joint military and police personnel for nightly patrols throughout Ramadan to ensure public safety. Authorities have also conducted pre-Ramadan raids on illegal alcohol, seizing 184 bottles across three districts, whilst urging the public to refrain from holding "Sahur On The Road" gatherings and warning civil organisations against conducting vigilante sweeps of restaurants.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 11:00 WIB
Isbat Session for Start of Ramadan Held at Hotel: Ministry of Religious Affairs Explains
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has relocated the isbat session to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 H/2026 from its headquarters to Hotel Borobudur in Central Jakarta, citing capacity constraints. The session will comprise three parts — a seminar on the hilal position, the closed isbat deliberation, and a press conference — all scheduled for the same evening and broadcast live on YouTube.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:53 WIB
Free Nutritious Meals Programme Temporarily Halted During Lunar New Year and Early Ramadan, Resuming 23 February
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has announced a temporary suspension of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during the Lunar New Year holiday and the start of Ramadan, with distribution set to resume on 23 February.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:53 WIB
Piprim Dismissed: Health Ministry Insists Paediatric Cardiac Services Remain Safe
Indonesia's Health Ministry dismissed paediatric cardiologist Piprim Basarah Yanuarso for refusing to report to his new posting at Fatmawati Hospital, citing civil service discipline regulations. The sacking has raised concerns about the impact on children's heart surgery services and specialist medical training at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, with remaining staff reporting growing patient queues, particularly among national health insurance (BPJS) patients.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:49 WIB
Minister calls free meals programme investment in human capital
Indonesia's Education and Culture Minister Mu'ti has framed the government's free meals (MBG) programme as a strategic investment in human capital, targeting school-age children and pregnant women to support the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. Since its launch in January last year, the programme has served more than 60 million people through approximately 21,000 kitchens, with plans to expand to 82 million beneficiaries this year.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:49 WIB
1,919 joint personnel deployed to secure Lunar New Year celebrations in Jakarta
Jakarta Metropolitan Police have deployed 1,919 joint personnel from police, military, and local government agencies to secure Lunar New Year 2026 celebrations across the capital. Security operations are focused on 165 Buddhist temples within the Jakarta Metropolitan Police jurisdiction, with coordinated traffic management and round-the-clock patrols to ensure public safety during worship and festivities.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:47 WIB
One Year in Office: Bogor Regent Rudy Handles 21,579 Households During Disasters
Bogor Regency in West Java responded to 1,826 disaster events across 40 sub-districts in 2025, assisting 21,579 affected households and 77,065 individuals under the leadership of Regent Rudy Susmanto. The local government, working alongside the military, rebuilt seven severed bridges using Bailey bridges before Eid al-Fitr, whilst strengthening emergency response systems including a 24-hour integrated emergency hotline.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:46 WIB
Russia to Discuss Territorial Issues with Ukraine at Geneva Negotiations
Russia has signalled that the upcoming Geneva negotiations on Ukraine will cover a broader agenda than previous rounds, including key territorial issues. Moscow is expanding its delegation to include chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, and military intelligence chief Igor Kostyukov, reflecting the elevated stakes of the talks following two earlier rounds held in Abu Dhabi.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:45 WIB
Observer: Evaluating Political Recruitment for Regional Elections a Good Solution
The executive director of Indonesia Political Review has endorsed proposals to evaluate political recruitment processes for regional elections, arguing that political parties prioritise candidates' wealth and electability over competence and integrity. The commentary comes after Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto called for reforms to curb the high incidence of corruption among regional heads, which he linked to the exorbitant political costs of direct elections.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:42 WIB
Live Streaming Links for Isbat Session to Determine Start of Ramadan 2026
The Ministry of Religious Affairs held the isbat session on 17 February 2026 at Hotel Borobudur in Jakarta to officially determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The proceedings included a public seminar on the hilal (crescent moon) position followed by a closed deliberation session, with results announced via press conference and live-streamed through official government channels.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:42 WIB
450 Civil Service Police Personnel Deployed to Secure Lunar New Year 2026
Jakarta's Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) deployed 450 personnel across key locations including the Hotel Indonesia roundabout, TMII, Blok M Hub, Kota Tua, and Monas to secure Lunar New Year celebrations on 17 February 2026. The Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) supplemented the effort with 155 additional officers, conducting both overt and covert security operations at places of worship and celebration venues across the capital.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:39 WIB
Jakarta Metropolitan Police Deploy Thousands of Personnel to Secure 165 Temples During Lunar New Year
Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) have mobilised 1,919 joint personnel to secure 165 Buddhist temples across the greater Jakarta area during the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations. The integrated security operation involves police, military, municipal police, transport, health and fire services, with traffic management measures also in place around celebration venues and shopping centres.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:37 WIB
Lively Imlek in Nagoya as BP Batam Pushes New Face for New Nagoya District
BP Batam used the Imlek 2577 Nagoya Lantern Festival to signal the acceleration of its New Nagoya Priority Development Area (WPP), which aims to transform the commercial district into an integrated public space linking infrastructure, UMKM enterprises, and tourism. The plan centres on improved drainage, pedestrian-friendly walkways, and cultural-economic events to reinforce Batam's position as a regional trade and tourism hub.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:33 WIB
Andre Rosiade: 'Tuan Takur' Who Extorted Traders at Padang Market Questioned by Police
Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade has revealed that the suspect known as 'Tuan Takur', allegedly involved in extorting traders at Pasar Raya Padang, has been questioned by police along with two associates. The lawmaker called on the Mayor of Padang to dismiss any civil servants found complicit and urged traders not to fear giving testimony, whilst pledging that the House of Representatives would continue to monitor the case to eliminate racketeering practices in West Sumatra.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:31 WIB
Vegetable Vendors Protest at Sub-District Head's Home After Market Eviction in Ciputat
Seven vegetable vendors from Ciputat Market dumped piles of produce outside the home of the Ciputat sub-district head after their trading spots were cleared by local authorities. Police mediated the dispute, which was resolved amicably, with the vegetables subsequently donated to a local Islamic boarding school.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:31 WIB
Popular News Roundup: Widespread Rain During Lunar New Year and Ship Sinks in North Maluku Waters
This ANTARA news roundup highlights the day's most-read stories, including BMKG's warning of heavy rainfall across nearly all of Indonesia during the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations and the sinking of a motor vessel in North Maluku waters. Other trending stories cover the arrest of the Al-Aqsa Mosque imam by Israeli police, South Jakarta immigration authorities detaining foreign nationals for visa violations, and a police narcotics case involving a senior officer.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:30 WIB
Ministry of Religious Affairs Holds Isbat Session for Ramadan Today; Muhammadiyah to Begin Fasting on 18 February
The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs held an isbat (official determination) session on 17 February to establish the start of Ramadan 1447 H, based on crescent moon observations across the archipelago. Muhammadiyah has independently declared 18 February as the first day of Ramadan, whilst the government and Nahdlatul Ulama awaited hilal sighting results, raising the possibility of differing start dates due to varying astronomical criteria used by Islamic organisations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:29 WIB
FKBI Urges Reasonable Consumption of Basic Goods During Ramadan
The Indonesian Empowered Consumer Forum (FKBI) has called on the public to consume basic necessities reasonably during Ramadan to maintain market stability, warning that excessive buying could lead to price surges and supply shortages. The forum also urged businesses and traders not to exploit the festive season through hoarding or price gouging, while reminding small producers to maintain food safety standards and avoid contamination with banned substances.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:29 WIB
Whoosh records passenger surge of up to 25 per cent during Lunar New Year holiday
Indonesia's high-speed rail service Whoosh saw daily passenger numbers reach 24,000 to 25,000 during the Lunar New Year long weekend of 13–17 February 2026, a 25 per cent increase over normal weekends. The surge was driven by holiday travel, Ramadan preparations, and promotional ticket discounts, with operator KCIC reporting over 71,000 passengers carried in just three days.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:28 WIB
Green energy for the national green data centre
Indonesia's digital transformation is driving surging demand for data centres, which consume vast amounts of electricity and risk increasing the nation's carbon footprint unless powered by renewable energy. The government has positioned digital transformation as a national development priority under the 2024–2029 medium-term plan, but faces the structural challenge that the electricity system remains dominated by fossil fuels, making the energy transition inseparable from data centre expansion.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:23 WIB
Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra to Enter Global Market Without Price Increases
Xiaomi's flagship 17 and 17 Ultra smartphones will launch globally on 28 February 2026, ahead of Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, at the same price points as their predecessors despite significant hardware upgrades. The Xiaomi 17 will retail from €999 (approximately Rp19.9 million) whilst the 17 Ultra starts at €1,499 (approximately Rp29.9 million), countering earlier reports suggesting price hikes of over 20 per cent in India.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:21 WIB
Passengers Crowd Meranti Port During Lunar New Year as Police Ensure Safety
Tanjung Harapan Port in Selatpanjang, Kepulauan Meranti, Riau saw 2,310 passengers transit during the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday, with 29 vessels operating on both domestic and international routes. The Kepulauan Meranti Police deployed dozens of personnel to manage the surge in mobility, reporting no criminal incidents or significant security disruptions throughout the period.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:20 WIB
ICW on Jokowi's Support for Old KPK Law: An Attempt to Wash His Hands
Indonesia Corruption Watch has accused former President Jokowi of hypocrisy after he expressed support for reverting the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) law to its pre-2019 revision form, calling it an attempt to "wash his hands" of responsibility. ICW noted that Jokowi was a key contributor to the KPK's weakening, having issued the presidential letter authorising the revision and refused to issue an emergency regulation despite mass protests in September 2019.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:19 WIB
Ibas Yudhoyono: Lunar New Year Values Teach Virtuous Living and Hard Work
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono marked Chinese New Year 2577 by urging Indonesians to embrace the festival's values of virtue, hard work, and family unity. He highlighted the symbolism of the Year of the Fire Horse as a call for national optimism and accelerated development, whilst emphasising that Indonesia's greatest strength lies in the unity and mutual cooperation of its diverse society.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:19 WIB
Moment Five-Metre Boundary Wall at SMPN 182 Jakarta Collapses
A 5.3-metre boundary wall collapsed onto the grounds of SMPN 182 state secondary school in Kalibata, South Jakarta, with unstable ground construction cited as the suspected cause. The Jakarta BPBD regional disaster agency confirmed there were no casualties, though the collapse damaged drainage channels and the school's car park.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:18 WIB
Foreign Minister reaffirms Indonesia's commitment to supporting peace and recovery in Gaza
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono visited New York on 16–18 February 2026 to attend a UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East and the Palestinian question, reaffirming Indonesia's active role in peace efforts and Gaza's reconstruction. The visit also included meetings with the UN Secretary-General and Palestine's Permanent Representative, as well as delivering invitations to the upcoming D-8 Summit in Jakarta in April.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:18 WIB
Viral Carnival with 32 Massive Sound Systems Running Until Dawn in Mojokerto Cost Rp 1.6 Billion
A village cultural carnival in Mojokerto, East Java, featuring 32 teams with powerful sound systems went viral after running from afternoon until near dawn, far exceeding its permitted hours and sparking widespread online backlash. The event, estimated to have cost Rp 1.6 billion across all participants, highlights tensions between local cultural celebrations and public order regulations, with police revealing the permit only allowed activities until 11pm.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:14 WIB
Ciamis Disaster Agency Evacuates 164 Residents Following Flooding in Pamarican
The Ciamis Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) evacuated 164 people after the Citalahab River overflowed and inundated settlements in Pamarican sub-district, West Java, submerging 329 homes and approximately 200 hectares of rice paddies. The flooding, which struck for the second time in a week after a river embankment under repair by the Citanduy River Basin Authority collapsed again, highlights ongoing infrastructure vulnerabilities in the region's flood defences.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:13 WIB
Eight Illegal Parking Attendants Detained in Tanah Abang Over Rp 60,000 Parking Charges
Police detained eight illegal parking attendants in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, after a viral video exposed them charging motorists between Rp 60,000 and Rp 100,000 for parking — far above regulated rates. The suspects are being questioned at Tanah Abang Police Station to determine whether criminal charges or corrective guidance will be pursued.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:10 WIB
Lunar New Year in Batam: AHY Highlights Tolerance and Infrastructure
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono celebrated Lunar New Year 2577 with the Chinese community in Batam, emphasising national unity and the importance of continued infrastructure development to strengthen the region's competitiveness.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:10 WIB
The Illusion of Bureaucratic Attachment: The Risk of Civil Service Talent Stagnation
This opinion piece examines the growing phenomenon of "job hugging" within Indonesia's civil service (ASN), where employees cling to their positions for security rather than purpose, leading to quiet quitting and overburdening of competent staff. The author argues that the recently issued Ministerial Regulation No.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:06 WIB
Building Jakarta's Next Generation of Young Athletes Through Prestigious Multi-Sport Event
The Tri-Sport Series 2026, held at Ancol in North Jakarta, attracted over 750 athletes including international participants across triathlon, duathlon, and aquathlon disciplines. Backed by the Indonesian Triathlon Federation's DKI Jakarta chapter and the provincial Youth and Sports Agency, the event is positioned as a strategic platform for youth athlete development and promoting multi-sport culture in the capital.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:06 WIB
North America to Begin Ramadan Fasting Tomorrow, Most Other Regions on 19 February
The Fiqh Council and Islamic Society of North America have officially announced that Ramadan 1447 H will begin on 18 February 2026 based on astronomical calculations, whilst most other regions worldwide — including Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Oceania — are expected to commence fasting on 19 February.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 10:03 WIB
Coordinating Minister AHY and Transmigration Minister Iftitah Celebrate Lunar New Year with Lo Hei Tradition in Batam
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman joined Batam's Chinese-Indonesian community for Lunar New Year celebrations, participating in the traditional Lo Hei ritual. AHY emphasised national unity and cultural diversity, noting that Imlek is now celebrated across Indonesia as an expression of the nation's cohesion.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:58 WIB
Coordinating Minister AHY Sets Special Priorities for Batam Development: Industry and Downstream Processing Are Key
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has outlined special priorities for Batam's 2026 development, emphasising that infrastructure must directly strengthen the economy through industrial downstream processing. AHY stressed that Batam's Free Trade Zone status must be leveraged for greater value-added production, whilst ensuring that technological advancement in industry goes hand in hand with local workforce absorption and skills development.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:56 WIB
Coordinating Minister AHY's hopes for the nation at Lunar New Year 2026
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono attended the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations in Batam, calling for the spirit of the Fire Horse year to drive national development and economic transformation. He praised Batam as a "miniature Indonesia" for its multiculturalism and tolerance, and expressed hope the city's business sector would continue to grow and create jobs.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:56 WIB
Active Since 2025, Lanyard-Wearing Thief Targeting Luxury Jakarta Hotels Was a Lone Operator
Jakarta Metropolitan Police have arrested a 43-year-old man who posed as a seminar attendee or office worker—complete with batik shirt and lanyard—to steal from five-star hotels across Central Jakarta. The suspect, identified by his initials NW, carried out at least three thefts between August 2025 and February 2026, targeting unattended belongings at hotel conferences and events.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:47 WIB
65 Residents in Purworejo Suspected of Food Poisoning After Eating at Ruwahan Ceremony
At least 65 residents of Purworejo, Central Java, are suspected of suffering food poisoning after consuming catered food at a ruwahan (pre-Ramadan) ceremony, with nine requiring hospitalisation. The incident, which occurred in Trirejo Village, Loano District, has prompted a police investigation into the catered meals ordered from a local restaurant, with victims reporting nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:46 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Takes OSO's Private Jet to Attend Balai Sarkiah Inauguration
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar flew on a private jet provided by Hanura Party chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO) to attend the inauguration of the Balai Sarkiah building in Takalar, South Sulawesi. The facility, built by the OSO Foundation, is intended to serve as a centre for religious activities, education, and community empowerment, raising questions about the propriety of a cabinet minister accepting private transport from a political party leader.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:44 WIB
President Prabowo Meets Donald Trump to Discuss Strategic Cooperation
President Prabowo Subianto embarked on a working visit to Washington DC on 16 February 2026 for bilateral talks with US President Donald Trump, with the signing of an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) planned around 19 February. The visit, which also includes participation in the Gaza Peace Council, follows preparatory meetings with key cabinet ministers and reflects Indonesia's active diplomacy to strengthen its global position amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:38 WIB
Financial Investment Tips for the Year of the Fire Horse 2026
Senior economists and Feng Shui consultants have outlined six key investment strategies for 2026, as Asian and Indonesian economies are expected to improve amid easing global interest rate pressures. Investors are advised to select fundamentally strong assets, adopt a gradual market entry approach, avoid emotionally driven decisions and FOMO, whilst balancing boldness with portfolio protection through diversification and disciplined rebalancing.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:27 WIB
Isbat Session Held Today, Start of Ramadan Expected to Differ
The Ministry of Religious Affairs held an isbat session on Tuesday to determine the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, led by Minister Nasaruddin Umar and attended by senior government and religious figures. The government uses an integrated approach combining astronomical calculation (hisab) and moon sighting (rukyatul hilal) from 37 observation points across Indonesia, with the process governed by a 2004 fatwa from the Indonesian Ulema Council.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:23 WIB
Israel Detains Al-Aqsa Mosque Imam
Israeli authorities have detained the imam of Al-Aqsa Mosque, Sheikh Muhammad Ali Abbasi, and banned him from entering the mosque compound for one week, just days before the start of Ramadan. The move comes amid escalating Israeli actions across the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, including restrictions on worshippers' access and increasing settler incursions into the sensitive compound.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:18 WIB
River Overflows, Hundreds of Homes Submerged by Flooding in Ciamis
The Citalahab River in Pamarican District, Ciamis Regency, burst its embankment for the second time in a week following sustained heavy rainfall, inundating hundreds of homes across two villages and submerging approximately 200 hectares of rice paddies. Authorities reported no fatalities, with 164 residents evacuated to temporary shelters, whilst the local government deployed emergency logistics and multiple agencies conducted clean-up operations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:02 WIB
BRIN Researcher Predicts Start of Ramadan on 19 February 2026: Here's the Explanation
A senior researcher at Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has predicted that Ramadan 2026 will begin on 19 February based on local hilal (crescent moon) observations, as the moon's position over Indonesia will not meet visibility criteria on 17 February.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:00 WIB
Why Does the Date of Chinese New Year Change Every Year?
Chinese New Year, or Imlek, falls today, Tuesday 17 February 2026. Behind the annual celebration lies a wealth of fascinating history, particularly regarding how the date of Imlek is determined. So how is the date of Imlek established, and what are the origins of the celebration? According to RD.com, the Chinese New Year celebration is based on the Chinese lunar calendar, which has been in use since the 14th century BC during the Shang Dynasty.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 09:00 WIB
Ministry of Religious Affairs Holds Isbat Session Today to Determine Start of Ramadan 2026
Jakarta, VIVA – The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) will hold an Isbat session to determine the first day of Ramadan 1447 Hijri today, Tuesday, 17 February 2026. According to information from Kemenag’s official Instagram account, the Isbat session will be held at Hotel Borobudur in Central Jakarta. The session is divided into three parts. First, a seminar on the position of the hilal (crescent moon) at 16:30 WIB. Second, the Isbat session itself at 18:30 WIB.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:57 WIB
Chinese New Year Holiday Sees 52 Per Cent Surge in Cipali Toll Road Traffic
Traffic volumes on the Cipali toll road surged by 52 per cent during the 2026 Chinese New Year (Imlek) holiday period. Astra Tol Cipali's corporate communications division reported the significant increase in vehicles traversing the route, highlighting the seasonal demand pressures on Java's key transport infrastructure.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:52 WIB
453 Joint Personnel Deployed to Secure Lunar New Year Celebrations at 42 Temples in West Jakarta
West Jakarta Metropolitan Police Chief Commissioner Twedi Aditya Bennyahdi announced that the West Jakarta Metropolitan Police, together with the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) and related agencies, have deployed 453 joint personnel to secure Lunar New Year celebrations. Security operations are being conducted at 42 temples that have notified authorities of their plans to hold worship services for Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:50 WIB
44 Confucian Inmates Receive Sentence Remissions for Lunar New Year 2026
The Directorate General of Corrections under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections granted Special Remissions and Special Sentence Reductions for Lunar New Year 2026 to 44 Confucian inmates across Indonesia on Tuesday (17 February). Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto stated that the granting of special remissions and sentence reductions represents the state’s recognition of inmates who have demonstrated positive behavioural changes during their rehabilitation period.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:49 WIB
East Jakarta Repairs Thousands of Potholes
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The East Jakarta Highways Agency (Suku Dinas Bina Marga) has repaired 1,745 potholes spread across 10 sub-districts in the area. “Since early February until now, a total of 1,745 potholes in East Jakarta have been patched,” said Head of the East Jakarta Highways Agency Benhard Hutajulu when contacted in Jakarta on Tuesday. Benhard noted that frequent rainfall since January had caused waterlogging and flooding, which in turn damaged road surfaces.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:45 WIB
Ministers AHY and Iftitah Join Lo Hei Tradition for Lunar New Year Celebrations in Batam
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman participated in the Lo Hei tradition during Lunar New Year celebrations in Batam, Riau Islands. AHY emphasised national unity, noting that Imlek is now celebrated across Indonesia as an expression of togetherness.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:40 WIB
Chinese New Year: 44 Inmates Receive Sentence Remissions and Reductions
The Directorate General of Corrections (Ditjenpas) under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has granted special remissions and sentence reductions to 44 Confucian inmates in commemoration of Chinese New Year 2026. Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto stated that the granting of special remissions and sentence reductions represents the state’s recognition of inmates who have demonstrated positive behavioural changes during their rehabilitation period.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:39 WIB
How Many Days Until Ramadan 2026? Isbat Session to Determine Official Schedule
Indonesian Muslims are preparing to observe Ramadan, with Muhammadiyah members set to begin fasting on Wednesday, 18 February 2026. The Muhammadiyah central leadership has announced the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, whilst the government's official Isbat session will formally determine the commencement date for the broader Muslim population.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:36 WIB
Israeli Police Arrest Al-Aqsa Mosque Imam in Mosque Courtyard
Israeli occupation police arrested the Imam of Al-Aqsa Mosque, Sheikh Mohammad Ali Al-Abbasi, in the mosque courtyard in occupied Jerusalem on Monday evening. The arrest adds to ongoing tensions surrounding the contested holy site, a matter of significant foreign policy concern for Indonesia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:35 WIB
The Paradox of Consumption and Efforts to Curb Inflation During Ramadan
An opinion piece examining the paradoxical economic phenomenon during Ramadan in Indonesia, where a month of spiritual self-restraint coincides with surging consumer spending. The article explores efforts to contain inflationary pressures that typically accompany the holy month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:35 WIB
Prabowo Flies to US on 19 February, Ready to Sign Reciprocal Tariff Deal
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to fly to the United States on 19 February 2026 to finalise a reciprocal tariff agreement with the US government. The visit underscores Indonesia's efforts to secure favourable trade terms amid Washington's broader push for reciprocal tariff arrangements with trading partners.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:34 WIB
Indonesia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement Set to Be Signed by Prabowo
Indonesia and the United States are poised to sign the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), under which Indonesia will eliminate import duties on most US products in exchange for a reduction in US tariffs on Indonesian goods from 32 per cent to 19 per cent. Washington has also agreed to exempt key Indonesian exports including crude palm oil, coffee, and cocoa from tariffs, marking a significant bilateral trade milestone during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to the US.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:31 WIB
Ministry of Religious Affairs Reveals Reason Why Isbat Session for Start of Fasting Is Held at Hotel
The government is this year holding the isbat session to determine 1 Ramadan 2026, or 1447 Hijriah, at Hotel Borobudur in Central Jakarta. The government has revealed the reason behind the change of venue. The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag), through its Bureau of Public Relations and Public Communication, stated that the session was originally to be held at the Haji Mohammad Rasjidi Auditorium at the Kemenag office in Thamrin, Central Jakarta.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:30 WIB
2025 Climate Data Reveals Accelerating Pace of Global Warming
The latest global climate data indicates that the pace of Earth's warming is accelerating and approaching the critical threshold established under the Paris Agreement. This narrows the window of opportunity for the world to contain temperature rises within agreed limits.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:25 WIB
Forestry Ministry Deploys Additional Personnel and Conducts OMC in Riau to Prevent Spread of Forest Fires
The Ministry of Forestry is intensifying efforts to combat forest and land fires (karhutla) across several areas in Riau Province. The Manggala Agni team is working alongside the military, police, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), and other stakeholders to contain the blazes and prevent further spread.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:25 WIB
Serang Municipal Government Hosts Quran Recital and Ramadan 1447 Hijriyah Celebrations
The Serang municipal government, through its Regional Secretariat's Public Welfare Division, successfully organised the Serang Mengaji (Quran recital) event and Ramadan 1447 Hijriyah celebrations at the Serang town square. The event reflects local government engagement in community religious activities ahead of the Islamic fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:25 WIB
AYIMUN Brings Together Youth from 25 Countries to Discuss Solutions to Global Issues
The 27th AYIMUN Virtual Conference, organised by the International Global Network (IGN), gathered 220 young people from 25 countries to discuss global issues through a virtual diplomacy forum. The event highlights Indonesia's continued role in fostering international youth engagement on pressing global challenges.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:24 WIB
Starting Ramadan on the Global Date
An opinion column discusses the annual debate in Indonesia over determining the start of Ramadan, comparing the anticipation to waiting for the final result of a football match. The piece addresses the recurring tension between different methods of moon sighting and calendar determination used by Indonesian Islamic organisations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:23 WIB
House of Representatives Reveals Jokowi's Role in KPK Law Revision
A number of Commission III members of the House of Representatives (DPR) have expressed anger over statements made by former president Joko Widodo. Jokowi declared that the revision of Law Number 19 of 2019 on the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) was a DPR initiative. Commission III member Nasyirul Falah Amru said Jokowi’s statement was nothing more than an attempt to deflect responsibility. As president at the time, Jokowi played a role in the deliberations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:23 WIB
Yesterday's Headlines: BPS Accelerates PBI JKN Verification and Flooding in Grobogan
Jakarta (ANTARA) - A number of stories attracted readers’ attention on Monday (16/2), beginning with the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) accelerating field verification of National Health Insurance Contribution Assistance Recipients (PBI-JKN) whose status had been deactivated.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:23 WIB
Israeli Police Arrest Al-Aqsa Mosque Imam
Jerusalem (ANTARA) - Israeli occupation police on Monday evening (16/2) arrested the Imam of Al-Aqsa Mosque, Sheikh Mohammad Ali Al-Abbasi, in the mosque’s courtyard in occupied Jerusalem, according to local sources. The arrest took place amid escalating actions by the occupation authorities targeting Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:22 WIB
Ship on South Halmahera–Ternate Route Sinks in Waters off Makian Island, North Maluku
Ternate (ANTARA) — The motor vessel (KM) Intim Teratai, which departed from Babang Port bound for Bastiong Port in Ternate, was reported to have sunk in the waters off Makian Island, South Halmahera Regency, North Maluku, in the early hours of Tuesday. Head of the Ternate Search and Rescue (SAR) Office, Iwan Ramdani, explained that his team moved swiftly after receiving a report from the ship’s passengers.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:19 WIB
Kampar Police Hold Grand Religious Gathering Ahead of Ramadan 2026 with Ustaz Abdul Somad
Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, Kampar Police held a grand religious gathering (tabligh akbar) featuring Ustaz Abdul Somad (UAS) in Kampar Regency, Riau. Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan was also in attendance. The event, held at the Kampar Police headquarters on Monday evening (16 February 2026), was organised to welcome the holy month of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:19 WIB
Palestine Says Israel Obstructing Gaza Committee's Work Under Trump's Proposal
Gaza (ANTARA) - Israel is obstructing the work of the Palestinian national committee established to manage the Gaza Strip in accordance with United States President Donald Trump’s plan, Palestinian Deputy Foreign Minister Omar Awadallah told RIA Novosti on Monday (16/2). “Israel is prohibiting members of the national committee for managing Gaza from entering the Gaza Strip,” he said.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:16 WIB
ORI: Development Planning Inseparable from Public Service Quality
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Ombudsman (ORI) Chairman Mokhammad Najih has affirmed that national development planning cannot be separated from the quality of public services. “Every development policy ultimately comes down to how the state serves its citizens in a fair, effective and civilised manner,” Najih said when contacted in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:15 WIB
Named in Fortune 40 Under 40, Mandaya Boss Reveals Key to Private Hospital Growth
Benedictus Widaja, co-founder and president director of Mandaya Hospital Group, has been named in Fortune Indonesia's 40 Under 40 list for 2026. The recognition comes amid the group's ongoing expansion and strengthening of its private hospital business strategy.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:14 WIB
CCTV Reveals Moment Husband of Central Java DPRD Member Was Shot, Victim's Testimony Emerges
Police in Pekalongan, assisted by the Central Java Provincial Police, are examining CCTV footage to investigate the shooting of Amat Muzakhim (55), the husband of a Central Java provincial legislature (DPRD) member. The case highlights security concerns surrounding political figures and their families in the region.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:07 WIB
Observer Stresses Internal Party Reform in Political Recruitment
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Executive Director of Indonesia Political Review Iwan Setiawan has stressed the importance of improving political parties’ internal systems to avoid fielding immature regional head candidates. “What political parties must do is reform their internal systems.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:04 WIB
Immigration and Corrections Minister: 44 Inmates Receive Remission for Lunar New Year 2026
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Immigration and Corrections (Imipas) Agus Andrianto stated that 44 inmates of the Confucian faith received special remission (RK) and sentence reductions (PMP) to mark Lunar New Year 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:04 WIB
Ramadan Without a Home, Without a Father's Grave
A man named Mahdi lost everything in flash floods last November, including his father's burial site, and now faces the holy month of Ramadan amid ongoing grief and displacement. The human interest story highlights the devastating impact of natural disasters on Indonesian communities and the resilience of survivors during religious observances.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:00 WIB
Hand-drawn Batik Worth Rp1.3 Billion Stolen, Police Apprehend Suspects
Hand-drawn batik worth Rp1.3 billion that was on display at an exhibition at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) in Senayan, Central Jakarta, was stolen. The case came to light following a direct report from a victim identified by the initial H, filed at the Tanah Abang Police Station on Wednesday (4/2). “The victim reported a theft that occurred on Wednesday, 4 February 2026 at approximately 08:00 Western Indonesian Time.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 08:00 WIB
Most Popular: Average Price of Best-Selling Cars, Streets Suddenly Empty During Police Raids, Best-Selling Brands January 2026
A number of automotive articles published on Monday, 16 February 2026 attracted significant reader attention. Topics ranged from the average price of cars selling well in Indonesia, the phenomenon of streets suddenly emptying when police prepare for raids, to the list of the ten best-selling car brands in January 2026. Average Price of Best-Selling Cars in Indonesia Indonesia’s automotive market is showing interesting trends in terms of the price points of the most purchased vehicles.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:58 WIB
Naqsabandiyah Congregation in Padang Begins Ramadan Fasting Today
Members of the Naqsabandiyah Tarekat in Padang, West Sumatra, performed their first tarawih prayers on Monday evening, 16 February 2026. The prayers were held at the surau gadang in Pauh District, Padang, and attended by dozens of congregants. “Tonight the congregation at the surau gadang performed the first evening of tarawih and witir prayers,” said Buya Zahar, Imam of the Naqsabandiyah Tarekat Surau Baru.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:55 WIB
UBS Gold at Rp2.988 Million/g and Galeri24 at Rp2.971 Million/g on Tuesday Morning
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Gold bar prices quoted from the official Sahabat Pegadaian website in Jakarta on Tuesday at 07.50 Western Indonesian Time (WIB) showed UBS gold at Rp2,988,000 per gram and Galeri24 at Rp2,971,000 per gram. These figures represent a decline from prices listed on the official website on Monday morning (16/2), when UBS gold stood at Rp2,998,000 and Galeri24 at Rp2,981,000 per gram. Selling prices for UBS and Galeri24 gold at Pegadaian are subject to change at any time.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:53 WIB
BMKG Deploys Teams to 37 Locations for Crescent Moon Observation to Determine Start of Ramadan
The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has deployed teams for crescent moon (hilal) observation to determine the start of Ramadan 2026, corresponding to 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Teams have been stationed at 37 locations across Indonesia.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:52 WIB
When Promises Are Put to the Test of Time
Mataram (ANTARA) - A year ago, the grounds of the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) campus in Praya, Central Lombok, bore witness to a speech brimming with optimism about rapid progress and developmental leaps. Under the leadership of Lalu Muhamad Iqbal and Indah Dhamayanti Putri (Iqbal-Dinda), West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) entered a new chapter, with the grand vision of “NTB Prosperous and World-Renowned”.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:50 WIB
BI East Kalimantan Prepares Rp2.18 Trillion in Currency for Ramadan-Eid Period
Samarinda (ANTARA) - The Bank Indonesia Representative Office for East Kalimantan Province (BI Kaltim) has prepared Rp2.18 trillion in fit-for-circulation currency to meet public demand during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah/2026, particularly as many people prefer new banknotes during the Eid celebrations.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:39 WIB
Mahdi Who Longs for His Father's House
North Aceh — “Over there, by that tree trunk, that’s where my house used to be.” Mahdi (40) turned his body to point to the spot where his home once stood. Now it is completely bare, with not even debris to be detected. All that remains are piles of wood from fallen trees and rocks carried by floodwaters. Then his finger shifted, pointing to a spot no more than a stone’s throw from the land where his house had once stood. “There! That’s my father’s house.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:35 WIB
Telkomsat Develops Internet Merah Putih Service to Promote Equal Digital Access Across the Archipelago
Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat) continues to adjust and strengthen its service portfolio in line with the evolving dynamics of national connectivity needs. As part of this adaptive approach, Telkomsat has introduced Internet Merah Putih (IMP) as a development of its satellite broadband internet service that is more relevant to contemporary demands.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:35 WIB
Transmigration Minister Iftitah: Rempang Area Increasingly Peaceful and Conducive for Investment Over Past Year
Transmigration Minister Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanegara has claimed that the Rempang-Galang area in Batam is now fully stable, citing a peaceful approach adopted during the first year of President Prabowo Subianto's administration. The minister emphasised that security stability is the key factor in restoring investor confidence, with his ministry working closely with BP Batam and the Batam city government to ensure development proceeds without the social unrest that previously plagued the area.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:34 WIB
Chinese New Year 2026: BMKG Forecasts Rain across Nearly All Regions
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of the potential for heavy rainfall across a number of regions in Indonesia today, coinciding with celebrations of Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili. “Preparedness needs to be heightened for the potential of heavy to very heavy rain in the regions of Aceh, Jambi, Banten, West Java, Jakarta, Central Java, D.I.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:30 WIB
Widespread Protests as Israel Claims West Bank Land as 'State Property'
A wave of condemnation and protests has emerged following the Israeli government’s claim over parts of the West Bank as “state land”. A number of countries have deemed the move potentially destabilising, warning it could trigger fresh tensions and worsen the political and security situation in the conflict zone.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:30 WIB
Yesterday's News: Northern Rail Services Disrupted, Food Supply Ahead of Ramadan Assured
From the disruption to northern railway services caused by flooding to assurances that food supply in Greater Jakarta remains relatively secure ahead of Chinese New Year and Ramadan, here is a roundup of selected news stories.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:25 WIB
Police Investigate Case of Thai Tourists' Suitcases Stolen at Mount Bromo
Probolinggo, East Java (ANTARA) - The Probolinggo Resort Police in East Java have moved swiftly by forming a special team to handle the case of seven suitcases belonging to Thai foreign tourists that went missing in the Mount Bromo area. “The incident occurred over the weekend and is currently being handled by police officers. The victims have officially reported the incident to the Probolinggo Resort Police,” said Probolinggo Police Chief AKBP M. Wahyudin Latif in a statement on Tuesday.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:23 WIB
NU in Its Second Century: Grounding Religious Moderation from Jargon to Reality
Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) is often defined as the bastion of religious moderation (wasathiyah) in Indonesia. With the foundation of Ahlussunnah wal Jama’ah (Aswaja) An-Nahdliyah, NU champions the principles of tawassuth (moderation), tawazun (balance), i’tidal (justice), and tasamuh (tolerance). Theoretically and theologically, this is an ideal golden doctrine.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:22 WIB
Film "Monster Pabrik Rambut" Hoped to Offer New Option in Horror Genre
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The film “Monster Pabrik Rambut” (Sleep No More), which had its premiere at the Berlinale Special Midnight section of the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival running in Germany from 12 to 22 February, is hoped to become a new option in the horror genre for filmgoers. “I hope they’re scared, I hope they’re entertained.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:21 WIB
Yesterday in Politics: Prabowo Departs for US, Calls for Palestinian Protection at Board of Peace Meeting
Jakarta (ANTARA) - A range of political events took place on Monday (16/2), and the following are five selected stories for review this morning, from President Prabowo Subianto’s departure to the United States through to Commission I of the House of Representatives’ requests ahead of the inaugural Board of Peace (BoP) meeting.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:18 WIB
Yesterday's Legal News: Lunar New Year Traffic to Jokowi's Double Standards
Jakarta (ANTARA) - A number of legal events took place on Monday (16/2), and the following are five selected stories for your review, ranging from traffic flow during the Lunar New Year holiday to a House of Representatives member accusing Jokowi of double standards regarding the reinstatement of the KPK Law.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:17 WIB
Jokowi's Statement on KPK Law Seen as Attempt to Shirk Responsibility
A number of academics have criticised statements made by former president Joko Widodo. Previously, Jokowi said the revision of Law Number 19 of 2019 concerning the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) was initiated by the House of Representatives (DPR). Charles Simabura, a constitutional law lecturer at Andalas University, expressed concern that Jokowi’s statement was an attempt to evade responsibility.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:15 WIB
Jakarta Metropolitan Police Deploy 1,919 Joint Personnel to Secure Lunar New Year Celebrations
Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) have deployed 1,919 joint personnel to secure the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations. The security operation has been mounted to ensure that all worship services and celebrations by the Chinese-Indonesian community proceed safely, in an orderly fashion, and without disruption.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:03 WIB
BWA and Serang City Government Sign MoU to Accelerate Quran Literacy Programme with 15,000 Readers in One Man One Juz Initiative
The Quran Endowment Board (BWA) and the Serang City Government have signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate the "Serang Mengaji" programme, which mobilised 15,000 participants in a One Man One Juz mass Quran reading event ahead of Ramadan 1447 H.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:00 WIB
When Does Fasting Begin? Isbat Session to Determine Start of Ramadan 2026 Held Today
The government is holding an isbat session today to determine the start of Ramadan 2026, corresponding to 1447 Hijriah. As reported by the Public Relations and Communications Bureau of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) and the official Instagram account of the Directorate General of Islamic Community Guidance at Kemenag on Tuesday (17/2/2026), the isbat session will be held at Hotel Borobudur in Central Jakarta.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 07:00 WIB
House of Representatives Reminds Prabowo: US Import Tariff Negotiations Must Prioritise National Interests
Jakarta, VIVA – Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) is paying particular attention to trade tariff issues surrounding President Prabowo Subianto’s working visit to the United States to meet President Donald Trump. Deputy Chairman of Commission I, Dave Laksono, stressed that import tariff negotiations must be a crucial point that upholds economic sovereignty and national interests.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:59 WIB
South Jakarta Police Guard Two Temples During Lunar New Year Celebrations
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The South Jakarta Metropolitan Police deployed security at two temples during Lunar New Year celebrations to ensure all religious activities proceeded safely and smoothly. “Security measures are focused on two temples in the South Jakarta area, namely Vihara Bio Hok Tek Tjen Sin (Kebayoran Lama) and Vihara Amurva Bhumi (Setiabudi),” said Head of Operations of the South Jakarta Metropolitan Police, AKBP Tribuana Roseno, in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:42 WIB
Ahead of Ramadan, Pertamina Distributes Over One Million Additional 3-Kilogram LPG Cylinders in Central Java and Yogyakarta
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga's Central Java regional unit is distributing an additional 1.1 million subsidised 3-kilogram LPG cylinders — equivalent to 3,544 metric tonnes and 75 per cent above normal daily supply — across Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta ahead of Ramadan 2026.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:40 WIB
Police Chief's Commitment to Workers: Opening Access to Police Health Facilities and Mitigating Redundancies
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo attended the 53rd anniversary celebration of the Confederation of All Indonesian Workers’ Unions (KSPSI). Among the commitments pledged by Sigit was that police health facilities would be made available for use by workers. In addition, Sigit ordered the Police Labour Desk to provide assistance to all workers, particularly those affected by redundancies.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:31 WIB
South Jakarta Immigration Arrests Foreign DJ and Dancer for Residence Permit Violations
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The South Jakarta Immigration Office, through a joint operation by the Foreign Nationals Surveillance Team (Tim Pora) together with the Pomdam Jaya military police, has arrested a disc jockey (DJ) and a dancer, both foreign nationals, who are strongly suspected of misusing their residence permits. The arrests were carried out during an enforcement operation in the Kuningan area of South Jakarta in the early hours of Sunday (15/2).
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:30 WIB
Science Without Prostration
An opinion piece from Republika exploring the paradox of modern science, arguing that the discipline born to liberate humanity from superstition has gradually constructed new, subtler, and more systemic forms of dogma. The article engages with the philosophical tension between scientific rationalism and spiritual humility in contemporary society.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:23 WIB
Pertamina Adds 1.1 Million LPG Cylinders to Anticipate Ramadan Demand
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga's Central Java regional unit has boosted subsidised 3-kilogram LPG supply by 1.1 million cylinders — equivalent to 3,544 metric tonnes — across Central Java and Yogyakarta ahead of Ramadan 2026, representing a 75 per cent increase over normal daily distribution.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:20 WIB
House Commission I Hopes Prabowo Will Affirm Support for Palestine at Inaugural BoP Meeting
President Prabowo Subianto has flown to the United States, with one purpose being to attend the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace established by US President Donald Trump. Deputy Chairman of House Commission I, Sukamta, has expressed his hope that Prabowo will affirm support for Palestine at the meeting. “To reaffirm Indonesia’s support for full Palestinian independence through a two-state solution that is fair, dignified, and in accordance with international law.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:16 WIB
Chinese New Year: Driving Licence and Vehicle Registration Services Suspended
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Jakarta Metropolitan Police Traffic Directorate has suspended driving licence (SIM) and vehicle registration certificate (STNK) services today due to the national holiday for the celebration of Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili. Services will resume on Wednesday (18/2). “Driving licence issuance services will reopen on Thursday,” wrote the official @TMCPoldaMetro account on X (Twitter) on Tuesday.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:07 WIB
Tuesday, 17 February 2026: Mobile Driving Licence Services in Jakarta Still Suspended, Bandung Continues Operating
Jakarta, VIVA – Mobile driving licence (SIM Keliling) services on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 continue to face operational adjustments in several regions. The temporary closure is linked to the national holiday and collective leave for Chinese New Year 2026. For the Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) jurisdiction covering Jakarta and Bekasi, driving licence services remain suspended today.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:00 WIB
Analyst Says PDIP Should Consider Megawati as 2029 Presidential Candidate
Jakarta, VIVA – Political communication analyst Hendri Satrio (Hensa) has assessed that Megawati Soekarnoputri still deserves consideration by the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) as a candidate for the 2029 Presidential Election. He considers the option relevant amid the spotlight that has more frequently been directed at other names such as Pramono Anung.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 06:00 WIB
Thousands of Pilgrims Flock to Sunan Bonang's Tomb Ahead of Ramadan
Thousands of pilgrims have descended upon the tomb of Sunan Bonang in Tuban, East Java, as Ramadan approaches. The site is one of the most venerated graves of the Wali Songo, the legendary nine saints credited with spreading Islam across Java, and draws heightened visitation during the lead-up to the fasting month.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:38 WIB
DKI Jakarta Roundup: Transjakarta Bus Smoke Incident to Residents Lacking Physical Activity
Jakarta (ANTARA) - A number of news stories from DKI Jakarta on Monday (16/2), ranging from a Transjakarta bus emitting smoke to residents lacking physical activity. Here are the notable Jakarta stories worth revisiting. 1.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:31 WIB
Israel Deploys Police to Al-Aqsa During Ramadan, Palestinian Access Restricted
Israeli police have said they will deploy a major force around Al-Aqsa Mosque during the holy month of Ramadan, whilst Palestinian officials have stated that Israel is imposing restrictions on the compound. According to AFP on Tuesday (17/2/2026), during the fasting month, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians traditionally attend prayers at Al-Aqsa — the third holiest site in Islam, located in East Jerusalem, which Israel captured in 1967 and subsequently annexed.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:20 WIB
Toddler Victim of Abuse by Uncle and Aunt Receives Psychological Support
The Surabaya City Government is providing psychological support to K, a four-year-old girl allegedly abused by her uncle and aunt. The Head of Surabaya’s Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, Population Control and Family Planning Agency (DP3APPKB), Ida Widayati, affirmed that the city would not tolerate any form of violence, particularly against children.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:17 WIB
Police Officers Involved in Narcotics Should Receive Double the Punishment
Jakarta, VIVA – The Chairman of the National Police Family Association (KBPP Polri) for the 2015-2021 period, AH. Bimo Suryono, has highlighted the case of alleged involvement of officials within the Bima Kota Police in narcotics matters, which has once again shocked the public. According to him, the case has drawn attention because it involves officials who hold authority in law enforcement.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:17 WIB
Crime Round-up: Brawl Attempt and Collapsed Wall at SMPN 182
Jakarta (ANTARA) - A number of security-related incidents marked events in Jakarta on Monday (16/2), ranging from an attempted brawl to a collapsed wall beside SMPN 182 Jakarta. Here is a fuller summary of the stories that remain of interest. 1.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:01 WIB
Brebes Residents Shocked by Discovery of Body in Suitcase at Vacant House
Residents of Sukareja Village, Banjarharjo District, Brebes, were shocked by the discovery of a body inside a suitcase at a vacant house. The body was first found by a person who had come to clean the property. Sukareja Village Secretary Rohandi said the body in the suitcase was first discovered by a relative of the homeowner on Monday afternoon (16 February). The relative had entered the house to clean it. The homeowner has not been living in the property as they are currently working abroad.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:00 WIB
Southeast Asia's Animators Are Smashing Box Office Records and Redefining Local Storytelling
Filmmakers in Malaysia and Indonesia are developing characters and stories that have hit a sweet spot with local audiences. What’s next? After seeing reels of the animated film Papa Zola The Movie trending on social media, Singaporean engineer Muhammad Latif Mathan caught it with his two sons in Johor Bahru during the December school holidays.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 05:00 WIB
Scientific Reasons Behind Muhammadiyah's Decision to Set 1 Ramadan 1447 H on 18 February 2026, Using a Different Method from the Government
Jakarta, VIVA – The determination of the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah has once again produced differences in Indonesia. Muhammadiyah has set 1 Ramadan as falling on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, whilst the government is expected to declare it one day later. Behind this difference lies a fundamental change in the method of determining the Islamic calendar now adopted by Muhammadiyah.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 04:59 WIB
Commentary: What the West Gets Wrong about Chinese Manufacturing
When Western politicians and business leaders discuss China’s manufacturing prowess, they typically invoke images of colossal steel mills flooding global markets, dark factories run by robots and state-owned champions sustained by subsidies. This supports the view that tariffs and anti-subsidy measures can erode China’s industrial dominance. But while this logic may be comforting, it is wrong.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 04:00 WIB
KLM Nur Ainun Balqis Sinks in Makassar Strait, 2 Persons Missing
The vessel KLM Nur Ainun Balqis has been reported to have sunk in the waters of the Makassar Strait, in the Donggala Regency area of Central Sulawesi. Of the five people on board, three were found alive, whilst two others remain missing and are the subject of an ongoing search operation. The Palu Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas) immediately deployed the KN SAR Baladewa to conduct search operations for the victims yet to be found.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 02:34 WIB
All Subdistricts in Tapteng Submerged by Flooding After Heavy Rain, Bridge Severed
Central Tapanuli (Tapteng) Regent Masinton Pasaribu has reported that flooding has struck all subdistricts in Tapteng following heavy rainfall. In addition, road access and a bridge have been severed. “Flooding in all subdistricts — the rain was widespread,” said Masinton, as quoted by detikSumut on Tuesday (17/2/2026). Masinton said the flooding on Monday (16/2) evening inundated residents’ homes. Several rivers also overflowed their banks.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 02:30 WIB
Flood Victims in Pidie Jaya Receive Meugang Aid from Prabowo
The Pidie Jaya Regency Government in Aceh has distributed meugang tradition aid from President Prabowo Subianto to communities affected by flooding, ahead of the holy month of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The meugang tradition aid, in the form of cattle, was distributed by Pidie Jaya Regent Sibral Malasyi together with the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkompinda) of Pidie Jaya Regency on Monday (16/2).
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 02:00 WIB
Volcanic Activity at Mount Lokon in Tomohon Intensifies, Toxic Gas Warning Issued
Mount Lokon in Tomohon City, North Sulawesi, has once again shown increased volcanic activity. The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has warned of potential hazards including the release of toxic gases from the crater, which could occur at any time. Beyond the threat of dangerous gases, the volcano’s activity also has the potential to trigger sudden eruptions.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 01:46 WIB
AHY Celebrates First Lunar New Year in Batam
Batam (ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development (IPK) Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) celebrated Lunar New Year 2577 in the Nagoya area of Batam, Riau. “Yes, this is very special. It is the first time I have joined in celebrating Lunar New Year in Batam.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 01:17 WIB
AHY: Chinese-Indonesian Community Plays Significant Role in National Development
Batam (ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) said the Chinese-Indonesian community plays a significant role in national development. “The Chinese-Indonesian community has a significant role and contribution to national development,” he said during a working visit coinciding with the celebration of Lunar New Year 2557/2026 in Riau, Batam, on Monday.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 01:00 WIB
34 Villages in Grobogan, Central Java Submerged by Flooding, 5,214 Households Affected
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has reported that 34 villages in Grobogan Regency, Central Java have been submerged by flooding. The floods, triggered by heavy rainfall since Sunday (15/2) evening, have affected thousands of residents. The flooding was also caused by water surges from the upper reaches of the Glugu, Jajar and Tuntang rivers, causing them to overflow.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 00:45 WIB
Cooperatives Projected as Indonesia's Primary Economic Drivers by 2026
Indonesia's Ministry of Cooperatives has outlined an ambitious vision for cooperatives to become the nation's leading economic drivers by 2026, with Deputy for Cooperative Supervision Herbert Siagian describing them as potential "game changers" for the domestic economy.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 00:44 WIB
Chinese New Year 2026: Interfaith Forum Joins Celebrations at Bhumi Pharsjia Temple in Cianjur
A heartwarming scene unfolded during the 2026 Chinese New Year celebrations in Cianjur Regency, as worshippers from various faiths gathered harmoniously for the festivities marking the Year of the Fire Horse. In addition to the Chinese community, representatives from the Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB) attended the Chinese New Year celebrations at Bhumi Pharsjia Temple on Monday evening (16 February 2026).
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 00:25 WIB
Former Bima Police Chief Named Drug Suspect, Accused of Betraying the People
Former Bima City Police Chief Senior Commissioner Didik Putra Kuncoro has been named a suspect in a drug trafficking case. Didik also tested positive for methamphetamine following a hair follicle test. Chairman of the National Police Family Association (Keluarga Besar Putra Putri Polri), AH Bimo Suryono, said Didik had not only broken the law but had also betrayed his oath of office and the trust of the people.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 00:19 WIB
Home Affairs Secretary General Urges Village Governments to Focus on Communities
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Secretary General of the Ministry of Home Affairs Tomsi Tohir has underscored the importance of village governments maintaining a work orientation focused on the interests of their communities. “We are striving to truly make a meaningful contribution to our communities,” Tomsi said in a statement in Jakarta on Monday.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 00:10 WIB
Jokowi's Statement on KPK Law Deemed 'Hand-Washing'
Jakarta, VIVA – Member of House of Representatives Commission III Nasyirul Falah Amru, known as Gus Falah, has described former President Joko Widodo’s (Jokowi) approval of reverting the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Law to its earlier version as a display of double standards. According to Gus Falah, Jokowi bore responsibility as president in the enactment of Law Number 19 of 2019 concerning the Second Amendment to Law Number 30 of 2002 on the Corruption Eradication Commission.
Tue, 17 Feb 2026, 00:05 WIB
History of Lunar New Year Angpao: A Tradition Spanning Thousands of Years That Endures Today
Jakarta, VIVA – The celebration of Lunar New Year is always synonymous with various traditions rich in meaning. From cleaning the house before the turn of the year, serving symbolic dishes, to making offerings to ancestors, everything is done to welcome good fortune and prosperity. However, for many children in Asian families, there is one moment they look forward to the most: receiving an angpao, or red envelope containing money.