Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 19 February 2026

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Indonesia reaffirms commitment to Board of Peace success

President Prabowo Subianto expressed Indonesia's full support for US President Donald Trump's peace plan at the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington DC, pledging commitment to its 20-point framework. In a significant concrete commitment, Prabowo offered approximately 8,000 Indonesian peacekeeping troops to support international peace stabilisation efforts, whilst expressing optimism for peace in Palestine and Gaza.

National Police Criminal Investigation Unit reveals wife of senior police officer tested positive for drugs

The wife of former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro and one of his former subordinates have tested positive for MDMA use following laboratory analysis of hair samples. Both women have been recommended for rehabilitation at the National Narcotics Agency facility, whilst Didik himself faces charges carrying up to life imprisonment after investigators seized methamphetamine, ecstasy, alprazolam, and ketamine from a suitcase hidden at his subordinate's home.

Nine countries contribute US$7 billion for Gaza

US President Donald Trump announced that nine countries have pledged over US$7 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza at the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington DC. The contributing nations include Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the UAE, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait, with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs also mobilising an additional US$2 billion for recovery efforts.

At Board of Peace Meeting, Prabowo Affirms Readiness to Deploy 8,000 Peacekeeping Troops to Gaza

President Prabowo Subianto used the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington DC to commit Indonesia to deploying up to 8,000 or more troops as part of an international stabilisation force in Gaza. The pledge, accompanied by full endorsement of Trump's 20-point peace plan, marks Indonesia's most significant concrete military commitment to the Palestinian peace process and underscores Jakarta's ambition to play a leading role in post-ceasefire stability operations.

Prabowo at Board of Peace Meeting: Indonesia Committed to Achieving Peace in Gaza

President Prabowo Subianto delivered a speech at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in the United States, expressing Indonesia's full commitment to Trump's 20-point peace plan for Palestine. Prabowo pledged up to 8,000 or more Indonesian troops for an international stabilisation force in Gaza, underscoring Jakarta's active role in the US-led peace initiative.

OJK Presents Evidence of Financial Sector's Growing Contribution to the Economy

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority reported that the financial services sector grew 7.92 per cent year-on-year in Q4 2025, its highest rate since June 2021, with the ratio of financial assets and products reaching 184 per cent of GDP.

Horrific: Man in Siak, Riau, Kills Woman After Being Refused a Loan

A 44-year-old man has been arrested in Pekanbaru for the murder of a woman in Siak Regency, Riau, after she refused to lend him money due to his outstanding debts. The suspect, who also stole the victim's mobile phone before fleeing, faces charges under Indonesia's new Criminal Code carrying penalties up to the death sentence.

PB ORADO Implements Structured System to Identify High-Performing Domino Athletes

Indonesia's National Domino Sports Board (PB ORADO) has launched a systematic athlete recruitment and development pathway aligned with KONI sporting standards, aiming to professionalise domino as a competitive sport. The programme encompasses tiered training from district to national level, mandatory participation in official championships, and strict integrity requirements including the rejection of match-fixing and gambling.

Dismissed Former Bima Police Chief Immediately Detained at National Criminal Investigation Agency

Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been dishonourably discharged and detained at the National Criminal Investigation Agency's detention facility on charges of narcotics possession and receiving Rp 2.8 billion in drug proceeds.

Dasco After Iftar at NasDem Tower: Building Ties with JK and Anies

Deputy Speaker of the House Sufmi Dasco Ahmad attended an iftar gathering hosted by the NasDem Party at NasDem Tower, where he met with prominent political figures including former Vice President Jusuf Kalla and ex-Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan. The event drew a cross-party constellation of senior politicians — including House Speaker Puan Maharani, PKS President Almuzzammil Yusuf, and PAN Chairman Zulhas — underscoring the Ramadan tradition's role as a vehicle for elite political networking.

More Tourism Task Force Officers Set To Patrol Bali's Top Attractions

Bali's government plans to deploy additional tourism task force officers to major attractions across the island ahead of an anticipated 7 million international arrivals in 2026. The expansion of enforcement personnel aims to strengthen law enforcement, ensure visitor safety, and maintain regulatory compliance with local and national laws. This initiative reflects growing investment in tourism infrastructure and public safety amid the island's development as a premier global destination.

Newly Discovered Underwater Cave in Bali's Nusa Penida Could Reveal Island's Ancient History

A team of archaeologists has discovered an underwater cave in Nusa Penida, Bali, which may provide crucial insights into the island's ancient past. The discovery suggests significant untapped archaeological potential in one of Indonesia's most popular tourist destinations and adds another dimension to understanding the region's cultural heritage.

Trump Thanks Indonesia for Sending Troops to Gaza, Praises Prabowo's Leadership

US President Donald Trump singled out Indonesia for special thanks during the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, praising the country as "great" for committing peacekeeping personnel to Gaza. Trump also lauded President Prabowo Subianto as both tough and intelligent, as Indonesia prepares to become the first nation to contribute to the International Stabilisation Force under a strictly non-combat, humanitarian mandate.

Elon Musk Predicts Coding Will Become Obsolete This Year

Elon Musk has declared that conventional coding will be rendered obsolete as AI advances to the point of generating optimised binary code without human intervention, potentially by the end of 2025. His AI company xAI, now integrated with SpaceX, is rapidly developing its Grok Code model whilst undergoing internal restructuring following the departure of two co-founders.

South Sumatra Police Hold Ramadan Safari to Strengthen Inter-Agency Coordination for Public Order

South Sumatra Regional Police hosted a Ramadan gathering with the provincial leadership coordination forum (Forkopimda), attended by the police chief, governor, and representatives of state and regional enterprises. Governor Herman Deru credited the police's role in maintaining the province's "zero conflict" status, linking security stability directly to poverty reduction and regional development outcomes.

Two Defendants in Crude Oil Management Case Deny Fuel Blending Allegations

Two former Pertamina Patra Niaga executives — Maya Kusmaya and Edward Corne — used their defence pleas at the Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court to deny allegations they blended subsidised fuel, arguing no such charges appear in their indictment. The crude oil management corruption case, in which both face 14-year prison sentences, involves alleged state losses of Rp 285 trillion stemming from irregular fuel imports and non-subsidised diesel sales.

Bima Arya Pushes for Measurable, Coordinated and Integrated MBG Governance

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged measurable, coordinated and integrated governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme between central and regional governments, with the Ministry finalising a circular to serve as technical guidance for regional heads.

Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting: Trump Promises Bright Future for Gaza and the Middle East

US President Donald Trump addressed the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, pledging a brighter future for Gaza and the broader Middle East. Trump claimed the war in Gaza was over following the ceasefire agreement that took effect in October, whilst warning Hamas of severe consequences should it refuse to disarm — a key sticking point in negotiations with Israel.

82% of tourists feel safe in Bali but scams remain serious concern

TripAdvisor has ranked Bali as the world's best travel destination for 2026, with 82% of tourists reporting they feel safe on the island. However, tourism scams continue to pose a significant concern for visitors, affecting Indonesia's tourism industry reputation and consumer safety.

Indonesia's Prabowo attends first Board of Peace Summit in Washington

President Prabowo Subianto attended the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, delivering Indonesia's position on Gaza alongside world leaders.

Minister demands full regional backing for free meals programme

Coordinating Minister Hasan has insisted that regional governments must support the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) free meals programme, noting that 17 ministries share responsibility for its implementation and local administrations cannot opt out. The programme has served more than 60 million people through some 23,000 kitchens nationwide, with East Java alone reaching 8.

Trump secures US$7 billion in pledges for Gaza reconstruction and troop commitments at inaugural Board of Peace talks

Indonesia is among five countries that have pledged to deploy troops to an international stabilisation force for Gaza, with President Prabowo Subianto personally attending the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington. The US secured US$7 billion in reconstruction pledges from nine countries and announced plans for a 20,000-strong military and 12,000-member police force, though the sum represents only a fraction of the estimated US$70 billion needed to rebuild the war-devastated territory.

First Day of Ramadan: Tito Karnavian Breaks Fast with Aceh Tamiang Residents

Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian joined flood-affected communities in Aceh Tamiang for the first iftar of Ramadan, signalling the government's continued commitment to post-disaster recovery in Sumatra. While noting progress in restoring roads, electricity, internet, and markets, Tito acknowledged outstanding challenges including displaced persons, river clearance, and clean water provision.

Tito Karnavian Inspects Mud Clearance Progress in Aceh Tamiang Settlements

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian, who also chairs the task force for post-disaster rehabilitation in Sumatra, visited flood-affected areas in Aceh Tamiang to inspect mud clearance efforts carried out by IPDN cadets. The minister expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting that government offices and residential areas previously buried in mud are now being restored, with public services gradually resuming.

South Sumatra Police Chief Visits Muhammadiyah to Promote Free 24-Hour 110 Service

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho visited the Muhammadiyah regional leadership to strengthen cooperation between police and religious leaders on public order. He used the occasion to promote the national 110 hotline as a free, round-the-clock service integrated with local police stations for rapid emergency response, highlighting the force's digital transformation efforts.

Donald Trump Boasts 'Venezuelan Oil Will Be Pumped to the US' — What Does It Mean?

US President Donald Trump has declared his intention to exploit Venezuela's vast oil reserves — reportedly the world's largest — following the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro and a Venezuelan law opening the sector to foreign investment.

Trump Praises Prabowo at Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting: 'A Man That I Don't Want to Fight'

US President Donald Trump publicly praised Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington, describing him as tough and widely respected. The Board of Peace, established to oversee the implementation and sustainability of the Gaza ceasefire, held its first official session with multiple world leaders in attendance, while Prabowo reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to finding a lasting solution for Palestinian independence.

Takjil Rush Shifts Jakarta's Peak Traffic Hours

Jakarta's peak traffic hours have shifted significantly during Ramadan, with morning rush hour moving from 06:00-07:00 to 09:00-10:00 and afternoon congestion arriving two hours earlier at 14:00-15:00 as residents rush to buy takjil for breaking fast.

Residents Complain of Noise, Cilandak Padel Court Operator Cuts Operating Hours by 50%

The operator of a padel court on Jalan Haji Nawi Raya in Cilandak, South Jakarta, has agreed to halve its operating hours following noise complaints from local residents and mediation with community representatives and the South Gandaria sub-district office. The case highlights ongoing urban zoning tensions, with the facility situated directly adjacent to a residential zone, and residents demanding a complete cessation of operations while the operator pledges to install soundproofing.

Aceh Disaster Victims Hold Congregational Tarawih Prayers in Emergency Prayer Halls

Victims of the sporadic hydrometeorological disasters that struck Aceh in November last year are observing Ramadan 2026 in displacement areas, as post-disaster reconstruction remains incomplete. Communities across several Aceh regencies have resorted to using hastily constructed emergency prayer halls for congregational Tarawih prayers after their mosques were buried under thick mud.

BNN Chief Launches 184 Call Centre: Operating 24 Hours, the State Must Not Sleep

The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has launched a 24/7 call centre on number 184 as part of its digital transformation to accelerate drug prevention and eradication efforts. BNN Chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto emphasised that the service represents a shift towards responsive, data-driven governance, requiring all BNN units nationwide to ensure public reports are acted upon swiftly.

Prabowo's US Visit Said to Open Market Access and Strengthen Support for Palestine

President Prabowo Subianto's visit to the United States is assessed as carrying strategic benefits for Indonesia, encompassing both a trade agreement despite a 19 per cent tariff imposed by President Trump and participation in the inaugural Board of Peace summit.

Foreign Capital Inflows of US$1.6 Billion Enter Indonesia, Supporting Rupiah Stability: Bank Indonesia

Bank Indonesia reported that net foreign portfolio inflows into Indonesia reached US$1.6 billion from the start of 2025 through mid-February 2026, driven largely by investments in Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) and Government Securities (SBN).

Beverage Businesses Seen as Needing More Stable, Heat-Resistant Cup Seals

Trifinity CEO Suwito Triguna has highlighted the importance of consistent, high-quality seal cup materials for Indonesia's booming takeaway beverage industry, warning that recycled or mixed-material seals risk leakage, production delays and brand damage. The company has developed a 50-micron seal cup rated to withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius, certified Halal by BPJPH, as operators seek packaging solutions that ensure operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Andra Soni Targets Banten Road Repairs to Be Completed 10 Days Before Eid

Banten Governor Andra Soni has set a deadline for road repairs across the province to be finished ten days before the Eid al-Fitr holiday, coordinating efforts across provincial, central government, and district authorities. The governor acknowledged that many national roads are damaged and that pre-mudik repairs would be temporary pending permanent works by contractors, with six priority provincial road sections currently under maintenance.

5G Internet No Longer a Luxury: Set to Reach Indonesia's Remote Regions

Chinese technology giant ZTE Corporation has partnered with MyRepublic Indonesia on "Project Ascend" to deploy 5G Fixed Wireless Access broadband services across underserved regions of Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali and Nusa Tenggara. The initiative leverages the 1.4 GHz spectrum band acquired by MyRepublic through a Ministry of Communication and Digital auction, aiming to bridge the digital divide and support economic growth, education, and social inclusion in medium- to low-density areas.

Padel Court Owner in Cilandak Installs Soundproofing and Limits Operating Hours After Residents' Noise Complaints

The owner of a padel court in Cilandak, South Jakarta, has agreed to install soundproofing and restrict operating hours following mediation over noise complaints from neighbouring residents. The case highlights ongoing tensions around urban zoning, where commercial sports facilities are situated directly adjacent to residential areas, with the local kelurahan mediating since November 2025.

Pelita Air Aircraft Crashes in Nunukan, Pilot Killed

A Pelita Air Service Air Tractor AT-802 aircraft crashed in the mountainous Pabetung Remayo area of East Krayan, Nunukan Regency, East Kalimantan on 19 February 2026, killing the sole occupant, Captain Hendrick Lodewyck Adam. The fuel-carrying aircraft, which had logged 3,303 flight hours, was en route to Tarakan; Indonesian military border security personnel have evacuated the pilot's remains and are searching for the black box amid the severely damaged and burnt wreckage.

One Year of Local Government Performance: Rudy Susmanto Achieves 83.29 Per Cent Public Satisfaction

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto has secured an 83.29 per cent public satisfaction rating after his first year in office, according to a survey by the Visi Nusan institute covering 16 performance indicators. Infrastructure scored highest at 92.19 per cent, whilst the economy, employment, and agriculture sectors lagged behind in the low 70s, prompting a policy observer to urge the administration to shift from output-based programmes to impact-driven, data-based development planning.

No Half Measures: IDX Needs Hundreds of Trillions of Rupiah to Implement 15 Per Cent Free Float Requirement

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has revealed that approximately Rp187 trillion in additional market capitalisation must be absorbed by the market to raise the minimum public shareholding (free float) requirement from 7.5 per cent to 15 per cent, affecting 267 listed companies. The policy, initiated jointly by the IDX and the Financial Services Authority (OJK), is targeted for implementation in March 2026, whilst 49 issuers have yet to meet even the current 7.5 per cent threshold.

On Permanent Coalition, PKS President Raises August Protests

PKS President Almuzzammil Yusuf responded cautiously to Golkar's proposal for a permanent coalition backing President Prabowo Subianto, warning that any such alliance must reconcile elite interests with the will of the people. He cited the August protests in Jakarta, as well as upheavals in Nepal and Bulgaria, as examples of the dangers when political elites ignore public aspirations.

Prabowo Attends Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting in Washington DC

President Prabowo Subianto attended the first official meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington DC, a body established by US President Donald Trump to oversee the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire. Indonesia is among 26 founding member nations of the council, with Prabowo reaffirming his commitment to pursuing a lasting solution for Palestinian independence.

Cilandak Residents Complain of Noise Pollution and Stray Balls from Padel Court

Residents of Haji Nawi Raya in Cilandak, South Jakarta, have been filing complaints since November 2025 over noise exceeding 70 decibels and stray balls from a newly built padel court entering their homes. Despite reports to multiple municipal agencies and police-mediated talks, the court operator has refused to install soundproofing, claiming the facility meets international standards, leaving the dispute unresolved.

Attorney General's Office Seizes 6 Vehicles and Documents in Palm Oil Waste Export Corruption Case

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has raided 16 premises across Medan and Pekanbaru, seizing six vehicles, land certificates, transaction records and electronic evidence linked to a palm oil waste export corruption scandal. The case involves the alleged manipulation of crude palm oil export classifications to evade state levies, with estimated state losses reaching Rp 14 trillion and 11 suspects named, including three government officials and eight private sector figures.

Riva Siahaan Delivers Defence Plea in Crude Oil Corruption Case, Cites Record Profits

Former Pertamina Patra Niaga president director Riva Siahaan delivered his defence plea in the Rp 285 trillion crude oil mismanagement corruption trial, arguing that under his leadership the company achieved its highest-ever profit of USD 1.639 billion in 2023 and contributed substantial dividends to the state.

Former Bima City Police Chief Also Named Suspect in Rp2.8 Billion Narcotics Money Case

Former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been named a suspect for allegedly receiving Rp2.8 billion in proceeds from narcotics trafficking, channelled through his subordinate who headed the local drugs unit. The case exposes deep-rooted corruption within the police force, with Didik facing charges carrying penalties up to the death sentence, life imprisonment, or a maximum of 20 years in prison.

Electric Vehicle Owner Satisfaction Hits Record: 96 Per Cent Ready to Buy Again

A J.D. Power study shows electric vehicle owner satisfaction has reached its highest level since tracking began in 2021, with premium EV scores rising to 786 out of 1,000 points. Notably, 96 per cent of EV owners said they would consider purchasing or leasing another electric vehicle regardless of the expiration of US federal tax incentives, signalling strong consumer confidence in EV technology.

Monas Operating Hours During Ramadan 2026: Check Here

The National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta will remain open during Ramadan 2026 with adjusted operating hours, closing daily at 15:00 WIB instead of the usual schedule. Tickets are available only through JakCard issued by Bank DKI, with tiered pricing for the observation deck and museum, whilst the monument remains closed on Mondays for maintenance.

King Charles Backs Prince Andrew's Arrest: The Law Must Be Upheld

King Charles III has publicly endorsed the legal proceedings against his brother, the former Prince Andrew, who was arrested by British police on suspicion of misconduct in public office during his tenure as a UK trade envoy. The King stressed that the law must be upheld regardless of social status, signalling the monarchy's full cooperation with the investigation — a significant moment for the British Crown's credibility and its stance on accountability.

Deputy Minister Todotua and LG Global Strategy Discuss Strengthening Investment

Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstream Industries Todotua Pasaribu held a strategic meeting with the President of LG Global Strategy Center to discuss strengthening investment and collaboration in Indonesia. The meeting aimed to accelerate the realisation of strategic projects and bolster industrial downstream processing.

US Strike on Iran This Weekend Depends on Trump's Order

The United States military is reportedly prepared to launch strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, pending a final decision from President Donald Trump. Whilst indirect negotiations between the two countries in Switzerland yielded agreement on "guiding principles," significant details remain unresolved, and the massive US military build-up in the Middle East — including two aircraft carrier groups — underscores the gravity of the standoff over Iran's nuclear programme.

Watershed Degradation Drives Logistics Costs Up by Rp 2.1 Trillion Per Year

Degradation of watershed (DAS) ecosystems across Java is inflicting an estimated Rp 2.1 trillion in annual losses on Indonesia's logistics sector, with roughly 70 per cent of the island's distribution routes traversing watershed areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides. The Head of BPDAS Cimanuk-Citanduy, which manages 3.

US to withdraw all troops from Syria

The United States has decided to withdraw its remaining approximately 1,000 troops from Syria within the next two months, following a gradual drawdown over recent months. Washington considers the military presence no longer necessary as the Syrian Democratic Forces have been largely dissolved and integrated into Syrian state structures, though some officials warn the pullout risks enabling an ISIS resurgence.

Spotlight on Drug-Involved Officers: National Police Internal Affairs to Conduct Routine Urine Tests

The Indonesian National Police's Internal Affairs Division (Divpropam) has announced it will conduct routine urine tests across all personnel following persistent drug abuse cases among officers.

KPK Does Not Extend Travel Ban on Maktour Boss Fuad Hasan in Hajj Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has declined to extend the overseas travel ban on Maktour director Fuad Hasan Masyhur, as the new Criminal Procedure Code restricts such bans to suspects only, and Fuad remains a witness. The KPK has instead extended travel bans for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his special aide, both named suspects in a hajj quota corruption case estimated to have caused over Rp1 trillion in state losses.

Pertamina: Fuel Distribution Safe Despite Cargo Plane Incident in Nunukan

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Kalimantan has assured the public that fuel stocks and distribution remain normal following a cargo aircraft crash in Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. The company has prepared alternative distribution schemes to maintain supply to the border region, where fuel is delivered under the government's One Price Fuel programme.

Modus Operandi of Islamic Boarding School Leader in NTB Who Allegedly Raped Female Students

The head of an Islamic boarding school in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, identified as AJN, has been named a suspect for repeatedly sexually abusing female students using religiously deviant manipulation tactics. Police arrested AJN at Lombok International Airport and have charged him under Indonesia's 2022 Sexual Violence Act, which carries a maximum sentence of 16 years' imprisonment for repeated sexual abuse within educational institutions.

Barelang Police Uncover Extortion of Malaysian National Using Dating App Scheme

Police in Batam have arrested three suspects who extorted a Malaysian tourist of 5,000 ringgit (approximately Rp20 million) using a same-sex dating application as bait. The suspects, all recidivists with prior convictions for violent theft, lured the victim to an empty house before threatening him with wooden weapons and demanding money, which was subsequently linked to online gambling transfers.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Crashes in Nunukan

A PT Pelita Air Service aircraft carrying fuel for PT Pertamina's operations crashed in the mountainous Pabetung Remayo area of East Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. The Air Tractor AT802, registered as PK-PAA, was operating the Tarakan–Long Bawan–Tarakan route when the incident occurred on Thursday, with TNI soldiers and local residents working to extinguish the resulting fire.

Thomas Djiwandono Affirms Strong Banking Resilience Against External Pressures in Maiden BI Board Meeting

Bank Indonesia's newly appointed Deputy Governor Thomas Djiwandono used his first Board of Governors Meeting to affirm that the country's banking sector remains resilient against external pressure scenarios, citing liquidity stress test results.

Former Bima City Police Chief Claims He Never Ordered Subordinate to Collaborate with Drug Dealer

Former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been dishonourably discharged after a Police Code of Ethics Commission hearing found he solicited and received money from a drug dealer through a subordinate, misused narcotics, and engaged in sexual misconduct. Through his lawyer, Didik denied ordering his former narcotics unit head to cooperate with the dealer, claiming drugs found in his suitcase were unclaimed evidence from a previous posting in North Jakarta dating back to 2019.

Dony Oskaria Visits Temporary Shelter Residents in Malalo, Tanah Datar

Danantara COO Dony Oskaria visited temporary shelters built by state-owned enterprises (SOEs) for communities affected by flash floods in Malalo, Tanah Datar, West Sumatra, to inspect facilities and accelerate post-disaster recovery.

Prabowo Attends Inaugural Board of Peace Summit at US Institute of Peace

President Prabowo Subianto attended the inaugural Board of Peace summit on Gaza in Washington DC, hosted by US President Donald Trump at the US Institute of Peace. Indonesia's leader was given the fourth speaking slot in the intervention session, following Bahrain, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, underscoring Jakarta's diplomatic engagement on the Palestinian issue alongside representatives from more than 20 nations.

Ministry of Trade pushes MSMEs to break into Australia through export bootcamp

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has launched a 30-day export bootcamp through its Canberra Trade Attaché office, targeting up to 2,000 MSME participants to help them penetrate Australian and Pacific markets. The programme addresses gaps in export literacy among Indonesian small businesses, leveraging the IA-CEPA trade agreement that grants zero-tariff access for approximately 99 per cent of Indonesian export tariff lines to Australia, a market with annual imports exceeding US$280 billion.

Undisbursed Loans Rise to Rp2,506 Trillion in January 2026 as Thomas Djiwandono Addresses Banking Liquidity

Bank Indonesia recorded undisbursed loans in the banking sector reaching Rp2,506 trillion in January 2026, up from Rp2,439 trillion the previous month, representing 22.65 per cent of available credit ceilings. BI Deputy Governor Thomas Djiwandono sought to reassure markets by stressing that banking liquidity and capital resilience remain strong, with the central bank having conducted stress tests and deployed macroprudential incentives worth Rp427.5 trillion to encourage lending.

Gaza National Committee Chair Arrives in US to Attend Board of Peace Meeting

Ali Shaath, chair of the Palestinian Technocrat Committee overseeing Gaza's day-to-day governance, has arrived in Washington to attend the inaugural meeting of the US-established Board of Peace. Shaath is expected to present his 100-day plan for rebuilding Gaza, whilst the meeting — attended by around two dozen world leaders — will discuss over $5 billion in pledges and the launch of an International Stabilisation Force for the territory.

DPR Wives' Association Distributes 3,500 Charity and Staple Food Packages Ahead of Ramadan 1447 H

The DPR's Wives' Association (PIA) distributed 3,500 charity and basic necessities packages to orphans and support staff within the parliamentary complex, including cleaners, office boys, security personnel, gardeners, and honorary employees, ahead of Ramadan. House Speaker Puan Maharani underscored the initiative as a manifestation of mutual cooperation and called on all parliamentary elements to use Ramadan to strengthen social solidarity and commitment to the public.

KPK Investigates Function of Safe House in South Tangerang Raided in Customs Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating a safe house in Ciputat, South Tangerang, linked to an alleged bribery scheme involving Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials at the Ministry of Finance. Investigators seized over Rp 5 billion in cash across five suitcases containing multiple currencies during a raid, with the KPK describing the use of safe houses to stash bribe money as a widespread pattern in customs corruption cases.

Bank Danamon Still Assessing Buy Now Pay Later Business Expansion

Bank Danamon is exploring entry into the buy now pay later (BNPL) segment to strengthen its retail penetration, though it remains in the business model assessment phase and is considering distribution through group entity Home Credit Indonesia or collaboration with MUFG Group's startup ecosystem. The bank posted solid FY2025 results with consolidated net profit of Rp4 trillion (up 14% year-on-year), total lending of Rp212.7 trillion (up 9%), and improved asset quality with NPL falling to 1.7%.

Judicial Review of Police Law: Advocates Seek to Place Police Under Home Affairs Ministry

Three advocates have filed a judicial review at Indonesia's Constitutional Court challenging provisions that place the National Police directly under the President, arguing this structure creates political bias and discrimination against lawyers defending opposition interests. The petitioners are requesting that the police be placed under the Ministry of Home Affairs to improve institutional accountability, control, and democratic integrity.

Agrarian Affairs Minister hands over substantive approval for North Sulawesi spatial plan

The Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning has formally delivered substantive approval for North Sulawesi's Regional Spatial Plan (RTRW), marking the completion of a process that began in 2019. The provincial government will now proceed to secure joint approval from the provincial legislature in a plenary session scheduled for 24 February 2026, with only three of North Sulawesi's 15 districts and cities having thus far enacted their own spatial planning regulations.

Hutama Karya Continues Clean Water Installation for Agam Temporary Housing

State-owned construction firm PT Hutama Karya is pressing ahead with clean water infrastructure for the second phase of temporary housing (huntara) in Palembayan, Agam Regency, West Sumatra, with completion targeted for 22 February 2026. The project involves laying 800 metres of pipeline to supply 88 housing units, sourcing water from a river 3.3 kilometres away, whilst employing 26 local workers in the construction effort.

Indonesian Police Confirm Continued Criminal Investigation into Former Bima City Police Chief's Drug Case

Indonesia's National Police have confirmed they will continue pursuing criminal narcotics charges against former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro despite his dishonourable dismissal from the force. The ethics tribunal found Didik guilty of soliciting money from drug dealers through a subordinate, drug abuse, and sexual misconduct, whilst police are now hunting a drug network supplier identified only as "E.

Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs Completes 39 Permanent Houses in North Aceh

The Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs has completed 39 of a planned 104 permanent housing units for flood victims in Kuala Cangkoy village, North Aceh district. Coordinating Minister Djamari Chaniago expressed confidence that all units would be finished by the end of March 2026, in time for residents to celebrate Ramadan in their new homes.

Attorney General's Office Raids 16 Offices and Homes in POME Case, Six Vehicles Seized

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has conducted raids on 16 premises across Medan and Pekanbaru in connection with a massive corruption case involving the manipulation of crude palm oil export codes to circumvent export restrictions. The scheme, which allegedly caused state losses of between Rp10.6 trillion and Rp14.3 trillion, involved reclassifying CPO shipments under palm oil mill effluent codes, with 11 suspects identified including senior customs and industry officials.

US Forces Ready to Strike Iran This Weekend

US forces have reportedly been positioned to launch strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has yet to make a final decision. The development follows the deployment of air and naval assets to the Middle East, with officials warning that military action against Iran risks triggering a far broader regional conflict than the limited operation in Venezuela in January.

Communications Minister sees mainstream media as key guardian of information credibility

Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid has underscored the critical role of mainstream media in safeguarding information credibility amid a surge of disinformation that threatens public perception of national policy and Indonesia's standing on global issues.

Lampung Police Deploy 3,742 Joint Personnel to Secure 2026 Eid Homecoming

Lampung Regional Police will deploy 3,742 joint personnel across 80 strategic posts during Operation Ketupat Krakatau 2026, running from 13 to 25 March, to secure the annual Eid al-Fitr homecoming traffic.

NasDem Hosts Iftar Inviting Political Party Elites to Discuss Supporting Prabowo's Programmes

The NasDem Party hosted an iftar gathering on the first day of Ramadan attended by senior political figures including former Vice President Jusuf Kalla, Gerindra's Sufmi Dasco, PDIP's Puan Maharani, PAN's Zulkifli Hasan, and PKS's Al Muzammil Yusuf, to discuss cross-party support for President Prabowo Subianto's government programmes.

Takjil Bazaar in Takengon Thronged by Disaster Survivors

A takjil (pre-iftar snack) bazaar in Takengon, Central Aceh, has drawn large crowds including survivors of the Sumatra disaster, signalling early signs of economic recovery in the region. The bazaar is part of the Central Aceh regency's broader efforts to revive the local economy, complementing a subsidised market programme organised by the Aceh provincial government in collaboration with Bulog across 23 districts ahead of Ramadan.

PKS on Permanent Coalition Proposal: It Must Not Be Narrowed to Elite Interests

PKS President Almuzzammil Yusuf responded to Golkar Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia's permanent coalition proposal, warning that such an arrangement must serve the nation's interests rather than those of political elites. Citing the August 2025 demonstrations in Indonesia and protests in Nepal and Bulgaria as cautionary examples, Almuzzammil stressed that any permanent coalition must unite elite and popular aspirations, warning that ignoring public sentiment risks renewed unrest.

Genesis prepares to enter Indonesia, begins consultation phase with customers

Hyundai's luxury marque Genesis is nearing its official launch in Indonesia, with a dedicated team currently conducting VIP sales consultations with existing Genesis owners in the country. The move signals Genesis's intent to compete directly with established premium brands such as Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz in the Indonesian automotive market, though no official launch date has yet been announced.

Indonesia to Raise West Bank Issue at Board of Peace Meeting

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has confirmed it will raise the issue of Israel's expansion of annexation in the occupied West Bank at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington DC.

Acting Bima City Police Chief Alleged to Have Drug History, National Police Headquarters Responds

Indonesia's National Police headquarters has defended the appointment of AKBP Catur Setiawan as acting Bima City police chief despite allegations he has a history of narcotics use. Catur, who tested positive for methamphetamine in 2017 while serving as head of a narcotics unit, was appointed to temporarily replace the previous police chief who was named a suspect in a drug case. The appointment raises serious questions about vetting standards within the Indonesian National Police.

CGTN: Private Sector — Key Actor Accelerating China's Economic Priorities in 2026 and Beyond

CGTN has published an analysis highlighting the pivotal role of China's private sector in driving the country's economic development priorities, including domestic consumption, technological innovation, and economic openness. Private enterprises now account for over 92 per cent of China's high-tech firms, contributed 57.3 per cent of total trade last year, and generated 71.7 per cent of national sales revenue in the first half of 2025.

US Forces on Standby to Strike Iran as Trump Weighs Options

US forces have reportedly been positioned to launch strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has yet to make a final decision. Trump convened a meeting with senior advisers including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to review diplomatic and military options, with officials warning that military action against Iran risks triggering a far broader regional conflict than the limited Venezuela operation in January.

Dave Laksono Hails Prabowo-Bahlil Energy Diplomacy in US as a Bold Move

A senior Indonesian parliamentarian has praised President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to Washington in February 2026 as a substantive push for energy self-sufficiency and downstream industrialisation, rather than mere ceremony.

Fallout from Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik's Drug Case: National Police Chief Orders Urine Tests for All Officers

Indonesia's National Police Chief has ordered mandatory urine testing for all police officers nationwide following the dismissal of former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro over a narcotics abuse case. The sweeping directive, described as an internal clean-up effort, comes after a Police Code of Ethics Commission hearing resulted in Didik's dishonourable discharge, raising concerns about drug use within the force undermining the President's narcotics eradication programme.

Bank Indonesia confident inflation will remain contained during Ramadan 1447 H

Bank Indonesia expects inflation to remain slightly above 3 per cent during the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period, marginally exceeding its 2.5 per cent (±1 percentage point) target due to base effects from last year's electricity discount policy. January 2026 CPI inflation reached 3.55 per cent year-on-year, though the central bank considers this temporary, with core inflation remaining low at 2.45 per cent and volatile food inflation well contained at 1.

Home Affairs Minister Breaks Fast with Aceh Tamiang Flood Evacuees

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian held an iftar gathering with flood evacuees at temporary shelters in Karang Baru, Aceh Tamiang, marking the first day of Ramadan. The minister assessed recovery progress following the devastating flash floods of late November 2025, whilst military personnel prepared 2,500 portions of traditional Acehnese kuah beulangong for approximately 600 displaced families and surrounding residents.

Missing Hiker Found Safe on Mount Ijen

A 16-year-old hiker who went missing on the Ijen Crater trail in Banyuwangi was found alive after a joint search-and-rescue operation employing thermal drones and vertical rescue techniques. The operation involved multiple government agencies including the Search and Rescue Office, military, police, BKSDA, and BPBD, highlighting the coordination of Indonesia's emergency response apparatus in remote terrain incidents.

AI Literacy Becomes the Foundation for Human Resources in the Digital Economy Era

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture has partnered with technology education firm Dicoding to launch "Bijak Cerdas Berdigital dan Ber-AI," a free online learning platform aimed at equipping the public with safe, ethical, and productive AI skills.

KPK Lifts Travel Ban on Maktour Boss Fuad Hasan in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has declined to extend a travel ban on Maktour Travel owner Fuad Hasan Masyhur, previously barred from leaving the country in connection with the hajj quota corruption investigation.

Two Fake Police Officers Arrested in Depok After Extorting Parking Attendants with Toy Gun

Two young men were apprehended by residents at Depok Terminal after posing as police officers to extort parking attendants, using a toy gun and a jacket bearing Jakarta Metropolitan Police insignia. The suspects, who forcibly demanded money from their victims, are now being held at Depok Metropolitan Police for further investigation, with evidence including the fake police jacket, red cable ties, and the toy pistol seized.

Firecracker Production House Explodes in Kendal, One Worker Injured with Fracture

An illegal firecracker production facility in Kendal, Central Java exploded on 18 February, injuring a 21-year-old worker who sustained burns and a fractured left leg from blast debris. Police identified the house owner as a suspected large-scale firecracker producer, raising questions about the regulation and enforcement of unlicensed pyrotechnics manufacturing in the region.

China Still Borrows From the West for Highest Tech

China's state-owned aerospace manufacturer COMAC continues to depend on Western technology partnerships for its C929 wide-body airliner programme, particularly in avionics and jet engine development, underscoring persistent gaps in high-end manufacturing capability.

Residents urged to maintain cleanliness of public facilities in Jakarta

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have launched the ASRI (Aman Sehat Resik dan Indah) initiative, a national cleanliness campaign mobilising police, military, local government, and community elements to maintain public facilities across the capital.

Ministry of Social Affairs: People's School Recruitment Without Academic Selection

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has confirmed that recruitment for the government's People's School programme will bypass academic selection, instead relying on administrative verification to ensure only children from poor and vulnerable families are enrolled.

Legislator demands legal certainty for palm oil operators following forest area enforcement

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission IV has called for legal certainty and investment guarantees for palm oil companies and smallholders affected by the government's forest area enforcement task force, noting that the issue partly stems from past government failures.

Exchange Rate at Rp 16,880 per US Dollar as Bank Indonesia Reveals Factors Behind Rupiah Pressure

Bank Indonesia has disclosed that the rupiah is currently in an undervalued position against the US dollar, trading at Rp 16,880. The central bank is working to ensure its exchange rate stabilisation policies shield the currency from the negative effects of financial market uncertainty.

Ministry confirms pilot of Pelita Air charter plane died in crash

The pilot of a Pelita Air Service cargo plane, Captain Hendrick Lodewyck Adam, was killed when his Air Tractor AT-802 crashed in North Kalimantan while transporting Pertamina fuel from Long Bawan to Tarakan. The aircraft was part of the government's One Price Fuel programme delivering fuel to remote border areas, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Directorate General of Air Transportation.

Rising from Disaster: Universitas Andalas Scouts Support Farmer Groups and Youth Organisation near Campus

Fifty students from Universitas Andalas's Scout unit have deployed to the flood-affected Kapalo Koto sub-district in Padang to assist farmer groups and the local youth organisation through a programme called SAKABA, funded under the Ministry of Higher Education's Impactful Student Programme.

Batang Regency Tightens Three-Axle Truck Operations on Northern Coast Road

Batang Regency in Central Java is coordinating with multiple agencies to restrict the operation of three-axle trucks along the northern coast (pantura) road to improve safety and traffic flow. The measures include limiting truck access at the Kandeman toll exit, requiring heavy vehicles to use the toll road during daytime hours, and clearing illegal roadside businesses encroaching on national road space.

About the 'KPK Officer' Who Demanded Rp 10 Billion to Drop the Manpower Ministry Case

During the ongoing corruption trial over foreign worker permit irregularities at the Ministry of Manpower, a witness testified that a person claiming to be a KPK officer demanded Rp 10 billion to halt the investigation, ultimately receiving Rp 1 billion from one of the eight defendants.

How the Riau Police Chief Is Building New Habits: Rejecting Flower Boards, Choosing Tree Seedlings

Riau Provincial Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has ordered personnel to replace the tradition of ceremonial flower boards with tree seedlings at all official and personal events, as part of a cultural shift towards environmental consciousness. The policy, announced at the 2026 Riau Provincial Police Leadership Meeting, aligns with the force's Green Policing programme and aims to transform symbolic gestures into lasting conservation action across the province.

House Commission I Chairman: Give Prabowo the Chance to Attend the Board of Peace

House of Representatives Commission I Chairman Utut Adianto has urged all political parties to support President Prabowo Subianto's attendance at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in the United States, established by President Trump to address the Gaza ceasefire. Prabowo, who arrived in Washington DC on 18 February, is also set to hold bilateral talks with Trump on a reciprocal trade agreement, whilst Indonesia maintains its principled stance on Palestinian independence.

Dasco, Puan and Anies Attend Iftar Gathering at NasDem Tower

The NasDem Party hosted an iftar gathering on the first day of Ramadan at NasDem Tower in Jakarta, drawing senior political figures from across party lines including Vice President Jusuf Kalla, Gerindra's Sufmi Dasco, House Speaker Puan Maharani, and former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan. The event, led by NasDem chairman Surya Paloh, underscored efforts to maintain cross-party fraternity amid Indonesia's complex political landscape.

Not Just Drugs: Ethics Hearing Reveals Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik

The National Police Ethics Commission (KKEP) has dishonourably discharged former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro after an ethics hearing uncovered allegations of sexual misconduct in addition to prior narcotics abuse charges. The panel, which heard testimony from 18 witnesses, cited violations of the police professional code of ethics relating to both drug misuse and sexual deviance as the primary grounds for dismissal.

Coordinating Minister Zulhas Urges Nutrition Service Units to Obtain Hygiene Certificates to Guarantee MBG Quality

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has called on Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) across Indonesia to secure Hygiene Sanitation Feasibility Certificates (SLHS) to ensure food safety standards in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. As of January 2026, only 4,535 of the nation's 19,188 SPPG units — roughly 23 per cent — have achieved SLHS certification, highlighting the scale of the compliance challenge ahead.

Residents Back DKI Jakarta's Plan to Tighten Padel Court Permits

Residents of Cilandak, South Jakarta, have voiced support for the DKI Jakarta provincial government's plan to impose stricter regulations on padel court permits in the capital, citing persistent noise disturbances from courts built near residential areas. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has moved to convene relevant parties to discuss permit violations, following complaints from residents in the Haji Nawi Raya area who have reported noise issues since November 2025.

Indonesia Insists Board of Peace Must Align with UN Security Council for Palestinian Peace

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has stressed that the Board of Peace must operate in alignment with the UN Security Council to maintain credibility in advancing peace in Gaza. Speaking at a UNSC meeting, he reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to multilateralism and the Palestinian people's rights, ahead of President Prabowo Subianto's attendance at the Board of Peace's inaugural heads-of-state meeting in Washington DC.

Drug cases persist as National Police Professional Division orders urine testing of all personnel

The Indonesian National Police's Professional and Security Division (Divpropam) has ordered simultaneous urine testing across all police personnel following persistent drug abuse cases within the force, framed as part of President Prabowo's Astacita programme. The announcement came as the Police Ethics Commission dishonourably dismissed former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro for narcotics abuse, receiving money linked to drug trafficking, and sexual misconduct.

Indonesia, United Kingdom, and Partners Strengthen Land-to-Sea Conservation in Southwest Papua

Indonesia and the United Kingdom, alongside consortium partners, are reinforcing ridge-to-reef conservation efforts connecting terrestrial, coastal, and marine ecosystems in Southwest Papua. The initiative, supported through the Darwin Initiative Extra project, represents a concrete outcome of the newly launched Indonesia-UK Strategic Partnership, with 1.7 million hectares of conservation areas in the region serving as habitat for numerous protected species.

BSI targets customer expansion through Ramadan promotional programme

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has launched its BSI Fest Ramadan 2026 programme with an expanded range of promotions designed to broaden its customer base, including gold instalment plans, housing finance deals, and vehicle purchase incentives.

InJourney and Pandawara Group Hold Beach Clean-Up in Bali to Strengthen Sustainable Tourism

State-owned aviation and tourism holding company InJourney partnered with environmental community group Pandawara Group to conduct a beach clean-up at Kelan Beach in Bali, collecting over 2.25 tonnes of waste. The cross-sector initiative, involving government agencies, airport stakeholders, local communities and students, underscores Indonesia's push towards sustainable tourism and collective environmental responsibility at one of Bali's premier tourist destinations.

Bogor Police Distribute Free Iftar Snacks Along Pakansari Route

The Bogor Police Resort launched a month-long iftar distribution programme along the Pakansari route, handing out 200 food packages daily to motorists and residents as part of its "Good Police" community engagement initiative. Led by Police Chief AKBP Wikha Ardilestanto, the programme aims to assist those unable to break their fast at home during Ramadan.

Danantara builds permanent housing in Tanah Datar as part of economic recovery effort

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has commenced construction of permanent housing in Tanah Datar regency, West Sumatra, as part of a post-disaster recovery strategy aimed at reviving the region's economy. With West Sumatra's economic growth languishing at around 3.5 per cent and inflation at 6 per cent, Danantara COO Dony Oskaria warned of potential social problems, whilst announcing plans for a People's School accommodating 3,000 students alongside the housing programme.

North Sumatra HMI Finds No Intervention by Chief Prosecutor in Professorship Nomination

The North Sumatra branch of the Islamic Students' Association (HMI) has defended the North Sumatra Chief Prosecutor, Harli Siregar, against allegations of intervening in a university professorship nomination process.

House Commission I: Prabowo Should Be Given Opportunity to Defend Palestine at Board of Peace

The chairman of Indonesia's House Commission I on foreign affairs, Utut Adianto, has voiced support for President Prabowo Subianto's participation in the Board of Peace forum to advocate for Palestinian humanitarian interests in Gaza. Whilst backing the diplomatic initiative, Commission I emphasised that Indonesia must not become involved in any military engagement. Prabowo attended the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington D.C.

Traffic Management for Eid Homecoming at Merak Port Prepared, Effective from 14 March

Banten Regional Police have prepared a comprehensive traffic management plan for the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming period at Merak Port, effective 14-28 March. The scheme segregates vehicles across three ports by type, establishes buffer zones along the route from Tangerang to Ciwandan, and restricts ferry ticket purchases within a 4.71-kilometre radius of the port to prevent congestion.

Former Bima Police Chief Dismissed; National Police Pledge Firm Action Against Officers Who Break the Law

Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been dishonourably discharged from the Indonesian National Police following an ethics hearing that found him guilty of narcotics abuse and sexual misconduct. The decision, announced at National Police headquarters, underscores the force's stated commitment to taking decisive action against officers involved in criminal behaviour, particularly drug-related offences deemed "extraordinary crimes."

Serang Regency optimises 3R waste processing facilities and village waste banks to tackle rubbish problem

Serang Regency in Banten is pushing to build and optimise Reduce-Reuse-Recycle waste processing facilities across all sub-districts and establish waste banks in every village as part of a comprehensive upstream-to-downstream waste management strategy.

Illegal Parking Attendants in Tanah Abang Arrested Despite Rano's Earlier Remark That 'Once a Year Is Fine'

Jakarta police arrested eight illegal parking attendants at Tanah Abang Market who were charging up to Rp100,000 per vehicle, prompting a crackdown involving the civil service police, the national police, and the military.

Surviving Five Decades, Mitsubishi Fuso Refuses to Be Complacent

Mitsubishi Fuso has maintained its position as Indonesia's commercial vehicle market leader for 55 consecutive years, achieving a 39.9 per cent market share in 2025. The Fuso Canter light-duty truck remains the backbone of sales with a dominant 55.1 per cent segment share, whilst the Fighter X strengthens the medium-duty truck category amid an evolving automotive industry landscape.

The Future of Education After Davos

An opinion piece by the Vice Rector of Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) identifies five paradoxes in Indonesia's education policy exposed by the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, including the gap between rhetorical commitment and budgetary reality. The author argues that Indonesia's sovereignty depends on strengthening education quality rather than expanding quantity, warning that without proper foundations, technologies like AI risk widening inequality rather than bridging it.

House of Representatives Approves Indonesia's Acceptance of Japanese Patrol Vessel Grant Worth Rp 205 Billion

Indonesia's House of Representatives has unanimously approved the acceptance of a Japanese patrol boat grant valued at 1.9 billion yen (approximately Rp 205 billion) for the Indonesian Navy, delivered through Japan's Official Security Assistance programme. The grant, which requires no state budget expenditure, is expected to strengthen maritime security across Indonesia's vast waters whilst deepening bilateral defence cooperation between Jakarta and Tokyo.

PDIP Considers Parliamentary Threshold Difficult to Lower, Predicts Above 5 Per Cent

PDIP politician Aria Bima has predicted Indonesia's parliamentary threshold will remain above 5 per cent, arguing that lowering it would be impractical given the current 13-commission structure of the DPR. The Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission II noted that all existing factions already hold vote shares above 6 per cent and stressed that representativeness should be assessed qualitatively, not merely quantitatively.

Olly Dondokambey Opens Men's Rise Communication Forum, Highlights Role of Family Heads

Olly Dondokambey, Vice Chairman of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI), opened the Men's Rise Communication Forum Camp in North Sulawesi, emphasising that social problems often stem from inadequate fulfilment of the family head's role. The event, supported by Men's Fellowship organisations across various synods, aims to strengthen the role of Christian men in family life and church service, with plans to replicate the forum across synods nationwide.

Bank Indonesia Projects Q1 2026 Economic Growth to Remain High

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has stated the central bank projects Indonesia's economic growth in the first quarter of 2026 will remain elevated. The forecast is underpinned by positive momentum carried through from the opening months of the quarter, signalling continued confidence in the country's macroeconomic trajectory.

4,870 Pothole Points Identified in Central Java; Provincial Government Targets Smooth Roads Before Lebaran Homecoming

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has pledged to repair all 4,870 identified pothole points across the province's 2,362-kilometre road network before the Lebaran homecoming exodus begins in the third week of March 2026. The announcement came as he inaugurated two completed road preservation projects in Pemalang worth a combined Rp50.82 billion, underscoring the provincial government's dual focus on road safety and regional economic connectivity.

Prabowo encourages US firm to expand health sector investment

President Prabowo used a business summit in Washington, D.C. to urge General Electric to deepen its medical equipment manufacturing presence in Indonesia, linking the opportunity to the establishment of 10 new STEM and medical universities. Highlighting a shortage of roughly 140,000 doctors and an annual graduation rate of only 10,000, Prabowo framed expanded medical education as a catalyst for broader US–Indonesia commercial cooperation in the health sector.

Following Mediation, Padel Court Operator in Cilandak Promises to Install Soundproofing

Residents of Jalan Haji Nawi in Cilandak, South Jakarta, held mediation with the operator of a padel court facility, Fourthwall Padel, over persistent noise disturbances reaching 80 decibels from early morning until late at night. The operator has committed to installing soundproofing within 35 days, whilst residents are demanding a full operational shutdown and a government audit of the facility's building permits, which had already received multiple warning letters during construction.

RPTKA Trial: Witness Bayu Denies Posing as KPK Investigator to Extort Rp10 Billion

A witness named Bayu Widodo Sugiarto, a former journalist, denied allegations that he impersonated a KPK investigator and attempted to extort Rp10 billion from a defendant in the foreign worker permit (RPTKA) corruption case at the Ministry of Manpower. The sprawling case involves eight former ministry officials accused of receiving a total of Rp135.29 billion in illicit payments from foreign worker agents between 2017 and 2025, with charges levied under Indonesia's anti-corruption laws.

NasDem Iftar: Surya Paloh Urges Party Members to Resist Temptation

NasDem Party chairman Surya Paloh used a Ramadan iftar gathering at NasDem Tower in Jakarta to call on cadres to strengthen their resilience against various temptations, framing the holy month as an opportunity for spiritual and political renewal.

Condition of Pelita Air Aircraft That Crashed in Nunukan

A Pelita Air Service fuel-transport aircraft (Air Tractor AT-802) crashed and burned in the mountains of Krayan, Nunukan, North Kalimantan on 19 February 2026, killing its sole crew member, Captain Hendrick Lodewyck Adam. The aircraft, which served the government's One Price Fuel programme delivering fuel to remote border areas, was found severely damaged with only its metal frame remaining, prompting a joint investigation by Pelita Air and the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT).

IPR Reveals Why Defence Minister Sjafrie Has a Chance of Entering the 2029 Presidential Candidate Race

A political analyst from Indonesia Political Review (IPR) has assessed that Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin is a logical contender for the 2029 presidential race, citing his central role in the Prabowo-Gibran administration and his leadership of the Forest Zone Enforcement Task Force. However, the analyst cautioned that Sjafrie's prospects would be virtually impossible should President Prabowo Subianto seek a second term.

Ray Rangkuti: Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin Adds to List of Individual Presidential Candidates for 2029 Election

Political analyst Ray Rangkuti argues that Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin's emergence as a potential 2029 presidential candidate extends a growing trend of individual figures — rather than party-backed politicians — entering Indonesia's highest electoral contests.

Indonesia and India move to expand strategic ties in digital affairs

Indonesia and India discussed broadening their digital cooperation during a bilateral meeting at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, covering AI democratisation, digital public infrastructure, semiconductors, cybersecurity and human resource development.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo: Sekolah Rakyat Pupils Admitted Without Academic Selection

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has confirmed that admission to the government's Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools) programme is based solely on family economic conditions rather than academic selection, targeting children from the poorest households in deciles 1 and 2 of the national socio-economic database.

Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Officially Dismissed from Police Force for Receiving Money from Drug Dealers

The National Police Ethics Commission has formally dismissed former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro with dishonourable discharge over a narcotics-related case. The ruling follows findings that the senior officer received money from drug traffickers, marking another significant anti-corruption action within Indonesia's law enforcement ranks.

Prince Andrew Arrested on Suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest marks a significant legal development for the former senior member of the British royal family, who had previously been stripped of his royal titles and public duties.

Prabowo Reassures Global Investors: Indonesia Has Never Defaulted on Debt

President Prabowo Subianto told American business leaders at a Gala Iftar Business Summit in Washington DC that Indonesia has never defaulted on its debt obligations throughout its history. Bank Indonesia data shows the country's external debt stood at US$431.7 billion at end-Q4 2025, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 29.9 per cent and long-term borrowings comprising 85.7 per cent of the total, underscoring the structural soundness of Indonesia's debt position.

Jakarta Council Members Call on Civil Service Police to Monitor Padel Court Operating Hours

Jakarta DPRD members from both PDI-P and Gerindra factions are urging the provincial government to deploy Satpol PP for routine inspections of padel courts following mounting resident complaints about late-night noise disturbances. Legislators are calling for tighter licensing requirements, enforceable operating hour restrictions — particularly during Ramadan — and potentially a new Governor's Regulation to govern sporting facilities in residential areas.

Body of Pelita Air Pilot Found After Fuel-Carrying Aircraft Crashes in Nunukan

The Indonesian military has recovered the body of a PT Pelita Air Service pilot whose Air Tractor AT802 aircraft crashed in the Pabetung Remayo mountain range in East Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. The aircraft had been transporting fuel for PT Pertamina on a Tarakan–Long Bawan route and crashed shortly after departing on its unladen return leg. A joint search team continues to look for the aircraft's black box to support the ongoing investigation.

Viral Noise Complaint Forces Haji Nawi Padel Court Owner to Install Soundproofing and Restrict Operating Hours

Following months of resident complaints and a viral social media post, the owner of a padel court on Jalan Haji Nawi Raya in South Jakarta has agreed through sub-district mediation to install soundproofing within 35 days and slash operating hours from 18 to just five hours daily.

Elderly Man Found Murdered by Neighbour in Indramayu, Body Discovered in Workshop

A 60-year-old man identified by the initial K was found dead, covered in blood, in a workshop in Karangtumaritis Village, Haurgeulis District, Indramayu Regency. The murder, allegedly committed by a neighbour, has shocked the local community.

Anies Baswedan and Political Party Elites Attend NasDem Iftar Gathering

NasDem Party's iftar event on the first day of Ramadan drew a broad cross-section of Indonesia's political elite, including leaders from PKS, PAN, Gerindra, PDI-P, PKB, and Golkar, alongside former Vice President Jusuf Kalla and Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf.

Jakarta Police Urge Community Organisations to Maintain Tolerance During Ramadan, Refrain from Restaurant Raids

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have called on community organisations (ormas) to refrain from conducting unauthorised sweeping operations at restaurants during Ramadan, emphasising the importance of interfaith tolerance. The police stressed that restaurant operating hours are regulated by local government authorities and urged the public to report violations through official channels rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Jakarta Council Member Pushes for Noise Standards in Padel Court Permits

A Jakarta DPRD Commission D member is urging the provincial government to require environmental impact assessments, particularly regarding noise levels, for commercial padel court permits near residential areas. The push comes after residents in South Jakarta's Haji Nawi area complained about noise from a nearby padel facility, prompting Governor Pramono Anung to pledge a stakeholder meeting to review permits and operations.

Police: Former Bima City Police Chief Also Found Guilty of Sexual Misconduct

Former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been dishonourably discharged after a police ethics tribunal found him guilty of soliciting and receiving money from drug dealers, as well as sexual misconduct uncovered during the investigation. The officer accepted the ruling without appeal, marking another high-profile case of institutional misconduct within the Indonesian National Police.

Manggarai Station Packed Before Iftar on First Day of Ramadan, Two Platforms Most Crowded

Manggarai Station in South Jakarta experienced heavy crowding on the first day of Ramadan as commuters rushed to reach home before iftar. Platforms serving the Bogor and Bekasi/Cikarang lines were the most congested, with passenger volumes compounded by workers leaving early under Ramadan-adjusted office hours and people heading out for iftar gatherings.

Pramono Targets Return to Normal Chilli Prices Within Two Weeks

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced provincial government intervention to stabilise chilli prices ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, expressing confidence that prices will normalise within one to two weeks as rainfall subsides.

Ahmad Luthfi Offers Investment Opportunities Across Multiple Sectors During Meeting with Indian Ambassador and Business Leaders

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi pitched new investment opportunities in green economy, medical workforce, and labour-intensive garment manufacturing to Indian Ambassador Shri Sandeep Chakravorty and accompanying business leaders. Indian investment in the province currently ranks 17th at Rp 646.52 billion, whilst Central Java's total realised investment in 2025 reached a ten-year high of Rp 88.50 trillion.

Noisy Padel Court Dispute in Cilandak, South Jakarta Resolved Through Village Head Mediation

A noise dispute between residents and the owner of a padel court facility in the Haji Nawi Raya area of Cilandak, South Jakarta, has been resolved through mediation led by the Gandaria Selatan village head. The agreement requires the installation of soundproofing and restricts operating hours to between 2pm and 7pm, whilst the facility's building permit number remains pending despite having completed its hearing.

Foreign Minister Lavrov on Russia-US Relations: Pragmatic, Must Seize Benefits from Every Project

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has characterised the current Russia-US relationship as pragmatic, with both nations acknowledging each other's national interests. However, he highlighted a tension between Washington's stated desire for cooperation and its simultaneous efforts to push Russia out of global energy markets, noting that a bilateral economic working group has been established to address these issues.

Andre Rosiade and Dony Oskaria Break Ground on Permanent Housing for Disaster Victims in Tanah Datar

Danantara, Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund managing state-owned enterprises, has commenced construction of 85 permanent housing units for disaster-affected residents in Tanah Datar, West Sumatra, on a 1.8-hectare integrated relocation site with a three-month completion target.

Indonesia Expands Permanent Presence in Mecca with New Pilgrimage Complex and Land Purchases

Indonesia is establishing permanent infrastructure in Mecca by securing approval to build a pilgrim complex and having its sovereign wealth fund Danantara purchase land near the Grand Mosque ahead of the 2026 Hajj. The expansion reflects Indonesia's strategic importance to Saudi Arabia and its role in managing the world's largest Muslim pilgrimage, with over 205,000 Indonesian pilgrims expected.

Nearly 200 Southeast Asians, Including Two Singaporeans, Served in Israeli Military: IDF Data

Official Israeli Defence Forces data obtained by an NGO reveals that nearly 200 Southeast Asian nationals were enlisted in the IDF as of March 2025, including one Indonesian citizen. The figures, which show 111 Filipinos, 71 Thais, four Vietnamese, two Singaporeans and one Indonesian, raise sensitive diplomatic questions given Indonesia's strong pro-Palestinian stance and its lack of formal relations with Israel.

Officially Dismissed: Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Dishonourably Discharged After Being Found to Have Received Money and Narcotics

The National Police Ethics Commission has dishonourably discharged former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro after finding him guilty of accepting money and narcotics from a subordinate officer linked to drug trafficking networks. The ruling, based on testimony from 18 witnesses, also cited narcotics abuse and immoral conduct, underscoring ongoing efforts to root out corruption within the Indonesian National Police.

Prabowo Tells US Firms Not to Worry About Indonesia's Investment Climate

President Prabowo Subianto courted American investors during a visit to Washington, emphasising Indonesia's political stability, fiscal discipline, and competitive mineral resources as reasons to invest. He highlighted the country's consistent 5 per cent economic growth and $53 billion in foreign direct investment throughout 2025, expressing confidence that growth would accelerate further this year.

Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Named Narcotics Suspect, Dishonourably Discharged from National Police

Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been dishonourably discharged from the Indonesian National Police after a disciplinary hearing found him guilty of narcotics abuse and receiving drugs and money from a subordinate officer. The case, which stems from the earlier arrest of the Bima City narcotics unit chief, has prompted an ongoing manhunt for a major drug supplier in the region, raising serious concerns about corruption within local police ranks.

NasDem Hosts Iftar Gathering Attended by JK, Puan and Anies

The NasDem Party held an iftar gathering with orphans at NasDem Tower in Central Jakarta, drawing a high-profile cross-party turnout including former Vice President Jusuf Kalla, House Speaker Puan Maharani, and former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan. Party chairman Surya Paloh said the event was aimed at strengthening political relationships, signalling NasDem's continued efforts to maintain broad political alliances.

Employer Who Assaulted Domestic Worker in Bogor Over Turning Off Stove Named Suspect

Police in Bogor, West Java, have named an employer as a suspect in the assault of her 21-year-old domestic worker, who was beaten for accidentally turning off a stove while cooking. The victim reported enduring six months of physical abuse including kicking, pinching and punching, sustaining injuries to her head, back and hands, with investigators upgrading the case after gathering sufficient evidence.

Start of Ramadan: Puan Emphasises Spirit of Gotong Royong within DPR

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani attended a Ramadan social welfare event organised by the DPR Spouses' Association (PIA), distributing basic food parcels to parliamentary staff and donations to orphans. Puan stressed that the spirit of mutual cooperation and social solidarity must begin within the institution itself, recognising the essential contributions of security guards, cleaning staff, and honorary employees to the DPR's constitutional functions.

Prabowo's Decision to Join Board of Peace Deemed Bold and Appropriate

Indonesian religious leader Gus Miftah has praised President Prabowo Subianto's decision to join the Board of Peace (BoP) for Gaza, calling it a bold but geopolitically sound move consistent with Indonesia's independent and active foreign policy. The planned deployment of 5,000 to 8,000 TNI personnel for technical, engineering and medical assistance signals Indonesia's transition from observer to key actor in Middle East peace efforts.

South Jakarta Police Respond Swiftly to Resident's Report of Silver Street Performer Assault via 110 Hotline

A minor assault occurred in Pancoran, South Jakarta, when a silver-painted street performer threw a gas lighter at a man, prompting residents to call the national police hotline 110. Officers responded promptly and searched for the perpetrators, though the victim declined to press charges as he was uninjured.

Semarang Mayor Pushes Investment, Education and Cultural Cooperation in Meeting with Indian Ambassador

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng met Indian Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty to strengthen bilateral ties in investment, education, tourism and cultural exchange, highlighting existing Indian investments in pharmaceuticals and textiles in the city.

Former Bima Kota Police Chief AKBP Didik Dishonourably Discharged Over Drug Case

The Indonesian National Police's Professional Code of Ethics Commission has dishonourably discharged former Bima Kota police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro after finding him guilty of soliciting and receiving money from drug dealers through a subordinate. Didik, who has also been named a suspect in drug distribution and tested positive via hair follicle analysis, accepted the ruling without appeal, underscoring ongoing concerns about narcotics corruption within the police force.

Residents Complain of All-Day Noise from Padel Court in Cilandak: "It Makes Us Lose Focus"

Residents of Jalan Haji Nawi in Cilandak, South Jakarta, have lodged repeated complaints about persistent noise from a neighbouring padel court that has disrupted daily life since its construction in October 2025. Despite numerous reports through the JAKI municipal app and mediation with the facility's management, residents say they have seen no meaningful resolution, with one resident reporting her blood pressure surging to dangerous levels due to the stress.

Traffic Police Chief Inspects Bocimi Functional Toll Road, Ready for 2026 Lebaran Exodus

The National Traffic Police Corps chief has inspected the readiness of a 5-kilometre functional section of the Bogor-Ciawi-Sukabumi (Bocimi) toll road ahead of the 2026 Lebaran holiday period. The Section 3 stretch from Parung Kuda to Karang Tengah exit is expected to significantly ease congestion on the national arterial road, particularly around the notoriously congested Cibadak Market area, by splitting Jakarta-bound traffic into two routes.

YLBHI Condemns Prabowo's Attendance at Board of Peace Summit

Indonesia's Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) has sharply criticised President Prabowo Subianto's participation in the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington DC, calling it a sign of chaotic foreign policy that downplays crimes against humanity committed by the United States and Israel against Palestinians.

Domestic Worker Assaulted by Employer in Bogor Over Turning Off Stove While Cooking

A 37-year-old employer in Gunung Putri, Bogor, has been reported to police for allegedly assaulting her 21-year-old domestic worker after the worker accidentally turned off the stove during cooking. The abuse, which included kicking, pinching and punching, had reportedly been ongoing for six months, with the victim sustaining injuries to the head, ears, hands and back, raising concerns about the persistent vulnerability of domestic workers in Indonesia.

Prabowo Invites US Investors to Partner with Danantara on Downstream Processing Projects

President Prabowo Subianto announced the signing of a major trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States during a business forum with the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., signalling a deepening of bilateral economic ties.

Bank Indonesia Governor Signals Potential Rate Cut in 2026

Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors held the benchmark BI Rate steady at 4.75 per cent at its February 2026 meeting, but Governor Perry Warjiyo indicated that room for monetary easing remains open this year. The central bank cited low inflation forecasts and the need to support economic growth as grounds for a potential cut, whilst cautioning that global uncertainty and financial market volatility will keep policy decisions data-dependent.

Prabowo to US Entrepreneurs: 'Let's Make Money Together'

President Prabowo Subianto pitched Indonesia as a prime investment destination at the US Chamber of Commerce business summit in Washington DC, highlighting the country's critical mineral reserves, regulatory certainty commitments, and industrial downstreaming agenda.

Today in the World: Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte Announces 2028 Presidential Bid

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has declared her intention to run for president in the 2028 elections, criticising incumbent Ferdinand Marcos Jr over corruption. The roundup also covers the first Ramadan prayers held at Indonesia's new capital Nusantara, Australia's projected debt reaching post-World War II highs, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's courtroom denial of misleading Congress over social media design.

Chronology of Man Stealing Money from Elderly Nasi Uduk Seller in Bekasi

A man was caught on camera stealing Rp 700,000 from an elderly nasi uduk vendor in Pondok Melati, Bekasi, after posing as a customer. The suspect pretended to order four packets of nasi uduk before rifling through the victim's cash tin and fleeing before the order was handed over.

South Sumatra Police Chief Visits Muhammadiyah Leadership, Promotes 110 Emergency Service

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho visited the Muhammadiyah regional leadership to strengthen collaboration between the police and religious leaders in maintaining public order. During the visit, he promoted the free 24-hour 110 police hotline service, which is integrated with local police stations for rapid response, as part of the national police's digital transformation efforts.

33 Questions Put to Pandji Pragiwaksono's YouTube Admin in Toraja Funeral Joke Case

Indonesian police cybercrime investigators have questioned the YouTube channel administrator of comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono as part of an ongoing probe into alleged ethnic and cultural defamation of Toraja funeral customs. The admin, who uploaded the contentious stand-up comedy video in 2021, faced 33 questions covering editing processes, narrative scripting, and upload scheduling, with testimony indicating all actions were carried out under the channel owner's direction.

Jakarta Police Chief Leads 'Bang Jasri' Community Clean-Up Drive

Jakarta Metropolitan Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri personally led a large-scale environmental clean-up operation involving 650 personnel beneath the Sungai Bambu toll road in North Jakarta. The initiative, branded 'Bang Jasri' (Bhayangkara Jakarta ASRI), aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives on community service and building a culture of cleanliness, with the National Police Chief emphasising the programme must deliver tangible action rather than mere slogans.

Dexa Group Affirms Public Trust as Key Foundation for Product and Service Innovation

Indonesian healthcare conglomerate Dexa Group has reaffirmed its commitment to building public trust through quality, compliance, and science-based innovation, guided by its five-decade philosophy of "Expertise for the Promotion of Health." The company received recognition at both the Indonesia Public Relations Awards 2026 and the PR Indonesia Awards 2026, marking its eighth such accolade, underscoring the growing importance of credible corporate communications in the healthcare sector.

KPK Opens Option to Summon Pemuda Pancasila Chairman Japto Soerjosoemarno over Coal Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has indicated it may re-examine Pemuda Pancasila chairman Japto Soerjosoemarno and other senior figures as witnesses after designating three coal companies in Kutai Kartanegara as corporate suspects in a gratification case linked to former regent Rita Widyasari. The three firms — PT Sinar Kumala Naga, PT Alamjaya Barapratama, and PT Bara Kumala Sakti — are alleged to have served as vehicles for receiving gratification worth US$3.

Sumber Rejo Free Nutritious Meal Kitchen in Lampung Shut Down After Hundreds of Students Poisoned

The National Nutrition Agency has temporarily closed a Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme kitchen in Sumber Rejo, Bandarlampung, after a mass food poisoning incident affected hundreds of school pupils. Health inspectors found poor hygiene conditions including dirty floors, unclean footwear, and a lack of partitioning between serving and other areas, raising serious questions about compliance with standard operating procedures at MBG facilities.

Lombok's cacao journey towards downstreaming

West Nusa Tenggara is pursuing a downstreaming strategy for its cacao sector, with Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal spearheading efforts to move beyond raw bean exports by developing local processing industries, certifying unique local varieties, and integrating cacao with tourism.

Outrage as Man Steals Rp 700,000 from Elderly Nasi Uduk Vendor in Bekasi

A viral video captured a man stealing Rp 700,000 from an elderly nasi uduk street vendor in Bekasi, West Java, after distracting her by posing as a customer. Despite the victim declining to file a formal police report, saying she had accepted the loss, Pondok Gede police are pursuing the investigation using CCTV footage and witness statements.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme: A Constitutional Mandate That Must Not Be Held Hostage by Sectoral Interests

A public policy analyst argues that the legal challenge filed by honorary teachers at the Constitutional Court against the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is legally weak and morally flawed. The article contends that the MBG programme and teacher welfare are both constitutional mandates that should not be pitted against each other, as the education budget allocation is a separate matter from the MBG funding.

Police Question YouTube Admin of Comedian Pandji in Case over Toraja Ethnic Jokes

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has questioned the YouTube channel administrator of comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono over allegations of ethnic hatred speech targeting the Toraja community. The case, reported by the Toraja Youth Alliance, centres on comedy material deemed to contain cultural racism, with investigators examining the video editing, narration, and upload processes while continuing to gather evidence.

Ahmad Ali May Face KPK Questioning in Gratification Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has signalled it may summon several prominent figures, including Pemuda Pancasila deputy chairman and Indonesian Solidarity Party official Ahmad Ali, for questioning in connection with a long-running gratification case involving former Kutai Kartanegara regent Rita Widyasari.

Domestic Worker Assaulted by Employer in Bogor, Sustains Injuries to Head and Back

A 21-year-old domestic worker was allegedly beaten by her employer in Gunung Putri, Bogor, sustaining injuries to her head, ears, hands and back. Police have conducted a crime scene investigation, requested evidence seizure, and summoned the suspect for questioning as the case progresses through the legal process.

British Police Arrest Prince Andrew in Connection with Epstein Case

British police arrested former Prince Andrew at his Norfolk residence on suspicion of misconduct in public office during his tenure as a UK trade envoy. The arrest follows the release of new Epstein documents by the US Department of Justice, which appear to show Andrew shared classified British briefings — including investment opportunities related to Afghanistan's Helmand Province reconstruction — with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Singapore PM Lawrence Wong to visit Malaysia on 20 February at invitation of PM Anwar Ibrahim

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is set to make a "special visit" to Malaysia on 20 February at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral cooperation and issues of mutual interest, signalling continued strengthening of ties between the neighbouring ASEAN states.

Prabowo Says Indonesia and US Choose Deeper Cooperation and Stronger Market Access

President Prabowo Subianto attended the US-Indonesia Business Summit 2026 in Washington D.C., where he announced the completion of negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) aimed at strengthening market access and reducing trade barriers between the two nations. The summit yielded memoranda of understanding worth approximately USD 38.4 billion, covering agriculture (USD 2.5 billion) and industry (USD 35.

Indonesia-US tariff deal finalised, signing set for 19 February: Prabowo

President Prabowo has announced that Indonesia and the United States have finalised a reciprocal tariff agreement, with a signing ceremony scheduled during his bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump.

Amazon Loses US$450 Billion in Nine Days — What Happened?

Amazon's market capitalisation shed approximately US$450 billion over nine trading days in early February 2026, marking its worst decline in a decade, as investors reacted to the company's announcement of US$200 billion in capital expenditure for artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Traffic Alert: Benhil and Gatot Subroto 'Red' Ahead of Iftar Breaking Time

Several major roads across Jakarta experienced severe congestion on the first day of Ramadan as commuters rushed home before iftar, with key arteries including Gatot Subroto, Casablanca, and Sudirman turning red on traffic maps.

Non-Muslim Residents Join the Takjil Rush at Benhil During Ramadan

The popular takjil bazaar at Bendungan Hilir in Central Jakarta drew large crowds on the first day of Ramadan, attracting both Muslim and non-Muslim visitors. A young Christian visitor from Manado described spending Rp 150,000 on various snacks and praised the bazaar as a phenomenon that benefits all communities regardless of faith, highlighting Indonesia's interfaith social harmony during the fasting month.

Cracking Down on Rp25.8 Trillion Illegal Gold Money Laundering, Bareskrim Raids Gold Shops in East Java

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has raided multiple locations in East Java as part of an investigation into money laundering linked to illegal gold mining worth Rp25.8 trillion over the period 2019–2025.

FINNS Beach Club Donates Search and Rescue Helicopter to Bali

FINNS Beach Club has donated a dedicated search and rescue helicopter to support emergency services in Bali. The beach club is encouraging customers to purchase special menu items to help fund ongoing support for the donation.

Israel Awaits Green Light from US to Strike Iran's Missile System

Israel is reportedly preparing for a possible US green light to attack Iran's ballistic missile systems, with Israeli security agencies assessing an increased likelihood of a Washington-led strike following stalled Geneva negotiations. US media reports indicate the American military could be ready to launch strikes as early as this weekend, though President Trump has yet to make a final decision.

Ramadan Gets Interactive: Pegadaian Partners with Roblox for Virtual Religious Studies

State-owned pawnbroker Pegadaian has partnered with detikcom to host Ramadan religious study sessions within the Roblox virtual gaming platform, targeting younger digital-native audiences. The collaboration features interactive mosque-themed maps with gamified elements including virtual gold hunts and e-wallet prizes, representing the state enterprise's push into digital engagement with Generation Z consumers.

Download Link for Government-Version Ramadan 2026 Iftar Schedule

The Indonesian government has released the official Ramadan 2026 iftar (breaking of fast) schedule, with Jakarta's Maghrib prayer times ranging from 18.18 WIB on 19 February to 18.07 WIB on 20 March. KAI Commuter has also issued specific regulations governing food and drink consumption on commuter trains during Ramadan, permitting only mineral water, dates, and light snacks within one hour of iftar time.

Home Affairs Minister Issues Circular Requesting Local Governments Support Indonesia ASRI Movement

Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian has issued a circular directive instructing regional governments to support the Indonesia ASRI (Safe, Healthy, Clean, Beautiful) movement, following President Prabowo's directive at the 2026 Central-Regional Government Coordination Meeting.

JCI Reverses Course to Close Lower; Check the 3 Top LQ45 Gainers

Indonesia's Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.43 per cent to 8,274.08 on Thursday, reversing earlier gains as selling pressure intensified in the second session. The technology, financial and property sectors led declines, whilst raw materials, transport and energy bucked the trend, with battery and mining stocks Merdeka Battery Materials, Adaro Andalan Indonesia and Merdeka Copper Gold posting the strongest gains among LQ45 blue chips.

Xiaomi Unstoppable in Indonesia

Xiaomi has consolidated its position as Indonesia's leading smartphone vendor throughout 2025, commanding a 19 per cent market share according to research firm Omdia. The Chinese tech giant is now pivoting towards a broader ecosystem strategy under its "Human x Car x Home" vision, aiming to transform smartphones from communication devices into central hubs for digital life, underpinned by its new HyperOS 3 operating system.

Prabowo Campaigns to US Business Leaders, Hopes to Win New Supporters

President Prabowo Subianto joked about gaining new supporters whilst addressing American business leaders at a summit hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington D.C. Recounting advice from a US political leader who told him to "never stop campaigning," Prabowo quipped that his economic pitch for Indonesia might earn him a few extra backers from the audience.

South Jakarta Residents Complain of Padel Court Noise Exceeding 55 dB Limit

Research confirms padel courts generate noise levels of 89–91 dB(A), far exceeding Indonesia's 55 dB residential limit set by ministerial decree. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged to summon padel facility operators and stakeholders to review permits and compliance, warning of firm action against any violations disturbing local communities.

Residents Flock to Benhil Ramadan Bazaar in Search of Breaking-Fast Treats

Hundreds of residents descended on the annual Ramadan takjil bazaar in Bendungan Hilir, Central Jakarta, creating long queues and significant traffic congestion along Jalan Bendungan Hilir towards Jalan Jenderal Soedirman. Police and the transportation agency were deployed to manage the gridlock, with officers acknowledging the bazaar is a perennial congestion hotspot during Ramadan.

Cilandak Residents Report Padel Court Noise Complaints Since November 2025

Residents of Haji Nawi Raya in Cilandak, South Jakarta, have been filing noise complaints since November 2025 over a padel court built without prior community consultation, with noise levels exceeding 70 decibels. Mediation between residents and the court operator on 31 January 2026 failed after the operator refused to install soundproofing, claiming the facility already meets international standards.

Minister urges parents to engage children in positive activities during home learning period

Indonesia's Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has called on parents to guide children towards positive activities during the Ramadan home-learning period from 18 to 21 February 2026. A joint ministerial circular signed by the education, religious affairs, and home affairs ministers sets guidelines on limiting screen time and internet access whilst encouraging literacy, numeracy, and character-building activities during independent study at home.

Basarnas: Body of Pelita Air Service Pilot Successfully Evacuated

The body of Pelita Air Service pilot Captain Hendrick Lodewyck Adam has been recovered after his Air Tractor AT-802 aircraft crashed in the hilly terrain of Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, on 19 February 2026. The aircraft lost contact shortly after departing Long Bawan Airport for Tarakan, with eyewitnesses observing it descending at an angle behind hills at the end of the runway before an emergency locator signal was detected by a passing Susi Air flight.

Jakarta Composite Index Closes Lower Led by Technology Sector

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.44 per cent to 8,274.08, weighed down by technology stocks amid continued Rupiah weakness and investor concerns over Indonesia's fiscal outlook, including potential downgrades by MSCI and Moody's. Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate steady at 4.

Police Narrow Net Around Hunters, Trace Elephant Ivory Sellers in Riau

Riau Provincial Police and Pelalawan District Police are intensifying their investigation into the killing of a Sumatran elephant found shot dead with its head partially mutilated and tusks removed in a concession area in Pelalawan Regency. Investigators have questioned approximately 40 witnesses and are tracing ivory distribution networks in coordination with the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), as part of Riau Police's 'Green Policing' programme under Conservation Law No.

Central Java Governor Offers Investment Opportunities to Indian Ambassador and Business Leaders

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi pitched new investment opportunities in green economy, medical workforce, and labour-intensive garment industries to Indian Ambassador Shri Sandeep Chakravorty and accompanying Indian business delegates in Semarang. India currently ranks 17th among foreign investors in Central Java with Rp646.

Agam Regency Proposes Disaster-Damaged Infrastructure Repairs to Ministry

Agam Regency in West Sumatra has submitted proposals to the Ministry of Public Works for the repair of infrastructure damaged by hydrometeorological disasters, including roads, suspension bridges, irrigation networks, and clean water facilities. The disasters caused 166 deaths and 36 missing persons, with thousands of homes and agricultural land destroyed, prompting urgent calls for central government funding to restore basic services and economic activity.

Tarawih Prayers Completed in Just 7 Minutes at Blitar Islamic Boarding School

A century-old tradition at the Mamba'ul Hikam Mantenan Islamic boarding school in Blitar, East Java, sees worshippers complete 20 rakaat of Tarawih prayers and 3 rakaat of Witir prayers in approximately seven minutes. The practice, which dates back to 1907, has gone viral on social media and draws hundreds of congregants from surrounding regencies including Kediri and Tulungagung.

Jogokariyan Mosque Distributes 3,800 Free Takjil Portions Daily During Ramadan

Jogokariyan Mosque in Yogyakarta is providing at least 3,800 portions of takjil (breaking-fast refreshments) free of charge to the public each day throughout Ramadan. The initiative highlights the continued role of community mosques in social welfare provision during the fasting month.

Government Accelerates Construction of Temporary Shelter in Padang Gantiang, Agam

The Indonesian government is accelerating the construction of temporary shelters (huntara) in Padang Gantiang, Agam regency. No further details are available as the article body was not provided.

Zelensky: Progress on Military Issues in Geneva Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that the latest trilateral talks between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia in Geneva have made progress on military matters, particularly regarding future ceasefire monitoring. However, significant political disagreements remain over territorial issues and control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, with no formal agreement announced following the two-day round of negotiations.

Indonesia, US firms sign over $7 billion in trade, investment deals

Indonesian and US companies signed trade and investment deals worth more than US$7 billion on the eve of President Prabowo Subianto's meeting with President Donald Trump to finalise a bilateral trade agreement.

Jakarta Police Chief Launches Bang Jasri Movement: Make Cleanliness a Culture

Jakarta Metropolitan Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri has launched the 'Bang Jasri' (Bhayangkara Jakarta Asri) cleanliness initiative, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's national 'ASRI' (Safe, Healthy, Clean, Beautiful) campaign. The programme, which mobilised some 650 participants for tree planting and clean-up activities beneath the Priok Toll Road in North Jakarta, is intended to become a routine, sustained effort rather than a one-off ceremonial event.

Prabowo Outlines School Digitalisation Drive to US Business Leaders

President Prabowo told a US Chamber of Commerce forum that Indonesia has distributed more than 288,000 interactive smart screens to schools nationwide, with plans to equip all classrooms by 2029. The digitalisation programme, which includes centrally produced remote teaching content and real-time monitoring capabilities, is framed as a push for equitable access to quality education, particularly in remote regions such as Papua.

Green Collaboration Accelerates Heavy Equipment Transformation

The mining and construction industries are accelerating their green transformation through the adoption of efficient, low-emission heavy equipment technology. This shift is being driven by growing pressure to reduce carbon footprints across Indonesia's extractive and construction sectors.

Bustling Scenes at Benhil's 'Takjil War' Bazaar as First Day of Ramadan Fasting Begins

Jakarta's iconic Bendungan Hilir takjil bazaar drew crowds on the first day of Ramadan fasting, with visitors spending up to Rp 300,000 on an array of break-fast snacks. The report highlights the growing adoption of QRIS digital payments among bazaar vendors, reflecting Indonesia's accelerating shift towards cashless transactions even in traditional street markets.

Puan Maharani: Constitutional Court Ethics Council Cannot Proceed with Adies Kadir Complaint

Indonesia's House of Representatives has adopted a political stance declaring that the Constitutional Court's Ethics Council (MKMK) lacks the authority to investigate ethics complaints against constitutional justice Adies Kadir, whose nomination by the DPR has been challenged by civil society groups.

Solo City Government Apologises to Rio Haryanto Over Leaked Documents, Confirms Sanctions

The Solo city government has formally apologised to former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto after a sub-district official leaked his personal documents. Whilst Haryanto accepted the apology, he insisted that disciplinary proceedings against the offending civil servant continue, and the administration has committed to imposing sanctions as a deterrent.

Two Iconic Samarinda Iftar Treats Recognised as National Cultural Heritage

Two traditional iftar dishes from Samarinda, East Kalimantan — bubur peca' and amparan tatak — have been designated as national Intangible Cultural Heritage items through preservation efforts by the East Kalimantan provincial government. The delicacies hold deep cultural significance during Ramadan, with bubur peca' served exclusively at the city's oldest mosque and amparan tatak consistently selling out at traditional street markets.

Bank Indonesia: US$1.6 Billion in Foreign Capital Inflows Help Stabilise Rupiah

Bank Indonesia recorded US$1.6 billion in net foreign portfolio inflows from the start of 2025 to mid-February 2026, driven primarily by investment in Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) and government bonds, which has helped stabilise the rupiah.

Telkom supports capacity building and green funding through BBF programme

State-owned telecommunications firm PT Telkom Indonesia has launched the Bumi Berseru Fest (BBF) 2026, a community-based initiative to accelerate green innovation through collaborative environmental action, capacity building, and green financing.

Gaza Children Find Joy Through Simple Ramadan Lanterns

Palestinian artists and residents in Gaza are crafting colourful Ramadan lanterns from repurposed humanitarian aid boxes and salvaged materials to bring joy to children amid the ongoing aftermath of conflict. Community initiatives, including mural painting on bombed ruins, aim to provide psychological relief and a sense of normalcy during the holy month, as Gaza marks its third Ramadan since the conflict escalated in October 2023.

Freeport and Government Agree to Extend Grasberg Operating Rights Until Reserves Are Depleted

PT Freeport Indonesia has secured an agreement with the Indonesian government to extend its mining operating rights at the Grasberg mineral district for the full life of the resource, following a memorandum of understanding signed in Washington, D.C. on 18 February 2026.

Prabowo Calls for US Investment as Indonesia Plans 10 New Campuses

President Prabowo Subianto has invited American educational institutions to collaborate with Indonesia, announcing plans to build 10 new university campuses focused on STEM and medicine alongside 500 high-quality schools.

Indonesia-US Trade Deal Expands Market Access

Indonesia and the United States have concluded negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), with Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto hailing it as a significant milestone for market access and business certainty. The deal, finalised during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Washington, was accompanied by memoranda of understanding worth approximately US$38.4 billion spanning agricultural, industrial, and semiconductor investments.

OJK Outlines Three Key Policy Directions for Financial Services Sector in 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has announced three policy pillars for 2026: strengthening financial sector resilience, developing a contributive financial ecosystem, and deepening capital markets with sustainable finance.

Jakarta Police Chief Launches 'Bang Jasri' Environmental Movement During Cleanup Under Priok Toll Road

Jakarta Metropolitan Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri officially launched the 'Bang Jasri' (Bhayangkara Jakarta Asri) environmental movement during a community cleanup event beneath the Priok toll road in North Jakarta.

DPR Member: Holiday Allowance Payments Must Be Planned and Structured

A member of the DPR's Commission IX has urged companies to incorporate holiday allowance (THR) payments into their annual financial planning rather than treating them as sudden obligations. The lawmaker called for stronger coordination between central government, regional authorities, and labour inspectors to ensure corporate compliance whilst maintaining a conducive business climate.

Pilot of Fuel Transport Aircraft That Crashed in Nunukan Dies

A fuel transport aircraft crashed in the hilly Krayan area of Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, killing its pilot, Captain Hendrick Lodewyck Adam. The Air Tractor AT-802 was carrying Pertamina fuel on a route from Long Bawan to Tarakan serving remote communities when an emergency locator signal was received shortly after departure, with the cause of the crash still under investigation.

UN Pushes for Formation of Global AI Fund for Developing Countries

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for the creation of a US$3 billion global artificial intelligence fund to help developing countries build foundational capacity and avoid being left behind in the AI era. Speaking at the India AI Summit in New Delhi, Guterres warned that without investment many nations would be "locked out of the system" and stressed that AI must benefit all of humanity, not just a handful of countries or billionaires.

Two companies in Galang Batang SEZ fined over illegal foreign workers

Two construction firms operating in the Galang Batang Special Economic Zone in Bintan, Kepulauan Riau, have been fined a combined Rp354 million for employing 31 illegal Chinese workers without the mandatory foreign workforce utilisation plan (RPTKA). The 31 workers have been deported to China, underscoring Indonesian authorities' enforcement of labour regulations governing foreign employment documentation.

MP: Strengthening Nickel Governance Safeguards National Competitiveness

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for stronger governance of the national nickel industry, particularly in Morowali, Central Sulawesi, to ensure downstream processing remains healthy, competitive and sustainable. The MP stressed that Indonesia's position as a key player in the global critical minerals supply chain must be supported by robust national strategy amid intensifying geopolitical competition in the battery and electric vehicle sectors.

KAI Madiun Operations Area Provides Additional Trains for Lebaran 2026 Transport

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Madiun Operations Area (Daop 7) has arranged additional train services to accommodate the surge in passengers during the 2026 Lebaran travel period. As of 19 February 2026, some 55,147 tickets — roughly 69 per cent of the 80,124 available seats — had already been sold for departures between 11 March and 1 April, with the heaviest bookings concentrated in the 22 March to 1 April window.

Deputy Chair of House Commission X Urges Noisy Padel Courts in South Jakarta to Meet Standards

Deputy Chair of House Commission X Lalu Hadrian Irfani has called on local authorities to ensure padel court developments comply with spatial planning regulations and environmental impact standards, including noise thresholds, following residents' complaints about a facility in South Jakarta's Haji Nawi area. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has responded by pledging to summon padel court operators and relevant stakeholders next week to review all permits and operational compliance.

AWG Opposes Permits Granted to Two Israel-Affiliated Companies

The Aqsa Working Group (AWG), a humanitarian organisation, has condemned the Indonesian government's decision to grant investment and operational permits to two Israel-affiliated companies — PT Ormat Geothermal Indonesia in North Maluku and PT Volex Indonesia in the Riau Islands.

Judicial Commission Says Ethics Probe of Depok Court Judge Awaits Plenary Session Outcome

The Judicial Commission (KY) chairman stated that the decision on ethics proceedings against judges from the Depok District Court will be determined by the outcome of a KY plenary session, with sanctions ranging from mild to dismissal. The case follows the KPK's sting operation on 5 February 2026, which led to the arrest of seven individuals — including the chief and deputy chief of the Depok District Court — on suspicion of corruption involving a land dispute worth billions of rupiah.

Criminal Investigation Bureau Raids Gold Shop in Surabaya Over Illegal Mining Money Laundering

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Bureau (Bareskrim) has raided gold shops in East Java as part of a money laundering investigation linked to illegal gold mining in West Kalimantan. Financial intelligence data from PPATK reveals that illegal gold mining transactions between 2019 and 2025 totalled Rp25.8 trillion, with proceeds flowing through gold refining and export companies.

National Food Agency confirms stable chicken and chilli prices at Cileungsi Market

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has confirmed that chicken and red cayenne chilli prices at Cileungsi Market in Bogor remain stable and within government-set reference prices ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. To stabilise rising chilli prices, the agency has ordered Food Distribution Facilitation operations to major wholesale markets including Kramat Jati and Tanah Tinggi.

No Mandatory Dues for Board of Peace Members, Foreign Ministry Says: But Indonesia Committed to Contributing

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has clarified that there is no mandatory financial contribution required for membership of the Board of Peace (BoP) for Gaza, Palestine. Despite the absence of compulsory dues, Indonesia has signalled its commitment to making voluntary contributions to the peace initiative.

Prabowo Affirms Commitment to Tackling Stunting and Economic Growth

President Prabowo Subianto used a business summit in Washington DC to highlight Indonesia's free nutritious meals programme as a key investment in human capital, citing Rockefeller Institute research showing returns of up to 35 times per dollar spent. He explained that the programme is funded through budget efficiency measures and reallocation of unproductive expenditure, whilst inviting American businesses to forge long-term strategic partnerships with Indonesia.

99 per cent of PalmCo's CPO absorbed domestically, but sustainability certification still pursued

PTPN IV PalmCo, the palm oil subholding of state-owned PTPN III, reports that approximately 2.7 million tonnes of its crude palm oil — 99 per cent of total production — is sold domestically to support national supply security. Despite the overwhelmingly domestic orientation, the company continues to pursue international and national sustainability certifications, with RSPO coverage reaching 94 per cent of mills and ISPO compliance at nearly 96 per cent of mills.

Ministry of Villages Prepares National Strategy to Develop Climate-Resilient Villages

Indonesia's Ministry of Villages and Underdeveloped Regions is preparing a national strategy for developing climate-resilient villages, aiming to integrate climate mitigation and adaptation into rural development planning. The strategy seeks to direct village fund allocations towards disaster risk and climate change preparedness, with officials noting that 98.

12 Malaysian Police Officers Arrested for Allegedly Robbing Chinese National of Rp795 Million in Crypto Assets

Twelve Malaysian police officers, including four from the federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department, have been arrested for allegedly extorting approximately US$51,000 in Tether cryptocurrency from a group of Chinese nationals during a raid on a bungalow in early February.

PlayStation 6 Launch Likely Delayed to 2028 or 2029

Sony is reportedly reconsidering the launch timeline for its next-generation PlayStation 6 console, with the previously anticipated 2027 release now uncertain due to surging memory component costs driven by AI and data centre demand. The combination of a still-thriving PS5 ecosystem — with over 75 million units sold globally — and volatile DRAM and high-bandwidth memory pricing makes a delay to 2028 or 2029 a realistic scenario.

IDX: Rp187 Trillion Needed to Meet 15 Per Cent Free Float Requirement

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has revealed that 267 listed companies require the market to absorb up to Rp187 trillion in additional shares to comply with a new 15 per cent minimum free float threshold, set to take effect in March 2026. The regulatory change, coordinated with the Financial Services Authority (OJK), doubles the current 7.5 per cent requirement, whilst 49 companies have yet to meet even the existing minimum.

Rhinoceros and the Heritage at Stake

This article examines the rhinoceros as one of the oldest surviving terrestrial megafauna, exploring its evolutionary heritage spanning millions of years. The piece appears to address the scientific perspective on rhinoceros conservation, a matter of significant relevance to Indonesia which is home to critically endangered Javan and Sumatran rhinoceros species.

488 Vendor Stalls to Enliven Ramadhan Markets in Palangka Raya

The Palangka Raya city government will establish 488 vendor stalls across seven Ramadhan market locations, including two new sites added for 2026. The expansion strategy aims to distribute commercial activity more evenly, improve accessibility for residents seeking iftar food, and provide fairer trading opportunities for small vendors.

Samarinda Mosque Marks 16 Years of Awarding Umrah Packages to Tarawih Congregants

A mosque in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, has sustained a 16-year tradition of offering prizes including umrah packages, motorcycles, and cash to encourage attendance at Tarawih prayers during Ramadan. The programme distributes approximately 30,000 raffle coupons over the fasting month, with the grand prizes drawn on the 29th night of Ramadan, alongside daily provision of 400 iftar meals for the community.

KPK Declines to Extend Travel Ban for Fuad Hasan Masyhur

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has decided not to extend the overseas travel ban on Maktour hajj tour operator owner Fuad Hasan Masyhur, citing investigative requirements, whilst maintaining bans on former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his ex-special adviser.

Jakarta Council Calls for Review of Padel Court Operating Hours Following Residents' Noise Complaints

The Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD DKI) has urged the provincial government to evaluate the operating hours and noise standards of padel courts across the capital following complaints from residents about late-night disturbances. Governor Pramono Anung has responded by announcing he will summon padel court operators and relevant stakeholders next week to review permits and ensure compliance with regulations.

Travel Bans Extended for Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut and Gus Alex

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has extended overseas travel bans until 12 August 2026 for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his ex-special adviser Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex), both suspects in a hajj quota corruption case.

BNN: Public Trust Is the Principal Asset for Law Enforcement

The head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has emphasised that public trust is the most critical foundation for strengthening the agency's drug prevention and eradication programme. Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto highlighted the 24-hour BNN Call Centre 184 as a key initiative to build transparency and accountability, urging that every piece of public information be treated as a strategic asset requiring thorough follow-up.

When the Judge Grew Curious About the Witness's Relationship with the Defendant in Foreign Worker Permit Case: Any Secrets?

During a corruption trial at Jakarta's Anti-Corruption Court involving the illegal processing of foreign worker permits at the Ministry of Manpower, a judge repeatedly questioned the unusually close relationship between a witness and defendant, probing why a subordinate was gifted cars and regular cash payments.

Pigai Submits Draft Indigenous Peoples' Law Bill to DPR Legislative Body

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has submitted a draft bill on Indigenous Peoples' Law to the DPR's Legislative Body (Baleg) for deliberation, seeking formal legal recognition of indigenous and traditional communities' rights. The bill proposes the establishment of a National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to safeguard their rights over land, water, and self-governance, addressing what Pigai described as the state's longstanding encroachment upon indigenous authority.

Criminal Investigation Bureau Raids Gold Shop in East Java in Connection with Illegal Mining Money Laundering Case

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Bureau (Bareskrim) raided a gold shop in Nganjuk, East Java, as part of a money laundering investigation linked to illegal gold mining in West Kalimantan between 2019 and 2022. Authorities, working with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), have identified suspicious transactions totalling Rp 25.8 trillion in illegal gold trading over the 2019–2025 period, with proceeds laundered through gold refining and export companies.

Rio Haryanto's Personal Data Leaked: Solo City Government Issues Apology

The Solo city government has formally apologised to former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto after a civil servant posted his marriage registration documents on social media without redacting personal data. Whilst Haryanto accepted the apology, he has requested that disciplinary proceedings against the employee continue, with the city committed to imposing sanctions as a deterrent against future privacy violations.

Pilot of Pelita Air Charter Plane That Crashed in Nunukan Confirmed Dead; Transport Ministry Reveals Timeline

The pilot of a Pelita Air Service cargo aircraft carrying Pertamina fuel to remote areas was killed when the plane crashed in Nunukan, North Kalimantan, on 19 February 2026 during a flight from Long Bawan to Tarakan.

Note: Immigration Service Operating Hours During Ramadan

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has adjusted its service hours during Ramadan, aligning with revised civil service working hours set by the government. Immigration services will operate from 08:00 to 15:00 on weekdays and 08:00 to 14:00 on weekends, with the public urged to confirm schedules with local immigration offices.

Coordinating Minister Says National Groundcheck of Health Insurance Subsidy Data Will Strengthen Nation's Social Foundation

Indonesia has launched a national groundcheck of 11 million recipients of subsidised national health insurance (PBI-JKN), aiming to eliminate both inclusion errors (ineligible recipients) and exclusion errors (eligible poor left unregistered) within two months. Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment A.

Financial Sector Posts Promising Growth, Increasing Contribution to the Economy

Indonesia's financial services sector recorded its highest growth since mid-2021, expanding 7.92 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The strong performance underscores the sector's growing contribution to the broader Indonesian economy.

Jetour T2 Emerges as Most Test-Driven Vehicle at IIMS 2026

The Jetour T2 SUV was named the most test-driven car at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2026 in Jakarta, winning both the Most Tested Car Choice and Favourite Newcomer SUV awards. The Chinese-brand vehicle, equipped with a 2.0-litre TGDI engine producing 245 PS and seven driving modes, drew consistently large queues at the JIExpo Kemayoran venue, signalling strong consumer interest in the newcomer to the Indonesian automotive market.

National Police Criminal Investigation Unit Raids Gold Shops in Connection with Illegal Gold Money Laundering

Indonesia's National Police Special Economic Crimes Directorate (Dittipideksus) has raided three locations in Surabaya and Nganjuk as part of a money laundering investigation linked to illegal gold mining. Preliminary findings reveal that transactions involving gold suspected of originating from unlicensed mining operations between 2019 and 2025 amount to approximately Rp25.

Maintaining Harmony Amid the Torrent of Digital Information

The head of the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP), Yudian Wahyudi, has called on the public to maintain harmony and unity during the holy month of Ramadan amid the increasingly uncontrollable flow of digital information. The appeal underscores growing government concern about the impact of digital misinformation on social cohesion in Indonesia.

Sumenep and Bogor Local Governments Close Entertainment Venues During Ramadan 1447 H

Local governments in Sumenep and Bogor are tightening public order regulations ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, which falls between February and March 2026. The measures include the closure of entertainment venues during the holy month, reflecting a broader trend across Indonesian regions of enforcing stricter rules during Ramadan.

At 2026 Indonesia-US Business Forum, President Prabowo Declares Indonesia's Economic Fundamentals Strong

President Prabowo Subianto addressed the US-Indonesia Business Summit 2026 in Washington DC, asserting Indonesia's strong economic fundamentals and emphasising stability, predictability and execution as key to attracting investment. Indonesia and the United States have concluded negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), a landmark deal aimed at strengthening market access, reducing trade barriers and expanding investment opportunities across both nations.

Padel Courts Reported as Noisy: Indonesia's Regulations on Noise Pollution

Residents in South Jakarta have filed complaints about excessive noise from a padel court, prompting scrutiny of Indonesia's noise pollution regulations which cap residential area noise at 55 dBA — far below the 89-102 dBA typically generated by padel. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged to summon padel facility operators and stakeholders to review permits and compliance, warning of firm action against any violations.

Blora Public Works Agency Addresses Land Movement with Gabion Retaining Wall along Riverbank

The Blora District Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency is carrying out emergency measures to address ongoing land subsidence in Buluroto Village by installing gabion retaining walls along the Lusi River, with work now 90 per cent complete. The land movement, attributed to a drainage system not connected to the river causing soil saturation, has affected nine homes — three of which have sustained damage — with ground sinking up to two metres and worsening during heavy rainfall.

Russia Warns Fresh Attacks on Iran Risk Nuclear Incident, Threaten Global Stability

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that any new attack on Iran would carry severe consequences for the international community, citing the risk of a nuclear incident at IAEA-monitored facilities. His remarks come in the wake of the June 2025 military escalation involving Israel, Iran, and the United States, which culminated in strikes on Iranian nuclear sites before a ceasefire was brokered by Washington.

Bali Court Sends Brazilian Cocaine Smuggler to Jail for 18 Years

A Bali court has sentenced a Brazilian cocaine smuggler to 18 years imprisonment, exceeding the prosecution's recommendation of 16 years. The ruling underscores Indonesia's stringent enforcement of narcotics laws and Bali's critical role in international drug trafficking cases.

Padang Koto Gadang-Malalak Road in Agam Cracks and Collapses

A road connecting Padang Koto Gadang and Malalak in Agam regency, West Sumatra, has reportedly suffered cracking and subsidence. The article lacks substantive detail, but a related headline references the Public Works Ministry repairing 125 points of road collapse along the Trans-Sumatra Highway.

Prabowo to US Businesspeople: Let's Make Money Together

President Prabowo Subianto urged American businesses to invest in Indonesia during a summit at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington D.C., emphasising mutual economic benefit and regulatory certainty. He highlighted Indonesia's critical mineral reserves, including nickel, copper, bauxite, and rare earth elements, as well as 18 downstream processing projects to be initiated this year by the Danantara investment authority, including a US$3 billion waste-to-energy scheme.

Riau Police Confirm Headless Elephant Case Still Under Investigation, 40 Witnesses Examined

Riau Provincial Police are intensifying their investigation into the killing of a Sumatran elephant found decapitated on a PT RAPP concession area in Pelalawan Regency, having interviewed 40 witnesses to date. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, is being pursued using scientific crime investigation methods in coordination with the Natural Resources Conservation Agency, with perpetrators facing severe criminal sanctions under Indonesia's updated conservation law.

Ministry of Transport: Pelita Air Charter Plane Pilot Dies in Crash

A Pelita Air Service charter aircraft carrying Pertamina fuel crashed during a flight from Long Bawan to Tarakan in Nunukan, North Kalimantan, killing its sole crew member, Captain Hendrick Lodewyck Adam. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed the death and stated that an investigation into the cause of the Air Tractor AT-802 crash is ongoing.

Sports Minister and KONI Finalise PON 2028 Preparations, Focusing on Quality and International Achievement

Sports Minister Erick Thohir and KONI chairman Marciano Norman have agreed to refocus the 2028 National Sports Week (PON) on Olympic-discipline sports, reducing the number of events contested but raising competitive standards to feed Indonesia's international pipeline. The games, to be hosted in Nusa Tenggara Barat and Nusa Tenggara Timur, are also being positioned as an economic catalyst for the host provinces through tourism and local MSME development.

Surge in child suicide cases prompts deep concern from Indonesian Child Protection Commission

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has expressed deep concern over a spate of child suicides across several provinces, with four cases recorded in just three weeks. KPAI has highlighted negative parenting patterns as a key contributing factor and urged law enforcement to thoroughly investigate each death, whilst calling attention to the lack of resilience among affected children due to family pressures including economic hardship and alleged abuse.

Venezuela and US Agree to Cooperate on Combating Drug Trafficking

Venezuela and the United States have agreed to launch bilateral cooperation to combat drug trafficking and address migration issues, following a visit by US Southern Command chief General Francis Donovan. The diplomatic engagement comes amid heightened tensions after the US seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in January on narco-terrorism charges, leading to interim President Delcy Rodríguez assuming power.

Member of Parliament backs Pertamina synergy with Merah Putih village cooperatives

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission VI has voiced support for PT Pertamina's partnership with Merah Putih village cooperatives to distribute energy products at the village level, whilst cautioning that existing distribution agents must not be sidelined.

KPK Extends Travel Ban on Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and Gus Alex

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has extended the overseas travel ban on two suspects in the hajj quota corruption case — former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his ex-special adviser Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex) — until 12 August 2026. The case involves alleged corruption in the determination of hajj quotas and the administration of the pilgrimage at the Ministry of Religious Affairs during 2023-2024, with estimated state losses exceeding Rp1 trillion.

Prabowo Witnesses Rp 650 Trillion in MoUs Signed in Washington — Here Is the Full List

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the signing of 10 memoranda of understanding and one cooperation agreement worth a combined US$34.8 billion (approximately Rp 650 trillion) at the US Business Summit in Washington D.C. The deals, spanning energy, food, industry, and technology sectors, included notable agreements between Pertamina and Halliburton on enhanced oil recovery, and between Freeport-McMoRan, the Investment Ministry, and BPI Danantara on critical mineral development.

Ministry of Home Affairs Urges Local Governments to Act Swiftly on Price Increases

The Ministry of Home Affairs has called on local governments across Indonesia to respond immediately to any rises in staple goods prices, particularly ahead of Ramadan. Secretary General Tomsi Tohir highlighted anomalous price spikes in producer regions and urged regional inflation control teams to conduct direct market surveillance rather than confining oversight to meeting rooms.

Visually Impaired Students Participate in Ramadan Activities at Sam'an Darushudur Islamic Boarding School

Twenty-seven visually impaired students from various cities across Indonesia marked the first day of Ramadan at the Sam'an Darushudur Islamic Boarding School for the Blind in Cimenyan, Bandung Regency, West Java. The students participated in Quran memorisation using Braille editions, studied the history of the Prophet, and performed congregational prayers.

Update on Pelita Air Crash in Krayan: Pilot Killed

A Pelita Air Service cargo aircraft carrying aviation fuel crashed in the hilly terrain of Krayan, Nunukan, North Kalimantan, killing the sole pilot, Captain Hendrick Lodewyck Adam. The Air Tractor AT-802 was part of a dedicated fleet serving the government's One-Price Fuel programme to border regions, and the cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Bank Indonesia Governor Speaks Candidly on Causes of Recent Rupiah Weakening

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo attributed the rupiah's recent depreciation to heightened global financial market uncertainty and rising foreign currency demand from domestic corporations. The central bank pledged to intensify stabilisation efforts through offshore and onshore interventions, expressing confidence that the rupiah remains undervalued relative to Indonesia's economic fundamentals.

Driver to pay Rp25 million for hitting ex-VP Kalla's home

A driver has agreed to pay approximately Rp25 million in repair costs after crashing his Hyundai Santa Fe into the fence of former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta. The case was resolved through mediation without a formal police report being filed, with police suspecting the driver was drowsy at the time of the early-morning incident.

Ministry of Transport: Pilot of Pelita charter plane that crashed in Nunukan confirmed dead

The pilot of a Pelita Air Service charter aircraft carrying fuel to remote areas crashed on the Long Bawan–Tarakan route in North Kalimantan and was confirmed dead. The Air Tractor AT-802, which had recently passed routine maintenance inspections, triggered an emergency locator transmitter signal shortly after departure, and the cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Bogor Regency Commission I Backs 1,000 Tree Planting Drive at Pakansari Stadium

Bogor Regency's Commission I chairman has endorsed a government-led initiative to plant 1,000 trees at the Gelora Pakansari stadium complex, following damage caused by a recent tornado. The cross-sector effort, involving local government, military, police, and civil society organisations, aims to restore the environment and serve as a model for sustainable greening programmes across the regency.

Police in Serang Ban Students from Roaming After 10pm to Prevent Brawls

Serang Police Chief AKBP Andri Kurniawan has urged parents to ensure their children are home by 10pm during Ramadan to prevent youth brawls and illegal street racing. The measure aims to reduce juvenile crime, traffic accidents, and public disorder during the fasting month, with police calling for community cooperation in maintaining security.

PDIP Politician Says Jokowi Cannot 'Wash His Hands' of KPK Law Revision

PDI Perjuangan politicians have pushed back against former President Joko Widodo's attempts to distance himself from the controversial 2019 revision of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) law, insisting he bears institutional responsibility as the sitting president at the time. The party argues that any future amendments to the KPK law should be more progressive, particularly in overseeing mineral resource management, rather than simply reverting to the previous version.

Pramono Reveals Jakarta's Rush Hour Shifts During Ramadan Due to Takjil Sellers

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has disclosed that the capital's peak traffic hours shift significantly during Ramadan, with morning congestion moving later due to flexible office hours and afternoon gridlock arriving earlier as residents rush to buy takjil for breaking their fast. The Jakarta Transportation Agency and Metropolitan Police have been directed to coordinate traffic management measures, particularly at impromptu takjil selling points that exacerbate congestion.

Rasuna Said: The Islamic Orator and Female National Heroine from Minangkabau

The article profiles Hajjah Rangkayo Rasuna Said (1910–1965), a Minangkabau woman who was among the first female figures to be designated an Indonesian National Heroine in 1974 for her anti-colonial activism, Islamic oratory, and advocacy for women's education and political rights.

South Sumatra Police Chief Visits NU and Muhammadiyah Clerics to Strengthen Public Order Collaboration

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho conducted visits to leaders of the two largest Islamic organisations in Indonesia — Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah — to strengthen coordination on maintaining public order and security. The initiative reflects the police's recognition that effective law enforcement requires strategic partnerships with religious and community leaders across the province.

Global Gold Prices Surge on First Day of Ramadan

Spot gold prices surged 2.6 per cent to breach the US$5,000 mark on the first day of Ramadan, driven by geopolitical uncertainties surrounding Ukraine-Russia peace talks and Iran-US nuclear negotiations. Asian ETF demand and sustained purchasing by China's central bank, which has been accumulating gold reserves for 15 consecutive months, were identified as critical factors underpinning the rally ahead of the Federal Reserve's meeting minutes release.

Who Is Low Tuck Kwong? Winner of the Rp 6.5 Billion Auction for SBY's Fire Horse Painting

Indonesian coal mining magnate Dato Low Tuck Kwong, founder of Bayan Resources and the country's wealthiest individual, won a charity auction for a painting by former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono at the Democratic Party's Chinese New Year celebration, paying Rp 6.5 billion.

Overloaded Truck Loses Tyre on Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road, Striking Another Vehicle

An overloaded truck lost a rear tyre on the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road, which bounced into an adjacent lane and damaged a Toyota Raize. Police determined the tyre detached due to excessive cargo weight, highlighting ongoing concerns about overloaded commercial vehicles on Indonesia's major toll roads. No injuries were reported and the matter was settled amicably between the parties involved.

Civil Servant Who Uploaded Rio Haryanto's Personal Data Faces Disciplinary Sanctions

A civil servant in Solo is facing disciplinary proceedings after uploading a marriage referral letter containing former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto's personal data to social media. The case highlights ongoing concerns about personal data protection by government employees, with potential sanctions ranging from a verbal reprimand to dismissal depending on the assessed impact of the privacy breach.

Indonesia and US firms sign deals worth US$38.4 billion ahead of Trump-Prabowo meeting

Indonesian and American companies signed 11 deals worth US$38.4 billion spanning mining, energy, agribusiness, textiles and technology at a US Chamber of Commerce dinner ahead of President Prabowo's meeting with President Trump to finalise a bilateral trade pact. Key agreements include Freeport-McMoRan's mining permit extension beyond 2041, Pertamina-Halliburton oilfield cooperation, two semiconductor joint ventures, and substantial Indonesian purchases of US agricultural commodities.

Jakarta's Morning and Evening Rush Hours to Shift During Ramadan: Here Are the Predictions

Jakarta Metropolitan Police predict significant shifts in peak traffic hours during Ramadan, with morning congestion moving to 9-10am and afternoon gridlock starting as early as 2-3pm due to adjusted office hours and early departures for iftar. Authorities have mapped congestion hotspots including takjil bazaar areas such as Bendungan Hilir and will deploy additional personnel to manage the altered traffic patterns.

Viral Video of Naked Man Riding Motorcycle in Cikarang Prompts Police Investigation

A video of a naked man riding a motorcycle through the MM2100 Industrial Area in West Cikarang, Bekasi Regency, has gone viral on social media. The Bekasi Metropolitan Police traffic unit chief said officers would investigate the rider and could press charges under applicable laws, though they would first assess whether the individual suffers from a mental health condition.

Indonesia Eyes Aquaculture Exports to Saudi Arabia for Pilgrims

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is pursuing export permits from Saudi Arabia's food authority to supply farmed fish products to Indonesian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The initiative, led by a cross-ministry integrated team under Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan, follows Indonesia's recent success in securing rice export permits to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj season.

Foreign Investment Reaches Rp897 Trillion as Prabowo Cites Global Confidence in Indonesian Economy

President Prabowo Subianto highlighted Indonesia's US$53 billion foreign direct investment achievement in 2025 as evidence of growing global confidence in the country's economic direction, speaking at the US-ASEAN Business Summit in Washington D.C.

Government expedites return of citizens linked to online scam in Cambodia

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry is coordinating an accelerated repatriation of over 4,000 Indonesian citizens linked to online scam syndicates in Cambodia, after Phnom Penh warned foreign missions to immediately repatriate nationals suspected of fraud. Of the 4,254 who registered with the Indonesian Embassy, some 2,007 have received reduced immigration fines, whilst initial assessments found no victims of human trafficking, with many admitting involvement in illegal activities.

Toraja Customary Joke Controversy: Criminal Investigation Bureau Questions YouTube Admin of Comedian Pandji

The Criminal Investigation Bureau (Bareskrim) of the Indonesian National Police has questioned the YouTube channel administrator of comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono over content allegedly insulting Toraja customary practices.

Prabowo recalls US role in national independence, eyes stronger ties

President Prabowo used a gala dinner in Washington DC to highlight the United States' historical support for Indonesian independence, framing it as a foundation for deeper bilateral relations. He expressed optimism about the forthcoming reciprocal trade agreement (ART), under negotiation since 2025, which he described as a major boost for economic partnership between the two countries.

Judge Frustrated as Former Manpower Ministry Secretary General Refuses to Answer Questions on Foreign Worker Permit Fees

A judge at the Jakarta Central Corruption Court expressed frustration after former Ministry of Manpower Secretary General Heri Sudarmanto repeatedly evaded questions about alleged illegal fees charged for expediting foreign worker permits. The case involves eight defendants, including senior ministry officials, accused of extorting agents processing foreign worker permits, with alleged enrichment totalling over Rp 135 billion in cash plus luxury vehicles.

Tens of Thousands of Officers Begin Field Verification of Health Insurance Subsidy Recipients Today

Indonesia has launched a massive field verification exercise to validate data on recipients of government-subsidised health insurance (PBI-JK) under BPJS Kesehatan, targeting over 11 million individuals whose coverage had been deactivated. The first phase focuses on 106,153 individuals with catastrophic or chronic illnesses, with a second phase covering approximately 5.9 million families set to begin after Eid al-Fitr in April 2026.

Pelita Air Still Investigating Fuel Transport Aircraft Crash in Nunukan

A Pelita Air charter aircraft carrying fuel crashed in the Krayan area of Nunukan, North Kalimantan, shortly after take-off from Yuvai Semaring Airport in Long Bawan. The plane was operated by a single pilot with no cabin crew or passengers on board. The company says it is conducting an investigation and coordinating with relevant authorities, with cloudy and dark weather conditions reported at the time of the incident.

PDIP Responds to Jokowi on KPK Law: Legislative Reform Must Be Objective, Not Erratic

PDI Perjuangan senior politician Said Abdullah has pushed back against calls by former President Jokowi to revert the KPK Law to its pre-2019 version, insisting that legislative reform must be driven by objective assessment rather than political interests or personalities. Said urged all parties to focus on substance rather than debating who was the "intellectual author" behind the controversial 2019 revision, noting that Indonesia's Corruption Perception Index has fallen to its lowest point.

Formappi Questions Ahmad Sahroni's Appointment as Commission III Deputy Chair

A researcher from the Indonesian Parliamentary Watch Forum (Formappi) has challenged the appointment of Ahmad Sahroni as Deputy Chair of Commission III, arguing that approximately two weeks of his six-month suspension remain and that the appointment is ethically flawed.

Pelita Air Still Investigating Air Tractor AT-802 Crash in Nunukan

PT Pelita Air Service is investigating the crash of one of its Air Tractor AT-802 aircraft in Nunukan. Corporate Secretary Patria Rhamadonna addressed the incident, providing an update on developments surrounding the suspected crash.

Jakarta Metropolitan Police Prepare Routine Patrols to Prevent Street Brawls at Multiple Locations

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have announced preventive measures including routine patrols and personnel deployment at known brawl hotspots across the capital, particularly in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta. The police are focusing on pre-emptive surveillance during high-risk hours and have urged the public to report any signs of security disturbances through the 110 emergency line.

Bandung Regent Assures Part-Time PPPK and Education Staff Salaries Are Secure

Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna has confirmed that salaries for part-time government contract (PPPK) teachers and education support staff will continue to be fully funded from the district budget, despite a nearly Rp1 trillion reduction in central government fiscal transfers for 2026. Since 2021, the Bandung district government has paid monthly incentives of Rp350,000 per person for teachers and education staff across all levels, with total disbursements reaching Rp66.27 billion in 2025.

Prabowo guarantees conducive investment climate in Indonesia during Washington address

President Prabowo Subianto assured American business leaders at a Washington DC summit that Indonesia remains committed to maintaining a stable and conducive investment climate, underpinned by rule of law, anti-corruption efforts, and fiscal discipline.

Indonesia and US Sign USD38.4 Billion Trade and Investment Deals

Indonesian and American companies signed 11 agreements worth USD38.4 billion in Washington ahead of the Prabowo-Trump summit, covering mining, energy, agribusiness, semiconductors and technology.

Indonesian and US Businesses Sign 11 Business Cooperation Agreements Worth Rp 648.9 Trillion

Indonesian and American business leaders signed 11 cooperation agreements worth US$38.4 billion (approximately Rp 648.9 trillion) during the Indonesia-US Business Summit held at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The agreements span critical minerals, oilfield recovery, agriculture, textiles, furniture, and semiconductor development, reflecting the implementation of reciprocal trade negotiations between the two countries.

National Collaboration Launched: 11 Million JKN Subsidised Health Insurance Records Set for Verification

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment has launched a nationwide ground-check exercise to verify 11 million recipients of subsidised national health insurance (PBI JKN), mobilising the Statistics Agency, Social Affairs Ministry, and local welfare offices. The two-phase verification, underpinned by the National Integrated Socio-Economic Database (DTSEN) mandated by Presidential Instruction No.

IPC Deems Sahroni's Appointment as Commission III Leader a Violation of the MD3 Law

The Indonesia Parliamentary Center (IPC) has assessed that the reappointment of Ahmad Sahroni as Deputy Chairman of Commission III potentially violates the MD3 Law, as his six-month suspension period has not yet concluded. The case highlights concerns about the House of Representatives prioritising factional power distribution over ethical accountability, undermining the credibility of the commission responsible for overseeing law enforcement bodies.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Found Burnt After Crash in Nunukan, Pilot Feared Dead

A fuel transport aircraft crashed in the Krayan area of Nunukan, North Kalimantan, on Thursday afternoon and was found engulfed in flames with one fatality believed to be the pilot. The wreckage was located at Pa' Belaban in the Pa' Betung area of East Krayan sub-district, with the body transported to the Long Bawan community health centre. The incident highlights the ongoing risks of aviation logistics in Indonesia's remote border regions.

Fatalities Confirmed in Fuel-Carrying Aircraft Fire Crash in North Kalimantan

A fuel-carrying aircraft that crashed in Krayan, Nunukan, North Kalimantan on Thursday 19 February 2026 was found burnt out, with fatalities confirmed. The incident highlights the ongoing risks of air transport logistics in remote border regions of Indonesian Borneo.

Discovering the Koko'o Tradition: Gorontalo's Unique Custom of Waking Residents for Sahur

Residents of Gorontalo City maintain the traditional practice of koko'o, a distinctive cultural custom involving the beating of bamboo slit drums to wake the community for the pre-dawn Ramadan meal (sahur). The tradition, observed during the fasting month, reflects the unique cultural heritage of the Gorontalo people and their communal approach to religious observance.

Mark Zuckerberg Testifies in Social Media Addiction Trial

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified in a Los Angeles court in a landmark trial alleging social media platforms deliberately designed addictive features harmful to children's mental health. The case, which could set precedent for thousands of similar lawsuits, comes amid a global wave of countries moving to ban social media use for minors, with internal company documents presented as evidence of Meta's awareness of the risks.

Pilot of Pelita Air Aircraft That Crashed in Krayan, Kalimantan Reported Safe

The pilot of a Pelita Air fuel cargo aircraft that crashed in the hilly terrain of Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, survived by deploying a parachute moments before impact. The Air Tractor AT-802 was on a government-mandated One Price Fuel distribution mission to the border region when it lost control shortly after take-off from Yuvai Semaring Airport in Long Bawan.

Ukrainian Drone Attacks Strike Russian Oil Refinery, Sparking Fire

A wave of Ukrainian drone strikes hit Russian territory, with one targeting an oil refinery in the Pskov region approximately 500 kilometres west of Moscow, igniting a fire at an oil storage tank. The attacks came just days after difficult two-day peace talks mediated by the United States in Geneva yielded no breakthrough, underscoring the continued escalation of the four-year conflict and its implications for global energy infrastructure.

Push for democratised AI and stronger safety rules at India summit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the country's AI Impact Summit to call for artificial intelligence to be made widely accessible, particularly for Global South nations. The remarks underscore a growing international push to ensure AI serves as a tool for inclusion and empowerment rather than deepening the digital divide between developed and developing economies.

Banten Provincial Government's Free Mudik Quota Sold Out in a Single Day

The Banten Provincial Government's free homecoming travel programme for Eid al-Fitr 2026 saw its entire allocation of 900 passenger spots across 20 buses exhausted within just one day of registration opening. The transport authority confirmed there would be no additional quota, with verification of registered applicants currently underway before final announcements are made.

Prabowo Assures US Chamber of Commerce That Indonesia's Investment Climate Remains Conducive

President Prabowo Subianto addressed American business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, guaranteeing that Indonesia will maintain a conducive investment climate underpinned by political stability, rule of law, and anti-corruption efforts. He highlighted that foreign investment reached US$53 billion last year and introduced the Danantara sovereign wealth fund as a key vehicle for future investment opportunities.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Explains Private Jet Use During Minister's Inauguration of Balai Sarkiah in Takalar

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has clarified that the private jet used by Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar to attend the inauguration of the Balai Sarkiah building in Takalar, South Sulawesi, was provided by former Regional Representative Council chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO), who organised the event.

Garuda Indonesia Donates Aircraft for Hajj Training Facility in Aceh

State-owned carrier Garuda Indonesia has donated a decommissioned Boeing 737 formerly operated by Citilink to serve as a flight simulation training facility at the Class I Hajj Dormitory in Aceh. The initiative, praised by Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, aims to reduce anxiety among prospective pilgrims — particularly the elderly — by allowing them to practise boarding procedures, baggage stowage, and seatbelt use before their long-haul journey to Saudi Arabia.

Prabowo Invites US to Invest in Education and Healthcare

President Prabowo Subianto used a business summit in Washington D.C. to invite American educational institutions and businesses to invest in Indonesia's education and healthcare sectors. He outlined plans to build 10 new STEM and medical universities and 500 high-quality schools, citing a shortage of 140,000 doctors that would take 14 years to address at current graduation rates. The initiative follows similar overtures to leading British universities during Prabowo's UK visit in January 2026.

Fishing Vessel KM Marina Catches Fire off Pulau Ular, Cilegon: One Crew Member Dead

A fishing vessel, KM Marina 7, caught fire in the waters off Pulau Ular, Ciwandan, Cilegon, resulting in the death of one crew member. Sixteen crew members were evacuated with the assistance of nearby vessels, with 15 surviving, whilst Basarnas Banten coordinated the search and rescue operation and authorities continue to investigate the cause of the blaze.

Pigai Submits Draft Indigenous Communities Bill to Parliament, Targets Completion This Year

Minister for Human Rights Natalius Pigai has submitted a draft bill on Indigenous Communities to the House of Representatives' Legislation Body (Baleg), with the target of completing the legislation this year. The bill aims to formally recognise the existence of indigenous communities and ensure they can exercise self-determination, with Pigai emphasising the importance of meaningful public participation and transparency in the legislative process.

President Has Not Cleared State Funds for Whoosh Debt Repayment, Purbaya Says

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto has not approved using state funds to fully repay the approximately $7 billion in Chinese loans tied to the Whoosh high-speed rail project, contradicting recent signals from other senior officials.

Prabowo Invites US Businesses to Invest in Indonesia: We Are Open and Competitive

President Prabowo Subianto made a direct pitch to American business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, highlighting Indonesia's vast critical mineral reserves and downstream industrialisation programme as key investment opportunities. The president announced that the Danantara sovereign wealth fund will initiate 18 downstream processing projects this year, including a Rp 50.

Ahmad Luthfi Offers Central Java Investment Opportunities to Indian Entrepreneurs

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi pitched investment opportunities in green economy, medical workforce, and labour-intensive garment industries to Indian business leaders during a courtesy visit by India's Ambassador to Indonesia. Indian investment in Central Java currently ranks 17th by country at Rp 646.52 billion, whilst the province recorded its highest total investment realisation in a decade at Rp 88.

Indonesia and US Complete Reciprocal Trade Agreement Negotiations

Indonesia and the United States have concluded negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), with both nations now preparing for signing and implementation. The deal, announced alongside the US-Indonesia Business Summit 2026 during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Washington, was accompanied by memoranda of understanding worth approximately USD 38.4 billion across agriculture and industrial sectors, including semiconductors and strategic industrial materials.

Economist Sees Bank Indonesia Holding Rate at 4.75% Amid Capital Outflows

LPEM FEB UI economist Teuku Riefky recommends Bank Indonesia maintain its benchmark rate at 4.75% at the February policy meeting, warning that a cut could worsen capital outflows triggered by negative signals from MSCI and Moody's. Indonesia has recorded US$1.06 billion in cumulative capital outflows over the past 30 days, with investor confidence further shaken by concerns over central bank independence following the appointment of President Prabowo's nephew as deputy governor.

Social Affairs Minister Warns PKH Field Workers Against Accepting Referrals to Ensure Accurate PBI JK Data

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) has warned Programme Keluarga Harapan (PKH) field workers involved in verifying Health Insurance Contribution Assistance (PBI JK) recipients against accepting external referrals, insisting on data accuracy and professionalism. The government is conducting ground checks on previously deactivated PBI JK participants whilst maintaining the full allocation for 96.

KPK Extends Overseas Travel Ban on Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut and Gus Alex

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has extended the overseas travel ban on former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his former special staff member Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex) until 12 August 2026, as investigations into alleged corruption involving additional hajj quotas for 2024 continue.

Hamas Urges Trump's Board of Peace to Halt Israeli Attacks in Gaza, Warns Against Becoming War Shield

Hamas has called on the US-created Board of Peace to pressure Israel into ceasing violations of the US-mediated Gaza ceasefire agreement, as over 600 Palestinians have been killed since the truce took effect in October 2025. The group demanded the lifting of the Gaza blockade, full opening of crossings, and facilitation of reconstruction efforts, while warning Israel against using the board as cover to continue military operations.

Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Damage Five Houses in Bogor

Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds struck North Bogor, damaging the roofs of five residential properties with varying degrees of severity. The Bogor City Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) confirmed that no casualties or injuries were reported following the incident, and assessment teams have completed their on-site evaluation.

Ministry of Agriculture Confident Chilli Price Spike Will Soon Ease as Ramadan Supply Secured

Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture has assured the public that the current surge in chilli prices will be short-lived, citing national surplus projections of 54,000 tonnes of bird's eye chilli in February 2026, rising to 99,000 tonnes in March. The ministry's confidence rests on strengthened production across key centres in Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi and West Nusa Tenggara, with continuous phased harvesting expected to comfortably meet heightened demand during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

President Invites Major US Firm to Boost Medical Equipment Investment in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has called on General Electric to expand its medical equipment production in Indonesia, linking the opportunity to the establishment of ten new STEM and medical universities. Speaking at a Gala Iftar Dinner Business Summit in Washington DC, Prabowo also pledged to resolve bureaucratic obstacles that have frustrated foreign investors.

Illegally Parked Police Tow Truck Causing Traffic Jams Towed Away in West Jakarta

A police-owned tow truck that had been illegally parked on a roadside in Meruya Selatan, West Jakarta, was itself towed by the local transport agency following public complaints about traffic congestion. The West Jakarta Transportation Agency is coordinating with police to identify which unit left the vehicle on the public road, whilst pledging to increase surveillance in the area despite limited personnel.

BI Rate Held at 4.75 Per Cent in February 2026

Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors decided to hold the benchmark BI Rate steady at 4.75 per cent at its February 2026 meeting, maintaining its focus on stabilising the rupiah amid persistent global financial market uncertainty. Governor Perry Warjiyo signalled that further rate cuts remain under consideration, aligned with controlled inflation forecasts and efforts to support higher economic growth.

Gran Max Widely Used in Free School Meals Projects, but Astra Daihatsu Struggles to Track Data

Daihatsu Gran Max sales are being buoyed by demand linked to the government's free school meals (MBG) programme, logistics growth, and infrastructure projects, though Astra Daihatsu Motor cannot quantify the programme's precise contribution. Most purchases are made under personal names rather than institutional accounts, making end-use tracking virtually impossible at the distribution level.

Strengthening Economic Cooperation: Indonesia as a Strategic Partner of the US

President Prabowo Subianto attended the US-Indonesia Business Summit 2026 in Washington D.C., where Indonesia and the United States completed negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), a landmark deal aimed at strengthening market access and reducing trade barriers. The summit also yielded memorandums of understanding worth approximately US$38.

Prabowo Says Indonesia 'Wants More Investment' in Front of US Investors

President Prabowo Subianto made a direct pitch to American business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington, highlighting Indonesia's critical mineral reserves — including nickel, copper, bauxite and rare earths — as key attractions for foreign investment.

NasDem Reveals Reason for Sahroni Leading DPR Commission III: Two Terms of Experience

Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission III after completing suspension sanctions from both the NasDem Party and the House Ethics Council (MKD). NasDem Deputy General Chairman Saan Mustopa cited Sahroni's two terms of experience on the commission as justification for his reappointment, which was formally confirmed by DPR Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad following a factional letter requesting the personnel change.

Man in North Jakarta Arrested for Stealing Rp 400 Million from Girlfriend's Father After Frequent Visits

A 24-year-old man was arrested for burglarising his girlfriend's father's home in Pademangan, North Jakarta, making off with a safe containing approximately Rp 80 million in cash and substantial gold jewellery valued at a total of Rp 400 million.

Judicial Commission Leaders Visit KPK to Discuss Ethics of Depok District Court Judge Suspected of Bribery

The Judicial Commission (KY) visited the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to follow up on ethical proceedings against Depok District Court judges implicated in a bribery sting operation related to a land dispute. Five suspects, including the chief and deputy chief of the Depok District Court, have been detained, with KY chairman Abdul Chair Ramadhan declaring a zero-tolerance stance against corruption in the judiciary.

ICW Urges KPK to Investigate Alleged Private Jet Gratification Involving Religious Affairs Minister

Indonesia Corruption Watch and Trend Asia have called on the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to investigate allegations that Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar received a private jet trip worth an estimated Rp 566 billion from Hanura Party chairman Oesman Sapta Odang, potentially constituting criminal gratification under anti-corruption law. The jet, registered to a British Virgin Islands entity linked to OSO, far exceeded the government's maximum Rp 22.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Crashes in Nunukan, Believed Down Between Pa' Betung and Pa' Remayo Mountains

A fuel-carrying aircraft en route from Tarakan to Krayan in North Kalimantan's Nunukan Regency crashed in the East Krayan subdistrict on 19 February 2026. Search teams comprising local officials and residents are combing forested terrain between Pa' Betung and Pa' Remayo mountains to locate the crash site, highlighting the logistical challenges of supplying remote border regions in Indonesian Borneo.

Michael Saylor Spends Rp2.8 Trillion to Acquire 2,486 Bitcoin

Michael Saylor's company Strategy has purchased an additional 2,486 Bitcoin for US$168.4 million, bringing its total holdings to 717,131 BTC — over 3.4 per cent of Bitcoin's maximum global supply. Despite sitting on approximately US$5.7 billion in unrealised losses, the firm remains committed to its aggressive accumulation strategy, with Saylor predicting Bitcoin will outperform the S&P by two to three times over the next four to eight years.

Indonesia Kaya Presents Padel in Kebaya to Preserve Cultural Heritage with Contemporary Relevance

Indonesia Kaya organised a "Padel Berkebaya" event in Jakarta, merging the traditional Indonesian kebaya with the modern sport of padel as part of its ongoing Kita Berkebaya cultural preservation movement. The initiative aims to reposition the kebaya as a living, dynamic element of everyday life rather than mere ceremonial attire, whilst simultaneously stimulating the creative economy ecosystem of craftspeople, designers, and SMEs.

Beware of Hoax Immigration Civil Service Recruitment for 2026 Circulating on Threads

The Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services has warned the public about a fraudulent social media account on Threads spreading false information about civil servant recruitment for 2026. The hoax account used AI-generated videos, official logos, and photographs of the minister and deputy minister to lend credibility, but the ministry confirmed it has not announced any national CPNS recruitment for the 2026 fiscal year.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Praises Swift Local Government Action to Evacuate Residents Following Smart Air Shooting

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk commended the South Papua provincial government and local regents for their rapid response in evacuating displaced persons, including teachers and healthcare workers, following the shooting of two aircraft pilots.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Crashes into Mountain En Route from Tarakan to Krayan

A fuel-transport aircraft crashed in East Krayan sub-district, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan on 19 February 2026 after departing from Tarakan. The aircraft is believed to have gone down between Mount Pa' Betung and Pa' Remayo, with local authorities and residents conducting a search through forested terrain to locate the crash site.

Labour Attaché Admits Receiving Rp 70 Million and a Car from Defendant in Foreign Worker Permit Corruption Case

A labour attaché at the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur testified in a major corruption trial that he received Rp 70 million in regular cash payments and a new car from a former director at the Ministry of Manpower's foreign worker permit directorate. The case involves eight defendants, including senior ministry officials, accused of extorting agents processing foreign worker permits, with alleged enrichment totalling tens of billions of rupiah.

Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Costs Across Sumatra Reach Rp56.3 Trillion, Bappenas Details Breakdown

Bappenas has disclosed that rehabilitation and reconstruction following disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra will cost Rp56.3 trillion across 2,108 activities over three fiscal years (2026–2028). The master plan, underpinned by Presidential Instruction No. 18/2025 and Presidential Decree No.

Social Affairs Minister Affirms Health Insurance Subsidy Allocation Unchanged: Still Covering 96.8 Million People

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has confirmed the government will not reduce the allocation for subsidised health insurance (PBI JK), maintaining coverage for 96.8 million beneficiaries.

Rp118 Trillion in Deals Reached During Prabowo's Visit to the US

Indonesian and American companies signed trade and investment deals worth over US$7 billion during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Washington, covering agricultural commodities, critical minerals, oil field recovery, and semiconductor joint ventures. The agreements, facilitated by the US-ASEAN Business Council, include substantial purchases of US soybeans, corn, wheat, cotton, and shredded used clothing, alongside a US$4.89 billion semiconductor venture with Essence Global Group.

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Sentenced to Life Imprisonment over Martial Law Declaration

A South Korean court has found former President Yoon Suk Yeol guilty of insurrection for his December 2024 martial law declaration, sentencing him to life imprisonment. The Seoul Central District Court ruled that Yoon deliberately planned to "paralyse" the National Assembly by deploying military forces to silence political opponents, noting his lack of remorse for the significant social damage caused.

Freeport Indonesia Mining Permit Extended Until 2041

Indonesia's Investment Minister and Freeport-McMoRan have signed a memorandum of understanding to extend Freeport Indonesia's mining permit beyond 2041, announced during a US Chamber of Commerce event attended by President Prabowo Subianto.

SBY's Fire Horse Painting Sells for Rp 6.5 Billion at Auction

Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's painting of a fire horse, created for the 2026 Lunar New Year, was auctioned at the Democratic Party's Imlek celebration in Jakarta for Rp 6.5 billion. The winning bid came from Dato Low Tuck Kwong, the tycoon behind coal mining firm PT Bayan Resources Tbk, raising questions about the intersection of political party fundraising and business interests.

Bali's Mangosteen Exports to China Surge 700% Ahead of Lunar New Year

Bali's mangosteen exports to China increased 700% in early 2026, reaching 79.5 tons between January and February, driven by Chinese demand for the fruit as New Year gifts. The surge represents a significant boost for Indonesia's Go Export Program and aligns with President Prabowo's agenda to increase economic value from agricultural exports. However, annual export volumes remain lower than the previous year due to extreme weather conditions that damaged crops.

Education Ministry Survey Reveals Free Nutritious Meals Programme Improves Student Focus

A nationwide survey by Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, involving over 1.2 million student respondents, 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. The impact was particularly pronounced in eastern Indonesia, where the reduction was 14.

Puan Affirms DPR Will Oversee Customs Reform and Children's Mental Health Issues

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani outlined the House's legislative, budgetary and oversight priorities as the third session period of 2025-2026 closed, highlighting attention to children's mental health, child grooming threats, and internal reform of the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The session also addressed BPJS healthcare deactivations, disaster reconstruction, hajj preparations, and the drafting of several major bills covering food, education, labour and hajj financial management.

House of Representatives Exposes Intellectual Author Behind KPK Law Revision, Refuses Further Amendments

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission III has alleged that the Presidential Palace under Joko Widodo was the true initiator of the controversial 2019 revision to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) law, whilst requesting parliament to front the proposal to protect the president's image.

Why Pramono Plans to Review Padel Court Permits

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced a comprehensive review of padel court operating permits following residents' complaints about excessive noise. The governor pledged to summon all stakeholders and take firm action against any facilities found to be operating in violation of their permits or causing disturbance to surrounding communities.

APVI Responds to Claims That Vapes Serve as Gateway for New Types of Narcotics

The Indonesian Personal Vaporiser Association (APVI) has pushed back against the National Narcotics Agency's (BNN) assertion that vapes are becoming a gateway for new types of drugs, calling the statement disproportionate and urging authorities to distinguish between illegal actors and the legitimate e-cigarette industry.

Prabowo: First Time in History There Have Been Protests Against Efficiency

President Prabowo Subianto, speaking at a business summit in Washington D.C., expressed dismay at mass protests opposing his budget-cutting policies, claiming it was the first time in world history that demonstrations had been held against government efficiency.

MAKI: Ahmad Sahroni Was Elected by the People and Has Served His Punishment — Not Returning to Duty Would Be Wrong

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has endorsed the reinstatement of Ahmad Sahroni as an active member of the House of Representatives and Deputy Chairman of Commission III, following completion of his six-month suspension for ethics violations.

Istiqlal Mosque Prepares Accommodation for President During Ramadan

The Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque and Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has announced that the mosque will provide dedicated overnight accommodation for the president and vice president during Ramadan activities, starting this year. The facility, located within the mosque complex, is intended to support security and mobility whilst enabling the head of state to participate in late-night religious observances and state events held at the national mosque.

Seven Monitoring Posts in Ciputat to Watch for Brawls and Street Gatherings During Ramadan

East Ciputat Police have established seven monitoring posts across the district to prevent street brawls, illegal racing, and disruptive sahur-on-the-road gatherings during Ramadan 2026. The initiative, coordinated with local sub-district and military officials, reflects ongoing concerns about public order disturbances during the fasting month and underscores the police's commitment to ensuring a secure environment for worship.

Indonesia's Economy Increasingly Underpinned by Financial Sector as Asset-to-GDP Ratio Hits 184%, Says OJK

The acting chair of Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revealed that the ratio of the country's financial assets and products to GDP has reached 184 per cent, reflecting the growing contribution of the financial sector to the national economy. OJK is prioritising financial market deepening — including expanding the capital market's role and diversifying funding sources — whilst pursuing structural reforms to address transparency, ownership structures, and market integrity.

Prabowo in the US: We Want More Investment

President Prabowo Subianto courted American business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., positioning Indonesia as a competitive investment destination with abundant critical minerals and accelerating industrialisation. He highlighted that the Danantara Investment Management Agency would initiate 18 downstream processing projects this year, including a US$3 billion waste-to-energy scheme, whilst pledging regulatory certainty and good governance to attract foreign capital.

Bali Hotel Occupancy and Commercial Space Rental Lags

Bali's commercial property sector is experiencing significant deceleration, with price growth slowing to 0.68 percent year-on-year in Q4 2025 from 3.56 percent in the previous quarter, according to Bank Indonesia data. Demand has fallen sharply by 4.80 percent, particularly in the hotel segment (down 6.71 percent) and office rentals (down 5.

Registration Opens 22 February for DKI Jakarta Provincial Government's Free Lebaran 2026 Mudik Programme

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is launching its free mudik (homecoming) programme for Lebaran 2026, with online registration opening on 22 February. The programme offers free bus transport to 20 cities and towns, as well as motorcycle transport by truck to six destinations, with registration divided into three clusters running through early March. Applicants must hold a DKI Jakarta identity card and undergo in-person verification at designated transport agency offices across the capital.

Judicial Commission Chair Visits KPK to Follow Up on Ethics Enforcement Against Depok Court Judges

The Judicial Commission (KY) Chair Abdul Chair Ramadhan visited the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) headquarters to follow up on ethics enforcement proceedings against judges at the Depok District Court implicated in a bribery scandal. The KPK has named five suspects, including the chief and deputy chief of the Depok District Court, who allegedly demanded a one billion rupiah fee for case handling, with the deputy chief also facing separate gratification charges totalling 2.

DPR Speaker: President Has Vision to Support Palestinian Independence

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani affirmed that President Prabowo Subianto maintains a clear vision to support Palestinian independence, speaking at the inaugural meeting of the post-Gaza conflict Board of Peace.

Jakarta School Children to Finish by 2pm at the Latest During Ramadan

The DKI Jakarta provincial government has mandated that all schools in the capital must end teaching activities by 2pm throughout Ramadan, following a joint circular from three ministries. The policy aims to give students time for religious observance and independent learning with their families, with an Eid al-Fitr holiday scheduled from 16 to 27 March 2026.

Kompolnas Considers Ethics Hearing for Former Bima City Police Chief a Positive Step by the Police

The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has praised the Indonesian National Police for holding an ethics hearing against former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro over narcotics possession, noting a strong likelihood of dishonourable discharge. Commissioner Choirup Anam urged the police to use the hearing to expose the wider drug network, emphasising that narcotics eradication is a presidential priority and calling on the force to demonstrate professionalism and transparency.

Dasco Confirms Sahroni Has Returned as Active Legislator

Ahmad Sahroni has resumed active duties as a legislator following a six-month suspension, with House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad confirming his appointment as Deputy Chairman of Commission III. Sahroni was sanctioned by both the NasDem Party and the House Ethics Council in August 2025 for remarks deemed offensive to the public during a wave of mass demonstrations.

Tangerang City Metropolitan Police Conduct Handover of Criminal Investigation Chief and Three Precinct Commanders

The Tangerang City Metropolitan Police held a formal handover ceremony for seven senior positions, including the heads of criminal investigation, narcotics, and general affairs divisions, as well as four precinct commanders. Police Chief Commissioner Raden Muhammad Jauhari emphasised that the rotations are routine measures aimed at improving organisational performance and public service delivery.

Three Teenagers in East Jakarta Caught by Residents Searching for Synthetic Cannabis During Tarawih Prayers

Three teenagers were apprehended by local residents in Cipayung, East Jakarta, after being caught searching for pre-ordered synthetic tobacco (sinte) during Wednesday evening's Tarawih prayers. Police have taken custody of the youths, who will undergo urine testing whilst investigators trace the online source of the narcotics.

ICW on Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar's Private Jet: Potential Gratification

Indonesia Corruption Watch has warned that Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar's use of a private jet belonging to businessman and politician Oesman Sapta Odang potentially constitutes criminal gratification under anti-corruption law, with the flight valued at approximately Rp566 billion far exceeding the government's Rp22.1 million cap on domestic business-class air travel.

House of Representatives Pushes Economic Growth Through Strategic Investment

The Chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission XI, Mukhamad Misbakhun, has called for Indonesia to accelerate strategic investment to drive sustainable and inclusive economic growth, particularly in energy, critical minerals, food, and technology sectors. He highlighted the establishment of Danantara Indonesia as a national investment platform, signalling a more systematic approach to connecting industrial needs, financing, and investor interest for long-term strategic projects.

Sahroni Speaks After Returning as Commission III Deputy Chair

NasDem politician Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives' Commission III (Legal Affairs) after serving a six-month suspension imposed following controversial remarks during the August 2025 protest wave. Sahroni replaces Rusdi Masse Mappasessu, who resigned from both the DPR and NasDem to join the Indonesian Solidarity Party, marking a notable shift in parliamentary and party alignments.

Religious Affairs Minister Responds to Gratification Allegations Over Private Jet Use

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has dismissed allegations of gratification after being filmed using a private jet owned by politician Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO) to attend a madrasah inauguration in South Sulawesi, claiming the invitation came through family ties.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Crashes in North Kalimantan, Pilot Survives After Parachute Jump

A fuel-carrying aircraft crashed in the hilly terrain of Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, with the pilot surviving after deploying a parachute moments before impact. Local residents of Pa' Betung village located and evacuated the pilot, though the wreckage site remains inaccessible due to difficult terrain. The incident highlights the continued reliance on small aircraft for transporting essential supplies to remote border communities in Indonesian Borneo.

Formaldehyde-Laced Noodles Produced in Former Chicken Coop Found to Have Been in Circulation for Nine Months

West Java police have uncovered a factory operating out of a former chicken coop that produced up to one tonne daily of wet noodles laced with formaldehyde and borax, distributed across Garut's traditional markets for nine months. In a separate case, authorities also exposed a scheme in Sumedang to repackage expired food products — including biscuits, milk, and yoghurt — for resale and inclusion in Lebaran gift hampers, highlighting serious food safety enforcement failures ahead of Ramadan.

Tensions Escalate: US Reportedly Ready to Strike Iran by Weekend

The United States has amassed significant military assets in the Middle East, including warships, fighter jets and refuelling aircraft, laying the groundwork for potential sustained strikes against Iran should President Trump give the order. Although US and Iranian negotiators exchanged notes during indirect talks mediated by Oman, no clear resolution was reached, and the White House has been briefed that military forces could be ready to strike as early as this weekend.

Healthcare Innovation Advances: How Surgical Operations Have Changed From Past to Present

A leading oncology surgeon has highlighted the paradigm shift in cancer surgery from large open-wound procedures to minimally invasive robotic operations, significantly improving patient recovery times. The remarks were made at the launch of the Summit Robotic & Endourology Institute at Eka Hospital in Jakarta, which will deploy the Da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system for urological procedures.

No Fanfare, but TVS Has Already Produced One Million Vehicles in Indonesia

Indian motorcycle manufacturer TVS Motor Company has reached the milestone of producing one million vehicles at its Karawang, West Java facility since commencing operations in 2007, with cumulative investment now totalling US$250 million.

12 police officers in Malaysia arrested for alleged US$51,000 cryptocurrency robbery

Malaysian authorities have arrested 12 police officers, including four from the federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department, for allegedly robbing a group of Chinese nationals of approximately US$51,000 in Tether cryptocurrency during a fabricated anti-scam raid on a bungalow in Kajang.

Accused of Demanding Rp 10 Billion to Drop Foreign Worker Case, Bayu Denies Claiming to Be 'KPK Official'

A witness named Bayu Widodo Sugiarto denied posing as a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) official and demanding Rp 10 billion to halt a corruption case involving foreign worker permit irregularities at the Ministry of Manpower. Previous testimony from another witness, Yora Lovita, alleged that Bayu — introduced as "Bayu Sigit" — demanded the sum from co-defendant Gatot Widiartono, who ultimately handed over Rp 1 billion.

High Pressure and Volatility in Capital Inflows: Economist Consensus Projects Bank Indonesia to Hold Interest Rates

A consensus of economists expects Bank Indonesia to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 4.75 per cent amid heightened capital flow volatility driven by MSCI free-float warnings and Moody's downward outlook revision for Indonesia. The country has recorded cumulative capital outflows of US$1.06 billion over the past 30 days, with 10-year government bond yields rising to 6.40 per cent, leaving limited room for monetary easing in the near term.

School Hours in Jakarta Limited to 2pm During Ramadan

The Jakarta Provincial Government has capped school hours at 2pm during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, following a joint circular from the ministries of education, home affairs, and religious affairs. The policy, part of a broader national learning scheme agreed at ministerial level under Coordinating Minister Pratikno, divides the Ramadan period into out-of-school learning, face-to-face instruction, and post-Eid holidays, with an emphasis on character education through social and religious activities.

Istiqlal Mosque to Provide 4,000-10,000 Boxed Meals Daily for Iftar

Istiqlal Mosque's Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar has announced the continuation of large-scale communal iftar during Ramadan, with 4,000 to 10,000 boxed meals distributed daily depending on the day of the week. The mosque will also offer free language courses, host international Quran reciters for tarawih prayers, and coordinate Nuzulul Quran commemorations and Eid al-Fitr takbir jointly with MABIMS member states across Southeast Asia.

Pramono to Revoke Padel Court Permits if They Disturb Residents' Comfort

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced a crackdown on padel sports courts that disrupt public order and residents' comfort, pledging to review all existing permits. The governor will summon stakeholders next week for a presentation on padel court licensing compliance, warning that permits will be revoked for non-compliant operations.

Prabowo Invites US Businesses to Invest in Indonesia: We Have Abundant Mineral Reserves

President Prabowo Subianto used a business summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC to court American investors, highlighting Indonesia's 18 downstream processing projects, rare earth mineral reserves, and an imminent reciprocal trade agreement with the United States.

DPR Plenary Session: Puan Raises Indonesia's Position on Board of Peace

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani used the closing plenary session of the third session period to highlight Indonesia's strategic role in the newly formed Board of Peace overseeing the Gaza peace plan, as well as its presidency of the UN Human Rights Council.

Government Launches Field Verification of Social Health Insurance Beneficiary Data to Ensure Accurate Targeting

The Indonesian government has begun ground-checking Penerima Bantuan Iuran (PBI) national health insurance beneficiary data to ensure social assistance reaches its intended recipients. The verification will be conducted in two phases covering over 11 million individuals, with field checks beginning immediately and concluding by April 2026, using both formal government channels and public participation via digital reporting tools.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Reported Crashed in Krayan, North Kalimantan

A fuel transport aircraft crashed in the hilly terrain of Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, shortly after taking off from Yuvai Semaring Airport. An eyewitness reported seeing a part of the aircraft detach before it veered and went down in a remote forested area near Pa' Belaban Village, with search and rescue teams mobilising to reach the crash site amid poor weather conditions.

American Suitcase Murderer Deported from Bali Prison

American suitcase murderer Tommy Schaefer is being deported from Bali prison following his conviction in Indonesia. His case raises questions about whether he will face additional legal consequences upon his return to the United States, highlighting transnational criminal justice and prisoner extradition issues between Indonesia and America.

Aria Bima Responds to 'Stop Paying Tax' Movement in Central Java

Deputy Chairman of House Commission II Aria Bima has described the "Stop Paying Tax" movement spreading across Central Java as a social alarm signalling public discontent over perceived unfair vehicle tax increases. He warned the movement could spread to other regions facing similar fiscal pressures following central government cuts to regional transfer funds, and urged local governments to improve transparency around tax policy changes.

Noise Complaints Over Padel Court Prompt Jakarta Governor Pramono to Summon Operators

Residents in Haji Nawi, South Jakarta, have lodged complaints about noise pollution from a nearby padel court, prompting Governor Pramono Anung to announce he will summon the facility's operators and relevant stakeholders. The governor has pledged to review all permits and operational compliance, warning that the provincial government will take firm action against any businesses found to be operating outside their licence terms and disturbing local communities.

Andre Rosiade, Dony Oskaria, and Bobby Rasyidin Inspect Padang Luar Flyover Project

Senior parliamentarian Andre Rosiade, Danantara COO Dony Oskaria, and PT KAI chief Bobby Rasyidin jointly inspected the planned Padang Luar flyover site in West Sumatra's Agam Regency, aimed at resolving severe congestion and safety hazards at a railway level crossing.

Adies Kadir Undergoes Closed Preliminary Hearing Before Constitutional Court Ethics Council

The Constitutional Court Ethics Council (MKMK) has held a closed preliminary hearing to examine ethics complaints against newly appointed Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir, who was reported just one day after his inauguration on 5 February 2026. MKMK Chairman I Dewa Gede Palguna firmly rejected attempts by Commission III of the House of Representatives to intervene in the process or dismiss the case, asserting that no institution may interfere with the council's authority.

Indonesia adopted budget efficiency earlier than the US, Prabowo tells Washington summit

President Prabowo Subianto told a business summit at the US Chamber of Commerce that Indonesia's budget efficiency drive saved US$18 billion in three months by cutting unproductive projects, ceremonial spending and non-urgent foreign travel.

Villages need to strengthen disaster preparedness amid climate risks

Indonesia's Director General of Acceleration of Disadvantaged Region Development revealed that disaster events surged 121 per cent in 2025 to 3,116 incidents, with 98.33 per cent being hydrometeorological in nature. The government is pushing for systematic disaster mitigation capacity-building in villages through the Village Climate Risk Index and urging passage of a Climate Change Management Bill to provide a comprehensive legal framework.

Inspection at Koja Market at Start of Ramadan: Findings of Metro Police SABER Task Force

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's SABER task force conducted an inspection at Koja Baru Market in North Jakarta to monitor staple food prices and availability ahead of Ramadan. Officers confirmed adequate stock levels and no price manipulation, whilst warning that enforcement action including criminal sanctions awaits traders found hoarding goods or violating government-set price ceilings.

Prabowo Tells US Business Leaders About Free Nutritious Meals Programme and Commitment to Combat Corruption

President Prabowo Subianto addressed the US Chamber of Commerce business forum during his Washington D.C. visit, promoting Indonesia's priority programmes including the Free Nutritious Meals scheme, the newly established Danantara sovereign wealth fund, and his anti-corruption agenda. The speech was a clear bid to reassure American investors of Indonesia's governance reforms and economic stability, whilst highlighting the grassroots economic multiplier effects of his flagship social programme.

DPR calls for peace-oriented diplomacy amid global tensions

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani urged Indonesia to strengthen its national resilience and international cooperation in response to escalating global conflicts and trade wars disrupting supply chains in early 2026. Speaking at a closing plenary session, she emphasised that development must be measured by quality of human life and social justice, not merely numerical growth, and called for diplomacy rooted in Indonesia's free and active foreign policy principle.

Allianz Economist Shares Investment Tips for the Year of the Fire Horse

Allianz Global Investors senior economist Christiaan Tuntono and Feng Shui consultant Angelina Fang presented a combined economic and cultural outlook for 2026 investment strategy in Asia and Indonesia. The pair advised selective, disciplined investing focused on strong fundamentals and AI-driven sectors, whilst cautioning against emotional decision-making as Indonesia's real interest rates become less restrictive.

Indonesia never defaults, Prabowo stresses at US business summit

President Prabowo Subianto used a business summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington to reassure American investors of Indonesia's spotless sovereign debt record, pledging that successive administrations will always honour their predecessors' obligations. He outlined plans to strengthen the investment climate through governance reform and announced the establishment of ten new STEM universities to address a shortage of 140,000 doctors and accelerate human capital development.

Indonesia earmarks 1.1 million hectares of plantation land for food self-reliance

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has identified 1.1 million hectares of forestland for plantation commodity development under an agroforestry approach, as part of a broader 8.3 million hectare social forestry initiative. The Agriculture Ministry has separately outlined plans to cultivate 870,000 hectares of plantation crops in 2026, backed by a Rp9.

North Korea Showcases Giant Rocket Launchers, Claims Nuclear Warhead Capability

North Korea has unveiled a series of large 600mm multiple rocket launcher systems claimed to be nuclear-capable, ahead of the ruling Workers' Party congress. Leader Kim Jong Un declared the weapons could destroy targets "to ashes" through sudden simultaneous strikes, whilst analysts assess the system could cover all of South Korea with a range of up to 400 kilometres.

US Tariff Agreement Set to Be Signed by Prabowo, with SMEs and Indonesian Industry Expected to Benefit

President Prabowo Subianto is visiting the United States to sign a bilateral trade tariff agreement, which economists believe will sustain Indonesia's export performance and open new market opportunities for SMEs and industrial players. Indonesia has successfully negotiated its reciprocal tariff down from 32 per cent to 19 per cent — the lowest in ASEAN — whilst maintaining a trade surplus of USD 41.05 billion across 68 consecutive months.

Fuel Transport Aircraft Suspected to Have Crashed in North Kalimantan, Smoke Rising from Hillside

A fuel-carrying aircraft reportedly crashed in the hilly Krayan area of Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, shortly after completing a fuel delivery to Yuvai Semaring Airport in Long Bawan. An eyewitness reported seeing part of the aircraft detach mid-flight before it rolled and went down, with thick black smoke emerging from the crash site minutes later. The incident highlights the ongoing risks of aviation logistics in remote border regions of Indonesian Borneo.

Universities ready to support national waste management

Indonesia's higher education ministry has pledged university resources to support national waste management, deploying students through thematic community service programmes to educate communities on waste sorting and organic processing. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq welcomed the initiative, which aims to strengthen regional government capacity and optimise waste processing facilities through sustained academic engagement rather than one-off programmes.

Pramono Demands No Reduction in Jakarta Student Card Recipients

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has insisted there must be no reduction in the number of recipients of the Jakarta Superior Student Card (KJMU) or the Jakarta Smart Card (KJP) programmes, declaring both educational aid schemes a priority of his administration.

Prabowo showcases 18 strategic projects to US investors

President Prabowo Subianto presented 18 strategic downstream industrial projects to US business leaders at a Washington summit hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce, spanning sectors from aluminium smelting to aquaculture processing.

Thousands of Worshippers Pack First Tarawih Prayer at IKN National Mosque

Thousands of worshippers from across East Kalimantan gathered at Indonesia's new National Mosque in the Nusantara capital (IKN) for the first Tarawih prayer of Ramadan 1447 H, marking a significant milestone in the new capital's development as a functioning civic and spiritual centre. The event underscores the mosque's emerging role as both a religious hub and a social gathering point for communities beginning to settle in Indonesia's future capital city.

Puan Confident Prabowo Will Maintain Independent-Active Stance and Support Palestinian Independence at Board of Peace

House Speaker Puan Maharani expressed confidence that President Prabowo Subianto will uphold Indonesia's independent and active foreign policy whilst attending the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington DC. Prabowo is also set to hold bilateral talks with President Donald Trump to sign a reciprocal trade agreement, alongside advocating for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and Palestinian independence.

National Economic Council: Economic Improvements Boost Public Satisfaction with Prabowo to 79 Per Cent

A survey by Indikator Politik in January 2026 found that public satisfaction with President Prabowo Subianto's leadership reached 79.9 per cent, the highest first-year rating of any Indonesian president.

Prabowo touts MBG, anti-corruption drive at US business forum

President Prabowo pitched Indonesia's free meal programme (MBG) and sovereign wealth fund Danantara to US business leaders, framing both as drivers of economic growth and industrial downstreaming. He acknowledged persistent governance challenges including corruption, smuggling, and illegal mining, vowing to confront them directly whilst seeking to reassure foreign investors of a stable climate.

West Jakarta Food Task Force Conducts Surprise Inspection at Kebon Jeruk Market: Key Findings

A joint food task force conducted a surprise inspection at Pos Pengumben traditional market in West Jakarta, finding several staple commodities priced significantly above government-mandated ceilings ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026. Red cayenne chilli was selling at Rp 80,000–120,000 per kilogramme, whilst subsidised cooking oil Minyakita was both overpriced and scarce, prompting authorities to pledge continued surveillance against hoarding and price manipulation.

Viral CCTV Footage Shows Shoplifting Gang in Action at Cibinong Minimarket, Police Investigate

CCTV footage of a three-person shoplifting gang stealing goods worth Rp 4.2 million from a minimarket in Cibinong, Bogor Regency, has gone viral on social media. Police have secured the CCTV recordings and are investigating, though the store has yet to file a formal report.

First Tarawih Prayer in Banda Aceh: Ulama Abi Lamkawe Calls on Faithful to Begin Ramadan with Repentance

Charismatic Acehnese ulama Tgk Ishak Malem, known as Abi Lamkawe, urged the community to begin Ramadan 1447 Hijriyah by intensifying acts of repentance to Allah. The call was made during the first Tarawih prayer session in Banda Aceh, underscoring the spiritual significance of the holy month's commencement in Indonesia's only province governed by Islamic law.

KPK Questions Witness on PT PGN Financial Reports

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned a witness regarding financial reports of state gas company PT PGN in connection with an alleged corruption case involving a gas trading agreement with PT Inti Alasindo Energy.

Netflix Sues ByteDance over AI Seedance 2.0 Copyright Infringement

Netflix has threatened ByteDance with litigation over its AI video generation service Seedance 2.0, alleging it facilitates mass copyright infringement of iconic Netflix properties including Stranger Things, Squid Game, and Bridgerton. The cease-and-desist letter demands removal of Netflix intellectual property from training datasets, following similar actions by Disney, Paramount, and Warner Bros. against the Chinese technology company.

Ministry of Villages: Village Funds Must Be Responsive to Climate Change Issues

Indonesia's Ministry of Villages and Disadvantaged Regions Development has called for village funds to be directed towards addressing climate change, as hydrometeorological disaster risks increasingly affect rural areas. The policy reform, part of a Climate Policy Based Financing scheme involving Bappenas and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, aims to use the Village Climate Risk Index as a basis for budget allocation rather than merely an annual reporting tool.

Indonesia to join first Board of Peace meeting on Gaza: Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto confirmed Indonesia's participation in the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington to discuss Gaza ceasefire implementation, joining a coalition of eight nations including Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt. While reaffirming Indonesia's non-aligned foreign policy and commitment to a two-state solution, analysts cautioned that Jakarta must ensure transparent, accountable engagement to avoid legitimacy risks in what could become asymmetric transactional diplomacy.

Prabowo: The United States and Indonesia Are True Friends

President Prabowo Subianto expressed optimism about the future of Indonesia-US relations during a Gala Iftar Dinner Business Summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC. He reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to building its strongest possible ties with the United States across political, economic, humanitarian, and environmental domains, whilst maintaining the country's non-aligned foreign policy tradition.

Take Note: Photos of Homes and Electricity Tokens Now Required for Subsidised BPJS Kesehatan Participants

Indonesia's national health insurer BPJS Kesehatan will require photographs of participants' homes and prepaid electricity token receipts as supporting documents for verifying subsidised health insurance recipients (Penerima Bantuan Iuran). The measure is aimed at strengthening the ground-check verification process to ensure that government-subsidised health coverage reaches genuinely eligible beneficiaries.

Strict Requirements for Entry to Al Aqsa

Israel announced it would permit 10,000 Palestinian worshippers to attend Friday prayers at Al Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem during the holy month of Ramadan, which commenced on Wednesday. The move comes with stringent entry conditions, reflecting the ongoing tensions surrounding access to the sacred site.

Village Office Staff Goes Viral for Posting Rio Haryanto's Personal Data on Social Media

A village office employee in Solo, Central Java, sparked public outrage after posting uncensored personal documents belonging to former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto on social media. The incident, which went viral on Threads, has raised serious concerns about data privacy protections and the conduct of government employees handling confidential public records.

Viral 'Mokel' Phenomenon During Ramadan: What It Is and Its Ruling in Islam

The Javanese term 'mokel', referring to secretly breaking the Ramadan fast before the appointed time, has become a trending search topic in Indonesia ahead of the fasting month. Prominent Islamic scholar Buya Yahya has weighed in, declaring the practice a grave sin while outlining the nine categories of people legitimately exempted from fasting, and urging those who have broken their fast without valid reason to repent and make up the missed days.

Fasting with the Government but Celebrating Eid with Muhammadiyah: There Are Risks

Indonesia's 2026 Ramadan start date differs between the government/NU (19 February) and Muhammadiyah (18 February), raising questions about mixing observance calendars. The Indonesian Ulema Council has urged mutual respect, noting that such differences are a matter of technical jurisprudence rather than core doctrine, whilst warning that switching between calendars risks falling short of the required month of fasting.

President Tells US Business Leaders: Indonesia Is an Attractive Investment Destination

President Prabowo Subianto made a direct pitch to American business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, positioning Indonesia as a competitive and attractive investment destination.

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar Takes Private Jet, KPK Speaks Out

Indonesia's Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar accepted a private jet from businessman and politician Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO) to attend a building inauguration in South Sulawesi, prompting the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to call for a public explanation. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto urged the minister to voluntarily clarify the matter to the agency's Directorate of Gratification and Public Services, warning that further analysis would follow.

Prabowo Attends Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting as Puan Stresses Free and Active Foreign Policy

House Speaker Puan Maharani urged that Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace for post-conflict Gaza stabilisation must be grounded in the nation's free and active foreign policy doctrine and the principle of sovereign equality.

Landslide-Blocked Main Road in Central Aceh Undergoing Clearance

A landslide triggered by heavy rainfall buried the main road connecting Takengon city to Bintang subdistrict in Central Aceh, causing significant traffic congestion. The Regional Disaster Management Agency deployed excavators to clear the debris, and the road was reopened by late evening, though multiple locations in the district remain at risk of further landslides due to soft soil conditions and continued heavy rain.

Ministry of Transmigration Supports SMEs at Inacraft 2026, Transactions Reach Hundreds of Millions of Rupiah

The Ministry of Transmigration showcased products from transmigration area SMEs at Inacraft 2026, attracting 3,724 visitors and recording sales of Rp154 million. The participation forms part of the ministry's Trans Karya Nusa programme under Ministerial Regulation No. 8/2025 on Transmigration Transformation, aimed at broadening market access for local commodity-based products with potential for global reach.

Indonesia and India Strengthen Cooperation Across Multiple Digital Sectors

Indonesia and India have agreed to deepen strategic cooperation across five key digital areas, including artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, semiconductor chip design, cybersecurity, and talent development.

Joint Search Team Recovers Body of Man Who Drowned in Kali Sunter

A joint search and rescue operation recovered the body of a 51-year-old man named Vendi who drowned after falling into Kali Sunter in North Jakarta. The operation involved dozens of personnel from multiple agencies including the Jakarta SAR Office, police, military, and local emergency services, utilising specialised equipment such as the Aqua Eye underwater detection device.

Mandalika Circuit returns to GT World Challenge Asia calendar in 2026

Indonesia's Mandalika Circuit in Lombok has been confirmed as the second round of the 2026 GT World Challenge Asia season, reinforcing the country's ambitions to build a world-class sport tourism ecosystem. Mandalika Grand Prix Association CEO Priandi Satria said the event would boost local and national economies whilst providing Indonesian racing teams with opportunities to compete at international standards.

JCI Drops 21 Points in First Session as Three Mining Stocks Dominate Top Gainers

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.25 per cent to 8,289.08 at the close of the first trading session on 19 February 2026, snapping a multi-day upward trend, with the technology sector suffering the steepest decline at 1.39 per cent.

National Food Agency Unveils New Strategy to Control Chilli Prices

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) is implementing a direct distribution strategy for red cayenne chilli from producing regions to wholesale markets to curb price fluctuations ahead of Ramadan 2026. The move targets the volatile chilli supply chain, which typically sees sharp price spikes during the fasting month due to increased demand.

National Police Commission Urges Police to Uncover Drug Supply Network Linked to Senior Officer

The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has called on the Indonesian National Police to investigate the drug supply network connected to AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, the former Bima City police chief, through ethics tribunal proceedings.

Motorcycle Stolen from Matraman Community Health Centre

Police are investigating the theft of a motorcycle from the Matraman Community Health Centre (Puskesmas) in East Jakarta, with CCTV footage showing a lone suspect who wore a cap to conceal his identity. The case went viral on social media after footage emerged of the perpetrator pushing away an unlocked motorcycle from the premises.

Reason Revealed Behind Sub-District Official Sharing Rio Haryanto's Documents on Social Media

A sub-district office employee in Solo has been found to have shared racing driver Rio Haryanto's private documents on social media out of a sense of pride in serving a public figure. The Solo City Civil Service Agency is investigating the breach of privacy, noting that private administrative services should not be made public, and is cross-checking the employee's account with statements from supervisors.

Metro Police Food Task Force Warns Traders Not to Sell Staples Above Maximum Retail Price

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police food task force conducted price monitoring at Koja Baru Market in North Jakarta, warning traders against selling basic commodities above the government-set maximum retail price (HET). Authorities threatened to revoke business licences for repeat offenders and extend inspections to Tangerang ahead of Eid al-Fitr to ensure food availability and price compliance.

House Commission XI Pushes Economic Growth Through Strategic Investment

The chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission XI has urged Indonesia to accelerate strategic investment to drive sustainable and inclusive economic growth, particularly in energy, critical minerals, food, and technology sectors.

Four Transjakarta routes modified from 21 February 2026

PT Transportasi Jakarta is modifying four bus routes — 4D, 6M, 9H, and 11B — effective 21 February 2026, with changes to stop coverage aimed at optimising service and operational effectiveness. The adjustments include removing certain stops and adding new ones, notably the addition of Halimun Stop for routes 4D and 6M in both directions.

Capital Market Reform Is Non-Negotiable

Deputy Chairman of the National Energy Council Mari Elka Pangestu and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have stressed the imperative of comprehensive reform in Indonesia's capital markets to maintain investor confidence. The call underscores growing recognition among senior policymakers that structural changes are essential to strengthening market integrity and attracting sustained investment.

PTPP Promotes ESG Implementation

State-owned construction firm PT PP (Persero) Tbk has reaffirmed its commitment to workplace safety, sustainability, and green transportation through a tree-planting initiative at the Grand Kamala Lagoon estate in Bekasi. The activity underscores the company's broader push to embed environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its operations.

Village Development Ministry urges villages to strengthen disaster mitigation capacity

Indonesia's Ministry of Villages and Disadvantaged Regions Development is pushing for systematic improvements in village-level disaster mitigation, as total disaster events reached 3,116 in 2025 — a 121 per cent increase on 2024. The ministry is promoting the use of a Village Climate Risk Index as a basis for policy and budgeting, recognising that rural communities are disproportionately vulnerable due to their dependence on single sources of livelihood.

Coordinating Minister AHY and Riau Islands Deputy Governor attend Chinese New Year 2577 celebrations in Nagoya, Batam

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Riau Islands Deputy Governor Nyanyang Haris Pratamura joined thousands of residents at Chinese New Year 2577 celebrations in Batam's Nagoya business district. Both officials emphasised Batam's multicultural character as a "miniature of Indonesia" and called for the continued strengthening of national unity and religious tolerance across the Riau Islands province.

The Grand Dream of a National Car That Never Materialised

Indonesia's ambitious attempts to develop a domestically produced national car — including the Timor, Bimantara, and Maleo projects — all collapsed due to a combination of political favouritism, reliance on foreign technology, and the devastating 1998 Asian financial crisis. The history illustrates the persistent tension between Indonesia's manufacturing independence aspirations and the structural obstacles that have repeatedly undermined its automotive industrial policy since the New Order era.

Prabowo Witnesses 11 US-ABC MoUs Worth US$38.4 Billion

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the signing of 11 memorandums of understanding worth US$38.4 billion between Indonesian and American business entities at the US-ASEAN Business Council Business Summit in Washington DC. The agreements span critical minerals, energy, agribusiness, textiles, furniture, and semiconductor sectors, underscoring Indonesia's growing strategic economic partnership with the United States in the Indo-Pacific region.

Jakarta Food and Drug Authority to Conduct Ramadan Street Food Surveillance

Jakarta's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BBPOM) will carry out inspections of takjil (Ramadan breaking-fast snacks) throughout the holy month, following discoveries of formaldehyde and rhodamine B in street food samples last year. Pre-Ramadan surveillance of processed foods at supermarkets, distributors and importers has already begun since 18 February 2026, underscoring ongoing food safety concerns in the capital.

Indonesian Maritime Security Agency Personnel Trained by Japanese Coast Guard in Aerial Sea Surveillance

Indonesia's Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) has sent six personnel to undergo training with the Japanese Coast Guard in aerial maritime surveillance using a Gulfstream V patrol aircraft equipped with advanced cameras and radar. The training is intended to complement Bakamla's National Maritime Surveillance System (NMSS), currently under development, whilst the agency awaits delivery of a modified N219 aircraft from PT Dirgantara Indonesia for its own maritime patrol operations.

Ahead of Ramadan, Dompet Dhuafa Delivers Indonesian Public Aid to Al-Aqsa Mosque

Indonesian humanitarian organisation Dompet Dhuafa has channelled donations from the Indonesian public directly to Al-Aqsa Mosque ahead of Ramadan 1447 H. The aid includes 300 copies of the Quran delivered as waqf (endowment), reflecting continued Indonesian civil society engagement with Palestinian causes.

Before US business leaders, Prabowo declares Indonesia an attractive investment destination

President Prabowo Subianto made a direct pitch to American business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, urging them to view Indonesia not merely as an investment destination but as a primary production base. He highlighted Indonesia's critical mineral reserves, 18 downstream industrialisation projects to be initiated by sovereign wealth fund Danantara this year, and the government's commitment to regulatory certainty as key draws for foreign investors.

TVRI Presents Road to World Cup 2026 Programme Agenda

State broadcaster TVRI, holder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup broadcasting rights, has unveiled a series of public engagement events running from February to June as part of President Prabowo Subianto's directive to make the tournament accessible to all Indonesians.

Pakistan Affirms Refusal to Participate in Hamas Disarmament

Pakistan has demanded guarantees from the United States that its troops, potentially deployed to Gaza as part of an international stabilisation force, would serve solely in a peacekeeping capacity and not be involved in disarming Hamas. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was scheduled to attend the inaugural meeting of President Trump's Board of Peace in Washington alongside delegations from at least 20 countries, as Muslim-majority nations continue to draw firm lines against any disarmament mandate.

NasDem Speaks Out on Ahmad Sahroni's Reappointment as Commission III Deputy Chair

Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives' Commission III after completing a six-month suspension imposed by the House Ethics Council. His return follows the resignation of his replacement, Rusdi Masse, who left NasDem to join PSI, creating the vacancy that allowed Sahroni's reappointment.

Hosting 55th PTQ, Ministry of Religious Affairs and RRI Foster Quranic Youth in the Digital Era

Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs are jointly organising the 55th Pekan Tilawatil Quran (PTQ), a national Quranic recitation competition aimed at strengthening young Muslims' spiritual foundations amid digital-age challenges. The event, running since 1968, has attracted 1,588 registered participants across four competition categories, with the grand final scheduled for 27 February 2026 in Jakarta.

Gemini AI Equipped with Ability to Create Songs from Text Descriptions

Google has launched a beta music creation feature in its Gemini app, powered by the Lyria 3 generative model from DeepMind, enabling users to generate 30-second tracks with lyrics from text descriptions. The feature includes digital SynthID watermarking for AI-generated content identification and expands globally alongside YouTube's Dream Track for content creators, amid growing industry debates over AI music and copyright.

Former Manpower Ministry Secretary-General Admits Receiving Rp 125 Million from Foreign Worker Agent After Retirement

Former Secretary-General of the Ministry of Manpower, Heri Sudarmanto, testified at the Jakarta Corruption Court that he received Rp 125 million from a foreign worker permit agent after his retirement, channelling the funds through his brother-in-law's bank account.

BNPT: Terrorism Remains a Persistent and Adaptive Global Threat in the Digital Space

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) has warned that terrorism continues to be a persistent and adaptive global threat, with terrorist networks increasingly shifting operations to the digital realm. BNPT chief Commissioner General Eddy Hartono outlined Indonesia's strategic response aligned with the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, noting that the country's empirical experience in combating terrorism has become a reference point for other nations.

SiteMinder: Local Tourism Recovers as Hotel Bookings Rise

Global hotel platform SiteMinder reports that Indonesia's domestic tourism has rebounded strongly, with domestic guest share at hotel properties reaching 48 per cent in 2025 — the second highest globally after Canada. The shift reflects a 19 per cent annual rise in domestic travel, accompanied by the world's lowest hotel cancellation rate and shorter booking lead times, though average room rates fell nearly 10 per cent year-on-year.

Police Conduct Urine Tests on Three Youths Suspected of Drug "Mapping" in Cipayung

Police in East Jakarta are conducting urine tests on three young men detained by local residents on suspicion of mapping drug distribution routes in the Cipayung area. Although no narcotics evidence was found at the time of their apprehension, officers are following standard investigative procedures to determine whether the suspects had consumed drugs, which will inform subsequent legal action.

Solo City Government to Sanction Sub-District Employee Who Posted Rio Haryanto's Documents

The Solo city government is set to discipline a sub-district office employee who leaked personal documents belonging to former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto on social media. The employee was found to have violated a mayoral regulation on integrity and exemplary conduct, with potential sanctions ranging from a verbal reprimand to dismissal.

House Speaker: Global Dynamics in 2026 Demand More Effective Diplomacy

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has called for more effective, peace-oriented diplomacy in response to rising global tensions, including armed conflicts and trade wars disrupting supply chains.

Students from BQ Islamic Boarding School Win Medals at International Mathematics Olympiad

Students from the Bina Qurani (BQ) Islamic Boarding School in Bogor have won medals at an international mathematics olympiad. The achievement, coming ahead of Ramadan, highlights the academic competitiveness of Indonesia's Islamic boarding school (pesantren) education system on the global stage.

ESG Compliance Made a Requirement for Danantara Waste-to-Energy Tender Winners

Danantara Indonesia has confirmed that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria will be a primary consideration in its Waste-to-Energy (WtE) projects. The sovereign wealth fund is set to open tenders for waste-to-electricity processing facilities, with ESG compliance serving as a key requirement for winning bidders.

Photos of homes and electricity tokens required for PBI JKN verification

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has mandated that photographs of housing conditions and electricity token receipts be submitted as supporting documents for the verification of subsidised health insurance (PBI JKN) beneficiaries.

Ugeng Wijaya: Agile, Innovation, and the Challenges of Modern Leadership

Agile and innovation management expert Ugeng Wijaya argues that the biggest obstacle to organisational transformation in Indonesia is not a lack of strategy but a leadership culture that prioritises compliance over experimentation. He contends that excessive caution and fear of personal legal risk prevent leaders from distributing trust and creating safe spaces for learning, rendering Agile adoption superficial.

Karaoke Venues and Massage Parlours in Bogor Shut During Ramadan; Eateries Required to Use Curtains

The Bogor municipal government has issued a decree mandating the closure of all nightlife entertainment venues, karaoke bars, and massage parlours throughout Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Restaurants may operate during daytime but must install curtains over dining areas to respect fasting Muslims, whilst street sahur gatherings and firecrackers are also banned on public order grounds.

Police Sweep Illegal Gold Mining Sites Across Three Villages in Kuansing, Destroy Mining Rafts

Kuantan Singingi police conducted operations across three villages in Singingi subdistrict following community reports of illegal gold mining (PETI), discovering and destroying abandoned mining rafts along riverbanks. Although no miners were found at the sites, authorities destroyed the equipment by dismantling and burning the rafts to prevent future use, citing environmental damage to river ecosystems.

Weather Modification Operation in Riau Seeds 3 Tonnes of Salt to Combat Forest and Land Fires

Riau Province's Weather Modification Operation has seeded 3 tonnes of salt over the coastal districts of Siak and Bengkalis to tackle persistent forest and land fires. The operation, using a Cessna aircraft provided by the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, is planned to run for one week with 8.5 tonnes of salt available, following the province's declaration of a fire emergency status on 13 February.

Garuda aircraft donation for Hajj training in Aceh strengthens pilgrim readiness

Garuda Indonesia has donated a decommissioned Boeing 737 (formerly operated by Citilink) to the Class I Hajj Dormitory in Aceh, providing prospective pilgrims with hands-on flight simulation training. Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the initiative addresses longstanding anxieties among pilgrims, particularly the elderly, by allowing them to practise boarding, baggage stowage, and in-flight procedures before their actual journey to the Holy Land.

Prabowo: Interactive Boards Key to Education Transformation

President Prabowo Subianto outlined Indonesia's education digitalisation strategy at a US Chamber of Commerce forum in Washington D.C., revealing that over 288,000 interactive screens had been distributed to schools nationwide by the end of December 2025. The programme aims to equip every classroom in the country with smart boards before the end of his term, enabling remote teaching from central studios staffed by top educators to reach underserved regions including Papua's remote areas.

RTS Link fares may cost around S$5 to S$7 per trip, more 'cost-effective' than car travel: Loke

Malaysia's Transport Minister Anthony Loke has indicated that fares for the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link will likely range from S$5 to S$7 per one-way trip, with formal pricing to be announced in the second half of 2026.

Jakarta School Hours Limited to 2pm During Ramadan

The Jakarta Provincial Government has officially imposed shortened school hours during Ramadan, requiring all schools to finish by 2pm at the latest. The policy, aligned with a joint circular from the Ministry of Basic Education, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Ministry of Religious Affairs, also extends to civil servants whose working hours will be reduced to approximately 6.5 effective hours per day with flexible start times.

Residents Complain of Noise, Pramono Anung to Review Padel Court Permits in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo plans to convene all relevant parties to review padel court licensing in the capital following residents' complaints about noise pollution. The move signals potential regulatory tightening on recreational facility permits in residential areas of Jakarta.

Netanyahu Orders Israeli Command to 'Maximum Alert' for War Against Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the Home Front Command and security agencies to prepare for potential war against Iran, with assessments suggesting the United States may be leaning towards a large-scale military strike against Tehran in the near future.

IKN Authority Says Mosque Status in Process of Being Designated as State Mosque

The Nusantara Capital City (IKN) Authority has confirmed that the mosque built in the new capital is undergoing formal designation as a State Mosque through a Presidential Decree proposed by the Minister of Religious Affairs. The mosque, now fully operational for Ramadan 2026, follows the standards of Jakarta's Istiqlal State Mosque, marking a significant milestone in establishing the religious identity of Indonesia's new capital.

Air Force One to Be Repainted in Trump's Favourite Colours

The US presidential aircraft Air Force One is set to be repainted in President Donald Trump's preferred colour scheme of red, white, gold, and dark blue, replacing the iconic two-tone white and blue livery dating back to the Kennedy administration. The repainting applies to both the Qatar-donated Boeing 747 serving as an interim aircraft and the new Boeing VC-25B jets, whilst the broader Air Force One replacement programme remains four years behind schedule with delivery now expected in 2028.

DKI Jakarta Coordinates with Transport Ministry to Schedule Eid al-Fitr Homecoming Trips

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is coordinating with the Ministry of Transport to stagger mass homecoming trips organised by private companies and government institutions from mid-March onwards, aiming to prevent severe congestion during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr exodus. Transport surveys project 3.67 million vehicles leaving Jakarta and 3.54 million returning over the Lebaran period, with peak outbound traffic of 259,000 vehicles expected on 18 March.

Prabowo: Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting to Discuss Gaza Peace

President Prabowo Subianto attended the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington D.C. on 19 February, where discussions focused on achieving peace in Gaza, Palestine. Indonesia, as part of the "Group of Eight" nations alongside Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, the UAE, and Pakistan, used the forum to advocate for civilian protection, Gaza reconstruction, and a two-state solution.