Archive: 18 February 2026
Showing 1-500 of 664 articles
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:53 WIB
Welcoming Ramadan 1447H: Worshippers Fill Istiqlal Mosque for First Tarawih Prayers
Thousands of Muslims gathered at Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque on Wednesday to perform the first tarawih prayers marking the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque and Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar delivered the inaugural sermon on the theme of "Green Ramadan," emphasising religion's role in fostering harmonious relations between humanity and the natural world.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:52 WIB
Unpad Students Map Cikandang River in West Java for White-Water Tourism Potential
Students from Padjadjaran University's nature club have completed a two-day mapping expedition of the 17-kilometre Cikandang River in Garut, West Java, using drones and manual surveying to assess its potential as a special interest white-water rafting destination.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:49 WIB
Ministry of Human Rights prioritises establishment of Kampung Redam to address social conflicts
Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights is rolling out a national programme to establish Human Rights-Aware Villages (Desa Sadar HAM) and Kampung Redam — reconciliation and peace centres — across the country as a strategy to resolve social conflicts.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:49 WIB
Ministry of P2MI and Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur Accelerate Migrant Worker Registration
Indonesia's Ministry for the Protection of Migrant Workers and the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur have agreed to accelerate the registration of non-procedural workers and strengthen border shelters to bolster migrant worker protection in 2026. The initiative comes amid the anticipated challenge of potentially 50,000 Indonesian nationals facing deportation from Malaysia this year, prompting urgent preparations in budgeting, facilities, and cross-border coordination.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:46 WIB
Istiqlal Mosque server room catches fire; blaze extinguished and congregants safe
A fire broke out in the CCTV server room of Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque on Wednesday evening during the first tarawih prayers of Ramadan, prompting some worshippers to briefly evacuate. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within minutes with no casualties reported, and congregants were able to resume worship safely.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:45 WIB
Three Defendants in Cooking Oil-Tin Corruption Obstruction Case Face 8 and 10 Years in Prison
Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences of 8 to 10 years for three defendants accused of obstructing investigations into major corruption cases involving tin commodity management, sugar imports at the Trade Ministry, and crude palm oil export permits. The defendants — a lawyer, a social media "buzzer," and the director of JakTV — allegedly orchestrated an extrajudicial scheme to create negative public opinion suggesting the corruption cases were being mishandled.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:44 WIB
Minister of Religious Affairs Delivers Tarawih Sermon at Istiqlal: Emphasise Gentleness and Nurturing
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar delivered the opening Ramadan 2026 tarawih sermon at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, themed "Green Ramadan, Ramadan Together." He called on Muslims to embody the colour green's symbolism of gentleness, nurturing and compassion, arguing that Islam's core attributes emphasise mercy over harshness.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:41 WIB
11 Papuan airports temporarily closed for security following pilot shooting
Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi announced the temporary closure of 11 pioneer airports across Papua as a preventive measure following the fatal shooting of a pilot and co-pilot. The ministry is coordinating with the Indonesian military and national police to restore adequate security before resuming operations at the affected airstrips, which serve remote, frontier and border regions.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:39 WIB
North Sumatra Governor: Residential Areas Severely Damaged by Lopian River Overflow
North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution inspected severe flood damage in Tapanuli Tengah district caused by the overflow of the Lopian River, which displaced residents and destroyed homes in Badiri sub-district. The governor pledged central, provincial, and district government assistance including permanent housing and post-disaster reconstruction, whilst local authorities reported flooding and landslides across multiple sub-districts that blocked major roads and cut power supplies.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:38 WIB
Japan Foundation to Hold Blue Economy Discussion at Undip
The Japan Foundation Jakarta will host its third Campus Town Hall event on the blue economy at Diponegoro University in Semarang on 26 February, bringing together ASEAN and Japanese experts to discuss maritime cooperation and sustainable development. The event highlights the strategic importance of blue economy collaboration between ASEAN nations and Japan, given that over 66 per cent of the ASEAN region comprises maritime territory.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:38 WIB
Sanae Takaichi Officially Returns as Japan's Prime Minister After Election Victory
Sanae Takaichi has been formally reappointed as Japan's Prime Minister following her Liberal Democratic Party's commanding two-thirds majority victory in the snap lower house elections on 8 February.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:27 WIB
After One Year Leading Bogor, Rudy Reforms Governance and Secures Unqualified Audit Opinion for District
Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto has made governance reform a central focus of his first year in office, culminating in the district government regaining an Unqualified Audit Opinion (WTP) from the national audit body. The administration also recruited over 13,000 contract civil servants, expanded digital government infrastructure to all sub-districts, and improved anti-corruption integrity scores assessed by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:24 WIB
Chinese President Sends Lunar New Year Card to Friends in the United States
President Xi Jinping responded to a letter from friends in Iowa, USA, sending Lunar New Year greetings and emphasising that the desire of both Chinese and American peoples for exchange and cooperation will not change regardless of circumstances. The diplomatic gesture, referencing Xi's visit to Iowa 41 years ago, underscores Beijing's continued emphasis on people-to-people diplomacy and subnational ties as the foundation of China-US relations.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:24 WIB
At the UN, 80 Countries Condemn Israel's Expansion of West Bank Settlements
Eighty countries and international organisations have condemned Israel's unilateral decision to expand illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, declaring it a violation of international law that must be immediately reversed. The joint statement, delivered at UN Headquarters in New York, reaffirmed commitment to the Two-State Solution and concrete measures in line with the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion of July 2024 to support Palestinian self-determination.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:21 WIB
Number of displaced residents in Sumatra drops to 12,994: Minister
Indonesia's post-disaster displacement figures across three Sumatran provinces have fallen dramatically from over two million to just 12,994, with Aceh still accounting for the vast majority of those remaining in evacuation tents.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:20 WIB
All national roads in three Sumatran provinces now operational: Minister
Coordinating Minister Karnavian has announced that all national roads and bridges in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra are fully operational following the devastating floods and landslides of late November 2025 that claimed 1,206 lives. Regional road functionality has also exceeded 90 per cent across all three provinces, though regional bridge repairs remain ongoing, particularly in Aceh at 47 per cent completion.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:15 WIB
Education ministry seeks additional Rp2.4 trillion budget for Sumatra recovery
Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is requesting an additional Rp2.4 trillion budget to support post-disaster recovery across three flood- and landslide-affected provinces in Sumatra. The funds would cover the revitalisation of 1,204 schools, special allowances for 13,000 teachers, and distribution of educational equipment, with the DPR's Commission X expressing strong support for the proposal.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:13 WIB
Corporate Representative for Cooking Oil Firms Faces 15-Year Prison Sentence in Judge Bribery Case
Prosecutors have demanded a 15-year prison sentence for M Syafei, a corporate representative of the Wilmar Group, Permata Hijau Group, and Musim Mas Group, for bribing a judge in connection with an acquittal verdict in a cooking oil case. Syafei, along with three other defendants, is accused of paying Rp 40 billion in bribes and committing money laundering, with prosecutors also seeking Rp 9.3 billion in restitution.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:06 WIB
BPS to Re-verify 106,000 Chronically Ill Health Insurance Beneficiaries, 5.9 Million Families Also to Be Checked
Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) will conduct ground checks on 106,153 previously deactivated health insurance subsidy recipients suffering from catastrophic illnesses, all of whom have since been automatically reactivated by BPJS Kesehatan. The agency also plans to verify approximately 5.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:04 WIB
Expanding Market Reach, Bintang Toedjoe and Extrajoss Target Youth Communities in Medan
PT Bintang Toedjoe is expanding the market reach of its Extrajoss Ultimate energy drink brand by targeting young consumers and communities through a large-scale public event in Medan, following successful activations in Jakarta and Bandung. The "Extrajoss Ultimate Takeover Medan" event at Lapangan Merdeka featured a community parade and various youth subcultures, as the company positions its green coffee-based, lower-sugar energy drink as a lifestyle brand for Indonesia's urban youth segment.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 23:00 WIB
Advocate Junaedi Saibih Faces Nine-Year Prison Sentence and Dismissal from University of Indonesia
Prosecutors have demanded a nine-year prison sentence and Rp600 million fine for advocate Junaedi Saibih over his role in a Rp40 billion bribery scheme targeting judges handling a major palm oil export corruption case involving Permata Hijau Group, Wilmar Group, and Musim Mas Group.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:47 WIB
Criminal Investigation Unit Asks BPOM to Ease Regulations on Procurement of Etomidate Vape Test Kits
Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has urged the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) to simplify regulations governing the procurement and production of test kits for detecting etomidate, an anaesthetic substance increasingly found in vape liquids. The absence of rapid testing tools has hampered law enforcement efforts, as police can only act against suspects found in physical possession of etomidate-laced vape products.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:39 WIB
Prasetyo Hadi Claims Prabowo and Trump Enjoy Good Relations
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has expressed confidence that the strong personal relationship between President Prabowo Subianto and US President Donald Trump could lead to more favourable trade tariff terms for Indonesia ahead of their bilateral meeting in Washington.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:38 WIB
Police Reveal Whip Pink Sales Scheme Using Fictitious B2B Transactions to Circumvent BPOM Oversight
Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has exposed how distributors of nitrous oxide (N2O), marketed as "Whip Pink," are using fictitious business-to-business transaction schemes to exploit a regulatory gap in BPOM's oversight of retail food-grade propellant sales.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:37 WIB
Lebak Police to Prosecute Perpetrators of Sarong Fights During Ramadan
Lebak District Police have announced they will take firm legal action against participants in sarong fights, a recurring phenomenon during Ramadan, even if the perpetrators are minors. Police have mapped out vulnerable locations prone to illegal street racing, brawls, and sarong wars, whilst urging parents to actively monitor their children's activities during late-night hours leading up to the pre-dawn meal.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:30 WIB
Prosecutors Seek 9-Year Sentence and Dismissal from UI for Junaedi Saibih in Cooking Oil Bribery Case
Prosecutors have demanded a nine-year prison sentence for lawyer Junaedi Saibih, accused of jointly bribing judges to secure an acquittal in a cooking oil corruption case. Beyond imprisonment, the prosecution is seeking his permanent disbarment as an advocate and dishonourable dismissal from his position as a lecturer at the University of Indonesia, in a case involving Rp 40 billion in bribes linked to CPO export permit fraud by major palm oil conglomerates.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:30 WIB
Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin's Chances in the 2029 Presidential Race: Political Analyst Ray Rangkuti Weighs In
Political analyst Ray Rangkuti has assessed Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin's prospects in the 2029 presidential race, arguing that his shared military background with President Prabowo Subianto makes a joint ticket unlikely and could split the same voter base.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:28 WIB
Fire Breaks Out in Istiqlal Mosque CCTV Room During First Ramadan Taraweh Prayers
A fire erupted in the CCTV room of Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque on Wednesday evening, just as the first taraweh prayers of Ramadan 2026 were under way. Nine fire engines and 36 personnel extinguished the blaze within 25 minutes, with no casualties reported and prayers continuing safely, though the cause remains under investigation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:16 WIB
Public Transport Operators and Drivers Pledge to Ensure Safety During 2026 Lebaran Homecoming
Indonesia's National Traffic Police Corps (Korlantas Polri) has secured commitments from public transport operators and drivers to prioritise vehicle and driver safety ahead of the 2026 Lebaran homecoming exodus. Under the tagline "Safe Homecoming, Sharing Hope," operators have pledged comprehensive fleet inspections whilst drivers committed to maintaining physical fitness and adhering to rest periods, as part of a preemptive strategy to reduce road accidents during the peak travel season.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:14 WIB
New Regulation Deemed at Risk of Opening Loopholes for Illegal Products
The Indonesian Tobacco Community Alliance (AMTI) has warned that proposed regulations tightening nicotine and tar limits in tobacco products — modelled on EU standards — could cripple the domestic clove cigarette (kretek) industry, which commands 97 per cent of the national market.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:12 WIB
Takaichi formally re-elected as Japan's prime minister with a goal of pushing to the right
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi was reappointed by Parliament to form her second Cabinet following a landslide election victory, securing a two-thirds supermajority that enables her to push through a hard-right policy agenda including military expansion, stricter immigration, and conservative social policies.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:10 WIB
Inaugural Tarawih Prayers at IKN State Mosque Broadcast Live
Indonesia's new State Mosque in the Nusantara capital (IKN) hosted its first-ever tarawih prayers since construction, with the main prayer hall filled to capacity and the event broadcast live on YouTube. The mosque, designed to accommodate up to 29,000 worshippers initially and eventually 60,000, is positioned as the primary religious centre in the new capital, with a Ramadan Plaza established nearby to support social and economic activity during the fasting month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:10 WIB
Culprit Behind Sumatran Floods: State Reclaims 1,583 Hectares of PT SJW Land
Indonesia's Forest Area Enforcement Task Force has reclaimed 1,583 hectares of concession land from PT Sukses Jaya Wood in West Sumatra, following President Prabowo Subianto's revocation of permits for 28 companies found responsible for floods and landslides across Sumatra. The task force is cataloguing unlawful activities by all 28 firms, signalling that sanctions will extend beyond administrative permit revocations to criminal prosecution.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:09 WIB
Acehnese Diaspora Disaster Aid Held Up by Customs
Disaster relief goods worth billions of rupiah collected by the Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia for flood and landslide victims have been held at customs due to permit requirements from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Following discussions in parliament involving the Home Affairs Minister, Finance Minister, and Agriculture Minister, House Deputy Speaker Dasco called for a one-off dispensation to expedite the humanitarian shipment ahead of Ramadan and Eid.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:07 WIB
Fire Service Confirms Istiqlal Mosque Safe After Smoke Emerges from Server Room
Firefighters extinguished a blaze caused by a burning UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) unit in the server room of Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque during the first tarawih prayers of Ramadan. The incident, reported at approximately 8.40pm local time, was resolved within five minutes using portable fire extinguishers, with authorities confirming the mosque was safe after all smoke had been cleared.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:02 WIB
Smoke Emerges at Istiqlal Mosque as Firefighters Trace Source to UPS Unit in Server Room
A fire broke out in the server room of Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque on Wednesday evening, caused by a burning Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) unit that produced thick smoke during the first tarawih prayers of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Nine fire engines and 36 personnel were deployed to the scene, and the blaze was quickly contained with no spread beyond the server room. The incident did not disrupt worship, with congregational prayers continuing in orderly fashion throughout the emergency response.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:02 WIB
Server Room at Istiqlal Mosque Catches Fire During Tarawih Prayers
A server room at Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque caught fire on Wednesday evening, 18 February 2026, with the blaze suspected to have originated from an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit beneath an electrical panel. Firefighters extinguished the flames within five minutes, and the incident did not disrupt tarawih prayers taking place on the floor above, with no casualties reported.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 22:00 WIB
Former Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi Fails to Attend KPK Summons, Examination Rescheduled in DJKA Case
Former Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi failed to attend a scheduled witness examination by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in the ongoing bribery investigation into railway construction and maintenance projects under the Directorate General of Railways (DJKA). The case, which originated from a 2023 sting operation, has now ensnared 21 individual suspects and two corporations implicated in rigging tenders for rail projects across Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:46 WIB
Female Driver of Hyundai Santa Fe That Crashed Into Jusuf Kalla's Residence Suspected of Being Intoxicated
A 35-year-old female driver allegedly crashed a Hyundai Santa Fe into the fence and convex mirror of former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in South Jakarta's Kebayoran Baru district in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The driver, who was carrying two male passengers, is suspected of having been intoxicated and has agreed to cover all damages whilst mediation between the parties continues.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:45 WIB
Surabaya City Council Backs President's Call to Protect Heritage Sites of Independence Fighters
The Surabaya City Council (DPRD) has expressed strong support for President Prabowo Subianto's directive to strengthen protection of cultural heritage sites linked to Indonesia's independence struggle.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:45 WIB
Traffic Police Chief Urges Transport Operators and Drivers to Ensure Safety During Eid Homecoming
The head of the National Police Traffic Corps has called on public transport operators and drivers to prioritise passenger safety during the 2026 Eid homecoming season. Transport companies have pledged to conduct thorough fleet inspections, whilst drivers have committed to maintaining physical fitness and adhering to rest periods. The police are adopting pre-emptive and preventive approaches to reduce traffic accidents amid the expected surge in mobility.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:44 WIB
Facing 17-Year Prison Sentence in Cooking Oil Case, Ariyanto Claims: Someone Wants to Destroy Indonesia
Lawyer Ariyanto Bakri has been sentenced to 17 years in prison by prosecutors for allegedly bribing judges to secure an acquittal in the cooking oil corruption case and for money laundering. Ariyanto, who admitted to the bribery but disputed the prosecution's account of the facts, claimed that individuals or institutions were seeking to destroy Indonesia.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:42 WIB
Need resolution for 29 villages lost in Sumatra floods: Minister
Home Affairs Minister Karnavian has called for urgent resolution regarding 29 villages in Aceh and North Sumatra that were completely destroyed by the late November 2025 floods and landslides, which claimed 1,206 lives and damaged over 300,000 homes. The government must decide whether to rebuild the villages or remove them from the administrative system, whilst also addressing village governance to ensure continuity of public services.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:41 WIB
Expansion of Broadcasting Law Risks Hampering Digital Economy and Global Competitiveness of Indonesia's Creative Industry
Indonesia's House of Representatives is deliberating revisions to the Broadcasting Law that would extend regulatory oversight to internet and digital platforms, raising serious concerns about the impact on the country's rapidly growing digital creative economy valued at Rp 1,000 trillion.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:40 WIB
Islamic school students' learning fully resumed in Sumatra: Minister
Indonesia's Religious Affairs Minister confirmed that 100 per cent of madrasah students affected by the devastating November 2025 floods and landslides across three Sumatran provinces have resumed learning, with 84 per cent of affected madrasahs back in operation. The ministry has proposed a Rp702.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:37 WIB
PDIP Highlights Child Suicide in Demak: 'Not Just a Tragedy, but a Moral Alarm'
A PDIP lawmaker has called on the government to shift from reactive to preventive child protection policies following the suicide of a 12-year-old girl in Demak, Central Java. The parliamentarian stressed that schools must become emotionally safe spaces and that the state must strengthen early detection systems for children's mental health, including oversight of the digital ecosystem affecting young people.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:37 WIB
Riau Police Complete Construction of 14 Bridges to Improve Community Accessibility
The Riau Regional Police's Emergency Infrastructure Task Force has completed 14 of a targeted 26 bridges across the province, alongside school renovations and clean water facilities, as part of a large-scale humanitarian operation involving 250 joint personnel. The initiative, aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to ensure safety and school attendance in remote areas, aims to eliminate dangerous river crossings for schoolchildren while boosting rural economic activity.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:35 WIB
Advocate Ariyanto 'Gadun FM' Faces 17-Year Prison Sentence in Judge Bribery Case
Public prosecutors have demanded a 17-year prison sentence and Rp600 million fine for advocate Ariyanto Bakri, known as 'Ary Gadun FM', for bribing judges at Jakarta's Corruption Court and money laundering. The case stems from a Rp40 billion bribery scheme targeting judges presiding over the high-profile CPO export corruption case involving Permata Hijau Group, Wilmar Group, and Musim Mas Group, underscoring deep-seated corruption within Indonesia's judicial system.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:30 WIB
Cooking Oil Bribery Case: Marcella Santoso and Co-Defendants Face Sentencing Hearing
Prosecutor demanded 17 years' imprisonment for lawyer Marcella Santoso over allegations of bribing a panel of judges with Rp 40 billion (approximately USD 2.5 million) to secure acquittals for three palm oil corporations — Wilmar Group, Permata Hijau Group, and Musim Mas Group — in a cooking oil export corruption case. The prosecution also sought Rp 21.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:29 WIB
Verdict Hearing for Marcella Santoso et al. in Cooking Oil Bribery Case Set for 2 March
The Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court has scheduled the verdict hearing for 2 March in the case of lawyer Marcella Santoso and co-defendants accused of bribing judges with Rp 40 billion to secure an acquittal in the cooking oil export corruption case.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:27 WIB
Massive Deregulation as Government Accelerates Multi-Commodity Food Self-Sufficiency
The Indonesian government has issued 25 new regulations and revoked 547 internal rules as part of a sweeping deregulation drive to accelerate food self-sufficiency across multiple commodities. Indonesia has now achieved self-sufficiency in nine strategic commodities including rice, sugar, chilli, maize, and cooking oil, with garlic, soybean, beef, and industrial sugar still requiring production strengthening.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:27 WIB
Smoke Appears at Istiqlal Mosque During First Tarawih Prayers of 2026, Fire Brigade Deployed
Smoke was detected in the CCTV room of Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque during the first tarawih prayers of Ramadan 2026, prompting the deployment of nine fire engines and 36 personnel. The incident was swiftly contained, with operations entering the cooling phase, and congregational prayers continued undisturbed at Indonesia's national mosque.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:27 WIB
Civil Coalition: Police Brutality Caused August Demonstrations to Turn Violent
A fact-finding commission has concluded that the August 2025 protest riots were triggered not by demonstrators but by police brutality, specifically the killing of ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan by a Brimob tactical vehicle.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:24 WIB
Muara Enim Council Member and Son Caught in Sting Operation in South Sumatra
South Sumatra's High Prosecution Office conducted a sting operation arresting a Muara Enim regional council member and his son over alleged gratification linked to a Rp7 billion irrigation project. The pair are suspected of receiving approximately Rp1.6 billion from a project contractor, funds allegedly used to purchase a luxury vehicle, whilst the infrastructure project itself stalled.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:19 WIB
Central Government Orders Bali To Clean Up Trash In Top Tourism Destinations
Indonesia's Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has directed Bali to intensify waste management efforts in tourism destinations following a central government meeting with provincial authorities. The order underscores the central government's commitment to ensuring environmental standards in Bali's critical tourism sector, an area the province has prioritised for over a decade.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:15 WIB
Lawyer Marcella Santoso Faces 17-Year Prison Sentence in CPO Corruption Acquittal Bribery Case
Prosecutors have demanded a 17-year prison sentence for lawyer Marcella Santoso over allegations of bribing judges to secure an acquittal in a crude palm oil export corruption case, alongside money laundering charges. The case involves Rp40 billion in alleged bribes to judges and Rp52.5 billion in money laundering, with prosecutors also seeking her permanent disbarment and Rp21.6 billion in restitution payments.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:14 WIB
DPR Legislation Body Approves Harmonisation of Hajj Financial Management Bill
The DPR's Legislation Body (Baleg) has unanimously approved the harmonisation of the Hajj Financial Management Bill, with all eight parliamentary factions backing the measure. Key changes include removing the non-profit principle to allow more professional financial management, eliminating the requirement for Supervisory Board approval on investments, and granting the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) the authority to establish subsidiaries beyond the hajj ecosystem.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:14 WIB
Indonesia Marks Start Of Ramadan: Implications For Businesses And Visitors
Ramadan begins on February 19th, coinciding with Mahashivarati and Lunar New Year celebrations. This major religious and cultural period will affect Indonesian commerce, tourism operations, and public life throughout the holy month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:13 WIB
Indonesian Government and DPR Streamline Disaster Emergency Funds
Indonesia's parliament and government are working to resolve a funding gap for disaster emergency response after budget allocations were shifted from the Public Works Ministry to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), leaving the ministry without clear resources for field operations. With BNPB holding only Rp 4.3 trillion — below the amount needed — the State Secretary has pledged to approve interim use of emergency funds whilst alternative sources are identified under his coordination.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:09 WIB
Special Staff Pigai Monitors Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Bali, Ensures Children's Nutritional Rights Are Met
The Ministry of Human Rights conducted a monitoring visit to a Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) nutrition service unit in Tabanan, Bali, to verify facility readiness and ensure children's fundamental right to nutritious food is being fulfilled.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:06 WIB
East Java NU Branch Considers AHWA System the Best Proposal for Electing PBNU Chairman
A senior East Java official of Nahdlatul Ulama has urged the PBNU central board not to delay its 35th Congress, warning that any postponement would violate earlier reconciliation agreements. He advocated for adopting the AHWA (Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi) electoral system for selecting the PBNU chairman, citing the failure of the current leadership model established at the 34th Congress in Lampung to deliver effective and accountable governance.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:04 WIB
Customs and Police Dismantle Methamphetamine Laboratory in Sunter, North Jakarta
Indonesian Customs (Bea Cukai) and the National Police Criminal Investigation Division raided a methamphetamine production laboratory in the densely populated Sunter area of North Jakarta, seizing 13 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine and arresting two Iranian nationals.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:02 WIB
Revealed: TPUA Already Frozen by Habib Rizieq
Habib Rizieq Shihab, founder and patron of the Team for the Defence of Clerics and Activists (TPUA), has formally frozen the organisation's leadership amid internal turmoil. Former TPUA chairman Eggi Sudjana confirmed he and secretary-general Damai Hari Lubis voluntarily relinquished their mandates, with Eggi opting to continue his activism through the Koordinator Bela Islam (Korlabi) instead.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:02 WIB
Majority of Traditional Markets in Disaster-Affected Areas Resume Operations
Trade Minister Budi Santoso reported that 91.75 per cent of traditional markets affected by natural disasters in West Sumatra, North Sumatra, and Aceh have resumed operations as of mid-February 2026. Of the 194 affected markets, 178 are now operational, whilst 96 per cent of retail outlets have also reopened, with the government targeting full recovery by end of February.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:00 WIB
Check the List of OJK Chief Candidates — Purbaya: We're Waiting for More Qualified People
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has expressed dissatisfaction with the current pool of candidates for the Financial Services Authority (OJK) Board of Commissioners, stating that most registrants so far are not top-tier figures. The selection process, open until 2 March 2026, seeks to fill three senior positions including the Chair of the Board of Commissioners, with candidates required to have at least 10 years of experience in the financial services sector.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 21:00 WIB
Forest Zone Task Force Seizes 1,583 Hectares of PT Sukses Jaya Wood Land in West Sumatra — Reasons Behind Licence Revocation
Indonesia's Forest Zone Enforcement Task Force (Satgas PKH) has reclaimed 1,583 hectares from PT Sukses Jaya Wood in West Sumatra after the company's licence was revoked for failing to manage at least 30 per cent of its concession area, allowing encroachment by unauthorised parties.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:59 WIB
BMKG Predicts Extreme Weather to Hit North Sulawesi Until 22 February
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that extreme weather conditions are expected to affect districts and cities across North Sulawesi until 22 February 2026. Multiple atmospheric phenomena, including the Madden-Julian Oscillation, Kelvin waves and a low-pressure system east of Australia, are contributing to heavy rainfall, lightning and strong winds across the province's 15 districts and cities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:58 WIB
Al-Azhar Grand Mosque Prepares 800 Takjil Boxes Daily During Ramadan
Jakarta's Al-Azhar Grand Mosque is providing 700 to 800 boxes of takjil (pre-sunset snacks) daily for congregants breaking their fast throughout Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The mosque's programme also includes free medical consultations, orphan welfare distributions, food bazaars, and contemporary Islamic lectures, whilst the Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially set 19 February as the start of fasting following the Isbat deliberation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:57 WIB
Acceleration of second temporary housing project for disaster survivors in Agam
The Agam regency government is accelerating the construction of a second temporary housing complex in Palembayan, West Sumatra, for survivors of flash flooding. The facility, capable of accommodating 88 households, is targeted for occupancy by the first day of Ramadan, with electrical installations currently being fitted.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:57 WIB
Palembang Launches Active Dengue Vaccination Monitoring, Targeting 7,500 Children Initially
Palembang has officially launched an Active Dengue Vaccination Monitoring programme targeting 7,500 children aged 6–10 across 60 primary schools, with approximately 5,000 set to receive vaccinations subject to parental consent. The initiative, backed by South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru, responds to persistently high dengue figures — 4,437 cases and 22 deaths province-wide in 2025 — and aligns with national and global targets of zero dengue deaths by 2030.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:54 WIB
House Leadership: Agriculture Ministry's Budget Reallocation for Disaster Relief Sets Example
The Agriculture Ministry has reallocated Rp 1.4 trillion from its regular budget to accelerate post-disaster agricultural recovery in Sumatra, with total recovery costs estimated at Rp 4.7 trillion.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:53 WIB
Thousands Flock to Indonesia's Second-Largest Mosque for First Ramadan Tarawih Prayers
Thousands of worshippers packed Surabaya's Al Akbar Mosque for the first tarawih prayers of Ramadan 1447 H, undeterred by heavy rain. The mosque, Indonesia's second largest after Istiqlal in Jakarta, has prepared capacity for up to 30,000 congregants and a full programme of Ramadan activities including Quran recitation and religious lectures.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:53 WIB
BMKG: Tidal Flooding Potentially Threatens North Sulawesi Coastal Areas
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that tidal flooding (banjir rob) may affect multiple coastal areas across North Sulawesi from 15 to 24 February 2026, driven by the new moon phase on 17 February. The warning covers at least ten coastal districts and cities, including Manado, Bitung, and several island regencies, with potential disruptions to port operations, coastal settlements, and fisheries.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:52 WIB
Presidential Palace Responds to Allegations of Deforestation Triggering Floods in Guci, Tegal
The State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that the government is investigating allegations that illegal logging caused the flash floods at the Guci tourist area in Tegal Regency, Central Java. The Ministry of Forestry has been tasked with reviewing the condition of forest areas surrounding the site, with the investigation following the same process applied to similar cases in three Sumatran provinces.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:51 WIB
Routine Patrols Intensified During Ramadan to Prevent Brawls
Joint security forces in East Jakarta have stepped up routine patrols and established 27 integrated security posts to prevent street brawls and other crimes during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The operation, part of the broader Operasi Pekat Jaya 2026 directed by Jakarta Metropolitan Police, deploys combined personnel from police, military, civil service police, and community elements at posts active from 4pm to 8am daily.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:50 WIB
Pangkalpinang Prison Inmates Transform Coal Ash into Compost Fertiliser
Inmates at Pangkalpinang Class IIA Prison have developed an environmental innovation, converting coal combustion residue from PLTU 3 Bangka power plant into compost fertiliser rich in macro-nutrients.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:50 WIB
SBY Painting Purchased by Indonesia's Second Richest Person for Rp6.5 Billion
A painting by former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was sold at auction for Rp6.5 billion during a Lunar New Year celebration organised by the Democratic Party. The buyer was mining tycoon Low Tuck Kwong, founder of Bayan Resources and Indonesia's second wealthiest individual with a fortune of US$20.3 billion, with proceeds earmarked for humanitarian aid targeting underprivileged Chinese-Indonesian communities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:48 WIB
Police Reveal Two Networks Linked to Drug Boss Arrested at Kualanamu
Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has dismantled two cross-provincial narcotics syndicates controlled by suspect Supriadi, operating along the Malaysia-Riau-South Sumatra corridor. The operations resulted in the seizure of 30 kilogrammes of methamphetamine from one syndicate and 14 packages from another, with seven suspects arrested across both networks.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:46 WIB
KPK Requests Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin to Explain Alleged Private Jet Gratification
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar to voluntarily explain allegations of gratification involving the use of a private jet belonging to Hanura Party chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO). The controversy erupted after social media reports revealed the minister used OSO's private jet to visit Takalar Regency in South Sulawesi on 15 February 2026, with the ministry citing time efficiency as justification for the arrangement.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:45 WIB
Solemn Atmosphere at First Tarawih Prayer of Ramadan 2026 at Istiqlal Mosque
Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta held its first congregational Tarawih prayer for Ramadan 1447 H on Wednesday evening, with worshippers filling the mosque from as early as 6pm. Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar delivered the inaugural sermon before the 20-rakaat Tarawih and 3-rakaat Witir prayers commenced, underscoring the government's role in marking the start of the holy month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:44 WIB
Istiqlal Mosque Adopts Green Ramadan Theme to Promote Environmental Awareness
Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia's largest Muslim house of worship, will adopt a "Green Ramadan" theme to foster environmental conservation awareness within religious life. Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar announced the initiative, signalling an effort to integrate ecological consciousness with Islamic practice during the holy month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:43 WIB
Civil Service Police Monitor Alcohol and Expired Products on Panggang Island
The Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) of North Thousand Islands sub-district conducted inspections of shops on Panggang Island ahead of Ramadan, checking for illegal alcohol and expired food products. All four shops inspected were found to be in compliance, and authorities confirmed that periodic monitoring would continue throughout the fasting month across inhabited islands in the archipelago.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:42 WIB
Palu City Government Prepares Ramadan Saturday Night Market for Local MSMEs
The Palu city government is launching a weekly Saturday night market during Ramadan to support local micro, small and medium enterprises, particularly food vendors and traders displaced from Car Free Day activities. The programme, running from 8pm to 2am along Jalur 2 near Vatulemo Field, is part of a broader suite of Ramadan economic initiatives including a daily afternoon market at the mayor's office compound.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:42 WIB
East Java Provincial Government Distributes Rp3 Billion in Social Assistance to Sidoarjo Regency Residents
The East Java Provincial Government has disbursed over Rp3 billion in social assistance to Sidoarjo Regency, the second such distribution this year following Rp7.73 billion allocated to Pasuruan Regency. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa said the accelerated disbursement aims to strengthen economic readiness ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, targeting vulnerable groups including the elderly, persons with disabilities, and female heads of household through inclusive entrepreneurship programmes.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:41 WIB
Japan to Ban Power Bank Use on Aircraft from April
The Japanese Government will prohibit the use of portable chargers and in-seat power outlets for charging devices on aircraft from April, following a series of lithium-ion battery fire incidents. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism tightened regulations after a January 2025 fire on a low-cost carrier operated by Air Busan Co. was suspected to have been caused by a faulty power bank.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:38 WIB
Vice President Urges Business Community to Embrace MSMEs and Startup Entrepreneurs
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka called on the Idepreneurs Club business community to actively support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startup entrepreneurs to build an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. The directive aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's emphasis on people-centred economic development and strengthening MSME productivity, with the government pledging concrete support for sustainable MSME growth.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:35 WIB
Eight Vehicles Have Tyre Valves Removed in West Jakarta Enforcement Operation
Joint enforcement officers from the Civil Service Police and Transportation Agency conducted a tyre valve removal operation and crackdown on illegal street vendors in the Kembangan area of West Jakarta. Eight motorcycles parked illegally and left unattended had their tyre valves removed, whilst three street vendors received written warnings and dozens of vehicles were relocated, as part of routine local bylaw enforcement efforts.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:34 WIB
Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir Warns of Challenges Ahead at Asian Para Games After Meeting APG Chef de Mission
Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has urged Indonesia's para-athletes not to rest on their laurels following a highly successful ASEAN Para Games 2025 campaign, where the country secured 135 gold medals and second place overall. With the Asian Para Games 2026 approaching in October, Thohir stressed the need for immediate preparation and highlighted the government's commitment, including a new international-standard Paralympic Training Centre in Karanganyar, Central Java.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:32 WIB
Chery Launches Rely R08 Pickup Truck in the United Arab Emirates
Chinese automaker Chery has launched its mid-size Rely R08 pickup truck in the UAE, priced from 62,895 AED (approximately Rp289 million), significantly undercutting the Toyota Hilux. Available in petrol and diesel variants with both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive options, the truck marks Rely's overseas expansion campaign with its flagship model, distributed through a partnership with Al Ghurair Mobility.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:32 WIB
Once Battered by Thousands of Logs, Aceh Mosque Now Rises Again
Masjid Darul Mukhlisin in Aceh Tamiang, which went viral after acting as a bulwark against thousands of logs carried by flash floods in November 2025, has undergone significant recovery. The mosque and its associated Islamic boarding school saved an entire village from destruction, with all 213 students and 60 staff evacuated safely, and the site has since been cleared and resumed religious activities including its first Tarawih prayers.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:31 WIB
Trade Minister: 91 Per Cent of Traditional Markets in Disaster Areas Now Operational
Trade Minister Budi Santoso reported that nearly 92 per cent of traditional markets affected by natural disasters across West Sumatra, North Sumatra, and Aceh have resumed operations by mid-February 2026. Of the 194 affected markets serving over 18,000 traders, 178 have reopened, whilst the retail sector has also recovered strongly with 96 per cent of affected supermarket outlets back in business. The government is targeting full recovery of all commercial facilities by the end of February 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:30 WIB
Unhas and Hiroshima University Strengthen Mangrove Research Collaboration
Universitas Hasanuddin and Hiroshima University are deepening their collaboration on sustainable marine research, focusing on a joint Mangrove Restoration and Aquaculture project as a science-based coastal management model. The partnership aims to produce replicable models for integrated mangrove and aquaculture management across Indonesia's coastal regions, with potential funding support from the LPDP education fund and plans for double degree programmes.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:28 WIB
Marcella Santoso faces 17-year prison sentence in CPO "acquittal" bribery case
Prosecutors have demanded a 17-year prison sentence for advocate Marcella Santoso over allegations of bribing judges to secure acquittals in a crude palm oil (CPO) export corruption case, alongside money laundering charges totalling Rp52.5 billion. The case, which involves alleged bribes of Rp40 billion directed at judges handling the CPO corruption trial, has also prompted prosecutors to seek Marcella's permanent disbarment and Rp21.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:27 WIB
SBY Sings at Democrat Party Lunar New Year Event, Speaks of Chinese Cultural Inspiration Behind His Song
Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono performed his self-composed song 'Hening' at the Democrat Party's 2026 Lunar New Year celebration, revealing it was inspired by Chinese culture he encountered during a visit to Nanning, China. The event highlights the party's outreach to the Chinese-Indonesian community and the broader theme of cultural appreciation within Indonesian political life.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:26 WIB
Lamongan Regency Deploys 15 Pumps to Tackle Bengawan Jero Flooding
The Lamongan Regency government in East Java has activated 15 water pumps operating 14 hours daily to accelerate flood relief caused by the overflowing Bengawan Jero river, which continues to inundate several villages. Coordinating with central and provincial water management agencies, authorities have pumped out nearly 389,000 cubic metres of water and are also gradually opening the Gondang Reservoir to reduce water levels, whilst distributing food aid to affected residents ahead of Ramadan.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:24 WIB
Indonesia completes facilities for 1,000 village cooperatives
Indonesia's Cooperatives Minister Juliantono reported that physical development of nearly 20,000 village cooperatives is underway, with 1,000 now completed and the remainder averaging 20 per cent progress. The government aims to equip all 80,000 cooperatives under the KDMP programme with full facilities by end of 2026, as part of President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita missions to drive equitable rural development.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:22 WIB
Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Central Papua: A Long-Term Investment for Golden Generation 2045
Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has reached 46,871 beneficiaries in Central Papua by December 2025, including 45,368 schoolchildren and 1,503 toddlers and pregnant or nursing mothers. Evaluation data show that schools receiving the programme recorded a 14.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:22 WIB
Ministry of Social Affairs Guides Regional Operators on PBI-JK Health Insurance Reactivation
Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has issued technical guidance to regional social services operators nationwide on reactivating health insurance coverage for recipients of the subsidised health insurance scheme (PBI-JK), after 11 million participants were deactivated in February 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:21 WIB
Education Minister Responds to Murder of Junior High School Student at Former Kampung Gajah Site
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti expressed deep concern over the murder of a Bandung junior high school student by two underage peers, reportedly motivated by a friendship dispute. The victim's body was found at a former Kampung Gajah site in West Bandung Regency, with the two suspects subsequently apprehended in Garut.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:21 WIB
SBY's Fire Horse Painting Auctioned for Rp 6.5 Billion to Low Tuck Kwong
Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's fire horse painting was auctioned for Rp 6.5 billion at the Democrat Party's 2026 Lunar New Year celebration, purchased by mining tycoon Low Tuck Kwong of Bayan Resources. The proceeds are earmarked for humanitarian aid targeting underprivileged communities, particularly those of Chinese-Indonesian descent, continuing SBY's tradition of charity auctions during national events and disasters.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:20 WIB
State Budget Law on Free Nutritious Meals Programme Challenged in Court; Finance Minister Responds
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed constitutional challenges to the 2026 State Budget Law's classification of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme as education operational expenditure, calling the judicial review petitions "weak." At least three separate petitions have been filed with the Constitutional Court arguing that incorporating MBG into the constitutionally mandated 20 per cent education budget will divert funds from essential educational needs.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:18 WIB
State Secretary: Opportunity for Lower US Tariff Deal Remains Open
Indonesia's State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that the 19 per cent reciprocal tariff rate imposed by the United States on Indonesia remains unchanged, but noted that negotiations for a reduction — potentially to 18 per cent — are ongoing through direct communication between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:17 WIB
DKI Jakarta Red Cross Maximises Blood Services for Cancer Patients
The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) Blood Donor Unit in DKI Jakarta is strengthening its blood supply services for cancer patients to mark World Cancer Day 2026. The unit provides screened blood products including leukoreduced and leukodepleted packed red cells and apheresis platelets, whilst conducting humanitarian visits to hospitals treating cancer patients.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:15 WIB
Take Note: Rules for Breaking the Fast on Board the MRT
PT MRT Jakarta has issued a special Ramadan exemption permitting passengers to consume plain water and dates on board after the Maghrib call to prayer. The policy relaxes the transit operator's standard prohibition on eating and drinking, though all other food and beverages remain banned during journeys.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:12 WIB
Intellectual property valuers to help creative economy players access subsidised loans
Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya announced that newly appointed intellectual property (IP) valuers will assist creative economy entrepreneurs in accessing a Rp10 trillion government-backed subsidised loan scheme in 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:10 WIB
Sara Duterte Announces Presidential Bid After Surviving Impeachment as Vice President
Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has announced her candidacy for the 2028 presidential election, attacking President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's record on corruption and broken promises.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:08 WIB
Two motorcycles stolen in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta; suspect apprehended by police
Police in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta, arrested a suspect involved in the theft of two motorcycles from a street near a post office. The 31-year-old suspect, who served as the getaway rider transporting stolen vehicles to Banten province, cited economic hardship as his motive and faces charges of aggravated theft under Article 477 of the Criminal Code.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:06 WIB
Tito Praises DPR Task Force Support in Accelerating Post-Disaster Rehabilitation in Sumatra
Muhammad Tito Karnavian, head of the government's post-disaster rehabilitation task force for Sumatra, commended parliamentary support in accelerating recovery efforts, reporting significant declines in displaced populations across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:06 WIB
Palace Confirms No Opposition to Rp34.57 Trillion Village Fund Allocation for Village Cooperatives
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has dismissed reports that village heads oppose the reallocation of 58.03 per cent of the 2026 Village Fund budget — amounting to Rp34.57 trillion — towards the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) programme. The policy, enacted through Finance Minister Regulation No. 7/2026, redirects village funds to cooperative infrastructure including retail outlets and warehousing, whilst the government insists the shift will not disrupt ongoing village development.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:05 WIB
Discotheques and Massage Parlours in Depok Banned from Operating During Ramadan
Depok Mayor Supian Suri has issued a circular letter imposing restrictions on nightlife entertainment venues and dining establishments during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The regulations prohibit bars, nightclubs, discotheques, karaoke venues, massage parlours and billiard halls from operating throughout the holy month, whilst restaurants and food stalls are urged to install curtains during daytime hours.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:02 WIB
PAM JAYA Enters Top 10 Worldwide, Wins Platinum at US LACP Vision Awards
Jakarta's regional water utility PAM JAYA secured three international accolades at the League of American Communications Professionals (LACP) Vision Awards, including a Platinum Award in the Utilities category and ninth place globally among the Top 100 Reports Worldwide.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:02 WIB
BSI: Vehicle Financing Grows 19 Per Cent to Rp6.41 Trillion in 2025
PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) reported that its vehicle financing portfolio grew approximately 19 per cent year-on-year in 2025, reaching Rp6.41 trillion — well above the industry average growth of around 7 per cent. The state-owned Islamic bank attributed the strong performance to targeted financing strategies, sound risk management, and a partnership with Mandiri Utama Finance (MUF) Syariah, with demand expected to rise a further 10–15 per cent ahead of Ramadan.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:00 WIB
Four Allegedly Intoxicated Men Go on Rampage at Kemang Café, Leaving Patrons Battered
Four unidentified men, believed to be intoxicated, attacked staff and patrons at a coffee shop in Kemang, South Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday morning, leaving multiple victims with injuries. The victims have filed a police report with the South Jakarta Metro Police, submitting medical examination results as evidence and urging swift arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:00 WIB
Jasa Raharja and DAMRI Agree to Safeguard Driver Health and Physical Readiness
State-owned insurer Jasa Raharja and public transport operator DAMRI have agreed to strengthen public transport safety standards through coordinated oversight, emergency response training, and the use of passenger manifest data to improve accident insurance services. The collaboration, part of the broader Danantara Indonesia state enterprise ecosystem, aims to build a sustainable safety culture and accelerate compensation processes for passengers involved in accidents.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 20:00 WIB
Latest Battery Technology Set to Transform the Future of Electric Vehicles
Sodium-ion batteries are emerging as a promising complement to lithium-ion technology for electric vehicles, offering lower costs, improved safety, and better cold-weather performance. Major manufacturer CATL plans to begin mass production in 2026, with energy densities approaching current lithium iron phosphate batteries, potentially making EVs more accessible in developing markets.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:56 WIB
Search for 40 Missing North Sumatra Flood Victims Called Off as 4,638 Residents Remain Displaced
Authorities have officially ended the search for 40 people still missing from the devastating flash floods and landslides that struck North Sumatra in late November 2025, which killed 376 people across multiple regencies. Three months after the disaster, 4,638 residents remain in evacuation shelters, with local government aiming to clear all displacement camps before Ramadan.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:55 WIB
Kemala Run 2026 Highlights Role of Sport in Humanitarian Action
The Kemala Run 2026, organised under the leadership of Bhayangkari Chairwoman Juliati Listyo Sigit Prabowo, positions itself as a structured charitable movement channelling participants' fees towards natural disaster recovery across Indonesia. The main event, scheduled for 19 April 2026 in Bali with a target of 10,000 participants and Rp3.5 billion in prize money, underscores the National Police's growing engagement in social and humanitarian initiatives beyond its core law enforcement mandate.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:55 WIB
KPK Hopes Religious Affairs Minister Will Address Gratification Allegations Without Being Summoned
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar to proactively explain allegations of gratification after he used a private jet belonging to Hanura Party chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO) for an official trip to South Sulawesi. The case, which gained traction on social media, raises questions about the acceptance of luxury travel facilities by public officials, with the KPK indicating it stands ready to analyse and review the matter.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:55 WIB
Darul Mukhlisin Mosque in Aceh Restored and Reopened to the Public
The Darul Mukhlisin Mosque in Aceh Tamiang, severely damaged by flash floods and landslides in late November 2025, has been fully restored and reopened to the public in just two months — far ahead of the expected one-to-two-year recovery timeline.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:53 WIB
Karawang Police Arrest Suspect in Fatal Machete Attack in Cikampek
Karawang Police have arrested a suspect who allegedly killed a 25-year-old man with a machete in Cikampek, West Java, after the victim confronted a group of youths suspected of planning a brawl. The suspect, Raden Bram Rangga Kusumah, has been charged under Article 466(3) of Indonesia's new Criminal Code for assault causing death, carrying a maximum sentence of seven years' imprisonment.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:53 WIB
Danantara reveals reasons for restoring Persero status to Antam and PTBA
Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has explained that the restoration of Persero (state-owned enterprise) status to mining firms Antam and PTBA was mandated by Law No. 16/2025, which requires a 1 per cent state ownership stake via special Series A Dwiwarna shares held by the BUMN Regulatory Body. The change, effective from 13 January 2026, does not affect the companies' membership in the MIND ID mining holding and is unrelated to the newly established national minerals company Perminas.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:52 WIB
East Jakarta Contract Workers Receive Free Health Screenings
The East Jakarta municipal government has launched a fortnightly free health screening programme for its contract workers (PJLP), initially targeting 280 staff from the Parks and Forestry sub-agency. The programme aims to provide early detection of non-communicable diseases and other health issues for outdoor workers, with plans to expand coverage to approximately 2,000 contract employees across all sub-agencies.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:51 WIB
BNPB Proposes Increasing In-Situ Housing Aid in Sumatra to Rp 65-70 Million, Citing Roof Tile Programme
The head of Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has proposed raising in-situ housing reconstruction assistance for Sumatran disaster victims from Rp 60 million to Rp 65-70 million per household to accommodate President Prabowo Subianto's "gentengisasi" (roof tiling) programme. Whilst no additional budget allocation is being sought, the agency warned that raising the standard in one region could set a national precedent and strain state finances.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:50 WIB
Jakarta Bans Sahur on the Road, Police to Conduct Patrols Throughout Ramadan
Jakarta's metropolitan police and civil service police will deploy joint patrols throughout Ramadan 2026 to enforce a ban on Sahur on the Road (SOTR) gatherings, which Governor Pramono Anung has prohibited over concerns they provoke disorder and brawls. A total of 80 combined personnel will patrol nightly across Jakarta's five administrative cities for 33 days, with the governor also urging community organisations to refrain from sweeping restaurants during the fasting month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:50 WIB
Disaster-affected mosque spruced up to welcome Ramadan
Students at the Darul Mukhlishin Islamic boarding school in Aceh Tamiang have been cleaning and preparing their mosque for Ramadan 1447 H, after it was previously inundated with logs following a flash flood. The preparations include sweeping and mopping floors, laying carpets, and attending religious talks, highlighting community resilience in the aftermath of natural disasters in Aceh.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:50 WIB
Challenging US Dominance, EU Courts Indo-Pacific Bloc to Explore Giant Trade Alliance
The European Union and the 12-member CPTPP bloc have begun preliminary discussions to form one of the world's largest cross-regional economic alliances, driven by threats of US trade tariffs under President Trump. The initiative, potentially encompassing around 40 countries, is particularly significant for Indonesia, which expressed interest in joining the CPTPP in September 2024 and is expected to begin its accession process this year.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:48 WIB
Ministry of Communications explains to Constitutional Court why unused internet quotas cannot be rolled over
Indonesia's Ministry of Communications and Digital (Komdigi) defended the practice of expiring unused internet data quotas before the Constitutional Court, arguing that mandatory rollover would impose unmeasurable costs on operators and degrade network quality.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:48 WIB
PPNS develops robot to assist shrimp farmers in Jember
Surabaya's State Shipbuilding Polytechnic (PPNS) has developed a solar-powered unmanned surface vehicle called RSV EMAS to help vaname shrimp farmers in Jember monitor water quality in real time. Field trials showed water quality stability improved from around 60 per cent to over 80 per cent, with reduced shrimp mortality, whilst the domestically produced technology is positioned as a more affordable and locally adapted alternative to imported monitoring equipment.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:46 WIB
Palace Response to Terrorisation of UGM Student Executive Body Chairman
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi responded to the terrorisation of UGM Student Executive Body (BEM) chairman Tiyo Ardianto by focusing on the manner of his criticism rather than condemning the threats, urging critics to use polite language rooted in "Eastern cultural principles.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:45 WIB
Government Allocates Rp 98 Billion for Disaster Victims' Housing Contents in Sumatra
The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has disbursed Rp 1.83 trillion in regular social assistance to over 1.7 million beneficiary families across three disaster-affected provinces in Sumatra. An additional Rp 98 billion has been validated and is ready for distribution to more than 32,000 families for housing contents, as part of a broader Rp 2 trillion rehabilitation and reconstruction budget that includes bereavement payments, living allowances, and socio-economic recovery support.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:44 WIB
Ministry eyes more school revitalisation pacts in flood-hit Sumatra
Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has signed revitalisation agreements with 746 schools worth Rp866.5 billion across three flood-hit Sumatran provinces, with Rp231.7 billion already disbursed. The ministry plans to extend agreements to 1,204 additional schools from late February, whilst also processing Rp83.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:44 WIB
Indef assesses chilli price increases ahead of Ramadan as seasonal inflation
The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has characterised the surge in red cayenne chilli prices ahead of Ramadan as predictable seasonal inflation, criticising the government's reliance on price floor and ceiling policies without adequate supply guarantees.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:44 WIB
Ministry needs US$31 million to restore disaster-hit health units
Indonesia's Health Ministry requires US$31 million to renovate approximately 3,000 health facilities and 8,800 health workers' homes damaged by disasters, with restoration targeted for completion by March 2026. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa indicated the allocation could be drawn from the Rp60 trillion post-disaster recovery budget, of which a substantial portion remains unspent.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:41 WIB
South Sumatra Provincial Government Focuses on Rescuing Citizens Allegedly Tortured in Cambodia
The South Sumatra provincial government is coordinating with law enforcement to rescue Indonesian citizens from the province who are allegedly being tortured in Cambodia after falling victim to human trafficking. Governor Herman Deru has instructed the provincial manpower agency to trace victim data and coordinate with police to track down illegal recruitment networks, whilst urging young people to verify employment offers before accepting overseas work.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:41 WIB
Worshippers Flock to Istiqlal Mosque for First Ramadan Tarawih Prayers
Thousands of worshippers from across the Jakarta metropolitan area descended on Istiqlal Mosque for the first tarawih prayers of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, with congregants praising improved facilities including free iftar meals and overnight accommodation for i'tikaf.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:39 WIB
Festive Lunar New Year Celebrations at SCBD Feature Cultural Parade and MSME Bazaar
Jakarta's Sudirman Central Business District hosted free public celebrations for Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili, featuring cultural parades, a 30-metre dragon performance, and a bazaar involving 80 MSMEs. The event drew endorsements from House of Representatives Commission IV Chair Titiek Soeharto and Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, who praised its inclusivity and support for small businesses.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:37 WIB
MRT Jakarta Permits Passengers to Drink Water and Eat Dates After Maghrib Call to Prayer
PT MRT Jakarta has announced that passengers may break their Ramadan fast with plain water and dates inside trains and paid areas for up to 10 minutes after the Maghrib call to prayer, effective 19 February 2026. The state-owned transit operator is also launching its #MelajuPenuhMakna campaign featuring community iftar events, charitable initiatives, and digital promotions throughout the holy month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:37 WIB
KPK to Investigate Alleged Gratification of Private Jet Use for Religious Affairs Minister from OSO
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has announced it will investigate allegations that Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar received gratification in the form of private jet travel provided by Hanura Party chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO).
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:36 WIB
Kampar Police Secure Traditional Balimau Kasai Ceremony Ahead of Ramadan
The Kampar Police deployed 125 officers alongside local agencies to secure the annual Balimau Kasai traditional ceremony welcoming the holy month of Ramadan in Riau province. Police chief AKBP Boby Putra Ramadhan Sebayang emphasised a humanistic policing approach and promoted the "Green Policing" initiative, linking cultural preservation with environmental stewardship.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:36 WIB
Hari Raya Allowance Disbursement for Civil Servants, Military and Police: First Week of Ramadan, Says Purbaya
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that Hari Raya holiday allowances (THR) for civil servants, military personnel and police will be disbursed during the first week of Ramadan, with the government budgeting Rp 55 trillion for the 2026 payments. The allowance components include basic salary, family allowance, food allowance, position allowance and performance allowance, with separate provisions for teachers, lecturers and probationary civil servants.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:36 WIB
Deputy House Speaker Responds to Jokowi's Claims on KPK Law Revision
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Saan Mustopa has accused former President Joko Widodo of attempting to wash his hands of responsibility for the controversial 2019 revision of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) law, after Jokowi claimed it was solely a parliamentary initiative.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:34 WIB
Task Force Coordinates on Closure of 11 Airstrips in Papua
The Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force is undertaking cross-sectoral coordination following the temporary closure of 11 airstrips in Papua, ordered after armed separatists shot dead the pilot and co-pilot of a Smart Air aircraft. Authorities are reassessing the blanket closures, noting that some airstrips face relatively low threat levels while serving as critical lifelines for logistics and local communities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:32 WIB
Democrat Party Holds Lunar New Year Celebration, AHY: A First in Party History
The Democrat Party held its first-ever Lunar New Year (Imlek) celebration in 2026, with chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) describing it as a special milestone for the nationalist-religious party. AHY used the event to promote interfaith tolerance and national harmony, emphasising that all religions in Indonesia must be equally honoured — a significant gesture of political outreach to the Chinese-Indonesian community.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:32 WIB
Ahead of Ramadan, Families Visit Graves of Landslide Victims in Tapanuli Selatan
Residents of Batu Godang village in Tapanuli Selatan, North Sumatra, visited the graves of relatives killed in a November 2025 landslide ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The disaster claimed 22 lives, with 21 victims buried at a single site near the landslide location. Family members prayed for the deceased, hoping they would find peace during the holy month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:30 WIB
Ministry of Education: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Improves Student Focus
An evaluation by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education found that schools participating in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme recorded a 2.37 percentage point greater reduction in hunger-related learning disruptions compared to non-participating schools, with eastern Indonesia seeing an even more dramatic 14.85 percentage point improvement. The findings, drawn from approximately 1.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:27 WIB
Kemala Run 2026 Rallies Solidarity for Disaster Victims
Bhayangkari has initiated the Kemala Run 2026, a charity running event designed to raise solidarity and funds for disaster victims across Indonesia. Participation fees collected from runners will be channelled directly as disaster relief aid.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:23 WIB
Dasco Says Sumatran Residents Fear Handling Logs, Requests Legal Guarantees
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has called on the government to provide legal guarantees for residents willing to help clear fallen logs from rivers following the Sumatra disaster, as communities fear being accused of harbouring illegal timber. The issue is urgent as five hectares of accumulated timber at the Keureuto Dam, reaching depths of one to two metres, threatens to breach the dam and cause flooding worse than the initial disaster.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:23 WIB
Bribery and Money Laundering Case: Advocate Marcella Santoso Faces 17-Year Prison Sentence Demand
Prosecutors have demanded a 17-year prison sentence for advocate Marcella Santoso in a high-profile case involving the bribery of judges and money laundering worth tens of billions of rupiah. The case centres on alleged bribes totalling Rp40 billion paid to judges handling the corruption trial of major palm oil corporations — Permata Hijau Group, Wilmar Group, and Musim Mas Group — over crude palm oil export irregularities, with prosecutors finding no mitigating circumstances for the defendant.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:21 WIB
Gold Prices Hit Rp 3.2 Million: A Lucrative Business but Purchasing Power Increasingly Under Pressure
Gold prices in Indonesia briefly breached Rp 3.2 million per gram in early February 2026, triggering panic buying and delivering handsome profits to sellers, though Antam gold has since retreated to Rp 2.878 million per gram. Whilst the gold business is booming — with global prices having surged roughly 70 per cent throughout 2025 — the rally exposes a widening gap with middle-class purchasing power, which has failed to keep pace with the safe-haven asset's appreciation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:20 WIB
MBG Kitchen Roof Destroyed by Strong Winds in Semarang
A Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme kitchen facility in Semarang's Tugu district suffered severe roof damage after being struck by strong winds during heavy rain on 18 February 2026. The facility, which was due to begin operations the following week, sustained material losses estimated at Rp 7-10 million, though interior equipment remained undamaged and repairs are expected within two to three days.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:20 WIB
Likened to Gambling, Singapore Government Prepares New Regulations on Blind Boxes
Singapore's government is drafting regulations on blind box sales to address gambling-related risks, following concerns raised in parliament about the addictive nature of chance-based purchasing. Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam confirmed that mandatory disclosure of odds and probabilities will be considered as part of the new rules, whilst social service agencies warn of compulsive behaviour risks particularly among children and adolescents.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:14 WIB
Government Invites Partner Nations and International Organisations to Attend OIS 2026
Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is rallying diplomatic support for the Ocean Impact Summit 2026, to be held in Bali in June, following President Prabowo Subianto's open invitation at Davos. The summit will focus on unlocking the blue economy through four pillars covering marine food security, ocean energy infrastructure, climate action, and maritime governance innovation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:14 WIB
Health Minister Says Dr Piprim Was Sacked for Absenteeism, Not Disagreement
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has denied that the dismissal of senior paediatric cardiologist Dr Piprim Basarah Yanuarso from Fatmawati General Hospital was motivated by policy disagreements, insisting the termination was solely due to disciplinary violations related to absenteeism.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:14 WIB
Entering the Tourism Industry with Nothing but a 'Travel Hobby': Survival or Burnout?
The article examines whether passion for travelling alone is sufficient to build a sustainable career in Indonesia's booming tourism industry. It highlights the rapid growth of viral destinations across the archipelago whilst questioning the long-term viability of entering the sector without professional skills or business acumen.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:12 WIB
Constitutional Court Ethics Council Refuses to Disclose Adies Report to Parliament: 'I'd Rather Be Dismissed'
The chairman of the Constitutional Court's Ethics Council (MKMK), I Gede Dewa Palguna, firmly refused parliamentary demands to disclose details of an ethics complaint against constitutional justice Adies Kadir, declaring he would rather be dismissed than compromise the council's independence.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:10 WIB
Indonesia's Q1 GDP to Grow 5.5% Thanks to $48 Billion Government Spending
Think-tank Core Indonesia forecasts 5.5 per cent GDP growth in the first quarter of 2026, driven primarily by Rp 809 trillion ($48 billion) in government spending that includes stimulus packages, early Eid bonuses for civil servants, and the free meal programme. However, the institute cautioned that investment and net export contributions would remain modest, making the government's 6 per cent growth target still a distant prospect.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:01 WIB
Lawyer Marcella Santoso Faces 17-Year Prison Demand in Bribery and Money Laundering Case Linked to Cooking Oil Trial
Prosecutors have demanded a 17-year prison sentence for lawyer Marcella Santoso, who is accused of bribing judges and money laundering in connection with the cooking oil (crude palm oil) case. She allegedly helped channel Rp 40 billion in bribes to judges on behalf of corporate representatives from Wilmar Group, Permata Hijau Group, and Musim Mas Group, and faces an additional Rp 21.6 billion in restitution payments alongside permanent disbarment from the legal profession.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 19:00 WIB
National Traffic Police Chief Outlines Vision for Sustainable Road Safety
Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, head of the National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas), has outlined a strategic shift away from short-term operational targets towards building a sustainable road safety culture. The approach centres on humanising police-public interactions through the 'Traffic Police Greet and Serve' programme, which aims to build public trust as a foundation for future technology-based enforcement systems including ETLE.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:58 WIB
Prabowo and Trump to Sign Indonesia-US Trade Tariff Agreement Tomorrow, Hopes for Reduction
Indonesia's Cabinet Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto and US President Donald Trump are expected to sign a bilateral trade tariff agreement on 19 February 2026 in Washington DC. While the terms remain unchanged from earlier negotiations, Indonesian officials expressed hope that the face-to-face meeting could yield more favourable tariff rates for Indonesia.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:52 WIB
Citizens' Enthusiasm for First Ramadan 2026 Tarawih Prayers at Istiqlal Mosque
Thousands of worshippers flocked to Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque for the first tarawih prayers of Ramadan 2026 (1447 Hijriah), with many travelling from satellite cities to mark the occasion. The gathering highlights the enduring cultural and spiritual significance of Indonesia's national mosque as a focal point for communal worship during the holy month, with congregants describing the experience as akin to praying in Mecca.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:51 WIB
Lawmaker urges government to allow diaspora aid for Sumatra
A senior Indonesian lawmaker has called on the government to grant a customs dispensation allowing Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia to ship disaster relief supplies to Sumatra ahead of Ramadan. Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian detailed the aid — including cooking oil, ready-to-eat meals, clothing and other goods worth billions of rupiah — already waiting at Port Klang for dispatch to Lhokseumawe, though rice was refused on grounds of self-sufficiency.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:48 WIB
Rp 1.8 Trillion in Social Assistance for Sumatran Flood Victims: Gus Ipul Says Aid Targets 1.7 Million Beneficiary Families
The Ministry of Social Affairs has begun distributing Rp 1.8 trillion in regular social assistance for the first quarter — comprising the Family Hope Programme (PKH) and staple food aid — to over 1.7 million beneficiary families across three flood-affected provinces in Sumatra.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:48 WIB
Solar-Powered Lighting Arrives for Cilamaya Fishermen, Enabling Safer and More Productive Night Fishing
Pertamina New & Renewable Energy has distributed portable solar-powered lighting systems to small-scale fishermen in Cilamaya, Karawang, as part of its corporate social responsibility programme. The initiative has significantly improved night fishing safety, navigation and productivity, with fishermen reporting they can now cast nets five to six times per night compared to previously limited attempts, whilst also cutting operational costs by eliminating reliance on battery-powered torches.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:43 WIB
KPK Chairman Warns of Declining Corruption Perceptions Index as Three Senior Officials Inaugurated
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto inaugurated three new senior officials whilst highlighting Indonesia's declining Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), which fell from 37 to 34. He urged the newly appointed deputies to deliver maximum performance and stressed that the anti-graft body bears the brunt of public criticism whenever the CPI drops, underscoring the need for stronger leadership in both enforcement and prevention efforts.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:42 WIB
Chinese New Year: InJourney Offers Themed Lunar New Year Experiences
State-owned aviation and tourism holding company InJourney capitalised on the 2026 Lunar New Year long weekend by rolling out themed programmes across its network of 37 airports, hotels, and tourist destinations. Cumulative passenger movements reached approximately 1.85 million over the holiday period, a 10 per cent increase on the normal February average, whilst heritage sites such as Borobudur and Prambanan attracted over 44,000 visitors combined.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:39 WIB
A Lifetime Tethered to the Machine: Dialysis Patients Left in Limbo by Insurance Deactivation
Indonesian kidney failure patients dependent on government-subsidised health insurance (BPJS PBI) have been left in crisis after their coverage was abruptly deactivated without prior notice, forcing some to pay out of pocket, take on debt, or skip life-sustaining dialysis sessions.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:34 WIB
PLN Peduli Reaches More Than 700,000 Beneficiaries Across Indonesia Throughout 2025
State electricity company PLN's corporate social responsibility programme reached over 700,000 beneficiaries through 1,627 programmes across Indonesia in 2025, absorbing more than 34,000 workers and engaging over 23,000 micro and small enterprises across 38 provinces.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:31 WIB
Starlink Phone Facts: Elon Musk's Explanation
Elon Musk has publicly denied that SpaceX is developing a Starlink-branded smartphone, dismissing recent speculation that the company was preparing a satellite-connected mobile device. Whilst Musk acknowledged the theoretical possibility of a SpaceX phone designed specifically for running neural networks with maximum power efficiency, he stressed this was not a confirmed project and the company has no plans to enter the smartphone market in the near term.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:31 WIB
BPJS Kesehatan PBI Deactivation Row: PDI-P Criticises Social Affairs Ministry for Carelessly Discarding Poor Citizens' Data
A PDI-P parliamentarian has sharply criticised the government's mass deactivation of hundreds of thousands of BPJS Kesehatan subsidised health insurance memberships, arguing that inaccurate data in the national social-economic database is endangering the lives of chronically ill patients.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:31 WIB
Civil Coalition Launches Fact-Finding Report on August 2025 Demonstrations
A coalition of three Indonesian civil society organisations has released an independent fact-finding report titled "The Largest Silencing Operation Against Youth Since Reformasi," documenting events surrounding the widespread August 2025 demonstrations.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:30 WIB
Government Investigates Alleged Deforestation Behind Guci Tegal Flash Floods
The Indonesian government is investigating claims that illegal logging contributed to the devastating flash floods at the Guci tourist site in Tegal, Central Java. Cabinet Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that the Ministry of Forestry has been asked to review conditions in the area surrounding Guci, whilst local governments have deployed investigation teams and are coordinating reforestation efforts on the slopes of Mount Slamet.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:27 WIB
Explosion at Situbondo House in East Java Kills One
A powerful explosion at a house suspected of storing firecracker-making materials in Situbondo, East Java, killed one person and injured six others. The blast completely levelled the house and damaged neighbouring properties, with one victim suffering 90 per cent burns and being referred to a regional hospital.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:27 WIB
Istiqlal Mosque's Programme of Activities During Ramadan
Istiqlal Mosque has announced a comprehensive programme of activities for Ramadan, including tarawih prayers led by international Quran reciters, large-scale communal iftar meals serving up to 10,000 portions daily, and a Nuzulul Quran commemoration involving MABIMS member states. The mosque also continues its free education programmes and highlights interfaith tolerance, with Ramadan coinciding with Chinese New Year celebrations in the surrounding area.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:24 WIB
Sinar Mas Land and Sumitomo Forestry Hold Groundbreaking for Ecovia Marketing Gallery in Kota Wisata Cibubur
Sinar Mas Land and Japan's Sumitomo Forestry have marked a new phase in the development of the Ecovia precinct with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Ecovia Marketing Gallery in Kota Wisata Cibubur. The joint venture between one of Indonesia's largest property developers and the Japanese forestry and housing conglomerate signals continued foreign investment confidence in Greater Jakarta's residential property market.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:22 WIB
Prabowo Donates 1,455 Cattle to Flood-Affected Residents in Aceh
President Prabowo Subianto made a personal donation of 1,455 cattle worth Rp72.7 billion to communities across 19 districts in Aceh affected by flooding and landslides. The donation was timed to coincide with the Acehnese Meugang tradition of communal meat consumption held before Ramadan, providing both material relief and cultural continuity for disaster-affected residents, including those in earthquake-hit Simeulue.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:18 WIB
Bogor Regency Council and Local Government Plant 1,000 Trees at Pakansari Stadium Area
Bogor Regency's local parliament and government jointly planted approximately 1,000 trees to restore the Pakansari Stadium area following a tornado that felled numerous trees and damaged the stadium on 12 February 2026. Regent Rudy Susmanto framed the initiative as both disaster recovery and a broader commitment to maintaining green open spaces, with plans to develop the stadium grounds into an urban forest serving as the green lungs of Cibinong, the regency's capital.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:15 WIB
Presidential Palace: Decline in Corruption Perceptions Index a Shared Responsibility
Indonesia's Corruption Perceptions Index score fell three points to 34 in 2025, dropping the country out of the top 100 to 109th out of 180 nations, on par with Nepal. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi acknowledged the systemic nature of corruption in Indonesia and called the decline a shared homework assignment for both the government and the public.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:12 WIB
Indonesia Tightens Control on Nickel as US and China Scramble for Critical Minerals
Indonesia is reasserting state control over its dominant nickel supply — accounting for roughly 60 per cent of global output — just as the electric-vehicle industry shifts towards battery chemistries that use far less of the metal.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:11 WIB
AHY: SBY Has Now Chosen to Become an Artist
Democratic Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono revealed that his father, former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, has devoted himself to art — particularly painting — since stepping down from the presidency 12 years ago. Speaking at the Democratic Party's Lunar New Year celebration, AHY noted that one of SBY's paintings would be auctioned off, with proceeds donated to Chinese-Indonesian communities in need.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:08 WIB
Tangerang Regency Restricts Restaurant Operating Hours During Ramadan
The Tangerang Regency government has ordered the closure of all nightlife venues and restricted restaurant operating hours during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah (2026), with eateries barred from opening before 4pm. The policy, issued jointly with the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), will be enforced by regional agencies alongside military and police personnel, reflecting the recurring tension between religious observance regulations and commercial freedoms in Indonesian local governance.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:07 WIB
Ten Significant Reasons Why Gus Ipul Deserves to Lead NU at the 35th Congress
An opinion piece by KH Imam Jazuli argues that Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul), the PBNU Secretary General and nephew of former president Abdurrahman Wahid, is the ideal candidate to lead Nahdlatul Ulama at its upcoming 35th Congress.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:05 WIB
Home Affairs Ministry Secretary-General Highlights Basic Commodity Price Volatility, Urges Local Governments to Step Up Monitoring
The Secretary-General of Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs has called on local governments to rigorously monitor basic commodity prices ahead of Ramadan, noting that prices are already rising before the fasting month has even begun. He highlighted anomalies in producer regions where prices are increasing despite abundant supply, and urged inflation control teams to move beyond meeting rooms and conduct direct market surveillance to protect public purchasing power.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:04 WIB
Ahmad Muzani Inaugurates Bias Layar as Interim MPR Member
MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani swore in Golkar politician Bias Layar from Central Kalimantan as an interim member of the People's Consultative Assembly for the 2024-2029 term, replacing Mukhtarudin who was appointed Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers. The inauguration, based on Presidential Decree No. 131 of 2025, included a Christian oath ceremony at the parliamentary complex in Jakarta.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:02 WIB
Compared to Neighbouring Countries, Purbaya Says Indonesia's 40 Per Cent Debt-to-GDP Ratio Remains Safe
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that Indonesia's government debt remains within safe limits, with the debt-to-GDP ratio at 40.46 per cent as of end-2025 — well below regional peers such as Malaysia (64%), Thailand (63.5%), and Singapore (165-170%). The government is pursuing a deliberate strategy of maximising the budget deficit within the 3 per cent ceiling to stimulate economic recovery whilst maintaining fiscal discipline.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 18:00 WIB
Tarawih Prayer Did Not Exist in Prophet Muhammad's Time: The Term's Origins Explained
The term "Tarawih" for Ramadan night prayers was not used during the Prophet Muhammad's era, when the practice was known as Qiyam Ramadan. The name emerged during the caliphate of Umar bin Khattab, derived from the Arabic word for rest, reflecting the practice of taking breaks between every two prayer cycles. The term has since become the standard designation across the Muslim world, including Indonesia.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:58 WIB
As Global Attention Turns to the US: What Are Its Businesses Doing in Indonesia?
US businesses have invested more than US$14.85 billion in Indonesia since 2020, with activities spanning digital skills training, agriculture and creative industries aligned with the country's Golden 2045 vision.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:58 WIB
Fed Statement Pushes Rupiah Weakness: Analysts
The Indonesian rupiah weakened 0.11 per cent to IDR 16,855 per US dollar following hawkish remarks from Federal Reserve officials Michael Barr and Mary Daly, who signalled that US interest rates would remain unchanged for some time. With the CME FedWatch Tool showing a 94 per cent probability of no rate change at the March 2026 FOMC meeting, analysts also expected Bank Indonesia to hold rates steady at its 19 February policy meeting amid continued pressure on the rupiah.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:58 WIB
Indonesia studies Denmark's model to upgrade animal feed safety
Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture sent a delegation to Denmark to study best practices in animal feed quality and safety oversight, aiming to modernise its regulatory framework. The initiative includes revising a 2017 ministerial regulation, establishing a feed certification body, and developing a national monitoring system for contaminants such as mycotoxins and heavy metals.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:57 WIB
Presidential Palace on Differing Start of Ramadan Fasting: We Must Respect One Another
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi urged the public not to make an issue of the differing start dates for Ramadan fasting, calling for mutual respect and tolerance. The government officially set 19 February 2026 as the first day of Ramadan 1447 H following the isbat session, whilst Muhammadiyah began fasting a day earlier based on its own calculation method.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:56 WIB
Environment and Maritime Ministries Boost Marine Climate Action
Indonesia's Environment Ministry (KLH) and Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry (KKP) have signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen climate change management in the marine and fisheries sector. The partnership aims to leverage Indonesia's vast coastal ecosystems — including 20-25 per cent of the world's mangrove and seagrass cover — for carbon absorption and emission reduction, whilst supporting targets under the Nationally Determined Contribution and Presidential Regulation No.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:54 WIB
Indonesia introduces call centre for public cooperative queries
Indonesia's Ministry of Cooperatives has launched a dedicated call centre to handle public inquiries and complaints related to cooperatives, particularly the Red and White Village Cooperatives programme under President Prabowo Subianto's national strategic initiative. The service will feature interactive voice response technology and a chatbot integrated with the existing village cooperatives management information system, operating on working days from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Jakarta time.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:54 WIB
Not Just Modern: Digital Marriage Registration Also Makes Data More Secure
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs are planning to integrate digital Catholic marriage registration with the national civil administration system. The initiative aims to enhance legal certainty, improve data accuracy, and support the government's Digital Population Identity (IKD) programme, with a formal cooperation agreement to be signed between the two directorates general.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:53 WIB
Israel to Allow 10,000 Worshippers for Friday Prayers at Al-Aqsa During Ramadan
Israeli authorities announced they would permit 10,000 Palestinian worshippers to attend Friday prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan, subject to strict age restrictions and special daily permits. The move comes amid tensions over alleged Israeli interference with Ramadan preparations, including blocking the Jordanian-managed Islamic Waqf from installing shade structures and preventing a senior imam from entering the mosque compound.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:47 WIB
Jakarta Rush Hour Shifts During Ramadan: Here Are the Predictions
Jakarta Metropolitan Police predict significant shifts in rush hour patterns during Ramadan, with morning congestion moving to 9-10am due to altered work schedules and WFA policies, whilst afternoon gridlock is expected to start earlier at 2-3pm as residents head home for iftar. Authorities have mapped out congestion hotspots around popular takjil (breaking-fast snack) locations and Ramadan bazaars, including the well-known Bendungan Hilir area, and plan to deploy traffic personnel accordingly.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:44 WIB
Firecracker Factory House Explodes in Situbondo, One Person Killed
A house suspected of being an illegal firecracker production facility in Situbondo, East Java, exploded on 18 February, killing one person and injuring seven others, including a teenager with 90 per cent burns. Police are investigating the incident, which levelled the house and damaged surrounding properties in Banyuputih subdistrict.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:43 WIB
Welcoming Ramadan, House Speaker Puan Calls for Compassion and Brotherhood
House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has welcomed Ramadan 1447 H by urging all Indonesian Muslims to cultivate compassion and a spirit of brotherhood during the holy month. She highlighted the convergence of multiple religious observances — including Lunar New Year, pre-Easter and Nyepi — as an opportunity to strengthen interfaith unity across the nation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:41 WIB
Sumatra Disaster Aid Held Up in Malaysia as Deputy Speaker Raises Issue with Interior Minister in Parliament
Disaster relief supplies worth billions of rupiah donated by Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia for Sumatra flood victims have been stranded at Port Klang due to customs clearance issues.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:41 WIB
Drug Trafficker Arrested in South Tangerang Carrying 40 Kg of Cannabis from North Sumatra to Jakarta
Police in South Tangerang have intercepted a cross-provincial drug trafficking operation, seizing 40 kilogrammes of cannabis being transported by road from Medan to the Jakarta metropolitan area. The suspect faces charges under Indonesia's narcotics law as amended in 2026, carrying penalties ranging from six years' imprisonment to the death sentence, whilst two additional suspects have been placed on a wanted list.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:36 WIB
Sumatra's post-disaster rehabilitation budget reaches Rp 2 trillion: Government
Indonesia's Social Affairs Ministry has outlined a Rp 2 trillion budget requirement for post-disaster rehabilitation in Sumatra, with Rp 655 billion already available under a special budget ceiling. Compensation, living allowances and housing assistance are being distributed across three provinces, though only 29 of 53 affected regencies have completed the data validation needed to receive funds.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:29 WIB
We Need Strangers
Michael Vatikiotis, a prominent commentator on Southeast Asian affairs, reflects on migration, identity and the role of strangers in society, drawing on his own family's history of displacement across Europe and the Middle East. The essay, published in Asia Sentinel, explores themes of cultural integration and the economic contributions of migrant communities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:28 WIB
Ministry of Social Affairs Guides Regional Social Services Data Operators Nationwide on PBI Reactivation
Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has conducted nationwide online training for regional social services data operators on the reactivation process for health insurance subsidy recipients (PBI JK), following the deactivation of 11 million participants in February 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:26 WIB
On IMF's Proposal to Raise Income Tax, Purbaya: No Tax Rate Changes Before Economy Strengthens
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has firmly rejected any near-term changes to tax rates, responding to an IMF simulation that suggested gradual increases to employee income tax (PPh 21) as a financing option for public investment. Instead, the government will focus on broadening the tax base, plugging revenue leakages, and accelerating economic growth to maintain the fiscal deficit below the 3 per cent of GDP threshold without burdening taxpayers.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:25 WIB
Economist Warns Over 58 Per Cent of Village Funds Being Used to Build Merah Putih Village Cooperatives
An economist from the Center of Reform on Economics (CORE) has warned that allocating 58 per cent of village funds — Rp34.57 trillion out of Rp60.57 trillion — to the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme risks creating a liquidity shock for villages and crowding out essential social spending. The policy, enacted through Finance Minister Regulation No.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:24 WIB
HNW Urges Prabowo to Consistently Champion Palestinian Independence
Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly Hidayat Nur Wahid has called on President Prabowo Subianto to maximise Indonesia's role at the inaugural Board of Peace summit in the United States to end the war in Gaza and advance Palestinian statehood. HNW stressed the importance of forming a coalition with fellow OIC member states within the Board of Peace to counter Israeli violations and prevent the body from becoming a mere "moral stamp" legitimising continued occupation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:23 WIB
Jakarta Lunar New Year boosts US$533 million in spending
Jakarta generated Rp9 trillion (US$532.7 million) in economic activity during the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday, with the provincial government now expecting Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr spending to surpass Rp20 trillion. The capital staged a five-day festival at the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle and coordinated citywide cultural events, underscoring the growing role of large-scale cultural celebrations in driving consumption in Southeast Asia's largest economy.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:20 WIB
Indonesia seizes 13 kg of methamphetamine, arrests two Iranians
Indonesian customs and police arrested two Iranian nationals after intercepting 11.56 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in a leather chest shipped from Iran to a Jakarta post office. A subsequent controlled delivery and raid on a clandestine laboratory in North Jakarta yielded a further 1.68 kg of the drug along with manufacturing equipment, as authorities investigate possible links to an international trafficking network.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:18 WIB
First Tarawih Prayers for Ramadan 2026 Begin Tonight Following Government's Official Determination
The Ministry of Religious Affairs held its isbat session and officially determined that 1 Ramadan 1447 H falls on 19 February 2026, with the first Tarawih prayers commencing on the evening of 18 February. The government's determination sets the framework for the full 30-night Tarawih prayer schedule running through 19 March 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:18 WIB
Government Affirms No Plans to Revert KPK Law to Previous Version
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has firmly stated that the Prabowo government has no plans to discuss or revert the KPK (Corruption Eradication Commission) Law to its pre-revision version, despite former President Jokowi publicly endorsing the idea. The statement highlights a political rift over anti-corruption legislation, with Jokowi distancing himself from the controversial 2019 revision by claiming it was initiated by parliament and that he never signed it.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:17 WIB
Depok Car Free Day to Continue During Ramadan
The Depok city government has confirmed that its weekly car free day (CFD) on Jalan Margonda Raya will continue throughout Ramadan, citing the importance of keeping the local economy moving. Deputy Mayor Chandra Rahmansyah said the government has no authority to restrict people from earning a living, including small business vendors, though traders are encouraged to adapt their offerings to suit the fasting period.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:16 WIB
Presidential Palace Affirms No Plans to Restore Old KPK Law
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has firmly stated that the government has no plans to revise the KPK Law or revert it to its pre-2019 version, despite former KPK Chairman Abraham Samad's proposal to President Prabowo Subianto. The statement comes amid growing discourse on the matter, with former President Joko Widodo publicly supporting the idea of restoring the original anti-corruption commission legislation whilst distancing himself from the controversial 2019 revision.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:15 WIB
Who Is Tarique Rahman, Bangladesh's New Prime Minister?
Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and assassinated President Ziaur Rahman, has been sworn in as Bangladesh's new prime minister after his BNP-led alliance won 212 of 350 parliamentary seats.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:11 WIB
MPR Deputy Speaker Highlights Importance of Upskilling Human Resources to Meet Industry Demands
MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has called for consistent implementation of adaptive education systems to equip students with new skills demanded by evolving industries, including the digital economy, AI, and the sustainable economy. Her remarks align with Manpower Minister Yassierli's recent disclosure that 59 per cent of workers globally require reskilling to remain relevant, underscoring the urgency of aligning Indonesia's education output with shifting labour market needs.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:11 WIB
Jakarta Lunar New Year celebrations boost spending by US$533 million
Jakarta's Lunar New Year festivثities generated an estimated Rp9 trillion (US$533 million) in economic activity, according to preliminary government figures. The provincial administration expects even greater spending during the upcoming Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period, with projections exceeding Rp20 trillion, as a dense holiday calendar combining Lunar New Year, Nyepi and Ramadan is set to further stimulate retail and tourism sectors.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:10 WIB
National Narcotics Agency Destroys 102 Kg of Drug Evidence: Saving 401 Thousand Lives
Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) destroyed 102 kilogrammes of narcotics evidence from five cases, including methamphetamine, cannabis, and synthetic tobacco seized across Aceh, Banten, and Jakarta during January 2026. The agency stated the destroyed contraband was equivalent to saving approximately 401,460 people from potential drug abuse, with the destruction carried out under the provisions of Law No. 34/2009 on narcotics.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:09 WIB
Police Raid Illegal Liquor Sellers Disguised as Herbal Drink Stalls in Bogor, Dozens of Bottles Seized
Police in Kemang, Bogor, West Java, seized 60 bottles of illegal alcohol from herbal drink stalls (warung jamu) suspected of covertly selling liquor, in a joint operation with the military and civil service police. The raid, prompted by community complaints, is part of heightened security measures ahead of Ramadan to prevent alcohol-fuelled crime and public disorder.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:06 WIB
Health Minister Affirms Dr Piprim Basarah Was Dismissed for Disciplinary Violations
Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has confirmed that the dismissal of Dr Piprim Basarah Yunarso was due to disciplinary violations, not differences of opinion over ministry policy. Dr Piprim was found to have been absent from work without valid reason for 28 consecutive days, triggering mandatory dismissal under Government Regulation No. 94 of 2021 on Civil Servant Discipline.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:03 WIB
Sumatra Flood Victims Borrow Money to Rebuild Homes Amid Anxiety at Evacuation Shelters
Residents of Huta Godang village in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, have begun rebuilding their homes independently without government assistance nearly three months after flash floods struck in late November 2025. Villagers are borrowing money from relatives and using makeshift materials to reconstruct their dwellings, whilst remaining anxious about the possibility of further flooding and shuttling family members between shelters and partially repaired homes during rainfall.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:02 WIB
Mexico Refuses Full Membership of Peace Council — Here's Why
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has declined to join Donald Trump's Peace Council as a full member, citing the absence of Palestinian representation in the body. Mexico will instead send its UN Ambassador as an observer to the council's inaugural summit in Washington DC, where member nations are expected to pledge over US$5 billion for Gaza reconstruction. The decision underscores Mexico's recognition of Palestine as a state and its support for a two-state solution.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:02 WIB
BMKG predicts rain to drench Bintan Island for up to a week ahead
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) in Tanjungpinang forecasts continued light to moderate rainfall over Bintan Island in Riau Islands Province for the next week to ten days, following a dry spell since December 2025. The agency has also warned of moderate sea swells in the northern waters around Natuna and Anambas, and urged the public to exercise caution during the early Ramadhan rainy period against flooding, landslides and hazardous road conditions.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:02 WIB
President Prabowo in US for trade and strategic talks: official
President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in Washington, D.C. for a series of high-level meetings focused on strengthening bilateral economic ties with the United States, including discussions on a reciprocal trade agreement that has been under negotiation since 2025.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:02 WIB
Bank Mandiri targets 7-9 per cent credit growth, no plans to revise upward
Bank Mandiri is maintaining its 2026 credit growth target at 7-9 per cent despite pressure from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) for banks to aim higher, with a possible revision only after mid-year performance review. The state-owned lender posted strong 2025 results with credit reaching Rp1,895 trillion (up 13.4 per cent year-on-year) and net profit of Rp56.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:01 WIB
Cucun Responds to Jokowi: No Law Can Be Made Without a Presidential Letter
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal pushed back against former President Jokowi's claims regarding the KPK Law revision, asserting that no legislation can proceed without a Presidential Letter (Surpres). State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirmed the government has no plans to revert the KPK Law to its earlier version, contradicting Jokowi's stated support for such a move.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:01 WIB
Constitutional Court Nominee Inosentius Reportedly Reassigned to Danantara
Golkar MP Benny Utama revealed that Inosentius Samsul, who had been selected by House Commission III as a Constitutional Court justice nominee, withdrew after receiving a government assignment at the Danantara sovereign investment body. The revelation came during a hearing on ethics complaints against his replacement, Adies Kadir, highlighting the politically charged nature of Constitutional Court appointments and Danantara's growing role as a destination for senior government figures.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:01 WIB
Astra Tol Cipali: 396,000 Vehicles Traversed Toll Road During Lunar New Year Holiday
The Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) toll road in West Java recorded 396,000 vehicles during the Lunar New Year holiday period from 13 to 17 February 2026, with peak traffic on 14 February reaching 88,000 vehicles — a 52 per cent increase above normal levels. The surge reflects heightened public mobility during the festive period, with return flows towards Jakarta dominating on 17 February at 47,000 vehicles out of 77,000 total.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:01 WIB
Cause Revealed of 32,000-Litre Thinner Tanker Fire on Cipali Toll Road
A tanker truck carrying 32,000 litres of thinner was completely destroyed by fire on the Cipali toll road near Cirebon, West Java, at the KM 185 point in Ciwaringin District. The incident, which occurred on a Wednesday, disrupted traffic on one of Java's key arterial motorways connecting Jakarta to Cirebon, with investigators revealing the cause of the blaze.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 17:00 WIB
KAI Commuter Sets Rules for Breaking Fast on Trains During Ramadan
KAI Commuter has introduced special regulations permitting passengers to break their fast aboard Commuter Line trains during Ramadan 2026, allowing light food and drinks when the Maghrib prayer time arrives. The policy reflects the state-owned rail operator's effort to accommodate religious observance whilst maintaining order on public transport.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:59 WIB
Iranian Foreign Minister: Second Round of Indirect Iran-US Negotiations "Constructive"
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States in Geneva as more "constructive" than the previous round in Oman, with both sides agreeing on guiding principles to begin drafting a potential agreement.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:57 WIB
Legislator Condemns Israel's Move to Claim West Bank Territory
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I has strongly condemned Israel's approval of a land ownership claim proposal in the West Bank, calling it outright colonialism. The legislator urged the Indonesian government to leverage its membership in the Board of Peace to pressure Israel and vocally oppose the annexation in line with Indonesia's constitutional mandate against all forms of colonialism.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:57 WIB
Minister Maman Says 200,000 Disaster-Affected MSME Debtors Receive Loan Relaxation Totalling Rp 12 Trillion
The Indonesian government has provided various forms of loan relaxation to 200,000 micro, small and medium enterprise debtors affected by natural disasters across three Sumatran provinces, with total outstanding credit of approximately Rp 12 trillion. MSME Minister Maman Abdurrahman outlined relief measures including interest rate reductions, grace periods, credit restructuring, and new People's Business Credit access, with the recovery programme planned to run through December 2027.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:56 WIB
DPR Member Responds as Constitutional Court Ethics Council Declares It Cannot Reject Complaint Against Adies Kadir
The Constitutional Court Ethics Council (MKMK) chairman I Dewa Gede Palguna has firmly stated the body cannot dismiss an ethics complaint against Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir, pushing back against calls from Golkar faction DPR members to reject the report outright.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:56 WIB
New Regulations Deemed Potentially Disruptive to Grassroots Economic Chain
The Indonesian White Cigarette Producers Association (Gaprindo) has sharply criticised proposed maximum nicotine and tar limits for tobacco products, warning they could devastate smallholder farmers who cultivate 99.96 per cent of the country's tobacco plantations.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:55 WIB
Cilegon Social Services Agency Accommodates 8,502 Deactivated PBI-JKN Beneficiaries
The Cilegon municipal government has absorbed 8,502 residents affected by the deactivation of their BPJS Kesehatan subsidised health insurance (PBI-JKN) into the city's Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme. The move ensures that affected beneficiaries will continue to receive free healthcare services despite losing their national-level coverage.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:54 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister: Student Learning in Sumatra Has Resumed at 100 Per Cent
Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar confirmed that all madrasah students in disaster-affected areas of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra have resumed learning, with 90.5 per cent back in their original schools and the remainder using shift systems or temporary facilities. The Ministry has proposed a Rp702.98 billion Presidential Directive budget for comprehensive reconstruction of damaged madrasahs, pesantren, and houses of worship, including relocation from disaster-prone sites.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:53 WIB
Phishing on the Rise: Tips for Choosing a Secure Digital Account
Amid escalating phishing attacks targeting digital financial accounts in Indonesia, the article highlights the growing diversity of fraud methods, from fake links to impersonation of customer service representatives. It offers guidance on selecting secure digital accounts as digital investment trends continue to expand.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:53 WIB
A Glimpse at First Ramadhan Preparations at the 'Red Beret Mosque' Built by the TNI Commander
The Jami' An-Nur Mosque in West Bandung Regency, featuring a distinctive red beret-shaped dome symbolising Kopassus special forces, is preparing for its inaugural Ramadhan after being inaugurated by TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto in January 2026. Originally a small mosque accommodating just 60 worshippers, the building was entirely reconstructed on an expanded plot with a three-tonne resin dome, though its military-themed design has drawn both fascination and criticism from the public.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:52 WIB
NTB Man Denies Abandoning Malaysian Wife, Says He Still Provided for Her After Divorce
A man from Central Lombok has denied viral social media claims that he abandoned his Malaysian ex-wife during their 18-year marriage. Badi insists he continued to provide for Norida Akmal Ayob even after their amicable divorce in 2024, and that he had arranged Indonesian citizenship documentation for her during their marriage. The case highlights cross-border marriage issues and the role of social media in amplifying domestic disputes.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:52 WIB
Central Aceh Disaster Survivors Receive Basic Food Aid Ahead of Ramadan
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, in partnership with Teuku Umar University, distributed basic food supplies and Qurans to 242 disaster-affected residents across four villages in Central Aceh's Lut Tawar district ahead of Ramadan. The aid forms part of a broader government programme that deployed 10,000 university students in late January to support Sumatra's disaster recovery efforts, with a focus on food sovereignty, energy independence, and public health.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:51 WIB
JCI Closes Up More Than 1 Per Cent as Market Optimism Returns — Three Top-Gaining Stocks
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) surged 1.19 per cent to close at 8,310.23 on Wednesday, buoyed by renewed market optimism following the extended holiday break and expectations of solid economic conditions. All sectors posted gains led by transport (3.25%) and energy (2.45%), whilst analysts noted investors are closely watching Bank Indonesia's upcoming board meeting, widely expected to hold the benchmark rate at 4.75 per cent.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:51 WIB
59 Zhongtong TransJakarta Buses Grounded Following Smoke Incident at Pancoran
PT Transjakarta has grounded 59 articulated Zhongtong buses for comprehensive technical inspections after a radiator leak caused thick smoke to billow from a bus at Pancoran station in South Jakarta. The incident, which occurred on 14 February on Corridor 9, prompted an internal investigation focusing on the cooling systems of the gas-fuelled fleet, underscoring ongoing concerns about the maintenance standards of Jakarta's public bus network.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:50 WIB
Islamic Boarding School Leader in East Lombok Named Suspect in Student Sexual Abuse, Arrested While Attempting to Travel to Middle East
The head of an Islamic boarding school in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, has been named a suspect in the sexual abuse of female students and was apprehended at Lombok International Airport as he attempted to flee to the Middle East with his wife. The case, involving at least two victims — one of whom endured abuse for a decade — was uncovered after the victims reported to the Mataram Child Protection Agency, with the suspect allegedly using religious deception to justify his crimes.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:50 WIB
Housing Minister seeks private sector funding to accelerate housing in Sumatra
Housing and Settlement Minister Maruarar Sirait is mobilising private sector funding to speed up the construction of permanent housing for disaster-affected communities in Sumatra, with 26,969 units needed at an estimated cost of Rp8.5 trillion. Private sector contributions have so far yielded 2,603 housing units, and the government is targeting completion of hundreds of homes before Eid al-Fitr 2026 whilst also promoting domestic roof-tile production to support local industry.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:48 WIB
30,000 visitors flock to Kota Tua during Lunar New Year holiday
Jakarta's historic Kota Tua district attracted over 30,500 visitors during the Lunar New Year holiday on 16-17 February 2026, with the vast majority being domestic tourists. The celebrations were enhanced by the Jakarta Light Festival at Taman Fatahillah, featuring video mapping, lion dances, and live music performances.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:47 WIB
CBI and KCB forge partnership to expand financial access for migrant workers
Indonesia's Credit Bureau Indonesia (CBI) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Credit Bureau (KCB) to enable cross-border credit history sharing, primarily benefiting over 60,000 Indonesian migrant workers and diaspora in South Korea who currently lack local credit records. The partnership aims to build an integrated credit information network across Asia, allowing citizens of both countries to leverage their home credit histories for financial services abroad.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:46 WIB
Rupiah weakens amid market scepticism over Iran-US negotiations
The Indonesian rupiah fell 47 points (0.28 per cent) to Rp16,884 per US dollar on Wednesday, pressured by market scepticism over Iran-US nuclear talks and cautious investor sentiment ahead of the Federal Reserve's January meeting minutes. Geopolitical risks in the Strait of Hormuz and anticipation of the US PCE inflation data further weighed on currency markets.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:46 WIB
Central Java Governor Pledges to Accelerate Aid for 532 Victims of Land Movement in Brebes
Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi visited Brebes regency to oversee the response to an ongoing land movement disaster that has displaced 175 families (532 people) and damaged at least 143 homes since late January 2026. The provincial government is coordinating with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources' Geological Agency to construct temporary shelters on state forestry land, whilst distributing Rp 175.97 million in emergency aid from multiple agencies.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:45 WIB
MKMK Chairman Refuses to Disclose Adies Kadir Report to Parliament: 'Better to Dismiss Me'
The Chairman of the Constitutional Court's Honour Council (MKMK), I Gede Dewa Palguna, firmly refused to disclose details of the complaint against Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir during a hearing with the House of Representatives' Commission III. Palguna declared he would rather be dismissed from his position than violate his oath of office by revealing the substance of the ongoing preliminary investigation, underscoring the independence of the judicial ethics body.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:45 WIB
West Bangka Regional Library Receives Donation of World War II History Books
The West Bangka Regional Library in Bangka Belitung Province received five historical books from families of Australian World War II victims visiting Mentok to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the fall of Allied forces there. The donation, which includes titles documenting the experiences of prisoners of war in Mentok, represents a significant contribution to historical preservation and cross-national friendship through literacy and documentation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:44 WIB
99 Disaster-Affected Schools in Sumatra Holding Classes in Tents
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti reported that 99 schools across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra are still conducting lessons in emergency tents three months after devastating floods and landslides struck the region in late November 2025.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:44 WIB
CORE: Government Must Prepare Fiscal Mitigation Measures for Merah Putih Village Cooperative Programme
Economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet of the Center of Reform on Economics (CORE) has warned that allocating over half the 2026 Village Fund budget to the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) programme risks creating a liquidity shock for villages, leaving insufficient funds for basic services such as cash transfers, stunting prevention, and food security.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:42 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya Deems Constitutional Challenge to Free Nutritious Meals Budget Weak: 'Certain to Lose'
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed a constitutional challenge to the state budget's allocation for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, expressing confidence the petition will fail. The case, brought by lecturers and teachers to the Constitutional Court, argues that diverting Rp223.5 trillion of the education budget to the National Nutrition Agency's meal programme undermines educators' constitutional rights and their already meagre remuneration.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:42 WIB
Two Men from Lampung Arrested for Distributing Ecstasy in Central Jakarta
Jakarta Metropolitan Police foiled the distribution of 738 ecstasy pills and arrested two men from Lampung province at a Central Jakarta apartment complex. The suspects allegedly transported the drugs from Lampung to Jakarta, where they planned to distribute them across the capital.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:41 WIB
Britain Reviews Private Flights at Stansted Airport in Connection with Epstein
British police are assessing information about private flights through Stansted Airport following the release of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein by the US Department of Justice. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has urged police to investigate whether Epstein's victims were trafficked into or through the United Kingdom, after a BBC investigation found 87 Epstein-linked flights used British airports between the early 1990s and 2018.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:41 WIB
Marine Corps Commander: Four Soldiers' Remains from Landslide Still Being Identified
Four of the 23 Indonesian Navy Marines killed in a landslide in Cisarua, West Bandung, on 24 January remain unidentified, with the Disaster Victim Identification process expected to take approximately 14 days due to the condition of the remains requiring DNA matching. The Marines were conducting training exercises at the site when the landslide struck, and 19 of the 23 victims have already been identified and returned to their families.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:40 WIB
CALS: No Obstacle for Constitutional Court Ethics Council to Investigate Alleged Ethical Violations
The Constitutional and Administrative Law Society (CALS) has asserted that nothing prevents the Constitutional Court's Ethics Council (MKMK) from investigating alleged ethical violations related to the appointment of Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir. The statement came in response to House Commission III's challenge to the MKMK's jurisdiction, which CALS characterised as an attempt to interfere with the council's independence.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:39 WIB
Solar-Powered Lighting Arrives as Cilamaya Fishermen Now Go to Sea More Safely and Productively
Pertamina New & Renewable Energy has distributed portable solar-powered lighting systems to small-scale fishermen in Cilamaya, Karawang, as part of its corporate social responsibility programme. The solar panels, batteries and lamps installed on fishing boats have significantly boosted productivity — enabling fishermen to cast nets up to five or six times per night — whilst reducing operational costs and improving safety during nocturnal fishing activities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:38 WIB
MKD: Selection of Adies Kadir as Constitutional Court Justice Did Not Violate Ethics
The House of Representatives' Ethics Council (MKD) has cleared the appointment of former Golkar politician Adies Kadir as a Constitutional Court justice, finding no ethical violations in the selection process. However, 21 legal practitioners and academics from the Constitutional and Administrative Law Society (CALS) have filed an ethics complaint, arguing the appointment was procedurally flawed as it bypassed the proper removal of the previous candidate and was conducted with unusual haste.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:37 WIB
Bank Jakarta Partners with Jakmania to Expand Financial Inclusion and Customer Base
Bank Jakarta is leveraging the Jakmania football supporter community as a channel to broaden its customer base and increase uptake of banking services. The community-based approach is regarded as a strategic means of reaching underserved segments, aligning commercial banking goals with financial inclusion objectives.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:37 WIB
Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Expands Special Allowance Recipients to 65,000 Teachers
Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has raised the target number of special allowance recipients from 57,683 to 65,871 teachers serving in remote, border, and outermost (3T) regions as well as disaster-affected areas for 2026. The budget for the Teacher Special Allowance (TKG) has increased to approximately Rp706 billion, whilst the professional allowance for non-civil servant certified teachers has been raised from Rp1.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:36 WIB
South Jakarta Administration Bans Street Brawls and Ramadan Street Gatherings
The South Jakarta municipal government has prohibited residents from engaging in street brawls (tawuran) and the popular "sahur on the road" (SOTR) gatherings during Ramadan. The ban is part of efforts to maintain order and preserve the sanctity of the fasting month in the district.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:35 WIB
Ramadan: Police Anticipate Shift in Peak Traffic Hours in Jakarta
Jakarta's Metropolitan Police are preparing for a shift in peak traffic congestion patterns during Ramadan, with morning rush hours expected to move to 9-10am and afternoon congestion peaking at 2-3pm as residents head home early to break fast with their families. The police have also mapped out locations of takjil stalls and Ramadan bazaars, including the popular Bendungan Hilir area, where traffic personnel will be deployed to manage disruptions.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:34 WIB
On IMF proposal, Purbaya affirms no change to tax rates
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has ruled out any near-term changes to tax rates, responding to an IMF simulation that included gradual increases to employee income tax as a financing alternative for public investment. Instead, the government will focus on broadening the tax base, plugging revenue leakages, and accelerating economic growth to keep the fiscal deficit below the 3 per cent of GDP threshold without adding to taxpayers' burden.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:34 WIB
Indonesian Defence Ministry Strengthens Sovereignty and Army Modernisation Through Battle-Proven French Technology
Indonesia's Defence Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the Indonesian Army's combat capabilities using battle-proven French defence technology during the Singapore Airshow 2026. The ministry's Secretary General visited the KNDS booth to discuss follow-up procurement of CAESAR artillery systems and large-calibre ammunition to be produced locally by PT Pindad, building on a Letter of Intent signed between the two countries' defence ministries in May 2025.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:33 WIB
Mexico Rejects Full Membership in Trump's Peace Council
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced that Mexico will not participate as a full member of the US-led Peace Council overseeing the Gaza ceasefire plan, citing the absence of Palestinian representation. Mexico will instead send its UN ambassador as an observer, consistent with its recognition of Palestine as a state and its support for a two-state solution.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:33 WIB
Attorney General: What Use Is a Smart Prosecutor Without Integrity?
Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has emphasised that the prosecution service requires not only intelligent prosecutors but also those with integrity. The statement underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen ethical standards within Indonesia's attorney general's office.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:32 WIB
Welcoming Ramadan: 70 Cattle Distributed to Disaster-Affected Residents in Aceh
Students from Indonesia's Police Science College (STIK) have donated 70 cattle to disaster-affected communities in Aceh ahead of Ramadan, enabling residents to observe the traditional meugang celebration. The initiative, overseen by STIK Chairman Inspector General Eko Rudi Sudarto, reflects the institution's emphasis on humanitarian values in police training, whilst providing both material and moral support to communities still recovering from natural disasters.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:31 WIB
Acute Respiratory Infection Cases Surge 150 Per Cent Post-Disaster as North Aceh Distributes Masks
Acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases in North Aceh have surged 150 per cent compared to the same period last year, rising from 1,574 to 3,944 cases by mid-February, in the aftermath of flash floods and landslides that struck Aceh in November 2025. The district health office is distributing reusable washable masks and conducting public health campaigns, whilst requesting additional supplies from the provincial health authority to address the ongoing shortage.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:30 WIB
Garuda School Offers 100 Per Cent Scholarships in First Year
Indonesia's new elite secondary school programme, SMA Unggul Garuda Baru, will provide full scholarships to all students in its inaugural year, with government funding covering at least 80 per cent of costs in subsequent years.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:29 WIB
Ramadhan Learning Directed Towards Strengthening Spiritual Development
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued a directive emphasising that learning activities during Ramadhan in madrasahs should focus on spiritual and social development rather than purely academic targets.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:28 WIB
MKD: No Ethical Violations in Adies Kadir's Nomination as Constitutional Court Justice
The House of Representatives' Ethics Council (MKD) has ruled that no ethical violations occurred during the nomination and fit-and-proper test of Adies Kadir as a Constitutional Court justice. The ruling, delivered without a formal complaint, was intended to clarify public confusion over the replacement of previously selected candidate Inosentius Samsul, who was reassigned to other government duties.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:27 WIB
Indonesia-Denmark Collaborate to Strengthen Animal Feed Quality and Safety Assurance
Indonesia and Denmark are building technical cooperation to modernise the national animal feed quality assurance and safety system, with a focus on risk-based supervision approaches. The collaboration, conducted through the Ministry of Agriculture's Directorate of Feed and Denmark's DVFAFA, aims to protect livestock farmers from substandard or contaminated feed whilst boosting the competitiveness of domestic livestock products.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:27 WIB
Preventing Islamic Financial Institutions from Becoming More Capitalist
The article examines the irony surrounding Islamic financial institutions (LKS) in Indonesia, which carry a mission of justice yet face public complaints that their profit margins are no better — or even worse — than conventional banks. It raises questions about whether sharia-compliant finance is living up to its foundational principles of equity and fairness.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:27 WIB
Yogyakarta Hotel Association Targets Foreign Tourists to Maintain Occupancy During Ramadan
The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) in Yogyakarta is targeting foreign tourists, primarily from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, to offset a sharp decline in hotel occupancy at the start of Ramadan, which is expected to fall below 15 per cent. Hotels are offering Ramadan promotions and rate reductions whilst banking on government transport discounts and a proposed "work from anywhere" policy for civil servants ahead of Eid to boost visitor numbers.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:26 WIB
BYD Prepares to Launch Long-Range PHEV Sealion 06
Chinese automaker BYD is set to launch a long-range variant of its Sealion 06 DM-i plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in 2026, featuring a 175 kW drive motor, 1.5-litre engine, and an estimated 220 km pure electric range. The Sealion 06 has already proven a commercial success, selling over 100,000 units within three months of its debut, positioning it as a major player in China's PHEV SUV segment with potential implications for BYD's expanding Indonesian market presence.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:25 WIB
Fallout from Jokowi Diploma Row: Eggi Sudjana Says Rizieq Shihab Has Frozen TPUA
Former Front Pembela Islam (FPI) leader Rizieq Shihab has frozen the Tim Pembela Ulama dan Aktivis (TPUA) organisation amid the prolonged controversy over former President Joko Widodo's allegedly forged diploma. TPUA chairman Eggi Sudjana said the mandate was withdrawn following a meeting with Rizieq, who advised him to join Korlabi instead, whilst distancing himself from legal disputes between TPUA members and public figures Roy Suryo and Ahmad Khozinudin.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:25 WIB
Traffic Returns to Normal on Cipali Toll Road KM 185 After Tanker Truck Fire
A tanker truck carrying 32,000 litres of thinner caught fire at KM 185 of the Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) toll road in Cirebon, West Java, on Wednesday morning, causing temporary lane closures and a two-kilometre traffic queue. A joint team of highway patrol, fire services, and local police extinguished the blaze using five fire engines, 50 litres of foam, and approximately 50,000 litres of water, with no casualties reported and traffic restored by mid-morning.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:23 WIB
Ministry of Higher Education partners with UTU for post-disaster revitalisation in Central Aceh
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has deployed Teuku Umar University students and lecturers to Central Aceh for a month-long post-disaster revitalisation programme, focusing on restoring irrigation channels, water purification, and distributing basic necessities. The initiative is part of a broader deployment of 10,000 students nationwide to support Sumatra's disaster recovery, with an emphasis on climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction integration.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:22 WIB
Viral Malaysian Woman Claims Abandonment by Husband in NTB, Provincial Government Responds
The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government has refuted claims by Malaysian woman Norida Akmal Ayob that she was abandoned by her Lombok-born husband for 18 years, stating the allegations do not fully align with findings on the ground.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:22 WIB
Andre Rosiade Distributes 5,000 Basic Necessities Packages to Sijunjung Residents
Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade distributed 5,000 basic necessities packages across eight sub-districts in Sijunjung Regency, West Sumatra, ahead of Ramadan. The initiative, part of the Gerindra Party's 18th anniversary activities, was praised by the Sijunjung Regent as vital support for households facing rising costs before the fasting month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:22 WIB
Constitutional Court Ethics Council on Adies Kadir report: Do not assume we have already ruled
The chair of the Constitutional Court Ethics Council (MKMK) has urged Parliament's Commission III not to presume a ruling has been made on the ethics complaint against Constitutional Justice Adies Kadir, stressing the case remains at the preliminary examination stage.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:21 WIB
Persija Jakarta Embraces Jakmania Supporters Through Community-Based Financial Education
Persija Jakarta players joined a financial literacy initiative at a Bank Jakarta branch, delivering education on digital banking, QRIS payments, and cashless transactions to Jakmania supporters. The community-based approach aims to leverage football culture to advance financial inclusion among young people and supporter communities, with plans to expand similar programmes across other sporting communities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:20 WIB
Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Increases Recipients of Affirmation Programme for Teachers in Remote Areas
Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is raising the number of teachers in remote, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions and disaster-affected areas receiving special allowances from 57,683 to 65,871 in 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:20 WIB
Army Chief of Staff Provides Cash and Housing Assistance to Families of Soldiers Killed in Landslide
Indonesian Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak has provided cash payments and houses to the families of 23 Marine Corps soldiers killed in a landslide during a training exercise in Cisarua, West Bandung. The Army provided cash to 11 next-of-kin of unmarried soldiers and 12 houses for married soldiers' families, whilst the Air Force Chief of Staff also donated cash to all 23 families.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:20 WIB
2026 Emergency Response Funds to Be Drawn from Other Budget Lines; Purbaya: We Allocate Rp 5 Trillion Every Year
The Indonesian government will redirect funds from other budget lines to cover 2026 emergency disaster response costs after Bappenas withheld final approval for dedicated allocations. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed the government sets aside approximately Rp 5 trillion annually for emergency response through BNPB, whilst the Ministry of Public Works had proposed Rp 4.3 trillion in emergency funding as part of a larger Rp 74 trillion four-year programme.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:19 WIB
Jakarta Metropolitan Police Arrest Two in Central Jakarta Drug Bust, Seize 738 Ecstasy Pills
Jakarta Metropolitan Police arrested two suspects from Lampung province at a Central Jakarta apartment, seizing 738 ecstasy pills intended for distribution across the capital. The operation, carried out by a special team from the Narcotics Directorate following a public tip-off, underscores the force's ongoing commitment to combating drug trafficking in the Greater Jakarta area.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:19 WIB
Safeguarding National Export Opportunities and the Future
Indonesia's international trade performance in 2025 demonstrated solid resilience despite global economic slowdown and rising protectionism, recording a trade surplus of US$41.05 billion. The bilateral trade relationship with the United States remains strategically important, with Indonesia maintaining an US$18.11 billion surplus against the US, providing a strong foundation ahead of the 2026 Agreement on Reciprocal Trade negotiations.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:19 WIB
Ormat Wins Geothermal Tender in Halmahera — Is It Really Affiliated with Israel?
Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has awarded the Telaga Ranu geothermal working area in West Halmahera to PT Ormat Geothermal Indonesia, a subsidiary of US-listed Ormat Technologies, which was originally founded in Israel and maintains manufacturing facilities there.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:19 WIB
Glass mirror and fence at Jusuf Kalla's residence struck by allegedly intoxicated female driver
A 35-year-old female driver allegedly crashed into the convex road mirror and fence of former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in South Jakarta's Kebayoran Baru district in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The driver, suspected of being intoxicated, has acknowledged negligence, left her vehicle documents, and pledged to cover all damages whilst mediation between the parties is ongoing.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:19 WIB
Welcoming Ramadan 1446 H, LRT Jabodebek Permits Passengers to Break Their Fast on Trains — Here Are the Conditions
LRT Jabodebek management has introduced a special policy for Ramadan 1446 H, permitting passengers to consume light food and beverages on trains and at station areas from the Maghrib call to prayer until 7pm WIB. The policy accommodates commuters still in transit during the breaking of fast period, whilst maintaining strict conditions on food types and cleanliness to ensure passenger comfort and operational order.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:18 WIB
Attorney General: I Need Prosecutors with Integrity Above All
Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has emphasised that integrity must take precedence over intellect among Indonesia's prosecutors, warning that those lacking integrity should resign or face dismissal. He called on the media and public to report misconduct by prosecutors, acknowledging the limitations of the Attorney General's Office's internal oversight capabilities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:17 WIB
Health Minister: Rp529.3 Billion Needed to Repair Thousands of Health Facilities in Sumatra
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin told parliament that Rp529.3 billion is required to fully restore approximately 3,000 health facilities damaged by the Sumatra disaster, with a target of full operational readiness by March 2026. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed that ample funds remain from the initial Rp50-60 trillion post-disaster recovery allocation, and the request can be processed through the Disaster Task Force mechanism.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:16 WIB
Economist: Village Cooperative Implementation Should Be Based on Village Readiness
An economist from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has warned that allocating 58 per cent of the 2026 Village Fund to the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) programme risks undermining village autonomy and crowding out local priorities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:14 WIB
Bus Company Director Named Suspect in Fatal Crash, YLKI Welcomes Police Action
The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has praised the police decision to name the director of PT Cahaya Pariwisata Transportasi as a suspect over a fatal bus crash in Semarang that killed 16 people, citing the company's failure to obtain route permits, train drivers properly, or comply with safety regulations. The case has exposed serious lapses in government oversight of bus operators, with YLKI urging comprehensive reforms ahead of the 2026 Lebaran exodus season.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:13 WIB
Idrus Marham Says Golkar Fully Supports Prabowo's Independent and Active Diplomacy in the US
Golkar Party has declared full support for President Prabowo Subianto's independent and active foreign policy approach, following his working visit to Washington DC to meet US President Donald Trump.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:10 WIB
Indonesian Ulema Council Calls on Mosques Nationwide to Perform Qunut Nazilah Prayers for Palestine During Ramadan
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged all mosques across Indonesia to recite qunut nazilah — a special supplication for times of calamity — throughout Ramadan 1447 Hijriah for the safety of Palestinians in Gaza. MUI Chairman KH M.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:08 WIB
Revealed: House Hit by Hyundai Santa Fe in Brawijaya Belongs to JK's Daughter, Not the Former Vice President Himself
A white Hyundai Santa Fe crashed into the fence of a house in the elite Brawijaya area of South Jakarta in the early hours of 18 February 2026, initially reported as belonging to former Vice President Jusuf Kalla. Police and JK's spokesperson have since clarified that the property belongs to Kalla's daughter, not the former vice president himself, whilst the female driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel and has agreed to take responsibility for the damage.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:06 WIB
220 Young People from 25 Countries Gather to Discuss Global Issues
The 27th Asia Youth International Model United Nations Virtual Conference (AYIMUN VC), organised by International Global Network (IGN), brought together 220 delegates from 25 countries on 14–15 February 2026 to debate pressing global issues including plastic pollution, public health, climate resilience, and Arctic security.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:06 WIB
Former Transport Minister Budi Karya Fails to Attend KPK Questioning Over Railway Corruption Case
Former Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi did not attend a scheduled witness examination by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in connection with a corruption case involving railway projects under the Directorate General of Railways in East Java, citing a prior engagement. The case has already implicated several suspects, most recently inactive Pati Regent Sudewo in his former capacity as a member of the House of Representatives' Commission V, which oversees the transport portfolio.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:05 WIB
Golkar Legislator Criticises MKMK for Investigating Justice Adies Kadir: Case Should Have Been Rejected
A Golkar Party legislator on the House of Representatives' Commission III has sharply criticised the Constitutional Court's Honour Council (MKMK) for proceeding with a complaint against newly appointed Constitutional Court justice Adies Kadir, arguing it lacked formal procedural standing.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 16:04 WIB
Cross-Provincial Drug Trafficker Arrested in South Tangerang, 40 Kg of Cannabis Seized
South Tangerang Police have dismantled a cross-provincial drug trafficking network operating between North Sumatra and Banten, seizing 40 kilogrammes of cannabis from a travel vehicle on the Bitung-Serpong toll road. The suspect was arrested without resistance, whilst two additional suspects have been placed on a wanted list, with charges carrying penalties ranging from six years' imprisonment to the death sentence under Indonesia's amended Narcotics Law.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:56 WIB
Three Labour Confederations Maintain Support for Police Under Presidential Authority — Here's Why
Indonesia's three largest labour confederations — KSPSI, KSPI, and KSBSI — attended a public hearing with House Commission III to voice their support for keeping the National Police under direct presidential authority, citing it as a mandate of the reform era.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:56 WIB
KSPSI: Police Must Remain Under Presidential Authority as Mandated by Reformasi
Indonesia's three largest labour confederations attended a public hearing with House Commission III to defend the National Police's position under direct presidential authority, calling it a non-negotiable mandate of the 1998 Reformasi era.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:51 WIB
Dangerous Cosmetics Boss Mira Hayati Sent to Prison
Mira Hayati, owner of the MH cosmetics brand, has been imprisoned at Makassar Correctional Facility to serve a two-year sentence after the Supreme Court's cassation ruling became legally binding. The case, involving dangerous cosmetic products in violation of Indonesia's Health Law, saw the sentence fluctuate from 10 months at district court level to four years on appeal before the Supreme Court settled on two years plus a Rp 1 billion fine.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:50 WIB
Israeli Minister Seeks to Expel Palestinians from West Bank and Gaza
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has reiterated his intention to pursue policies encouraging Palestinian migration from the West Bank and Gaza Strip, calling for the annulment of the Oslo Accords.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:50 WIB
Government Bans Schools from Assigning Excessive Homework During Ramadan
The Indonesian government has issued a joint circular from three ministers directing schools not to burden students with excessive homework during Ramadan 2026, which begins on 19 February. The policy emphasises flexible learning schedules, character-building activities, and assignments that are simple, enjoyable, and do not impose financial burdens on families.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:46 WIB
'Solo Wailing Wall': Digital Humour or Public Anxiety?
Netizens renamed former President Jokowi's Solo residence on Google Maps as the 'Solo Wailing Wall', sparking debate over whether the act reflects public affection or discontent. The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) framed it as a sign of the public's love for the former leader, whilst Jokowi's aide confirmed there are no restrictions on visitors to the private residence.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:41 WIB
BNN Pushes for Strict Vape and Whip Pink Regulations to Prevent New Drug Distribution Methods
Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) is urging the government to impose strict regulations on electronic cigarettes (vapes) and nitrous oxide (N2O), known as Whip Pink, which have become new vehicles for drug distribution. Laboratory testing of 341 vape liquid samples found that 100 per cent of 134 tested samples were positive for narcotics including synthetic cannabis, methamphetamine, and etomidate, prompting BNN to recommend a total ban on vapes in Indonesia.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:41 WIB
Jakarta Regional Parliament Forms Special Committee to Oversee Public Asset Governance
The Jakarta Regional Parliament (DPRD) is establishing a special committee to oversee the handover of public and social facilities from property developers to the provincial government, with some developers having failed to fulfil their obligations for over a decade. Governor Pramono Anung has backed the initiative, warning that enforcement action including coordination with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will be taken against non-compliant developers.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:40 WIB
KPK Investigates Ownership of Safe House in Ciputat Linked to Counterfeit Goods Case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the ownership of a safe house in Ciputat, South Tangerang, connected to an alleged bribery and gratification case involving the importation of counterfeit goods through the Directorate General of Customs and Excise.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:38 WIB
Pegadaian Records Rp8.34 Trillion Net Profit in 2025, Surging 42.6 Per Cent
State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian posted a net profit of Rp8.34 trillion in 2025, a 42.6 per cent year-on-year increase driven by a 47.8 per cent rise in total assets to Rp151.7 trillion and a sharp improvement in loan quality. The company's non-performing loan ratio fell from 0.63 per cent to 0.38 per cent, whilst outstanding loans surged 47.5 per cent to Rp126 trillion, underscoring the firm's growing role in inclusive finance and micro-lending for SMEs.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:37 WIB
Free Nutritious Meals Programme Rules During Ramadan 2026: Food Distribution Schedule Announced
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has issued guidelines for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during Ramadan 2026, with distribution paused from 18-22 February and resuming on 23 February. The programme will adapt to regional circumstances, with school meals packaged for take-home consumption at iftar, whilst pregnant women, nursing mothers, and toddlers continue receiving meals as normal.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:36 WIB
Massive Explosion Destroys Several Houses in Situbondo
A powerful explosion rocked a hamlet in Situbondo, East Java, destroying several houses and prompting an immediate police and community evacuation response. The blast, heard up to one kilometre away, caused significant damage to surrounding properties, with police securing the scene and collecting evidence as investigations continue.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:36 WIB
Eggi Sudjana Says TPUA Frozen by Habib Rizieq, Reveals Two Reasons
Habib Rizieq Shihab has officially frozen the management of the Ulema and Activists Defence Team (TPUA) following internal turmoil, revoking the mandate of chairman Eggi Sudjana and secretary-general Damai Hari Lubis. Eggi denied being sacked and announced he would continue his activism through Korlabi (Defend Islam Coordinator), as recommended by the TPUA advisory board.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:35 WIB
Parliament and Government Agree to Accelerate Sumatran Disaster Recovery Before Eid
Indonesia's House of Representatives and the government have agreed on 13 key conclusions to accelerate post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction across Sumatra, targeting completion of several recovery efforts before Eid al-Fitr 2026. The agreement includes additional budget transfers to three provinces, Rp 529.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:35 WIB
Purbaya Instructs Customs to Facilitate Aid Deliveries to Aceh
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has ordered Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise to expedite the release of humanitarian aid sent by Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia, which had been held up at Port Klang.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:34 WIB
Tangerang Police Bust 25 Kg Methamphetamine Ring, Two Recidivists Arrested
Tangerang Metropolitan Police seized 25 kilogrammes of methamphetamine concealed in suitcases inside a Toyota Alphard, arresting two recidivist couriers following a cross-provincial surveillance operation involving customs authorities and multiple regional police forces. The drugs, transported from Medan and destined for Tangerang and Jakarta, have been linked to an international narcotics network, with investigators pursuing the supply chain and network controllers.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:32 WIB
Passengers Permitted to Break Fast on TransJakarta Buses During Ramadan
PT TransJakarta has relaxed its no-eating policy to allow passengers to consume light food and drinks on buses for up to 10 minutes after the maghrib call to prayer during Ramadan 2026. The state-owned bus operator will maintain its normal 24-hour service across 14 main corridors throughout the fasting month, with Ramadan beginning on 19 February 2026 as determined by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:31 WIB
Families of Navy Soldiers Killed in Cisarua Landslide Receive Housing Compensation
The Indonesian Army Chief of Staff symbolically handed over housing compensation to 23 families of Navy soldiers killed in the Cisarua landslide in West Bandung Regency. The disaster claimed 23 soldiers' lives, with 19 identified and buried whilst four remain unidentified, and the government has officially ended both the search-and-rescue operation and emergency response status.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:28 WIB
Cambodian PM says Thailand is occupying territory after Trump-brokered ceasefire
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has accused Thailand of occupying Cambodian territory despite a December ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump, calling on Bangkok to allow a joint boundary commission to begin demarcation work.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:19 WIB
Female University Student in Cikarang Defrauded During Smartwatch COD Transaction, Two Suspects Arrested
A 22-year-old university student in Cikarang Barat, Bekasi Regency, lost Rp 2 million after being scammed during a cash-on-delivery purchase of a smartwatch arranged through Facebook. Police swiftly apprehended two suspects who had sold the victim a non-functioning device before blocking her number and disappearing. The case highlights ongoing risks associated with peer-to-peer online transactions via social media platforms in Indonesia.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:19 WIB
Garuda School Teacher Candidates Must Be 32 or Under — Here's Why
Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has set a maximum age of 32 for Garuda School teacher candidates, as all teachers are projected to become civil servants (PNS) and the age limit ensures eligibility for civil service selection. The flagship boarding schools, built on approximately 20-hectare sites, will be located in areas with limited access to quality education, including parts of East Nusa Tenggara, North Kalimantan, Belitung, and Southeast Sulawesi.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:14 WIB
Extreme Weather Strikes Semarang: Dozens of Trees Felled, One Person Killed
Extreme weather comprising heavy rain and strong winds hit Semarang on 18 February 2026, causing 41 incidents including a giant billboard collapse near Tawang Station and dozens of fallen trees across the city. One person was killed and another injured after being struck by a falling tree on Jalan Bendungan, whilst homes, vehicles and public facilities sustained significant damage across multiple districts.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:13 WIB
Solo Government Employee Summoned After Posting Ex-F1 Driver Rio Haryanto's Documents on Social Media
A sub-district office employee in Solo went viral after posting uncensored official documents belonging to former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto on social media. The Solo Civil Service and Human Resources Development Agency (BKPSDM) has summoned the employee and is coordinating with the Municipal Police (Satpol PP) to determine appropriate disciplinary action, highlighting concerns over public service data protection standards.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:12 WIB
Concerns Over Asset Value and Costs Mean Affordable EVs Are Not Yet a Priority for Daihatsu
PT Astra Daihatsu Motor says it is not prioritising affordable electric vehicles in the near term, citing three key consumer concerns: long-term asset value, electricity costs, and maintenance expenses. The company argues that EV readiness remains uneven across Indonesia, particularly outside major cities, and will continue focusing on its core entry-level and light commercial vehicle segments until the broader ecosystem matures.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:10 WIB
First Day of Ramadan in Gaza: 'Cold' and 'Difficult'
Gaza residents marked the first day of Ramadan on 18 February 2026 amid dire economic conditions and ongoing violence, despite a US-mediated ceasefire that took effect in October. With over 72,000 Palestinians killed since Israel's military campaign began following Hamas's October 2023 attack, residents described a Ramadan stripped of its usual warmth, hampered by poverty, displacement, and sporadic Israeli gunfire that has claimed more than 600 lives since the truce.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:08 WIB
KPAI presses for Child Care Bill's passage to combat child grooming
Indonesia's Child Protection Commission (KPAI) is urging the passage of a Child Care Bill to standardise conduct for all adults working with children and prevent offenders from moving between jobs undetected.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:08 WIB
Expert Commends Police Decision to Name Bus Company Director as Suspect in Fatal Accident
Transport policy analyst Azas Tigor Nainggolan has praised Semarang police for naming the director of PT Cahaya Pariwisata Transportasi as a suspect in the fatal bus crash that killed 16 people on the Krapyak toll road in Central Java.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:08 WIB
Bogor Police Chief Distributes Free CCTV Cameras to Mosques Ahead of Ramadan
The Bogor District Police have installed free CCTV cameras at 36 mosques across the regency as a crime prevention measure ahead of Ramadan. The initiative aims to secure parking areas and worship spaces during Tarawih prayers, forming part of a broader programme that also includes a mass mosque-cleaning campaign across the district.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:07 WIB
Purbaya Addresses Aceh Diaspora Disaster Aid Held Up by Customs Permits
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that disaster relief goods sent by the Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia will be released by Customs provided the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) certifies them as humanitarian aid.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:05 WIB
Eid al-Fitr 2026 Joint Leave Schedule: How Many Days Off?
A joint decree by three Indonesian ministers has established the national holidays and joint leave for Eid al-Fitr 2026, granting workers three days of joint leave before and after Lebaran. With the Eid holidays falling close to Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence), the combined break extends to seven consecutive days from 18 to 24 March, whilst school students receive an even longer two-week holiday period.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 15:00 WIB
KPK Seizes Rp5 Billion from Ciputat 'Safe House' Linked to Customs Import Bribery
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that approximately Rp5 billion in cash seized in five suitcases from the Ciputat area of South Tangerang on 13 February 2026 came from a previously undisclosed safe house, separate from one identified during an earlier press conference.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:57 WIB
Towards a Post-Politics Era?
This opinion piece sharply criticises the early 2026 proposal to return regional elections (Pilkada) to regional legislative councils (DPRD), arguing it represents a democratic regression disguised as cost-saving reform. The author, drawing on Public Choice Theory and Yuval Noah Harari's Dataism, provocatively suggests that algorithmically driven governance — or "algocracy" — could replace the corruption-prone human legislature with transparent, data-based decision-making systems.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:57 WIB
Transjakarta Permits Passengers to Break Fast on Buses, Maximum Duration 10 Minutes
PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) has announced that passengers may consume water and light snacks aboard its buses for up to 10 minutes after the Maghrib call to prayer during Ramadan, which began on 19 February 2026. The policy reflects efforts by Jakarta's public transport operator to accommodate religious observance whilst maintaining cleanliness standards, as the system continues to operate 24 hours across its 14 main corridors throughout the fasting month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:53 WIB
Detector Bracelets Fitted to Ankles of Delpedro and Co-defendants During City Detention
Three defendants in an incitement case linked to last August's demonstrations — including Lokataru Foundation director Delpedro Marhaen — have been fitted with ankle-mounted detector bracelets after a Jakarta court converted their detention to city arrest. The case, which saw charges relating to ethnic and religious incitement dropped on formal and substantive grounds, highlights ongoing judicial proceedings against activists accused of stoking unrest during the August protests.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:53 WIB
Prabowo Distributes Rp 72 Billion Worth of Beef to Aceh Residents
President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp 72.7 billion for the purchase of cattle whose meat will be distributed to disaster-affected communities across 3,042 villages in 19 districts and cities in Aceh. The distribution, coordinated by the Ministry of Home Affairs, coincides with the Acehnese meugang tradition of welcoming Ramadan, with beef reaching families impacted by the floods of late November 2025.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:52 WIB
Jakarta Metropolitan Police Deploy Personnel at Ramadan Congestion Points, Including Takjil Vending Areas
Jakarta Metropolitan Police's traffic directorate has mapped congestion-prone areas ahead of Ramadan, anticipating shifted traffic patterns due to government work-from-anywhere policies and earlier afternoon departures as residents rush home to break fast. Personnel will be stationed at key bottlenecks, including popular takjil (breaking-fast snack) bazaar locations such as Bendungan Hilir in Central Jakarta, to manage the anticipated surge in traffic.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:52 WIB
BNN Highlights Unregulated Sale of Whip Pink at Entertainment Venues: Effects Can Be Fatal
The head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has raised alarm over the unregulated sale of nitrous oxide, known as Whip Pink, at entertainment venues, where it is openly sold as part of entry packages to young people seeking a recreational high.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:52 WIB
Mastercard Launches Portfolio of Fleet Solutions in Asia Pacific
Mastercard has launched Fleet: Next Gen in Asia Pacific, a suite of payment solutions designed to unify fleet spending data across fuel, EV charging, maintenance, and tolling for operators ranging from SMEs to large logistics firms. The Asia Pacific fleet management market is projected to grow at 18 per cent CAGR through 2030, with the new platform aimed at addressing cost pressures, sustainability mandates, and compliance requirements across the region's rapidly expanding logistics sector.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:51 WIB
Japan tourist arrivals in January mark first year-on-year fall in four years
Japan recorded its first year-on-year decline in tourist arrivals in four years in January 2026, driven primarily by a 61 per cent plunge in Chinese visitors amid diplomatic tensions over Taiwan. South Korea became a bright spot, sending a record 1.176 million visitors in a single month, whilst arrivals from Taiwan and the United States also grew strongly.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:48 WIB
Can Merz Save German Industry from Chinese Dominance?
Germany finds itself at the epicentre of a "second China shock" as Chinese competitors erode German market share across automotive, machinery, chemicals and power generation sectors, with exports to China falling to their lowest level in a decade.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:47 WIB
How Did the Suspect Learn to Forge Driving Licences for Cahaya Trans Drivers?
Police have named a 60-year-old IT-literate man as the suspect behind forged driving licences used by the driver responsible for the Krapyak toll road crash that killed 16 people in Central Java. The suspect, who taught himself Photoshop editing, allegedly produced at least 10 fake licences on demand, whilst the CEO of PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi has also been charged for knowingly allowing an unlicensed bus to operate.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:47 WIB
Australia Bars Citizen Formerly Held at ISIS Camp in Syria from Returning
The Australian government has issued a temporary exclusion order against one of 34 women and children previously detained at the Roj camp in Syria linked to ISIS, citing security concerns. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese firmly rejected any government assistance in repatriating the group, whilst acknowledging the unfortunate situation of children caught up in their parents' decisions.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:45 WIB
Minister of Religious Affairs: 98% of Disaster-Affected Houses of Worship in Sumatra Back in Operation
Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar reported that 98 per cent of the 1,593 houses of worship damaged by disasters across three Sumatran provinces have resumed operations, with only 35 units still requiring Rp 17.5 billion in repairs. The ministry has proposed a total recovery budget of Rp 702.92 billion to the State Secretary but has yet to receive approval, with madrasas and Islamic boarding schools still facing significant rehabilitation challenges.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:43 WIB
South Korea's death penalty in spotlight as prosecutors seek execution for ex-leader Yoon
South Korean prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol on insurrection charges stemming from his December 2024 martial law declaration, with the Seoul central district court set to deliver its verdict on 19 February.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:40 WIB
US Judge Thwarts Trump's Plan to Deport Palestinian Student
A US immigration judge has terminated deportation proceedings against Palestinian student and activist Mohsen Mahdawi, who led pro-Palestine protests at Columbia University, after the government failed to authenticate a memorandum allegedly from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The ruling marks a significant development in a case that raised concerns about due process and free speech protections under the Trump administration's immigration enforcement policies.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:38 WIB
58 Per Cent of Village Fund Budget Allocated by Purbaya for Merah Putih Village Cooperative Development This Year
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has signed a regulation allocating 58.03 per cent of the 2026 Village Fund — equivalent to Rp34.57 trillion — to the construction of Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDMP) across Indonesia. The total Village Fund for 2026 stands at Rp60.57 trillion, with the remaining Rp25 trillion designated for regular programmes including poverty alleviation, climate resilience, and rural infrastructure development.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:36 WIB
Driver Who Crashed into Jusuf Kalla's Child's House Fence Suspected of Drowsy Driving
A 35-year-old female driver crashed her Hyundai Santa Fe into the fence of a house belonging to a child of former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla in South Jakarta's Brawijaya Street early Wednesday morning, allegedly due to drowsy driving. Police said the driver, identified by the initials HP, was heading home to Jagakarsa at approximately 3.45am when she lost control, and mediation is planned to address the property damage.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:35 WIB
Indonesia at the Crossroads of Two Global Peace Architectures
Indonesia faces a strategic diplomatic challenge as it navigates between the traditional UN multilateral peace framework and the emerging coalition-based Board of Peace initiated by US President Donald Trump.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:34 WIB
Civil Organisations Banned from Conducting Sweeping Raids During Ramadan in Jakarta
The Jakarta Provincial Government has reaffirmed its prohibition on civil organisations (ormas) conducting forcible sweeping raids on restaurants during Ramadan, with Deputy Governor Rano Karno stressing that enforcement remains the sole responsibility of the civil service police (Satpol PP).
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:31 WIB
House Commission III Summons Constitutional Court Ethics Council Over Adies Kadir's Appointment as Justice
The House of Representatives' Commission III convened a meeting with the Constitutional Court's Ethics Council (MKMK) regarding the controversial appointment of Adies Kadir as a Constitutional Court justice. Commission chair Habiburokhman argued that the MKMK had overstepped its mandate by accepting public complaints about the DPR's nomination process, asserting that the ethics body's jurisdiction covers only the conduct of sitting justices, not the parliamentary selection process.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:30 WIB
MinyaKita Stocks Limited: Trade Minister Calls for Increased Production of Alternative Cheap Cooking Oil Brands
Trade Minister Budi Susanto is pushing producers to ramp up production of alternative "second brand" cooking oils to reduce market dependence on the subsidised MinyaKita brand, whose supply is constrained by the domestic market obligation (DMO) mechanism tied to CPO export volumes.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:29 WIB
Sijunjung's 77th Anniversary: Andre Rosiade Champions Legalisation of Artisanal Mining and Miner SMEs
Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade used Sijunjung Regency's 77th anniversary ceremony to reaffirm his commitment to legalising artisanal mining, with plans to expand designated people's mining areas from 121 to 300 nationwide, including 35 in Sijunjung. The initiative aims to transition illegal miners into a regulated framework through cooperatives and SMEs, promising improved worker safety, environmental protection, and increased local government revenue.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:29 WIB
Tarawih at Istiqlal Mosque Set at 20 Rakaat, Minister of Religious Affairs to Deliver First Sermon
Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta will hold its inaugural tarawih prayers for Ramadan 1447 H this evening, with Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar scheduled as the first preacher under the theme "Green Ramadan, Ramadan Together". The mosque has published a full 30-day schedule of preachers, imams, and sermon topics, featuring prominent Islamic scholars and public figures including former Constitutional Court Chief Justice Mahfud MD, with prayers conducted in 20 rakaat plus 3 rakaat of witr.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:28 WIB
Hyundai Santa Fe Crashes into Jusuf Kalla's Residence Fence, Case Resolved Through Mediation
A Hyundai Santa Fe driven by a drowsy motorist crashed into the fence of former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in South Jakarta in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The driver has agreed to compensate for damages, with police facilitating mediation between the parties in what is being resolved as a civil matter.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:16 WIB
BNN Reveals Surge in Vape Use Amongst Teenagers, Pushes for Strict Regulation
The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has highlighted a tenfold increase in e-cigarette usage in Indonesia between 2011 and 2021, with the highest prevalence amongst teenagers aged 15-19. Laboratory testing of 341 vape liquid samples revealed contamination with synthetic cannabinoids, methamphetamine, and etomidate, prompting BNN to call for strict regulation of vape products, citing Singapore's total ban as a model.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:16 WIB
Takjil Hotspots in Jakarta Predicted to Cause Congestion During Ramadan, Including Benhil
Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Traffic Directorate has begun mapping locations where takjil (iftar snack) vendors and Ramadan bazaars are expected to cause traffic congestion, with Bendungan Hilir (Benhil) identified as a key hotspot. Officers will be deployed to manage traffic flow at these sites, whilst authorities are also analysing broader shifts in commuter patterns during the fasting month, particularly given the government's work-from-anywhere policy and later office start times.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:10 WIB
Why Garuda School Teacher Candidates Must Have a Minimum GPA of 3.25
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has set a minimum GPA of 3.25 for prospective teachers at the new Garuda Schools, along with requirements for master's degrees and English proficiency certification. In its inaugural year, the government is recruiting 96 teachers and 92 education staff for the elite boarding school programme, which aims to produce outstanding students through academically excellent educators.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:09 WIB
Couple Allegedly Caught in Indecent Act at Ciracas Park; Civil Service Police Urge Public to Safeguard Public Spaces
A video of a couple allegedly engaging in indecent behaviour at Taman Layang Ciracas in East Jakarta went viral on social media, prompting a response from the DKI Jakarta Civil Service Police (Satpol PP). The agency confirmed that 24-hour patrols are conducted at parks across Jakarta and urged residents to help maintain public order and report any violations of public decency norms at open spaces.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:08 WIB
KPAI seeks greater synergy to shield children from abuse and self-harm
Indonesia's Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has called for stronger collaboration between families, schools, and government agencies following the suicides of two children in East Kalimantan and East Nusa Tenggara. The cases exposed failures in welfare delivery, with the Social Affairs Ministry acknowledging that registered social assistance had failed to reach a 10-year-old victim's family, prompting President Prabowo to order improved coordination to prevent similar tragedies.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:06 WIB
Prabowo to Meet American Business Leaders in Washington
President Prabowo Subianto is meeting US business leaders and President Donald Trump during his visit to Washington D.C. this week, with discussions centred on strategic economic cooperation. The visit is expected to culminate in the signing of a reciprocal trade agreement that would see the US reduce tariffs on Indonesian goods from 32 to 19 per cent, whilst Indonesia commits to eliminating import duties on most American products.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:02 WIB
Health Minister Targets Completion of Disaster-Affected Health Facility Repairs in Sumatra by March
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has set an end-of-March 2026 deadline to fully repair over 3,000 health facilities damaged by disasters in Sumatra, requiring Rp 529.3 billion in funding. The minister also urged the acceleration of renovation fund disbursements for 8,850 health workers whose homes were damaged, ideally before the Eid al-Fitr holiday, with verification already completed by the Health Ministry and Home Affairs Ministry.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:01 WIB
Ministry of Higher Education: No Preferential Treatment for Garuda School Teachers
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has defended providing housing for teachers at the new SMA Unggul Garuda Baru boarding schools, insisting the accommodation is a necessary requirement of near round-the-clock duties rather than a luxury privilege. The policy has sparked debate about facility disparities amid broader concerns over teacher welfare and distribution across Indonesia.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 14:00 WIB
Ahmad Luthfi Confirms Temporary Shelters for Brebes Land Movement Victims
Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has ordered the construction of temporary shelters for residents displaced by ongoing land movement in Sirampog, Brebes, which has damaged at least 143 homes since late January. The provincial government has coordinated with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources' Geological Agency and disbursed Rp175.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:56 WIB
School Holidays for Start of Ramadan 2026: Full Schedule Released
The Indonesian government has confirmed that the start of Ramadan 1447 H falls on Thursday, 19 February 2026, with school pupils granted independent learning days from 18 to 21 February. A joint ministerial circular from the Ministers of Basic and Secondary Education, Religious Affairs, and Home Affairs also sets out the full Ramadan school schedule and an extended Eid al-Fitr holiday from 16 to 29 March 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:54 WIB
Driver Who Crashed into Jusuf Kalla's Fence in South Jakarta Requests Mediation
A female driver crashed her Hyundai Santa Fe into the residential fence of former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla in the Dharmawangsa area of South Jakarta in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The driver, suspected of having fallen asleep at the wheel, has requested mediation to settle damages, whilst police continue to investigate the exact cause of the incident.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:52 WIB
Alfina Putri's Dedication to Supporting PNM Clients Rewarded with Umrah Pilgrimage
A PNM Mekaar account officer's journey from working whilst studying to becoming an area head overseeing eight units serving thousands of underprivileged women has been recognised with an Umrah pilgrimage reward. The story highlights PNM's microfinance and mentoring programme for pre-prosperous women entrepreneurs across Indonesia, reflecting the state-owned enterprise's broader social empowerment mission.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:52 WIB
Iran, Russia and China Hold Joint Military Exercises in the Strait of Hormuz
Iran, Russia and China have deployed naval vessels for joint exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, dubbed "Maritime Security Belt 2026", aimed at protecting trade routes in the strategically vital waterway. The exercises, revealed by Russian presidential adviser Nikolay Patrushev, form part of a broader BRICS initiative to establish what Russia describes as a "multipolar world order at sea" in response to Western hegemony.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:52 WIB
Bus Company Involved in Krapyak Toll Road Crash Owned 12 Vehicles, Only 4 Had Permits
The director of PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi has been named a suspect following a bus crash on the Krapyak Toll Road in Central Java that killed 16 people, with police revealing that eight of the company's 12 buses lacked route permits and roadworthiness certificates. The case highlights serious regulatory failures in Indonesia's public transport sector ahead of the busy Idul Fitri homecoming season, as authorities urge transport operators to comply with safety regulations.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:50 WIB
99 Schools Still Using Tents and Emergency Classrooms After Sumatran Disasters
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti reported that whilst schooling has resumed fully across three disaster-affected provinces in Sumatra, 99 schools remain operating from tents or emergency classrooms following floods and landslides. Verification data reveals thousands of schools sustained damage across Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra, with dozens requiring complete relocation, highlighting the scale of reconstruction needed for the education sector.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:50 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Says Disaster Aid for Sumatra Victims Held Up at Customs
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian revealed that humanitarian aid collected by the Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia for flood and landslide victims has been stuck at customs due to a lack of clearance for distribution. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed that the aid be accepted provided it is screened for prohibited items such as narcotics and firearms, noting that the shipment is a community-to-community effort rather than a government-to-government transaction.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:49 WIB
Condition of Jusuf Kalla's Residence After Car Crashes Into Fence
A Hyundai Santa Fe driven by a 35-year-old woman crashed into the fence of former Vice-President Jusuf Kalla's residence in Dharmawangsa, South Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Police said the driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel, and mediation between the parties is being arranged.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:48 WIB
DPR Ethics Council Rules Adies Kadir's Appointment as Constitutional Court Justice Did Not Violate Code of Ethics
The House of Representatives' Ethics Council (MKD DPR) has ruled that the appointment process of Adies Kadir as a Constitutional Court justice fully complied with prevailing legislation and did not constitute an ethics violation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:46 WIB
Cahaya Trans Director Named Suspect in Fatal Crash as Police Apply New Criminal Code
The president director of PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi has been named a suspect under Indonesia's new Criminal Code (KUHP 2023) following a fatal bus crash on the Krapyak Toll Road in Central Java that killed 16 people in December 2025. Police cited the director's failure to ensure proper route licensing, driver training, and passenger safety equipment, whilst three additional suspects were charged in connection with forged driving licences held by the bus driver.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:45 WIB
Purbaya Approves Rp 10.56 Trillion in Additional Regional Transfers for Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has approved Rp 10.56 trillion in additional regional transfer funds (TKD) for three Sumatran provinces affected by natural disasters, adopting the maximum allocation proposed by the Home Affairs Minister. The funds, covering 67 regions across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, will be disbursed in phases from February to April 2026, with up to Rp 4.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:45 WIB
Hyundai Santa Fe Crashes into Jusuf Kalla's Residence in Brawijaya
A Hyundai Santa Fe crashed into the fence of former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in the upscale Brawijaya neighbourhood of South Jakarta in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The female driver, aged 35, is believed to have fallen asleep at the wheel, and police are mediating a settlement for the property damage whilst continuing their investigation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:44 WIB
Ministry of Higher Education on New Garuda School Buildings: Will Definitely Be Completed
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has assured that construction of the new Garuda Schools will be completed by June 2026, with progress monitored via CCTV and on track with planned timelines. Four schools are being built, each accommodating 160 students for a total inaugural intake of 640 pupils, with physical construction targeted for completion ahead of the mid-year academic term.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:43 WIB
Driver Allegedly Fell Asleep and Crashed into Jusuf Kalla's Fence in South Jakarta
A 35-year-old woman allegedly fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into the fence of former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in Dharmawangsa, South Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The driver, a Jagakarsa resident, plans to mediate with the household to cover repair costs for the damaged fence.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:41 WIB
Car Crashes into Fence of Jusuf Kalla's Daughter's House in South Jakarta
A car driven by a 35-year-old woman crashed into the fence of the residence belonging to the daughter of Indonesia's 10th and 12th Vice President Jusuf Kalla in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Police suspect the driver fell asleep at the wheel, and mediation is planned to resolve the property damage with no injuries reported.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:40 WIB
DPR Ethics Council Rules Adies Kadir's Constitutional Court Fitness Test Did Not Violate Ethics Code
The House of Representatives' Ethics Council (MKD) has ruled that the fit and proper test process for Adies Kadir as a Constitutional Court justice candidate did not breach any ethical codes. The decision, delivered on 18 February, found that the selection process conducted by Commission III and ratified in a plenary session fully complied with prevailing legislation, including Article 15(2) of the Constitutional Court Law.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:37 WIB
Dasco Requests Dispensation for Acehnese Diaspora Disaster Aid to Enter Immediately
House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad urged the government to grant a customs dispensation allowing disaster relief goods worth billions of rupiah, collected by Acehnese residents in Malaysia, to enter Indonesia without bureaucratic delays.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:35 WIB
Car Crashes into Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's Fence in South Jakarta
A Hyundai Santa Fe driven by a reportedly drowsy woman crashed into the fence of former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in South Jakarta in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The driver has agreed to mediation and will repair the damage, according to South Jakarta Metropolitan Police.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:35 WIB
Jakarta Traffic Congestion Times Shift During Ramadan — Here Are the Hours to Watch
Jakarta Metropolitan Police predict significant changes to traffic congestion patterns during Ramadan, with morning peak hours shifting to 9-10am due to the government's work-from-anywhere policy and later office start times. Afternoon congestion is expected to begin earlier, around 2-3pm, as commuters head home to break their fast with family, particularly on routes towards Bekasi and south Jakarta.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:35 WIB
BNN Chief: Vapes Become New Medium for Drug Consumption
The head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has declared that electronic cigarettes have become an "undeniable" new vehicle for narcotics consumption, with liquid methamphetamine, etomidate, and other new psychoactive substances being found in vape cartridges. The BNN chief dismissed the narrative that vapes serve as smoking cessation aids as a scientifically unproven "illusion," warning that the devices' discreet nature makes them an ideal tool for concealing drug use in public.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:35 WIB
Tito Reveals 50% Completion of 16,688 Temporary Shelters in Sumatra
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian reported to parliament that construction of temporary shelters for Sumatra disaster victims has reached 50 per cent completion, with 8,290 of the proposed 16,688 units finished. Validated data from the Central Statistics Agency shows 90,066 homes were affected across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, with permanent housing construction now requiring acceleration.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:31 WIB
Jakarta Police Anti-Brawl Task Force Arrests Seven Youths, Seizes Bladed Weapons in North Jakarta
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Anti-Brawl Task Force apprehended seven youths suspected of planning a street brawl in Cilincing, North Jakarta, during an early morning patrol on 17 February 2026. Officers recovered two machetes and a knife concealed at the gathering point, underscoring ongoing efforts to suppress street violence in the capital. Police urged the public to report potential disturbances through the national 110 hotline.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:30 WIB
Why Depok City Government Has Banned Sahur on the Road
The Depok city government has issued a ban on sahur on the road activities during Ramadan 2026, citing concerns over public disorder, traffic congestion, and noise disturbances. Deputy Mayor Chandra Rahmansyah urged residents to hold pre-dawn meal gatherings at homes, mosques, or authorised venues instead, with police and military personnel set to conduct routine patrols and enforce compliance with criminal sanctions where necessary.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:30 WIB
Impact of Sumatra Floods: Home Affairs Minister Reveals 11 Regions Still Require Special Government Attention
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian told a parliamentary post-disaster task force meeting that 11 regencies and cities across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra still require special government attention following devastating flash floods and landslides. The death toll stands at 1,205 with 139 missing, whilst the number of displaced persons has fallen sharply from over two million to approximately 12,944 still sheltering in tents.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:25 WIB
House Commission V Member Urges Government to Strengthen Coordination for Smooth 2026 Mudik
A member of the House of Representatives' Commission V has called on the government to thoroughly prepare its strategy ahead of the 2026 Lebaran mudik season, urging cross-sector coordination among the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Public Works, and BMKG. The lawmaker emphasised that public transport fares should not spike and that infrastructure preparations must be planned well in advance rather than rushed at the last minute.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:24 WIB
Fake Driving Licence Maker for Cahaya Trans Driver Carried Out Forgeries 10 Times, Charging Rp 1.3 Million
The suspect behind the forged driving licence used by the Cahaya Trans bus driver responsible for the Krapyak Toll Road crash that killed 16 people has been revealed to have produced fraudulent licences on at least 10 occasions, charging Rp 1.3 million per forgery.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:21 WIB
Depok City Government Bans Sahur on the Road During Ramadan
The Depok city government has prohibited sahur on the road (SOTR) activities during Ramadan, citing concerns over public disorder, traffic congestion, and noise disturbances. Deputy Mayor Chandra Rahmansyah announced that police and municipal police (Satpol PP) will directly disperse any SOTR processions, urging residents to hold pre-dawn meals at home, mosques, or authorised locations instead.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:18 WIB
KPK Summons Former Transport Minister Budi Karya over Railway Corruption Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned former Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi as a witness in a corruption case involving railway lines under the Directorate General of Railways in East Java. The case has already ensnared several suspects, including most recently the inactive Pati Regent Sudewo, who is implicated in his former capacity as a member of the House of Representatives' Commission V.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:14 WIB
Tyre Warehouse in Pondok Aren, South Tangerang, Catches Fire as Black Smoke Billows into Sky
A tyre warehouse on Jalan Jombang Raya in Pondok Aren, South Tangerang, caught fire on Wednesday morning, prompting the deployment of 60 firefighters and 16 fire engines. The blaze, located behind the Bintaro Icon Apartments, has been extinguished and is now in the cooling phase, though authorities have yet to confirm whether there were any casualties.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:13 WIB
Israeli Forces Refuse to Withdraw from Gaza Until Hamas Disarms
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared that Israeli forces will not retreat "a single millimetre" from the Gaza Strip until Hamas fighters are fully disarmed, including the destruction of all tunnels.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:10 WIB
President Prabowo Allocates Rp72.75 Billion to Purchase Cattle in Aceh
President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp72.75 billion to purchase cattle for meat distribution across 19 districts and cities in Aceh, including Simeulue which was recently struck by an earthquake, with distribution timed one day before the start of Ramadan.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:06 WIB
Bogor Police Clean 36 Mosques and Plant Trees Ahead of Ramadan
Bogor District Police conducted a simultaneous mosque cleaning and tree-planting operation at 36 locations across the regency ahead of Ramadan, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's ASRI environmental programme. The initiative also included free CCTV installations at targeted mosques to enhance security during evening prayers throughout the fasting month.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:05 WIB
Accused of Missing 28 Days of Work, Dr Piprim Basarah Speaks Out to Explain the Root of the Matter
Dr Piprim Basarah Yanuarso, chairman of the Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI) and a paediatric cardiologist, has publicly responded to his dismissal as a civil servant by the Ministry of Health for allegedly being absent from work for 28 consecutive days at Fatmawati Central Hospital in Jakarta.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:03 WIB
KPK Schedules Questioning of Former Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has scheduled the questioning of former Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi as a witness in a suspected corruption case involving the Directorate General of Railways in East Java. The case centres on former Director of Railway Infrastructure Harno Trimadi, who was previously convicted and sentenced to five years' imprisonment for a separate bribery case worth Rp3.2 billion.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:03 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga RU IV Cilacap Opens Tender for Column Assy 11C-1 Replacement
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Refinery Unit IV Cilacap has launched an open tender for the replacement of Column Assy 11C-1 at its Fuel Oil Complex I facility, as part of efforts to maintain operational reliability. The procurement process, conducted through the company's GEPSMART online platform, is open to all qualified goods and services providers meeting the stipulated administrative and technical requirements.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:01 WIB
Rano hopes DKI provincial agencies adopt home renovation programmes
DKI Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno has called on all provincial agencies to establish home renovation programmes, following a pilot initiative by the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP). The programme targets dilapidated housing in the capital, with the first project renovating a 40-year-old building in Cengkareng housing three families, including two persons with disabilities, funded by Rp70 million pooled from Satpol PP members.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:01 WIB
Garuda School Buildings Targeted to Be Operational by June 2026
The Indonesian government is on track to complete construction of four Garuda Schools by June 2026, with each school accommodating 160 students on full scholarships for a total inaugural intake of 640. The elite boarding schools form part of an integrated education ecosystem linked to the Garuda Scholarship programme, which funds graduates to pursue undergraduate degrees at overseas universities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 13:00 WIB
Iran Claims Progress in Geneva Negotiations with US, but Nuclear Issues Remain Contentious
Iran and the United States have reportedly achieved a "breakthrough" in indirect talks mediated by Oman in Geneva, agreeing on guiding principles to resolve their longstanding nuclear dispute. However, significant obstacles remain, with Tehran refusing to broaden the agenda beyond nuclear restrictions and sanctions relief, whilst US Vice President JD Vance indicated Iran has yet to engage with several "red lines" set by President Trump.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:59 WIB
DPR Secretary General Withdraws Pretrial Motion
Indra Iskandar, Secretary General of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) and a suspect in an alleged corruption case, has withdrawn his pretrial motion at the South Jakarta District Court.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:59 WIB
DPR Secretary General Withdraws Pre-Trial Challenge in Corruption Case
Indra Iskandar, Secretary General of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR), has withdrawn his pre-trial motion challenging the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) investigation into alleged corruption in the procurement of furnishings for DPR members' official residences.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:59 WIB
Cahaya Trans Bus Driver's Licence Confirmed Fake, Two Forgers Also Named as Suspects
Forensic laboratory tests have confirmed that the driving licence held by Cahaya Trans bus driver Gilang Ihsan Faruq, involved in a crash that killed 16 people on the Krapyak Toll Road in Central Java, was counterfeit. Semarang Metropolitan Police have now named three suspects — the driver and two individuals who manufactured the forged licence — whilst also charging the bus company's director for failing to oversee operations and allowing an unlicensed vehicle to operate.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:55 WIB
Ministry of Health: Proper Fasting Helps Address Mental Health Challenges in the Modern Era
Indonesia's Ministry of Health has highlighted research showing that proper fasting during Ramadan can significantly benefit mental health by reducing stress hormones, boosting serotonin and endorphin production, and promoting brain cell regeneration.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:52 WIB
US Judge Blocks Trump Administration's Attempt to Deport Palestinian Student
A US immigration judge has terminated deportation proceedings against Palestinian student and activist Mohsen Mahdawi, who led pro-Palestine protests at Columbia University, after the government failed to authenticate a memorandum allegedly from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The ruling marks a significant legal setback for the Trump administration's immigration enforcement efforts and raises broader concerns about due process and free speech protections in immigration cases.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:50 WIB
29 Villages Destroyed by Sumatra Disasters; Home Affairs Minister Opens Options of Relocation or Administrative Removal
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian revealed that 29 villages were wiped out by flash floods and landslides across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, with 1,205 confirmed dead and 139 still missing. The government is now weighing whether to rebuild the destroyed villages or formally remove them from administrative records, whilst the number of displaced persons has fallen from over two million to approximately 12,944.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:49 WIB
Fatal Krapyak Bus Crash: Police Urge Transport Operators to Reform and Comply with Regulations
Police have named the director of PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi as a suspect in the fatal Krapyak toll road bus crash that killed 16 people in Semarang, citing his failure to oversee company operations. With the Eid al-Fitr homecoming season approaching, authorities are warning public transport operators to strictly comply with safety regulations and ensure passenger welfare, after it emerged the bus driver had only been tested on parking before being assigned to carry passengers.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:48 WIB
Home Affairs Minister: Diaspora Aid from Malaysia for Disaster Victims Held Up at Customs
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian revealed that disaster relief supplies collected by the Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia are being blocked by Indonesian Customs at Lhokseumawe port. President Prabowo Subianto has approved the aid's entry provided it contains no contraband, whilst Deputy House Speaker Dasco Ahmad urged relevant ministers to coordinate with Customs to expedite clearance ahead of Ramadan 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:47 WIB
Thinner-Carrying Tanker Truck Catches Fire on Cipali Toll Road: Cause Revealed
A tanker truck carrying thinner caught fire on the Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) toll road in West Java on Wednesday morning, allegedly caused by sparks from the vehicle's rear wheels. A joint team of toll operators, police, and firefighters extinguished the blaze within approximately three hours, during which traffic was diverted through the Sumberjaya toll gate.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:45 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Reveals Acehnese Diaspora Disaster Aid Still Held Up by Customs
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian disclosed that disaster relief supplies collected by the Acehnese diaspora in Malaysia remain stranded due to customs clearance issues, despite President Prabowo Subianto having authorised their entry. The minister sought support from parliamentary leaders to expedite the release of the aid, which was shipped from Port Klang to Lhokseumawe but blocked by customs authorities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:44 WIB
PT PP Integrates Occupational Safety, ESG and Green Transport through Tree Planting Initiative
State-owned construction firm PT PP (Persero) Tbk held a tree planting event at Grand Kamala Lagoon in Bekasi as part of National Occupational Health and Safety Month 2026, reinforcing its ESG and CSR commitments. The event also featured the pre-launch of a new TransJakarta route linking Bekasi to Dukuh Atas in Jakarta, aimed at promoting sustainable public transport and improving connectivity between the two cities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:43 WIB
National Narcotics Agency Declares Vapes a New Medium for Drug Consumption
Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has declared it an "undeniable fact" that electronic cigarettes have become an effective new medium for consuming narcotics and new psychoactive substances. BNN chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto dismissed the narrative that vapes aid smoking cessation as a scientifically unproven "illusion," revealing that authorities have found liquid methamphetamine, etomidate, and other narcotics concealed in vape liquids.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:42 WIB
Sumatra Disaster Victims to Receive Rp 8 Million in Furniture and Economic Stimulus Aid
The head of the task force for post-disaster rehabilitation in Sumatra, who also serves as Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, has outlined a financial aid scheme providing Rp 5 million in economic stimulus and Rp 3 million for furniture replacement to victims of severely damaged homes. Those with light to moderate damage may also qualify for partial assistance, whilst the government is currently conducting data collection to identify eligible recipients.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:40 WIB
JCI Surges Nearly 1 Per Cent After Lunar New Year; Three Top Blue-Chip Gainers
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rallied 0.89 per cent to 8,285.08 in the first trading session following the extended Lunar New Year holiday, buoyed by gains across nearly all sectors. The transport sector led with a 3.17 per cent rise, whilst Merdeka Battery Materials (MBMA) topped the LQ45 blue-chip gainers with an 8.97 per cent jump, reflecting renewed market optimism.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:40 WIB
30 Firefighters Deployed to Search for Drowning Victim at Sunter Lake, North Jakarta
Thirty firefighting personnel have been deployed to search for a resident reported to have drowned at Sunter Lake in North Jakarta. The search operation, which began on Wednesday morning using two rubber boats, is being coordinated by the North Jakarta Fire and Rescue Agency and remains ongoing.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:39 WIB
Curious About the Origins of Epstein's Wealth?
A detailed examination of how Jeffrey Epstein, a college dropout turned maths teacher, amassed a fortune estimated at US$577 million — largely through alleged theft and misappropriation of funds from billionaire Les Wexner, combined with Ponzi scheme involvement and exploitation of elite networks. Recent US Justice Department documents and a New York Times investigation concluded that Epstein built his wealth through "fraud, theft, and lies" rather than financial genius.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:37 WIB
Rules and Working Hours for Jakarta Provincial Government Civil Servants During Ramadan
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has issued a circular letter adjusting civil servant working hours during Ramadan 2026, reducing the effective workday to approximately 6.5 hours whilst introducing flexible start times of up to 60 minutes. The policy, which follows presidential and ministerial regulations on flexible working arrangements, maintains exceptions for staff providing direct public services or undertaking urgent duties.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:35 WIB
Labour Confederations Back Keeping Police Under Presidential Authority at House Commission III Hearing
Indonesia's three largest labour confederations — KSPSI, KSBSI, and KSPI — voiced unanimous support for maintaining the National Police (Polri) directly under presidential authority during a public hearing at House Commission III. The unions argued that placing Polri under a ministry would invite political interference and compromise its independence, citing the police's role in resolving 144 labour disputes through its pioneering employment desk as evidence of effective reform.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:35 WIB
Labour Confederations Voice Support for Police Remaining Under Presidential Authority at House Commission III Hearing
Indonesia's three largest labour confederations — KSPSI, KSPI, and KSBSI — unanimously backed the National Police (Polri) remaining directly under presidential authority during a public hearing at House Commission III. The unions argued that placing the police under a ministry would invite political intervention and hamper its operational independence, citing Polri's contribution to resolving 144 labour disputes through its employment desk as evidence of effective collaboration.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:35 WIB
BNN Chief Highlights Dangerous Phenomenon of Drug-Laced Vapes
The head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has warned that vaping devices are increasingly being exploited by drug dealers to disguise narcotic substances, calling the trend extremely dangerous. Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto urged stronger regulation of e-cigarettes and nitrous oxide (N2O), dismissing claims that vapes are effective smoking cessation tools and noting that several countries have already banned them.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:35 WIB
Indonesia's Baznas serves 142,079 disaster victims in Sumatra
Indonesia's national zakat agency Baznas has provided direct assistance to over 142,000 disaster victims across three Sumatran provinces, raising Rp80 billion (US$4.7 million) in public donations for emergency response and long-term recovery. The state philanthropic body's relief efforts span emergency kitchens, clean water infrastructure, medical services, school uniform distribution, and permanent housing construction across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:35 WIB
Fish-catching tradition in Banten serves as community gathering ahead of Ramadan
Residents of Tamansari Village in Serang Regency, Banten, upheld the traditional communal fish-catching ritual known as "Marak" at Situ Citaman lake ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The tradition, which involves draining the lake for a collective catch, serves as both a cultural practice and an occasion for strengthening community bonds.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:33 WIB
Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte Announces Presidential Bid
Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has announced her candidacy for the 2028 presidential election, launching sharp attacks against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's record on corruption and broken promises. The announcement comes amid renewed impeachment efforts against her and just days before her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, faces pre-trial hearings at the International Criminal Court over alleged crimes against humanity linked to his brutal anti-drugs campaign.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:31 WIB
Preventing Child Grooming: KPAI Urges Passage of Child Care Bill
Indonesia's Child Protection Commission (KPAI) is pressing the government and parliament to expedite passage of the Child Care Bill to combat child sexual violence, including child grooming. The call comes amid a viral case involving a primary school teacher in Sukabumi, West Java, who allegedly engaged in grooming behaviour with a female pupil, which KPAI describes as the tip of the iceberg of a systematic and increasingly sophisticated pattern of child exploitation.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:30 WIB
29 Villages Lost Due to Sumatra Floods, Highest Number in Aceh
Twenty-nine villages across Sumatra were completely destroyed by floods and landslides in late November 2025, with Aceh province accounting for 21 of the losses. The head of the post-disaster recovery task force, Tito Karnavian, told parliament that urgent decisions are needed on whether to rebuild or formally dissolve the affected villages for administrative purposes, highlighting the scale of displacement and governance challenges following the disaster.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:27 WIB
Satpol PP Deploys 1,900 Personnel During Ramadan, Monitors 43 Brawl-Prone Locations
Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) is deploying 1,900 personnel daily throughout Ramadan to maintain public order, with surveillance focused on 43 locations identified as prone to brawls. The agency is also stepping up enforcement against illegal alcohol sales and unregulated entertainment venues, whilst taking a measured approach to seasonal street food vendors by reorganising rather than banning takjil stalls to preserve pedestrian access on pavements.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:26 WIB
Observer: North and South Coast Arterial Roads Could Serve as Alternative Mudik Routes
A senior transport adviser has proposed Java's northern and southern coastal arterial roads as viable alternatives to congested toll roads during the 2026 Lebaran exodus, which is forecast to involve nearly 144 million travellers. The Transport Minister has meanwhile flagged the dominance of private car use and the Jakarta-Cikampek toll corridor as critical congestion points, whilst reinforcing safety oversight in West Java.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:25 WIB
Free Homecoming Tickets for 2026 Prohibited from Being Sold or Transferred: Here's How to Register
Jakarta's Head of Transportation has strictly prohibited the sale or transfer of tickets under the 2026 Free Homecoming (Mudik Gratis) programme. The government-funded initiative is designed to ease the annual Eid homecoming burden for Jakarta residents, with registration procedures now available to eligible participants.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:22 WIB
Banyumas Regent: Retirement Marks the Beginning of New Service for Civil Servants
Banyumas Regent Sadewo Tri Lastiono urged 176 retiring civil servants to view retirement as an opportunity for new forms of community service rather than a cause for despondency. The retirement decrees, covering departures effective from April to June 2026, were formally handed over at a ceremony in Purwokerto, Central Java, with the regent cautioning retirees against succumbing to "post-power syndrome."
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:22 WIB
Rp 72 Billion Worth of Beef from Prabowo's Aid Package for Aceh Residents Distributed Today
President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp 72.75 billion for the purchase of cattle to provide beef to residents across 19 districts and cities in Aceh as part of post-disaster relief efforts, with distribution timed for the day before Ramadan.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:21 WIB
Bogor Regent Leads Planting of 1,000 Trees at Pakansari Following Tornado
Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto led the planting of approximately 1,000 trees around Pakansari Stadium in Cibinong after a tornado felled numerous trees and damaged the stadium structure days earlier. The initiative, involving local government, military, police, and community organisations, reflects the district's commitment to maintaining green open spaces and developing the stadium precinct into an urban forest serving as the lungs of Cibinong sub-district.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:21 WIB
Police Reveal Irregularities Behind Bus Crash That Killed 16 in Krapyak
Semarang police have uncovered multiple serious violations by bus operator PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi following a fatal crash at the Krapyak toll interchange in December 2025 that killed 16 people, including a forged driver's licence, mismatched chassis numbers, and the absence of a route permit. Of the company's 12 buses, only four held Ministry of Transport supervision cards, with authorities now urging stricter compliance ahead of the Idul Fitri homecoming season.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:21 WIB
Health Ministry Reveals Reason for Dismissal of Dr Piprim as Civil Servant
The Indonesian Ministry of Health has explained its decision to dismiss Dr Piprim Basarah Yanuarso from his civil service position. According to the ministry, the dismissal was due to Dr Piprim being absent without leave for more than 28 consecutive working days.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:20 WIB
Donald Trump Delivers Ramadan Message to Muslims, Calls for Greater Charitable Deeds
US President Donald Trump issued a Ramadan greeting to Muslims in America and worldwide, emphasising spiritual renewal, compassion, and religious freedom as hallmarks of his administration. The Fiqh Council of North America determined that Ramadan 1446 Hijriah commenced on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, based on astronomical calculations accepted as a valid Sharia methodology.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:18 WIB
Effects of the Merger on XLSmart
XLSmart reported strong post-merger performance for 2025, with total revenue reaching Rp42.5 trillion (up 23 per cent year-on-year) and normalised net profit surging 63 per cent to Rp3 trillion. The company achieved US$250 million in first-year synergy savings, completed integration ahead of schedule, and grew its blended ARPU to Rp39,500 across a 73-million subscriber base, though operational costs rose due to merger integration, 5G rollout, and network expansion.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:17 WIB
Lanyard-Wearing Thief Who Surveyed Luxury Jakarta Hotels Before Striking Arrested by Police
Jakarta Metropolitan Police have arrested a 43-year-old man suspected of stealing laptops from several luxury hotels in the capital by disguising himself as an office worker, complete with batik shirt and corporate lanyard. The suspect reportedly conducted advance reconnaissance of hotel events to identify opportunities and exploit moments of inattention before targeting guests' belongings.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:17 WIB
Brawl Perpetrators in Depok to Be Sent to Islamic Boarding Crash Courses During Ramadan
Depok Metropolitan Police plan to enrol youth involved in street brawls in short intensive Islamic boarding programmes (pesantren kilat) during Ramadan as a rehabilitative measure. Police Chief Commissioner Abdul Waras said the initiative aims to curb brawling, firecracker wars, and sarong fights that typically spike during the fasting month, urging the community to help channel young people's energy into positive activities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:15 WIB
Bus That Killed 16 People at Krapyak Had Been Operating Illegally Since 2022
Semarang police have revealed that the Cahaya Trans bus involved in a fatal toll road crash that killed 16 people in Krapyak, Central Java, had been operating without a route permit since 2022. The director of PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi has been named a suspect for allowing illegal operations and failing to implement proper driver recruitment procedures, as authorities urge transport operators to comply with regulations ahead of the Eid al-Fitr homecoming season.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:14 WIB
Only Tested on Parking, Fatal Bus Driver at Krapyak Was Immediately Told to Carry Passengers
The driver of the PO Cahaya Trans bus involved in a fatal toll road crash in Krapyak, Central Java, that killed 16 people was only tested on parking the bus in and out of a garage before being ordered to carry passengers. Police have named both the 22-year-old driver and the company's president director as suspects, revealing the bus also operated without a route permit, raising serious concerns ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming season.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:13 WIB
Driver Who Struck Indonesian Child in Singapore Released on Bail, Foreign Ministry Responds
The driver who struck an Indonesian mother and child in Singapore has been released on bail while remaining a suspect, in accordance with Singaporean law. Indonesia's Foreign Ministry confirmed the embassy is providing pro-bono legal counsel to the victim's family, whilst the six-year-old child has died and the mother remains in intensive care at Singapore General Hospital.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:11 WIB
KAI Commuter: Passengers Permitted to Break Fast on KRL Trains During Ramadan
KAI Commuter has introduced a special policy allowing passengers to break their Ramadan fast aboard Commuter Line trains with light food and beverages, whilst urging restraint and consideration for fellow passengers. The state-owned commuter rail operator will maintain normal service levels across the Greater Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and other routes throughout the holy month, running over 1,065 daily services in the Jabodetabek area alone.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:10 WIB
Attorney General's Office Responds to Viral Claims of Rp920 Billion Found During Raid on Tax Official's Home
Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has categorically denied viral social media claims that Rp920 billion in cash was discovered during a raid on a tax official's home linked to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. The office clarified that the Rp920 billion figure actually relates to a seizure in an entirely separate case involving former Supreme Court official Zarof Ricar in October 2024, and confirmed the circulating narrative is a hoax.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:10 WIB
Avnet Insights Survey: APAC Engineers Accelerate AI Adoption Across Industries
Avnet's fifth annual Insights survey reveals that 56 per cent of engineers globally are now shipping AI-embedded products, a 33 per cent year-on-year increase, with China leading large-scale deployment and ASEAN markets positioned as a growing manufacturing powerhouse. Key challenges remain around data quality and continuous maintenance, whilst regional engineers invest in talent development to convert AI experimentation into industrial-scale implementation across the Asia-Pacific corridor.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:09 WIB
Police say luxury hotel thief in Central Jakarta acted alone
Jakarta Metropolitan Police have confirmed that a 43-year-old specialist thief who targeted a five-star hotel in Central Jakarta operated alone, disguising himself as an office worker wearing batik and a lanyard to blend in. The suspect, arrested in Matraman, East Jakarta, is believed to have struck at three separate locations, stealing items including a laptop belonging to a Ministry of Transport official attending a meeting at the hotel.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:09 WIB
Cabinet Secretary: President Visits US to Discuss Economic Cooperation
President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in the United States for a working visit focused on strategic economic cooperation, including trade negotiations and a bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump to sign a reciprocal trade agreement. The visit also includes a meeting with US business leaders and the inaugural summit of the Gaza Board of Peace, of which Indonesia became a member after signing its founding charter in Davos in January 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:07 WIB
Extended Chinese New Year Holiday 2026: KAI Records 813,141 Passengers Served
State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia recorded 813,141 passengers across various routes during the four-day Chinese New Year extended holiday from 13-16 February 2026, with daily occupancy rates exceeding 100 per cent. By 17 February, total ticket sales had reached 985,426 against a capacity of 825,086 seats, reflecting strong public demand for rail travel during the festive period.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:06 WIB
Named as Suspect: The Role of Bus Company Director Whose Vehicle Killed 16 People in Krapyak
Semarang Metropolitan Police have named Ahmad Warsito, President Director of PT Cahaya Pariwisata Transportasi, as a suspect in the December 2025 Krapyak bus crash that killed 16 people. The executive is accused of negligence including operating an unlicensed route since 2022, employing a driver with a forged licence, failing to provide safety equipment, and ignoring warnings from his own staff — raising serious questions about transport safety ahead of the Idul Fitri homecoming season.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:04 WIB
Tyre Warehouse in Pondok Aren, South Tangerang, Engulfed in Fire
A tyre warehouse in Pondok Aren, South Tangerang, caught fire on Wednesday morning, reportedly caused by an electrical short circuit. The blaze required 16 fire engines and 60 personnel to extinguish, with estimated losses reaching Rp250 million, though no casualties were reported. Narrow alleyway access to the site hampered firefighting efforts, highlighting ongoing urban infrastructure challenges in the greater Jakarta area.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:04 WIB
Moringa supplement recalled in US over links to salmonella outbreak
The US Food and Drug Administration has recalled Moringa Rosabella powder supplements linked to a salmonella outbreak, with seven reported cases including three hospitalisations across multiple states. The contaminated products were sold online through platforms including eBay, TikTok Shop, and Amazon, highlighting ongoing food safety concerns in the supplement industry.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:03 WIB
Latest Post-Disaster Update for Sumatra: Home Affairs Minister Reports 12,944 People Still Displaced
Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian reported to parliamentary leaders that the number of displaced persons from Sumatra's flash floods and landslides has fallen dramatically from over two million to 12,944, though the death toll stands at 1,205 with 139 still missing.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:02 WIB
Coal must go for climate funds to flow, German ambassador says
Germany's ambassador to Indonesia has warned that billions of dollars in private climate finance under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) will not materialise unless Jakarta takes stronger action to reduce its coal dependence.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:02 WIB
Lanyard-Wearing Thief at Luxury Jakarta Hotel Specialised in Posing as Office Worker
Jakarta Metropolitan Police have arrested a 43-year-old man who specialised in stealing from five-star hotels by disguising himself as an office worker, wearing batik shirts and lanyards to blend in. The suspect, identified by his initials NW, was caught in East Jakarta after CCTV footage from a hotel in the Karet area of Central Jakarta revealed his identity, with police seizing a stolen laptop and his disguise items as evidence.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:01 WIB
Tito Requests Three-Month Food Stockpile for Mountainous Regions of Sumatra
Interior Minister Tito Karnavian, heading the Sumatra post-disaster rehabilitation task force, has called for a minimum three-month food reserve to be established in highland areas of Sumatra following logistical crises caused by landslide-induced isolation. The directive, coordinated with the Ministry of Agriculture, National Food Agency, and Bulog, comes after towns such as Takengon nearly faced civil unrest due to supply shortages when road access was severed by landslides.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:01 WIB
Indonesian Military Completes Armco Bridge in South Tapanuli Connecting Neighbourhoods
The Indonesian Army's Natural Disaster Response Task Force under Kodam I/Bukit Barisan has completed repairs to an Armco bridge in Angkola Sangkunur sub-district, South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, restoring vital inter-neighbourhood connectivity. The aging bridge, which had deteriorated and impeded local mobility and economic activity, was rebuilt through a joint effort by military personnel and local residents, reflecting the Army's commitment to infrastructure recovery and community welfare.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:01 WIB
Six Weaknesses in Ministry of Hajj's 'Umrah One Stop Service' Programme Identified by Observer
Hajj and Umrah observer Mustolih Siradj has identified six fundamental weaknesses in the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's planned integrated Umrah service programme, which would consolidate check-in, immigration and religious guidance at hajj dormitories in collaboration with Garuda Indonesia and the Ministry of Immigration.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:00 WIB
Indonesian Students in US Praise Prabowo's Leadership
Indonesian students at prestigious US universities expressed support for President Prabowo's leadership and optimism about the country's direction during his visit to Washington. Prabowo's US agenda includes meetings with business leaders, the inaugural Gaza Board of Peace summit, a bilateral meeting with President Trump, and the signing of a reciprocal trade agreement that has been under negotiation since 2025.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:00 WIB
Ministry of Health Affirms Dismissal of Dr Piprim Basarah as Civil Servant Is Unrelated to Policy Criticism
Indonesia's Ministry of Health has dismissed paediatric cardiac consultant and Indonesian Paediatricians Association (IDAI) chairman Dr Piprim Basarah Yunarso from the civil service for being absent without valid reason for 28 consecutive working days following his transfer from RSCM Jakarta to Fatmawati Central General Hospital. The Ministry stressed the dismissal was unrelated to Dr Piprim's public criticism of health policies, citing violations of Government Regulation No.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 12:00 WIB
Best-Selling Electric Vehicle Prices in Early 2026, Starting from Rp199 Million
Chinese electric vehicle brands dominate Indonesia's most popular EV offerings in early 2026, with prices ranging from Rp199 million for the entry-level BYD Atto 1 to Rp950 million for the luxury Denza D9 MPV. The increasingly diverse price segments reflect growing competition and consumer choice in Indonesia's expanding electric vehicle market, with brands such as BYD, Geely, Wuling, Aion, Chery, and Jaecoo all vying for market share.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:59 WIB
Deputy Governor Rano Karno Says Lunar New Year 2026 Economic Turnover in Jakarta Reached Rp 9 Trillion
Jakarta's Deputy Governor Rano Karno reported that economic turnover during the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations reached Rp 9 trillion, with expectations that the upcoming Ramadan-to-Eid period will exceed Rp 20 trillion. The provincial government is preparing market operations and staple goods price monitoring to ensure stability during the peak spending season, whilst also noting the growing shift towards digital commerce among traditional market traders.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:59 WIB
Bus Crash Kills 16 on Krapyak Toll Road; Company Director Named Suspect
The president director of PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi has been named a suspect in the bus crash on the Krapyak Toll Road in Central Java that killed 16 people, after investigators found the company had been operating the Bogor-Jogja route illegally since 2022 without a route permit. Police urged all transport operators to comply with safety regulations ahead of the busy Eid al-Fitr homecoming season.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:58 WIB
DKI Jakarta Provincial Government Resumes Home Renovation Programme
The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has relaunched its Home Renovation Programme, this time led by the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP), targeting a 33.83-square-metre dwelling in Kapuk, Cengkareng, West Jakarta, housing three families including two persons with disabilities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:57 WIB
The KAAN Project: Between Turkey's Technological Sovereignty and the Test of Reality
The article discusses Turkey's KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet project developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), examining it through the lens of technological sovereignty. However, only the opening passage of the article was provided, limiting the extent of analysis possible.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:55 WIB
Child Ends Life in PPU: Ministries Urged to Genuinely Pursue Prevention
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has called on ministries and government agencies to collaborate meaningfully on preventing child suicide, following the death of a 14-year-old girl in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, with police investigating possible bullying.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:54 WIB
Indonesia's parliament reviews Sumatra flood recovery
Indonesia's House of Representatives convened a coordination forum bringing together key cabinet ministers to assess post-disaster recovery efforts across flood-affected areas in Sumatra. Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad reported that road access to all areas in Aceh has been reopened, most local administrations have resumed operations, and river normalisation and temporary housing construction are under way ahead of targets set before Ramadan.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:52 WIB
Child Suicide in Penajam Paser Utara Serves as Warning of Indonesia's Child Suicide Emergency
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has declared a child suicide emergency after a 14-year-old girl was found dead in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, marking the fourth such case in 2026. KPAI has urged cross-ministerial action to prevent a repeat of 2023-2024, when Indonesia recorded the highest child suicide rates in Southeast Asia, whilst police investigate possible bullying as a contributing factor.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:52 WIB
Pramono Issues Circular on DKI Jakarta Civil Servant Working Hours During Ramadan
Jakarta Governor Pramono has issued a circular letter shortening and introducing flexible working hours for DKI Jakarta civil servants during Ramadan, reducing the effective workday to approximately 6.5 hours. The policy, which follows Presidential Regulation No. 21/2023 and Ministerial Regulation No. 4/2025, permits up to 60 minutes of flexibility for non-frontline staff whilst mandating that public-facing services continue to operate as normal.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:51 WIB
Why Garuda Schools Will Use Four Curricula Simultaneously
Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has announced that its new Garuda Schools will employ four curricula simultaneously — national, character, STEM, and international — to strengthen science and technology talent. The schools are deliberately being established outside Java in underserved regions, with the first four locations set to open in June 2026, targeting the top one per cent of gifted students who currently lack access to quality education.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:50 WIB
Price-Sensitive Market Remains Large: Hyundai Keeps Selling Previous Stargazer Model
PT Hyundai Motors Indonesia is maintaining sales of the previous-generation Stargazer alongside its newer Cartenz variants to capture price-sensitive consumers and fleet buyers in the fiercely competitive low MPV segment.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:46 WIB
ASDP Ensures Full Readiness to Manage Lebaran 2026 Ferry Crossings
State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry projects 5.8 million passengers and 1.4 million vehicles during the Lebaran 2026 holiday period, representing increases of roughly 9.4 and 9.3 per cent respectively. The company is deploying 75 vessels on the critical Merak–Bakauheni route, adding express berths, and mobilising nearly 2,000 personnel to ensure smooth operations across Java and Sumatra's busiest crossing corridor.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:46 WIB
Residents enthusiastically hunt for "meugang" meat at Lhokseumawe market in Aceh
Flood and landslide survivors in Lhokseumawe, Aceh, thronged markets to buy beef as part of the traditional meugang rayeuk celebration ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah/2026, with beef selling at around Rp170,000–180,000 per kilogramme. Traders reported brisk sales, particularly after the Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed 19 February as the start of Ramadan, demonstrating the resilience of Acehnese cultural traditions even in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:46 WIB
DKI Jakarta Prohibits Sale or Transfer of Free Mudik 2026 Tickets
The Jakarta Provincial Government has strictly prohibited the resale or transfer of tickets for its Free Mudik 2026 programme, which provides complimentary bus and motorcycle transport services for residents travelling home for Eid al-Fitr. Online registration opens on 22 February 2026 through the official portal, with destinations and schedules divided into three clusters spanning cities across Java, Sumatra, and beyond.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:46 WIB
US Vice President Says Negotiations with Iran Going Well in Some Respects
US Vice President JD Vance described the second round of talks with Iran as productive in some areas, though Tehran has yet to engage with certain "red lines" set by President Trump regarding nuclear weapons. Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi struck a more optimistic tone, saying both sides would work on a draft agreement, whilst Trump continues to maintain military pressure in the region.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:45 WIB
Magnitude 5.7 Earthquake Strikes Southwest Maluku
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck the waters off Southwest Maluku Regency on Wednesday morning, with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) later updating the magnitude to 5.5. The intermediate-depth quake, centred 156 km southwest of Southeast Maluku at a depth of 104 km, caused no tsunami, no reported damage, and no aftershocks as of monitoring time.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:43 WIB
Palestinian President Extends Ramadan Greetings to Muslims Worldwide
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has conveyed Ramadan greetings to all Palestinians at home and abroad, as well as to Arab and Islamic nations. Abbas used the occasion to reiterate aspirations for Palestinian freedom and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, whilst calling for unity and solidarity amid ongoing hardships.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:43 WIB
Trump Delivers Ramadan Message to Muslims
US President Donald Trump issued a special Ramadan message via the White House website, expressing best wishes to Muslims and reaffirming his administration's commitment to religious freedom. The message came as several Arab and Muslim countries began observing Ramadan on 18 February, with Indonesia among those starting on 19 February.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:43 WIB
House of Representatives and Government Hold Coordination Meeting on Sumatra Disaster Recovery
Indonesia's House of Representatives and senior government ministers convened a coordination meeting on 18 February 2026 to evaluate post-disaster recovery efforts across Sumatra, following devastating floods and landslides in late November 2025 that killed 1,206 people.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:41 WIB
Indonesia seeks investors for mega cattle farms in Central Kalimantan
Indonesia is seeking private investors for a 40,006-hectare integrated cattle farming project in Sukamara District, Central Kalimantan, designed to boost national self-sufficiency in meat and milk whilst reducing import dependence. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman outlined a model combining beef cattle, dairy cattle and downstream processing alongside oil palm plantations, with a core-plasma partnership scheme to spread economic benefits to smallholder farmers.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:40 WIB
Chicken Prices Hit Rp 45,000 Per Kg as Trade Minister Pledges Market Inspections
Trade Minister Budi Santoso has pledged to investigate markets where chicken prices have reached Rp 45,000 per kilogram ahead of Ramadan, though the national average remains at Rp 40,259 per kg according to official monitoring data. The government maintains that supply is adequate with no production disruptions, attributing price increases to seasonal demand ahead of the religious holiday, and has mobilised multiple agencies including the police and food task force to monitor prices.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:39 WIB
House of Representatives Stresses Importance of Public Participation in Free Nutritious Meals Programme
A member of the House of Representatives' Commission IX has called for greater public involvement in the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Surabaya, East Java, to ensure service quality and accurate targeting of beneficiaries.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:37 WIB
139 People Still Missing Following Sumatra Floods, 12,000 Remain Displaced
Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian reported that 139 people remain missing and 1,205 have died as a result of the devastating floods and landslides that struck Sumatra in late November 2025. Nearly 13,000 people are still living in displacement tents, down from over two million, with the vast majority concentrated in Aceh province, whilst West Sumatra has cleared all its evacuation camps.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:37 WIB
Ahead of Ramadan, Andre Rosiade Distributes 5,000 Basic Food Packages to Sawahlunto Residents
Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission VI Andre Rosiade distributed 5,000 basic food packages to residents of Sawahlunto city ahead of Ramadan, with the aid handed over by the mayor and deputy mayor on his behalf. The distribution, which also marked the 18th anniversary of the Gerindra Party, highlighted Rosiade's broader contributions to the city including telecommunications infrastructure and cultural centre development amid constrained local government budgets.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:35 WIB
Trade Minister Budi Insists Free Nutritious Meals Programme Stabilises Chicken Prices, Not Raises Them
Trade Minister Budi Santoso has pushed back against claims that the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is driving up chicken prices, arguing that the programme's guaranteed demand has instead made production more predictable and prices more stable. The minister cited market monitoring data showing chicken priced at Rp40,259 per kilogram as of 13 February 2026, and said the government continues to monitor supply and prices ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:35 WIB
Two Men Arrested for Sticking Online Gambling Barcodes at South Jakarta Coffee Shop
Police in South Jakarta arrested two men who went viral on social media for affixing barcodes linked to online gambling websites on tables and motorbikes at a coffee shop in Pesanggrahan. Authorities believe the suspects are part of a larger network and are continuing their investigation to root out the full operation, reflecting Indonesia's ongoing struggle against the proliferation of illegal online gambling.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:34 WIB
KPK Reveals Location of Rp 5 Billion Seizure at Tangerang Safe House in Customs Bribery Case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that Rp 5 billion in cash, found in five suitcases during a raid in Ciputat, South Tangerang, was seized from a safe house linked to suspects in a bribery case involving Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:34 WIB
India's AI Push Gets US$2 Billion Boost from Yotta's Nvidia Investment
Indian data centre operator Yotta Data Services plans to spend over US$2 billion on Nvidia's latest Blackwell Ultra chips to establish an AI computing hub, whilst seeking up to US$1.2 billion from investors ahead of a potential initial public offering this year.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:33 WIB
DKI Jakarta Transport Agency Urges Public to Follow All Stages of Free Mudik Programme
The DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency has outlined the registration and verification procedures for the 2026 Free Mudik Programme, which opens online on 22 February. The programme, divided into three destination clusters with staggered registration and verification windows, aims to ensure safe and orderly homecoming travel whilst reducing private vehicle congestion. Participants who fail to attend their designated verification schedule will forfeit their places to other registrants.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:29 WIB
POPSI: Smallholder Palm Oil Disputes Must Be Resolved Through Forest Area Restructuring in Accordance with Regulations
The Indonesian Smallholder Palm Oil Farmers' Association (POPSI) has urged the government to resolve disputes over smallholder palm oil plantations within forest areas through administrative restructuring mechanisms rather than criminal sanctions or seizures. The organisation cites Government Regulation No. 23/2021 on Forestry and a landmark Constitutional Court ruling (No.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:28 WIB
Jakarta Civil Service Police Unit Renovates Resident's Home in West Jakarta, Funded by Members' Contributions
Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) has launched a home renovation programme for disadvantaged residents, with the inaugural project targeting a dilapidated house in Kapuk, Cengkareng, occupied by three families including two persons with disabilities.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:27 WIB
Indonesia's DPD mounts audit on Papua special autonomy funds
The Regional Representative Council (DPD) has announced a comprehensive audit of special autonomy fund management across Papua's six provinces, responding to growing public concerns over transparency and accountability.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:25 WIB
Jakarta's Economic Turnover During Lunar New Year Holiday Reaches Rp9 Trillion
Jakarta's Deputy Governor Rano Karno reported that economic turnover in the capital during the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday reached Rp9 trillion, with expectations that the upcoming Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period could generate over Rp20 trillion. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government organised an extensive programme of Lunar New Year festivities across the city, culminating in a symbolic Ramadan transition ceremony at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout celebrating Jakarta's cultural diversity.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:24 WIB
Trade Minister: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Has Not Driven Up Chicken Prices
Trade Minister Budi Santoso has dismissed claims that the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is pushing up poultry prices, arguing that guaranteed demand from the programme has instead stabilised production and pricing.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:23 WIB
Askrindo and IFG Provide 2,150 Free Mudik Tickets for Lebaran 2026
State-owned insurer PT Asuransi Kredit Indonesia (Askrindo) and Indonesia Financial Group (IFG) are offering 2,150 free homecoming travel tickets across 13 routes using 45 buses as part of the 2026 BUMN and Danantara Mudik Bersama programme. Departures are scheduled for 17-18 March 2026, with registration opening on 23 February until quotas are filled, including a dedicated disability-accessible bus service on the Jakarta-Yogyakarta route.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:21 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Says 12,944 Displaced Persons Remain Following Sumatra Disaster
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian reported to parliament that 12,944 people remain displaced across North Sumatra and Aceh following devastating floods and landslides that killed 1,205 and left 139 missing.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:20 WIB
Peru's Interim President Impeached After Just Four Months in Office
Peru's Congress impeached interim President Jose Jeri on Tuesday after he was embroiled in corruption allegations involving irregular recruitment of female officials and secret dealings with a Chinese businessman. Jeri, the country's seventh head of state in a decade, had only been in office since October 2024, highlighting Peru's chronic political instability since 2016.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:20 WIB
Five Suitcases Containing Rp5 Billion in Customs Corruption Case Found at Ciputat Safe House
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has discovered five suitcases containing Rp5 billion at a safe house in Ciputat, South Tangerang, linked to a major bribery and gratification case involving senior Customs and Excise officials.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:19 WIB
Transport Ministry: Operators halting pioneer flights in Papua will not be sanctioned
Indonesia's Directorate General of Civil Aviation has confirmed that operators suspending pioneer flight services in Papua on security grounds will face no penalties, following the fatal shooting of two pilots on a Smart Cakrawala Aviation aircraft in Boven Digoel regency on 11 February 2026.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:17 WIB
AI adoption is widespread, but developer confidence is still catching up, Agoda report finds
Agoda's AI Developer Report 2025 reveals that nearly nine in ten developers across Southeast Asia and India use AI weekly, yet only 43 per cent believe it can match mid-level engineer quality.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:17 WIB
KAI Records 813,141 Passengers Served During 2026 Lunar New Year Holiday
State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia served 813,141 passengers across four days of the 2026 Lunar New Year extended holiday, with daily occupancy rates exceeding 100 per cent as ticket sales surpassed available seating capacity. By 17 February, a total of 985,426 tickets had been sold against 825,086 seats, reflecting strong travel demand on key Java rail corridors including the Yogyakarta–Jakarta and Semarang–Jakarta routes.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:15 WIB
Senior Police Officer Didik Named Suspect in Expanded Narcotics Investigation of AKP Malaungi
Adjunct Senior Commissioner Didik Putra Kuncoro has been named an additional suspect in a narcotics case under the West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police, which previously designated Adjunct Commissioner Malaungi as a suspect. Police discovered methamphetamine, ecstasy, alprazolam, and ketamine at Didik's Tangerang residence, following the earlier arrest of his two household assistants who were found in possession of 30.4 grammes of methamphetamine.
Wed, 18 Feb 2026, 11:14 WIB
Foreigners Increasingly Favour Indonesian-Made Cars
Indonesia's automotive exports got off to a strong start in 2026, with fully built-up vehicle shipments reaching 40,003 units in January — a 19.7 per cent year-on-year increase. Mitsubishi recorded the most impressive growth at 70 per cent, whilst CKD kit exports more than doubled and component shipments surged over 70 per cent, underscoring the sector's growing international competitiveness.