Archive: 19 February 2026
Showing 501-764 of 764 articles
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:15 WIB
Tesla Removes Autopilot Branding in California to Continue Selling Vehicles
Tesla has been forced to rebrand its driver-assistance features in California after the state's Department of Motor Vehicles ruled that terms like "Autopilot" and "Full Self-Driving" overpromised the technology's capabilities. The move comes amid safety concerns, with data showing Tesla's robotaxis were involved in accidents four times more frequently than average human drivers over the same distance.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:12 WIB
HKI confident Indonesia-US business partnership in Batam will strengthen semiconductor industry
Indonesia's Industrial Estate Association (HKI) has welcomed the signing of business agreements between the Wiraraja GESEIP National Strategic Project in Batam and US companies, with initial investment of US$4.9 billion for silica quartz downstream processing into polysilicon for semiconductors and solar cells. If the first phase succeeds, an additional US$26.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:12 WIB
Prabowo Witnesses Signing of 11 MoUs Worth USD 38.4 Billion in the US
President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the signing of 11 memoranda of understanding worth USD 38.4 billion between Indonesian and American businesses at a summit organised by the US-ASEAN Business Council in Washington DC. The agreements span critical minerals, oilfield recovery, agriculture, cotton, textiles, furniture, semiconductors and free trade zone cooperation, underscoring Indonesia's push to attract US investment across strategic sectors.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:11 WIB
Bekasi Metro Police Chief Honours 39 Officers, Emphasises Humane Policing
The Bekasi Metro Police Chief awarded 39 personnel for outstanding performance, including rapid response to emergency calls, drug crime detection, and brawl prevention. The ceremony underscored the force's commitment to fast, humane public services and a zero-tolerance policy on officers involved in narcotics, with warnings of dismissal for offenders.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:09 WIB
Prabowo witnesses US$38.4 billion US-Indonesia MoU signings
President Prabowo Subianto presided over the signing of 11 agreements worth US$38.4 billion between Indonesian and US companies at a business summit in Washington, spanning mining, energy, agribusiness, textiles, furniture, and technology.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:09 WIB
DPR Plenary Session Declares MKMK Has No Authority to Process Report on Adies Kadir
Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) plenary session unanimously endorsed Commission III's conclusion that the Constitutional Court's Ethics Council (MKMK) lacks the authority to process ethics complaints related to the nomination of Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir. The decision effectively shields the DPR's selection process from external ethical scrutiny, raising questions about accountability in the appointment of constitutional judges.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:08 WIB
Putin: Russia Considers New US Restrictions on Cuba Unacceptable
Russian President Vladimir Putin declared new US restrictions against Cuba unacceptable during a meeting with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, reaffirming Moscow's longstanding support for Havana. The diplomatic exchange comes after President Trump signed an executive order in January threatening tariffs on goods exported to the US from countries supplying oil to Cuba, prompting Cuba to announce fuel rationing measures in response to the renewed oil blockade.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:08 WIB
East Kalimantan prevents illegal seed distribution through strict oversight
East Kalimantan's Plantation Agency has successfully eliminated illegal seed distribution over the past two years through rigorous multi-stakeholder enforcement and strong regulatory backing. The number of licensed oil palm seed producers in the province has risen from 7 to 18, bolstering legitimate supply and further curbing the circulation of counterfeit seeds.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:05 WIB
Meaningful Fasting Based on Faith and Knowledge
A prominent Islamic scholar argues that Ramadan fasting must be grounded in both strong faith and adequate knowledge to achieve its transformative spiritual purpose. Drawing on Quranic verses, Prophetic traditions, and natural examples of fasting across species, the essay frames fasting as an existential need for moral and spiritual transformation rather than mere abstention from food and drink.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:05 WIB
House Speaker urges Indonesia to maintain non-aligned stance in Board of Peace
House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has called on Indonesia to uphold its independent and active foreign policy principles following its membership of the Board of Peace (BoP). She stressed that Indonesia's participation must deliver tangible contributions to resolving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and advancing Palestinian independence, whilst leveraging its presidency of the UN Human Rights Council.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:04 WIB
NasDem's Reasons for Reappointing Sahroni as Commission III Deputy Chair
The NasDem Party has reappointed Ahmad Sahroni as Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives' Commission III on law, replacing Rusdi Masse who defected to the Indonesian Solidarity Party. Sahroni's return is notable given he was previously suspended and transferred to Commission I following controversial remarks during the August 2025 demonstrations, for which he received a six-month ethics sanction from the House Ethics Court.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:03 WIB
Padel court permits in Jakarta to be discussed imminently
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has announced plans to convene all relevant parties next week to address padel court licensing in the capital, following residents' complaints about noise pollution from nearby courts. The governor warned that the DKI Jakarta administration would not hesitate to take firm action against facilities found to be operating in violation of their permits.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:02 WIB
Prabowo in the US: It Is Our Tradition to Welcome Foreigners as Guests Who Must Be Protected
President Prabowo Subianto used a speech at the Gala Iftar Business Summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC to reassure foreign investors of Indonesia's commitment to a stable and lawful business environment. Citing his crackdown on illegal mining, land seizures from non-compliant corporations, and his own experience as a foreign investor in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, Prabowo pledged to uphold the sanctity of contracts and protect foreign partners in line with Indonesian tradition.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 12:01 WIB
European Commission President Plans to Visit Greenland in March
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is planning a March visit to Greenland alongside several commissioners to announce a support package for the island amid US territorial claims. The move comes as Denmark and Greenland push back against President Trump's repeated assertions that the Danish territory should become part of the United States, with Greenland's Deputy Parliamentary Speaker insisting the island is not for sale.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:58 WIB
Solo Sub-District Officer Faces Disciplinary Hearing After Posting Rio Haryanto's Documents
A sub-district office employee in Solo, Central Java, faces a disciplinary hearing after posting former F1 driver Rio Haryanto's referral letter on social media without redaction. The city's Personnel and Human Resources Development Agency convened a panel with the Inspectorate and Legal Affairs division, with sanctions ranging from a verbal reprimand to dismissal pending a final decision by the regional secretary.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:57 WIB
BNN Chief Launches 184 Call Centre, Urges Operators to Be Responsive to Public
The head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has launched a 24/7 call centre service on number 184 as part of the agency's digital transformation strategy. Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto emphasised that operators must be comprehensively trained in narcotics prevention and eradication matters, and that no member of the public should be left dissatisfied when seeking information or reporting concerns.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:56 WIB
Iftar Rules on KRL, Transjakarta, MRT and LRT Public Transport
Jakarta's major public transport operators have issued specific regulations governing iftar (breaking of the fast) during Ramadan on their services. The rules generally permit water and dates but restrict heavy meals and strong-smelling food, with strict time limits of 10 minutes to one hour after the Maghrib call to prayer depending on the operator. Several operators also provide free drinking water stations and prayer rooms at their stations.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:56 WIB
Banyuwangi SAR: Search for Missing Hiker on Kawah Ijen Trail Expanded
Search and rescue operations for a hiker who went missing on the Kawah Ijen nature reserve trail in Banyuwangi, East Java, have been expanded on the second day with 41 joint personnel deployed. The missing hiker, Muhammad Dzikri Maulana, became separated from his group of five upon reaching the crater summit on Wednesday, prompting a coordinated multi-agency effort using systematic grid search methods.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:55 WIB
At US Chamber of Commerce Iftar, Prabowo Declares Indonesia Has Never Defaulted on Debt
President Prabowo Subianto told a US Chamber of Commerce iftar and business summit in Washington DC that Indonesia has never defaulted on its debt, underpinned by strong economic fundamentals and a credible fiscal track record.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:55 WIB
TVS Motor invests Rp4.2 trillion during its presence in Indonesia
Indian two- and three-wheeler manufacturer TVS Motor has invested a total of US$250 million (approximately Rp4.2 trillion) in Indonesia since establishing operations in 2006, creating 700 direct jobs and indirectly supporting 5,000 families. The company recently celebrated the milestone of producing one million vehicles at its Karawang, West Java factory, with the majority exported to key international markets across ASEAN, South Asia, the Middle East, South America, and Africa.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:53 WIB
Geopolitical Tensions Escalate as OJK Warns of Surging Global Financial Market Volatility
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has warned that escalating geopolitical and geo-economic fragmentation is driving increased volatility in global financial markets, potentially pushing economic growth below long-term historical averages. Despite these global headwinds, acting OJK chief Friderica Widyasari highlighted Indonesia's resilient economic performance, with GDP growth of 5.11 per cent in 2025 and a Q4 figure of 5.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:53 WIB
Prabowo on the Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting in the United States
President Prabowo Subianto attended the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington D.C. at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, with discussions focused on implementing and sustaining the Gaza ceasefire. Indonesia reaffirmed its non-aligned foreign policy stance and commitment to a two-state solution, participating alongside seven other nations in the so-called "Group of 8" aimed at brokering lasting peace in Palestine.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:52 WIB
KPK Names Three Coal Companies as Suspects in Rita Widyasari Gratification Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has designated three coal companies — PT Sinar Kumala Naga, PT Alamjaya Barapratama, and PT Bara Kumala Sakti — as corporate suspects in the gratification case involving former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari. The case centres on per-metric-ton production fees allegedly paid to Rita, who was previously sentenced to ten years' imprisonment in 2018 for receiving Rp 110 billion in gratification linked to project permits.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:51 WIB
Prabowo assures US investors of stable climate in Indonesia
President Prabowo addressed US business leaders at a summit in Washington, D.C., emphasising Indonesia's political stability, legal certainty, and fiscal discipline as foundations for foreign investment. He cited US$53 billion in foreign investment received last year and introduced the Danantara sovereign wealth fund as a vehicle for US companies to explore opportunities in Indonesia.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:51 WIB
Car Brands That Failed to Survive in Indonesia
A number of international car brands, from American giants like Chevrolet and Chrysler to European marques such as Opel and several British manufacturers, have withdrawn from the Indonesian automotive market over the decades. The article highlights how shifting business strategies, limited dealer networks, global corporate restructuring, and evolving consumer preferences have made long-term survival in Indonesia's competitive automotive sector exceptionally challenging.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:51 WIB
Forestry Minister identifies 1.1 million hectares of social forestry land to support self-sufficiency
Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has identified 1.1 million hectares of social forestry land for coffee, nutmeg, and cocoa cultivation through agroforestry, coordinating with the Agriculture Ministry to boost community welfare whilst preserving forest sustainability. The initiative forms part of a broader government programme backed by approximately Rp9.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:51 WIB
Coordinating Minister Asks PBI-JKN Recipients to Cooperate During Field Verification
Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar has urged the 152 million recipients of government-subsidised health insurance (PBI-JKN) to cooperate with a nationwide field verification exercise involving 60,000 officers from BPS and the Ministry of Social Affairs. The verification aims to correct significant targeting errors, with over 54 million eligible people still uncovered whilst more than 15 million ineligible individuals remain registered as beneficiaries.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:48 WIB
Indonesia Strengthens Energy and Critical Mineral Investment: Pertamina Partners with Halliburton, Freeport Signs Deal with Danantara
PT Pertamina and Freeport-McMoRan signed memoranda of understanding with strategic US partners at the US Business Summit in Washington D.C., witnessed by President Prabowo Subianto. Pertamina's deal with Halliburton focuses on enhanced oil recovery, whilst Freeport-McMoRan's agreement with the Investment Ministry and BPI Danantara targets critical mineral development, signalling Indonesia's push to attract American investment in strategic sectors.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:48 WIB
Two Floating Pumps Deployed to Tackle Waterlogging on DI Panjaitan Road
Joint personnel deployed two floating pumps and additional heavy-duty equipment to clear waterlogging of 30-50 centimetres on Jalan DI Panjaitan in East Jakarta, caused by heavy morning rainfall. The East Jakarta city government confirmed that a "jacking" drainage pipe installation project along the road is ongoing and targeted for completion in 2026, as part of broader efforts to address recurring flooding and traffic congestion in the area.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:46 WIB
DPR Plenary Session Approves Acceptance of Defence Equipment Grant from Japan
Indonesia's House of Representatives has formally approved the acceptance of a 1.9 billion yen grant from the Japanese government for an 18-metre patrol boat, to be provided to the Indonesian Navy through Japan's Official Security Assistance scheme. The decision, reached after closed-door deliberations between Commission I and the Defence Ministry, underscores deepening bilateral defence cooperation between Jakarta and Tokyo.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:45 WIB
House of Representatives Agrees to Accept 1.9 Billion Yen Patrol Boat Grant from Japan
Indonesia's House of Representatives has approved the acceptance of a 1.9 billion yen grant from the Japanese government for patrol boats under Japan's Official Security Assistance programme for fiscal year 2025. The grant, which requires no expenditure from Indonesia's state budget, will fund three to four patrol vessels for the Indonesian Navy to strengthen maritime security, whilst also deepening bilateral defence ties with Japan.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:43 WIB
Danantara to Build Emergency Stopping Lane in Tanah Datar
Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria inspected a site in Tanah Datar, West Sumatra, for the construction of an emergency stopping lane along the accident-prone Padang-Bukittinggi national road. The project, to be built in collaboration with PT Kereta Api Indonesia and the local government, is deemed urgent given rising accident rates in the area, with land controlled by KAI identified as the key issue requiring coordination through the SOE Regulatory Body.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:42 WIB
Analyst Warns of Foreign Ownership Risks as Free Float Minimum Set to Rise to 15 Per Cent
A capital markets analyst has cautioned that Indonesia's plan to raise the minimum free float requirement to 15 per cent, whilst aimed at meeting international standards, could expose strategic national assets to foreign acquisition at discounted valuations.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:42 WIB
Driver Who Crashed Into Jusuf Kalla's Fence Must Pay Rp 25 Million in Damages After Mediation
A female driver crashed her Hyundai Santa Fe into the fence of former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday morning, allegedly due to drowsy driving. Following mediation between the parties, the driver agreed to pay approximately Rp 25 million in compensation for repairs, and no police report was filed as the matter was settled amicably.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:42 WIB
Indonesian Government pushes pesantren students' skills for workforce access
Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Human Development is driving economic empowerment programmes at Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) to equip students with vocational skills and connect graduates to industrial employment.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:41 WIB
Prabowo: Indonesia Is a True Friend of the US, Despite Non-Aligned Foreign Policy
President Prabowo Subianto affirmed Indonesia's enduring friendship with the United States during a speech at the Gala Iftar Business Summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC. He emphasised the deep historical roots of the bilateral relationship, including American support for Indonesian independence, whilst reiterating Indonesia's non-aligned foreign policy tradition and its aspiration to serve as an "honest broker" among the world's great powers.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:41 WIB
DPR Plenary Session Approves Japan's Patrol Boat Grant Worth 1.9 Billion Yen
Indonesia's House of Representatives has unanimously approved the acceptance of patrol boats from Japan valued at 1.9 billion yen under Tokyo's Official Security Assistance programme, with the vessels to be operated by the Indonesian Navy. In the same session, lawmakers also approved the cancellation of a previously agreed defence equipment grant from South Korea, signalling a shift in Indonesia's defence procurement partnerships.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:40 WIB
Revenue sharing cut, but Pramono presses on with Jakarta-specific LPDP scholarship programme
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has reaffirmed his commitment to establishing a Jakarta-specific education fund (LPDP) offering overseas scholarships to 100 high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds, despite the central government slashing the capital's revenue-sharing allocation by Rp15 trillion. The programme, initially planned for 2026, is positioned as both a poverty-breaking measure and a human capital investment for the province.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:39 WIB
China widens anti-corruption net to catch 'quasi-naked officials'
China has quietly broadened its anti-corruption scrutiny beyond "naked officials" — whose spouses and children live overseas — to include "quasi-naked officials" whose children alone reside abroad. The Central Organisation Department conducted a nationwide survey of officials' overseas ties, with some losing promotions or being removed from posts, reflecting intensified concerns about capital flight and the challenges of cross-border judicial cooperation, particularly with the United States.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:39 WIB
Danantara pushes to strengthen transport safety measures in Koto Baru
Danantara COO Dony Oskaria inspected road conditions in Koto Baru, Tanah Datar Regency, West Sumatra, to address the high rate of heavy vehicle accidents on the route. Accompanied by the West Sumatra Governor and senior officials, he called for mandatory periodic brake inspections for heavy goods vehicles and stronger collaboration between local government, transport operators, and drivers. The initiative aims to minimise accidents whilst supporting economic mobility in the region.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:39 WIB
One Year of Dedi-Erwan: Strong Vision, Weak Administrative Machinery
The chairman of West Java's DPRD Commission I offers a measured first-year assessment of Governor Dedi Mulyadi and Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan, praising their pro-people policy orientation and environmental responsiveness whilst warning that the pace of political initiative has outstripped bureaucratic readiness.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:38 WIB
Former Manpower Ministry Secretary General Claims No Knowledge of Son Receiving Money in Foreign Worker Permit Case
Former Secretary General of the Ministry of Manpower, Heri Sudarmanto, testified at the Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court that he was unaware his son, also a ministry civil servant, had received money linked to the foreign worker permit corruption case. The case involves eight defendants, including senior ministry officials, accused of extorting foreign worker agents for a combined total exceeding Rp 135 billion in personal enrichment.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:38 WIB
Seven Monitoring Posts Established in East Ciputat, Targeting Zero Brawls During Ramadan
Police in East Ciputat, South Tangerang, have established seven monitoring posts at crime-prone locations to prevent youth brawls and street disturbances throughout Ramadan. The initiative, agreed upon jointly by local police, military, and district government officials, aims to ensure public order during the fasting month by targeting street racing, youth fights, and other provocative activities.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:35 WIB
Preventing Sexual Violence: Bundo Kanduang's Role Must Be Optimised
The Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has called for the optimisation of Bundo Kanduang's cultural role in West Sumatra to prevent sexual violence through customary and family values. The minister also inaugurated renovated regional protection service buildings in Sijunjung and Dharmasraya districts, funded through 2025 Special Allocation Funds, signalling concrete government commitment to victim-centred protection services for women and children.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:35 WIB
Iran Urged to Reach Deal After Trump Signals Military Strike
The White House has warned Iran it would be "wise" to reach a deal with the United States as President Trump repeatedly signals possible military action against Tehran. Indirect negotiations mediated by Oman continue amid massive US military deployment in the Middle East, with Iran insisting talks be limited to nuclear issues whilst refusing to submit to Washington's demands.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:34 WIB
Start of Ramadan: Food Task Force Inspects Staple Prices at Koja Market
Jakarta Metropolitan Police's food task force conducted inspections at Koja Baru Market in North Jakarta to monitor staple food prices and stock levels at the start of Ramadan 2026. Officers are checking a minimum of 46 locations daily across the Jakarta metropolitan area, enforcing government-set maximum retail prices and reference prices whilst educating traders not to raise prices ahead of Idul Fitri.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:34 WIB
Prabowo Witnesses 11 US-ABC Memoranda of Understanding Worth US$38.4 Billion
President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the signing of 11 memoranda of understanding worth US$38.4 billion between Indonesian and American businesses at a US-ASEAN Business Council roundtable in Washington DC. The agreements span mining and downstream processing, energy, agribusiness, textiles, furniture manufacturing, and semiconductor technology, underscoring Indonesia's growing strategic partnership with the United States in the Indo-Pacific region.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:32 WIB
Muara Enim Councillor and Son Caught in Sting Operation Over Irrigation Project Graft
A Muara Enim district councillor and his son were apprehended in a sting operation by the South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office over alleged gratification linked to a Rp 7 billion irrigation project. The pair allegedly received Rp 1.6 billion from a project contractor, which was reportedly used to purchase a luxury Toyota Alphard vehicle.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:30 WIB
Welcoming Ramadan, Jakarta Police Chief Urges Public to Keep Capital Secure
Jakarta Metropolitan Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri has called on all segments of society to help maintain security and order during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The police have deployed at least 10,000 joint personnel alongside community organisations, gig-economy drivers, students and scout members to secure vulnerable points across the capital, whilst also urging the public to exercise caution against hoaxes on social media.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:25 WIB
Vatican Refuses to Join Board of Peace: Trump's Response
The Vatican has declined to participate in US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace overseeing Gaza's rehabilitation, arguing that the United Nations should manage the crisis. The White House called the decision "regrettable," whilst Britain, France, and Norway have also refused to join the Trump-created council amid concerns over its expanded authority and potential undermining of UN work.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:25 WIB
Pramono Confident Curly Chilli Prices in Jakarta Will Return to Normal Within 1-2 Weeks
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has expressed confidence that curly chilli prices in the capital will normalise within one to two weeks, after supply shortfalls from Java and South Sulawesi caused by heavy rainfall drove prices upward. The provincial government plans to intervene by purchasing chillies directly from suppliers and distributing them to retailers at controlled margins of Rp5,000 per unit, aiming to keep inflation in Jakarta under control.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:24 WIB
Richard Lee Complies with Police Summons, Ready to Speak Openly About His Products
Indonesian skincare entrepreneur and doctor Richard Lee attended his second police examination as a suspect in alleged health and consumer protection violations at Jakarta Metropolitan Police headquarters. Facing potential charges carrying up to 12 years' imprisonment and fines of up to Rp5 billion under the 2023 Health Law, Lee maintains all his products are legally registered with the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM).
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:23 WIB
DPR Plenary Session Agrees Constitutional Court Ethics Council Has No Authority to Process Adies Kadir Appointment Complaint
Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) endorsed Commission III's conclusion that the Constitutional Court Ethics Council (MKMK) lacks the authority to process complaints relating to the appointment of Adies Kadir as a Constitutional Court justice. The move effectively shields the parliamentary selection process from external ethical review, with the DPR asserting that the appointment of justices is a constitutional mandate beyond the MKMK's purview.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:22 WIB
Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro Faces Ethics Hearing
Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro appeared before the National Police Ethics Commission on 19 February 2026, following his designation as a suspect in a drug possession case. The hearing, held behind closed doors at Police Headquarters in Jakarta, could determine the end of his career after investigators discovered methamphetamine, ecstasy, alprazolam, and ketamine at his private residence in Tangerang.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:20 WIB
Defence Minister Claims Territorial Battalions Symbolise State Presence
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has declared that the construction of territorial development infantry battalions across Indonesia's 514 districts and cities represents a symbol of state presence and national security.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:20 WIB
Jakarta Governor Meets Transport Minister to Discuss Work-From-Anywhere Policy and Lebaran Exodus Plans
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung met with Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi to coordinate the 2026 Lebaran mudik (homecoming exodus) with the central government's work-from-anywhere policy running from 13 to 28 March. The provincial government plans to stagger departures for over 26,000 buses carrying tens of thousands of participants to prevent severe congestion, whilst coordinating with police to manage traffic shifts during Ramadan.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:20 WIB
Indian university told to leave AI summit after presenting Chinese robot as its own, sources say
An Indian university was asked to vacate its stall at India's flagship AI summit after a staff member falsely presented a commercially available Chinese-made robotic dog as the university's own creation.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:19 WIB
Prabowo on US-Indonesia Tariff Negotiations: We Have Reached a Solid Agreement
President Prabowo Subianto expressed confidence that intense months-long trade negotiations with the United States have yielded a solid agreement on multiple issues, with a formal signing scheduled for 19 February 2026. The deal could see US reciprocal tariffs on Indonesia reduced from 32 per cent to 19 per cent, marking a significant development in bilateral economic relations between the two countries.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:18 WIB
House of Representatives: Constitutional Court Ethics Council Has No Authority to Process Report on Adies Kadir's Appointment as Constitutional Court Justice
Indonesia's House of Representatives has declared that the Constitutional Court Ethics Council (MKMK) lacks the authority to investigate complaints regarding the parliamentary selection process for Constitutional Court justices, including the appointment of Adies Kadir.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:18 WIB
Prabowo urges US investors to explore opportunities in Indonesia
President Prabowo made a direct pitch to American investors during an event attended by senior ministers, state-owned enterprise officials and prominent business leaders, highlighting Indonesia's 18 downstream projects, abundant mineral reserves and an imminent reciprocal trade agreement with the United States.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:17 WIB
Pramono Prepares Strategy to Tackle Rising Chilli Prices in Jakarta
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has outlined measures to control surging chilli prices in the capital, with the provincial government planning to purchase chillies directly and sell them to retailers at controlled margins.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:15 WIB
Sahroni's Journey: Once Removed, Now Reinstated as Commission III Deputy Chair
Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives' Commission III representing the NasDem faction, months after being removed from the post following controversial remarks about protesters. His return was made possible after his replacement, Rusdi Masse, left NasDem to join PSI, creating a vacancy that the party filled by reappointing Sahroni despite his earlier six-month suspension by the House Ethics Council.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:15 WIB
Jakarta Metropolitan Police Now Enforce Traffic Violations Using Mobile Handheld ETLE Devices
Indonesia's National Traffic Police Corps has deployed portable electronic enforcement devices (ETLE Mobile Handheld) across Jakarta and Soekarno-Hatta Airport to catch traffic violators beyond the reach of static cameras. The initiative, led by National Traffic Police Corps chief Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, aims to modernise traffic enforcement, minimise direct officer-violator interaction to prevent extortion, and build a transparent, digitally integrated traffic management system.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:12 WIB
Gold Prices Today, Thursday 19 February 2026: Antam Products Shine, Global Prices Decline
PT Aneka Tambang's gold products were priced at Rp2,916,000 per gram on Thursday, up Rp4,000 from the previous trading day, whilst global gold prices fell amid a strengthening US dollar following inflation data. International spot gold dropped 0.4 per cent to US$4,961.5 per ounce, with US gold futures for April delivery declining 0.6 per cent to US$4,981 per ounce.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:11 WIB
Richard Lee Undergoes Suspect Examination After Pre-Trial Motion Rejected
Doctor Richard Lee attended questioning as a suspect at Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) in a consumer protection case involving beauty products and services, following the rejection of his pre-trial motion. The case unusually involves two doctors who sell skincare products and have filed criminal reports against each other, with both now designated as suspects. Police have pledged to handle the investigation proportionally, professionally, and accountably.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:10 WIB
WHO and Indonesia sign US$14.8 million grant to boost health system
The World Health Organisation and Indonesia's Health Ministry have signed a US$14.8 million grant agreement covering 2026-2027, funding health programmes aligned with the national medium-term development plan and WHO's General Programme of Work. The agreement aims to strengthen health system resilience, improve service quality, and support evidence-based policy development as part of Indonesia's broader health transformation agenda.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:10 WIB
Curly Chilli Prices Soar in Jakarta as Pramono Reveals Root Cause
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has attributed the sharp rise in curly chilli prices to reduced supply from Java and South Sulawesi caused by heavy rainfall. The governor announced plans for market intervention, with the provincial government purchasing chillies directly and selling them to retailers at a controlled margin of Rp5,000 to curb inflation in the capital.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:09 WIB
Referencing Case Involving Two Doctors Filing Mutual Reports, Richard Lee Says He Is "Sad and Ashamed"
Celebrity dermatologist Richard Lee attended his second police examination as a suspect in an alleged consumer protection violation at Jakarta Metropolitan Police, expressing sadness that the conflict has resulted in two fellow medical professionals becoming mutual suspects. Lee maintained that all his skincare products hold valid BPOM distribution permits and comply with applicable regulations, raising broader questions about the enforcement of health product licensing standards in Indonesia.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:06 WIB
Warning: Heavy to Very Heavy Rainfall Expected in Greater Jakarta from 19-23 February
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued early warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall across the Greater Jakarta area (Jabodetabek) from 19 to 23 February 2026. The most severe alerts, at "standby" level, cover Central, West, East, and South Jakarta as well as Tangerang City on 19 February, with potential impacts including flooding, flash floods, landslides, and disruption to public services and infrastructure.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:03 WIB
Former South Korean President Sentenced Today, Death Penalty Under Consideration
A South Korean court is set to deliver its verdict against former President Yoon Suk Yeol on insurrection charges stemming from his failed December 2024 martial law declaration. Prosecutors have demanded the death penalty, though legal observers expect a life sentence given the country's unofficial moratorium on executions since 1997. Under South Korean law, only life imprisonment or death are permissible sentences for insurrection.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:01 WIB
Jakarta Students to Finish School by 2pm During Ramadan
The Jakarta Provincial Government has mandated that school hours during Ramadan end no later than 2pm to allow students time for independent learning and worship. Governor Pramono Anung said the administration is also coordinating with police and transport authorities to manage anticipated shifts in traffic congestion patterns during the fasting month.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:00 WIB
Sahroni Returns as Deputy Chair of DPR Commission III: 'Hopefully I Will Be Better Going Forward'
NasDem faction member Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chair of Commission III of the House of Representatives, following his earlier removal over controversial remarks and a disciplinary hearing by the House Ethics Council. His return was facilitated by the departure of his replacement, Rusdi Masse Mappasessu, who left NasDem to join the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), prompting a reshuffling of the commission's leadership.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 11:00 WIB
Prabowo Boasts to US Business Leaders That Indonesia Has Never Defaulted on Debt
President Prabowo Subianto told leading US business organisations that Indonesia has never once defaulted on its debt, highlighting the country's strong economic foundations and tradition of honouring financial commitments across successive governments. Speaking to the US Chamber of Commerce, the US-ASEAN Business Council, and USINDO in Washington, Prabowo made a broad pitch for expanded bilateral cooperation, declaring that Indonesia is "no longer a sleeping giant."
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:59 WIB
Gadobangkong Square in Sukabumi Left in Disrepair After Viral 'Cardboard Turtle' Controversy
The Gadobangkong Square in Palabuhanratu, Sukabumi Regency, has drawn renewed public scrutiny after its recently completed infrastructure was found severely damaged, with its giant landmark lettering broken and scattered across the pedestrian area. Sukabumi Regent Asep Japar inspected the site and criticised the inadequate maintenance by the Environment Agency, announcing plans to transfer management responsibility to the Housing and Settlements Agency.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:57 WIB
Covert Operation in Kuansing: Police Destroy Six Illegal Gold Mining Rafts
A joint team of police and civil service officers in Kuantan Singingi regency conducted a night raid on illegal gold mining operations in a local government-owned plantation area, destroying six mining rafts by burning them. Although no suspects were apprehended during the operation, authorities vowed to intensify surveillance of illegal mining hotspots, framing the crackdown as a collaborative effort between police and regional government to protect state assets and the environment.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:57 WIB
Pramono Distributes KJMU Cards to 2,524 Students across 69 State Universities
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung distributed Jakarta Superior Student Cards (KJMU) to 2,524 new recipients as part of the second phase for 2025, which covers a total of 16,920 students across 97 state and 17 private universities nationwide. Pramono signalled the scholarship programme could be expanded to cover postgraduate studies for high-achieving students, emphasising education as the key to breaking cycles of disadvantage.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:54 WIB
Jokowi on KPK Law Revision: DPR Deputy Speaker Says Public Are Smart Enough to Judge
DPR Deputy Speaker Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal has pushed back against former president Joko Widodo's claim that the controversial 2019 revision of the KPK law was solely a parliamentary initiative, noting that no legislation can proceed without a presidential letter.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:50 WIB
Tangerang Regency Bans Restaurants from Opening Before 4pm During Ramadan
The Tangerang Regency government has issued a joint circular restricting operating hours for restaurants, cafes and entertainment venues during Ramadan 2026, permitting food establishments to open only between 4pm and 4am.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:49 WIB
Prabowo Recounts Frequently Receiving Messages from Village Children via TikTok
President Prabowo Subianto revealed at a Washington DC business summit that he regularly receives direct messages from Indonesian villagers via TikTok, including children pleading for basic infrastructure such as bridges. He highlighted his government's digital education programme, which has distributed over 288,000 interactive smart screens to classrooms across Indonesia, with the goal of equipping every classroom in the country by the end of his term.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:48 WIB
Indonesia's External Debt Rises to US$431.7 Billion in Q4 2025
Bank Indonesia reported that the country's external debt increased to US$431.7 billion in Q4 2025, up from US$427.6 billion in the previous quarter, with the debt-to-GDP ratio at 29.9 per cent. The central bank maintained that the debt structure remains healthy, dominated by long-term maturities at 85.7 per cent, whilst government debt rose on foreign capital inflows into international government securities amid continued investor confidence in Indonesia's economic prospects.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:47 WIB
Depok Police to Send Ramadan Brawl Offenders to Islamic Boarding School Programme
The Depok Metropolitan Police have announced a programme to enrol youth involved in street brawls during Ramadan in short-term Islamic boarding school courses (pesantren kilat) as a corrective measure. The initiative, led by Police Commissioner Abdul Waras, aims to reduce juvenile delinquency in the Jakarta satellite city, whilst also targeting firecracker battles and sarong fights that commonly occur during the fasting month.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:46 WIB
Ministry temporarily closes 11 Papua pioneer airports after shooting
Indonesia's Transportation Ministry has temporarily closed 11 pioneer airports in Papua following the fatal shooting of a Cessna Grand Caravan's pilot and co-pilot on 11 February 2026 in Boven Digoel District, South Papua. The closures reflect serious security concerns in underdeveloped and frontier regions, with the ministry coordinating with the TNI and Polri to restore safe conditions before resuming flights.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:41 WIB
Ramadhan and the Momentum for National Economic Acceleration
A senior Indonesian legislator argues that Ramadhan should be viewed not as a period of economic slowdown but as a strategic accelerator for national growth, citing strong 2025 GDP growth of 5.11 per cent, controlled inflation at 2.92 per cent, and falling unemployment at 4.85 per cent.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:40 WIB
Ahmad Sahroni Returns as Deputy Chair of House Commission III
NasDem Party legislator Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chair of Commission III of the House of Representatives, replacing Rusdi Masse Mappasessu, following a six-month suspension by the House Ethics Council over controversial remarks. Rusdi Masse has since resigned from the DPR and NasDem, moving to the Indonesian Solidarity Party led by Kaesang Pangarep.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:40 WIB
Rice Prices Fall Alongside Onions, Chillies and Beef — Full List
Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has reported broad-based price declines across key staple commodities, with premium rice falling by Rp 237 per kilogramme and significant drops recorded for shallots, chillies and cooking oil. The widespread easing of food prices offers some relief to consumers and may signal improved supply conditions heading into the first quarter of 2026.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:37 WIB
Driver Who Crashed Into JK's Child's House Fence Agrees to Pay Compensation, Case Settled Amicably
A woman who crashed her car into the fence of former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's child's residence in South Jakarta has agreed to pay approximately Rp25 million in compensation following mediation. Police have suspended their investigation as both parties reached a settlement and no formal complaint was filed by the victim.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:37 WIB
Prabowo pledges growth above five per cent, courts US investors
President Prabowo addressed US business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington, pledging to sustain economic growth above five per cent through infrastructure expansion, political stability, and responsible resource management. He invited American companies to invest in 18 downstream industrial projects, highlighting Indonesia's critical mineral reserves and outlining a pragmatic energy transition strategy to bolster the country's global competitiveness.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:35 WIB
The Role of Aipda Agung Behind Pandeglang Police Station's Traffic Education Park
A police officer at Pandeglang Police Station, Aipda Agung Ginanjar, has been nominated for the Hoegeng Awards 2026 after creating two innovative community programmes: a Traffic Education Park for kindergarten children and a home-delivery service for police clearance certificates (SKCK).
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:35 WIB
Ramadan Brings Blessings: Aceh Flood Evacuee Sells Sahur Meals to IPDN Cadets
A 59-year-old flash flood evacuee in Aceh Tamiang has turned displacement into enterprise by selling pre-dawn Ramadan meals to cadets from the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) deployed to the evacuation site. Working by emergency lighting from 1.30am, she offers discounted meals to the government cadets, exemplifying grassroots resilience amid the ongoing disaster response in Aceh.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:34 WIB
After Suspension, Ahmad Sahroni Reinstated as Deputy Chair of House Commission III
NasDem Party parliamentarian Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chairman of House of Representatives Commission III, which oversees law enforcement, following the expiry of a six-month suspension imposed for controversial public remarks. The reinstatement, approved during a parliamentary session on 19 February 2026, sees Sahroni replace Rusdi Masse Mappasessu, who had temporarily filled the role during his absence.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:29 WIB
DPR Holds Plenary Session to Close Parliamentary Term, 293 Members in Attendance
The House of Representatives (DPR) convened its 14th plenary session to formally close the third sitting period of the 2025-2026 parliamentary year, with 293 of 579 members present and 26 on leave. The session, chaired by DPR Speaker Puan Maharani, also included a report from Commission I on approval of foreign defence equipment procurement and the Speaker's closing address.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:29 WIB
Constitutional Court Ethics Council Rejects DPR's Request to Halt Adies Kadir Ethics Report
The Constitutional Court Ethics Council (MKMK) has firmly rejected attempts by the House of Representatives (DPR) to intervene in ethics proceedings against newly appointed Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir. MKMK Chairman I Dewa Gede Palguna told DPR's Commission III that no institution may interfere with the council's authority, as the case — filed by 21 legal practitioners one day after Kadir's inauguration — enters its preliminary examination phase.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:23 WIB
Cawang Interchange Traffic Gridlocked as Vehicles Pour in from Outer Jakarta Toll Roads
The Cawang toll interchange in East Jakarta experienced severe congestion as vehicles converged from the Jakarta-Cikampek and Jagorawi toll roads. The interchange serves as a critical junction where four toll road sections meet, with Jasamarga reporting heavy traffic across multiple points on the Jakarta Inner City Toll Road as well.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:23 WIB
Prabowo Emphasises Indonesia's Continued Efforts to Find Real Solutions for Palestine
President Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to seeking tangible solutions for Palestinian independence during the Business Summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC. The visit also encompassed the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace established to oversee the Gaza ceasefire, as well as the signing of a major trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States, signalling deeper economic cooperation between the two nations.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:23 WIB
Former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Hangs Head Ahead of Ethics Hearing
Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro appeared visibly dejected as he was escorted to an ethics hearing at National Police headquarters over narcotics abuse charges. The senior officer had been named a suspect in a drug distribution case after a white suitcase containing methamphetamine, ecstasy, and other substances was found at a fellow officer's residence, whilst a hair follicle drug test also returned positive results despite initial urine tests being negative.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:20 WIB
Beyond Meeting Global Standards: Analyst Reveals Three Strategies for Indonesian Capital Market Reform
Political economy analyst Kusfiardi has proposed three key policy recommendations for reforming Indonesia's capital market, emphasising structural sovereignty over mere compliance with global standards.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:20 WIB
Prabowo Assures US Business Leaders Indonesia's Investment Climate Is Not in Disarray: The Situation Is Quite Peaceful
President Prabowo Subianto addressed American business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce Business Summit in Washington DC, guaranteeing that Indonesia maintains a conducive investment climate underpinned by economic and political stability, rule of law, and anti-corruption efforts. He emphasised his philosophy of compromise and collaboration among domestic elites, alongside fiscal discipline and clean governance, as key to sustaining long-term stability attractive to foreign investors.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:19 WIB
Two Suspects in Bekasi Disabled Athletes' Grant Corruption Case to Stand Trial
Two suspects in the corruption of Rp 7.1 billion in grant funds intended for disabled athletes under the National Paralympic Committee Indonesia in Bekasi Regency are set to face trial after police completed their investigation and transferred the case to prosecutors. The embezzled funds were reportedly used for personal purposes, including Rp 2 billion for a legislative campaign and Rp 1.79 billion for vehicle purchases.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:19 WIB
CLS Plaintiffs Request Jokowi Be Summoned to Court to Present Diploma
Plaintiffs in a Citizen Lawsuit challenging the authenticity of former President Joko Widodo's academic diploma have asked the Solo District Court to issue a summons compelling him to appear and present the document. The presiding judge said the panel would consider the request, whilst Jokowi's legal team dismissed the demand as excessive and irrelevant to the case's pleadings.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:19 WIB
Sumatra disaster survivors share first suhoor of Ramadan
Survivors of a disaster in Sumatra observed the first suhoor (pre-dawn meal) of Ramadan, highlighting the resilience of affected communities during the holy month. The event underscores ongoing recovery efforts in disaster-stricken areas of the island, where communities continue to rebuild whilst maintaining religious observances.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:19 WIB
Asian markets rally after Wall Street tech-led gains
Asian equity markets rallied on Thursday, led by Seoul's Kospi hitting a record high, as the region benefited from a rotation into cheaper tech stocks and positive US economic data. However, strong American figures and hawkish Federal Reserve minutes tempered expectations for interest rate cuts, whilst oil prices stabilised after surging on heightened US-Iran tensions.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:15 WIB
BTN RUN 2026 Combines Recreation and Inclusive Sport
State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has opened registration for its annual BTN RUN 2026 event, targeting 7,600 participants at Ancol, Jakarta on 29 March 2026 as part of the bank's 76th anniversary celebrations. The event, offering 5K and 10K categories, features cashback discounts of up to 30 per cent for BTN account holders registering through the bank's super-app and debit card channels, reflecting the state lender's strategy to promote financial inclusivity alongside healthy living.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:15 WIB
Andre Rosiade and West Sumatra Governor Ride Train Together to Discuss Padang Commuter Line Plans
Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade and West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi rode a train from Simpang Haru Station in Padang to Alai whilst discussing plans for a commuter line network in the city. The proposed commuter line, backed by PT KAI and the central government under President Prabowo Subianto, aims to reduce congestion and stimulate regional economic growth by connecting key areas from the airport to coastal zones through an integrated mass transit system.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:14 WIB
Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Attends Ethics Hearing in Uniform
Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro appeared before the National Police Ethics Commission in a closed hearing over his alleged possession of narcotics evidence. The Indonesian National Police have declared zero tolerance for drug abuse within their ranks, confirming Didik has been named a suspect with no special treatment to be afforded to internal offenders.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:14 WIB
Bill Gates Pulls Out of India AI Summit as Anger Mounts over Organisational Lapses
India's flagship AI Impact Summit, billed as the first major artificial intelligence forum in the Global South, was beset by high-profile cancellations from Bill Gates and Nvidia's Jensen Huang, alongside widespread complaints of organisational failures including road closures, lack of transport and a robotics fraud scandal.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:08 WIB
Sahroni Returns to Lead Commission III After Rusdi Masse Defects to PSI
Ahmad Sahroni has been reinstated as Deputy Chairman of House Commission III representing the NasDem faction, replacing Rusdi Masse who defected to the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). The move marks a notable political reshuffle, as Sahroni himself was previously removed from the position last August following controversial remarks about protesters at parliament, only to return after Masse's departure left the seat vacant.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:03 WIB
Prabowo Attends U.S. Business Summit in Washington
President Prabowo Subianto attended the U.S. Business Summit in Washington as part of his visit to the United States, which also included talks with President Trump and participation in a Board of Peace Gaza summit. The visit underscores Indonesia's diplomatic engagement with the United States on both bilateral business ties and broader geopolitical issues.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 10:00 WIB
Prabowo: The United States Has Helped Indonesia Through Many Critical Periods
President Prabowo Subianto praised the United States as one of Indonesia's strongest partners during a Business Summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, highlighting historical American support including the PL 480 food aid programme during the 1960s agricultural crisis. Prabowo urged American companies to become strategic partners in Indonesia's economy, pledging clean governance and rule of law to protect investors.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:59 WIB
US Battle Group in Middle East on Highest Alert for Potential Iran Strike This Weekend
The US military battle group in the Middle East has reportedly been placed on highest alert for a possible strike against Iran starting this weekend, though President Trump has not yet authorised an attack. The development comes amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran in Geneva, where talks were described as "constructive" but key "red lines" set by Trump remain unaddressed by Iran.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:57 WIB
Prabowo Says He Gets Information Faster from Village Children on TikTok
President Prabowo Subianto told a business summit in Washington DC that social media platforms like TikTok now allow villagers, including children, to communicate infrastructure grievances directly to the presidency, compelling faster government responses. He also highlighted Indonesia's education digitalisation programme, which has distributed over 288,000 interactive smart screens to schools nationwide, with plans to equip every classroom by the end of his term.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:56 WIB
Rupiah Weakens as State Budget Deficit Draws Public Scrutiny and Concern
The Indonesian rupiah continued to weaken against the US dollar, trading at Rp 16,942 per dollar on 19 February 2026, as market analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi warned that the widening state budget deficit is eroding fiscal buffers. The 2025 budget deficit expanded to Rp 695.1 trillion or 2.92 per cent of GDP — well above the initial target of 2.53 per cent — leaving Indonesia increasingly vulnerable to external shocks despite remaining below the statutory 3 per cent ceiling.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:53 WIB
Flooding on Jl DI Panjaitan in East Jakarta Recedes, Traffic Towards Cempaka Putih Congested
Flooding of 10-15 cm on Jl DI Panjaitan in East Jakarta this morning has receded after water resource agency crews deployed two pumps to drain the floodwater. Traffic in the area remains congested towards Cempaka Putih as commuters who had sheltered from the rain resumed their journeys, increasing vehicle volume.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:53 WIB
Construction Worker Caught on CCTV Stealing Motorcycle Outside West Jakarta Post Office Arrested
Police arrested a construction worker in Cilegon, Banten, for stealing a motorcycle from outside a post office in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta, after CCTV footage captured the crime. The suspect claimed economic pressures ahead of Ramadan drove him to commit the theft, and faces up to seven years' imprisonment under Article 477 of the Criminal Code, whilst an accomplice remains at large.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:50 WIB
Sahroni Reappointed as Deputy Chair of House Commission III: 'Hopefully I'll Be Better'
NasDem politician Ahmad Sahroni has been formally reinstated as Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives' Commission III, which oversees legal and security affairs. Sahroni replaces Rusdi Masse Mappasessu, who had temporarily held the position before departing NasDem and the House to join PSI, and expressed gratitude to the House Ethics Council for handling his case related to the August 2025 demonstrations.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:47 WIB
Prabowo meets US business leaders ahead of trade deal signing
President Prabowo Subianto met with American and Indonesian business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., ahead of signing the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with President Donald Trump. Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie highlighted the US$45 billion bilateral trade relationship and said the deal would create opportunities for Indonesian exporters in footwear, textiles, garments, and electronics, whilst benefiting American exporters in cotton, wheat, and soybeans.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:43 WIB
Land Arsonist Arrested in Bengkalis, Riau — Claims He Was Burning a Wasp Nest
Police in Bengkalis, Riau have arrested a suspect who allegedly set fire to three hectares of land, claiming he was merely trying to destroy a wasp nest. The suspect, identified as AH alias Dayat, has been charged under Indonesia's Environmental Protection and Plantation laws after the blaze spread across land intended for oil palm cultivation.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:40 WIB
Why the Strait of Hormuz off Iran's Coast Is So Crucial
Iran announced a partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz for military exercises, raising concerns over the world's most important oil transit chokepoint through which approximately 20 million barrels flow daily. The move coincides with US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva and heightened American military presence in the Middle East, with Asian economies — particularly China, India, Japan and South Korea — standing to be most affected by any prolonged disruption to oil supplies.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:40 WIB
Gerindra Highlights Serang Regency's Status as Mere Transit Area, Pushes for Tourism Development
The Gerindra faction in Serang Regency's local parliament has called on the local government to develop new tourist destinations to transform the area from a mere transit corridor to Anyer and Merak into a destination in its own right.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:34 WIB
Prabowo Ahead of Board of Peace Meeting: We Continue to Seek Real Solutions for Palestine
President Prabowo Subianto attended a Business Summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC ahead of the inaugural Board of Peace meeting on the Gaza ceasefire, whilst also pursuing a major bilateral trade agreement with the United States. Prabowo emphasised Indonesia's search for long-term partners committed to mutual economic growth and the country's modernisation and industrialisation agenda, signalling a deepening of US-Indonesia economic cooperation across the Pacific region.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:33 WIB
Prabowo to Attend Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting and Sign Indonesia-US Trade Tariff Agreement Today
President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump on 19 February 2026 to sign a bilateral trade tariff agreement between Indonesia and the United States. The signing is set to take place following Prabowo's attendance at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington DC, where Indonesia intends to champion Palestinian interests, particularly Gaza reconstruction.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:31 WIB
Solo Civil Servant Faces Sanctions for Leaking Rio Haryanto's Personal Data
A civil servant in Solo is facing disciplinary action for posting former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto's personal documents on social media without redaction. The city's Personnel and Human Resources Development Agency found the officer violated a mayoral regulation on integrity and conduct, with sanctions ranging from a verbal reprimand to dismissal to be determined at a disciplinary hearing.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:30 WIB
Culture Minister Invites Staff to Embrace Ramadan as Spiritual and Cultural Momentum
Indonesia's Ministry of Culture held a staff gathering ahead of Ramadan 1447 H, with Culture Minister Fadli Zon framing the holy month not merely as spiritual observance but as a living cultural event. The government is actively pursuing UNESCO recognition for Indonesia's iftar traditions as an extension to the existing Intangible Cultural Heritage listing held by several Middle Eastern countries including Turkey.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:12 WIB
Car Gets Stuck Near UI Campus, Jakarta-Bound Traffic Gridlocked
An Isuzu Panther vehicle became stuck on the access road circling Universitas Indonesia in Depok after its right side slipped off the road due to an elevation difference. The incident caused significant traffic congestion on the southbound route towards Jakarta, with authorities dispatching a tow truck to evacuate the vehicle amid moderate rainfall.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:07 WIB
Asian Markets Surge! Kospi Index Hits All-Time High Buoyed by Stellar Technology Shares
South Korea's Kospi index surged 2.76 per cent to a new all-time high on 19 February 2026, driven by strong gains in technology heavyweights Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. The broader Asian rally extended gains from before the Lunar New Year holiday, whilst Wall Street's overnight session also closed higher after investors digested minutes from the Federal Reserve's latest policy meeting.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:05 WIB
Viral Video Shows Residents Holding Prayer Gathering Outside Jokowi's Home; Aide Responds
A video went viral showing dozens of residents from a Banyumas Islamic boarding school conducting a tahlilan (collective prayer) outside former President Joko Widodo's Solo residence in January 2026, praying for his wellbeing amid political pressures.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:04 WIB
Traffic Corps: Transport Operators and Drivers Commit to Ensuring Lebaran Homecoming Safety
The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) has announced that public transport operators and drivers have pledged to uphold road safety during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming season. Fleet-wide inspections, roadworthiness checks, and driver fitness protocols are among the key commitments, as authorities emphasise that coordination between regulators, law enforcement, operators, and drivers is essential to reducing accident rates during the peak travel period.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:03 WIB
Prabowo assures US Chamber of Commerce of conducive investment climate in Indonesia
President Prabowo Subianto addressed American business leaders at a Business Summit hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, guaranteeing that Indonesia maintains a conducive investment climate underpinned by political and economic stability, rule of law, and anti-corruption efforts.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:03 WIB
Morning Traffic Gridlock on Jatinegara Road Towards Matraman in East Jakarta
Heavy traffic congestion hit the Jatinegara area of East Jakarta on the first day of Ramadan fasting, caused by high vehicle volumes as commuters departed later than usual. Police reported no flooding at the location despite wet roads from rain, with congestion also affecting Basuki Rahmat Road towards Kampung Melayu.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:03 WIB
Jakarta Composite Opens Higher as Asian and Wall Street Markets Rally in Unison
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened 47 points higher at 8,357 on Thursday, buoyed by gains across Asian bourses and a strong Wall Street session driven by technology stocks. BNI Sekuritas projected further strengthening, noting support at 8,180-8,230 and resistance at 8,350-8,430, whilst trading volumes remained thin due to Lunar New Year holidays across several major Asian markets.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:03 WIB
Transjakarta and MRT Allow Passengers to Break Fast on Board — Here Are the Rules
Jakarta's major public transport operators, Transjakarta and MRT Jakarta, have introduced special Ramadan policies permitting passengers to break their fast whilst in transit. Both services restrict consumption to water and light snacks such as dates for a maximum of 10 minutes after the Maghrib call to prayer, with heavy meals, coffee, tea, and syrup expressly prohibited to maintain cleanliness and comfort for all passengers.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:02 WIB
Yesterday's Crime Report: Brawl Hotspots to Crash at JK's Residence Fence
Jakarta authorities are stepping up security at brawl-prone locations across the capital during Ramadan, with the Civil Service Police Unit coordinating with the military and police to double patrols.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 09:00 WIB
Ramadhan, Inflation, and Zakat: Testing the Economic Justice of the Ummah
An opinion piece argues that Ramadhan's consumption boom, which significantly drives Indonesia's GDP given that household spending accounts for 53–55 per cent of output, risks exacerbating inequality if inflation goes unchecked and zakat remains a mere annual ritual.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:54 WIB
Prabowo Outlines Keys to Economic Stability in Meeting with US Business Leaders
President Prabowo Subianto met with the US Chamber of Commerce, US-ASEAN Business Council, and US-Indonesia Society in Washington DC, presenting Indonesia's strategy for maintaining economic growth above 5 per cent whilst accelerating infrastructure development and energy transition. He emphasised political stability, rule of law, and good governance as essential foundations for investor confidence, alongside a pragmatic commitment to renewable energy, electric vehicles, and green industry.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:54 WIB
PAM Jaya and WCR Provide Nutrition Education to Prevent Stunting
Jakarta's regional water utility PAM Jaya, through its women's organisation Daya Wanita, has partnered with Women and Children Resilience (WCR) to deliver nutrition and clean water education programmes aimed at preventing stunting across North Jakarta. The initiative targets mothers through PKK groups and Posyandu cadres, emphasising the critical link between animal protein intake, clean water access, and child development in shaping the nation's future generations.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:50 WIB
Epstein Scandal's Fallout in Asia
Newly released FBI documents comprising 3.5 million pages reveal Jeffrey Epstein's extensive network of business and political connections across Asia, including links to Hong Kong tycoons Li Ka-shing and the Kuok family, Indian minister Hardeep Singh Puri, and senior Chinese officials.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:49 WIB
Prabowo Attends Board of Peace Summit in the US Today
President Prabowo Subianto is attending the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington, D.C., where he is also expected to sign a reciprocal trade tariff agreement with the United States, potentially at a rate of 19 per cent on Indonesian imports.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:47 WIB
Annual "alarm" of affordable markets ahead of Ramadan
The Situbondo regency government in East Java has launched its annual affordable food programme in collaboration with Bulog and PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara to stabilise staple food prices ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. The market intervention initiative offers basic commodities below the government-set maximum retail price to counter seasonal demand-driven price surges, reflecting the routine policy instrument deployed by local governments across Indonesia during the fasting month.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:47 WIB
Indonesia and US Agree on Rp116 Trillion in Trade Deals, Including Soybean and Wheat Imports
Indonesian and American firms signed trade and investment deals worth over US$7 billion (Rp116 trillion) on the eve of President Prabowo Subianto's meeting with President Donald Trump to finalise a broader reciprocal trade agreement. The deals include major agricultural commodity purchases — 1 million metric tonnes of soybeans, 1.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:46 WIB
More Than 20 Countries to Attend Inaugural Peace Board Session
Over 20 countries are expected to attend the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace established by US President Donald Trump, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Trump announced the board's formation in January, inviting around 50 nations to join an organisation aimed at supporting Gaza's reconstruction and the path to peace.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:43 WIB
How Is the Military Involved in Building Merah Putih Cooperatives?
Indonesia's military has been actively involved in the construction of village-level Merah Putih cooperatives, with Military District Commands pressuring village heads to provide land and signing cooperation agreements with local leaders.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:43 WIB
US Military on Standby to Strike Iran from Saturday
CBS News reports that US forces have been placed on standby for a possible strike against Iran starting Saturday, though President Trump has not yet decided whether to proceed. The development comes amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran, with Trump warning of consequences "far worse" than previous strikes should diplomacy fail.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:37 WIB
Environment Minister: Indonesia Currently Facing Triple Planetary Crisis
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has declared that Indonesia is in the grip of a triple planetary crisis encompassing climate change, pollution, and waste. Speaking at a river clean-up event in Bogor, he cited UNFCCC data showing 2024 was the hottest year on record and warned that no Indonesian river is free from waste contamination, whilst the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) reinforced the message by reiterating its fatwa declaring indiscriminate waste dumping as religiously forbidden.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:35 WIB
Flooding on Janger Toll Road at KM 4 Causes Heavy Traffic Towards Tomang
Flooding on the Jakarta-Tangerang (Janger) toll road at KM 4 near Kedoya caused significant traffic congestion towards Tomang, with Jasa Marga warning motorists of standing water on the right lane. Heavy traffic volume also affected multiple sections of the Jagorawi and Jakarta-Cikampek toll roads, compounding congestion across Greater Jakarta's major arterial routes.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:33 WIB
Two Motorcycle Thieves Apprehended by Residents in North Jakarta
Two suspects were caught red-handed by local residents while attempting to steal a motorcycle in the Kelapa Gading area of North Jakarta. The pair have been charged under Article 477 of the new Criminal Code (Law No. 1 of 2023) for aggravated theft, which carries a maximum sentence of nine years' imprisonment.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:32 WIB
House Commission V Pushes for Public Transport Audit to Prevent Repeat of Krapyak Bus Disaster
Following the fatal Krapyak toll exit bus crash in Semarang that killed 16 people, House of Representatives Commission V Deputy Chairman Syaiful Huda has called on the Ministry of Transport to conduct comprehensive audits of all public transport fleets, particularly ahead of the Idul Fitri homecoming season.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:30 WIB
Tanker Truck Carrying Thinner Catches Fire on Cipali Motorway
A tanker truck carrying 32,000 litres of thinner was completely destroyed by fire on the Cipali toll road near Cirebon, forcing traffic diversions for over three hours. Authorities believe the blaze was caused by sparks from a seized rear wheel bearing, which ignited the tyres before spreading to the tank.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:27 WIB
Tangerang Regency Cuts Civil Servant Working Hours for Ramadan, WFA Policy Yet to Be Finalised
Tangerang Regency in Banten has issued a circular reducing civil servant working hours during Ramadan 2026 to 08:00–15:00 WIB, yielding approximately 32.5 effective hours per week. However, the local government has yet to implement a Work from Anywhere (WFA) scheme for the Eid al-Fitr exodus period, stating it is still awaiting directives from the central government and the Tangerang Regent.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:21 WIB
Yesterday's Headlines: 1,000 Merah Putih Village Cooperatives Completed, and Antam & PTBA's Persero Status Restored
A roundup of key economic developments includes the completion of 1,000 Merah Putih Village Cooperatives out of a target of 80,000, the Finance Minister's assurance that Indonesia's 40 per cent debt-to-GDP ratio remains safe, and Danantara's explanation for restoring Persero status to mining SOEs Antam and PTBA. The government also announced plans for a 200,000-head cattle investment in Central Kalimantan and the preparation of 255 vessels for Lebaran transport.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:19 WIB
Start of Ramadan: UBS Gold at Rp2.929 Million/gram and Galeri24 at Rp2.915 Million/gram
Gold bar prices at Pegadaian fell at the start of Ramadan, with UBS gold dropping to Rp2,929,000 per gram and Galeri24 to Rp2,915,000 per gram, down from Rp2,958,000 and Rp2,943,000 respectively the previous day. The price list covers quantities ranging from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram for Galeri24 and up to 500 grams for UBS products.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:17 WIB
Flood-Affected Residents in Aceh Sell Sahur Meals to IPDN Cadets
A flood-displaced resident in Aceh Tamiang has turned adversity into opportunity by selling pre-dawn Ramadan meals to IPDN (Institute of Domestic Governance) cadets stationed at her evacuation site. The story highlights the resilience of disaster survivors and the presence of government trainees deployed to assist in flood-affected areas during the holy month.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:15 WIB
Most Popular: New Car at Rp105 Million, Indonesian-Made Cars Gaining Foreign Interest, and Ferrari Bonuses Cause a Stir
A roundup of the week's most popular automotive articles highlights a new Nissan model priced at Rp105 million, growing international demand for Indonesian-manufactured vehicles, and Ferrari's decision to award large staff bonuses despite declining sales. The piece on Indonesian automotive exports is particularly noteworthy, signalling the country's expanding role in global vehicle manufacturing.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:14 WIB
Surabaya Mayor Bans Nightlife During Ramadan, Regulates Distribution of Free Meals
Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi has issued a circular letter outlining security and public order guidelines for Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026, including a complete shutdown of nightlife venues and regulated distribution of takjil (breaking-fast meals) through mosques and official institutions to prevent traffic congestion.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:11 WIB
Democrat Party: Lunar New Year Celebrations a Moment to Strengthen Diversity and Unity
The Democrat Party held its first-ever Lunar New Year celebration, with chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) reaffirming the party's commitment to multiculturalism and national unity. AHY emphasised that Chinese-Indonesians are an integral part of the nation with equal rights, and highlighted his father SBY's 2014 presidential decree replacing discriminatory terminology as a historic act of reconciliation.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:08 WIB
Dangers of Freely Sold Whip Pink Highlighted by BNN Amid Calls for Regulation
Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has flagged the recreational misuse of nitrous oxide, marketed as "Whip Pink," among young people, warning of fatal neurological effects. BNN chief Suyudi Ario Seto revealed that entertainment venues are openly selling the substance in packages without clear regulation, and called on government stakeholders to urgently draft strict rules to curb its uncontrolled distribution.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:04 WIB
Why the MKMK Chairman Refused to Disclose the Adies Kadir Ethics Report to Parliament
The chairman of the Constitutional Court's Ethics Council (MKMK), I Gede Palguna, firmly refused parliamentary requests to reveal details of an ethics complaint against newly appointed Constitutional Court justice Adies Kadir, stating he would rather resign than compromise the council's independence.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:04 WIB
Prabowo to Attend Board of Peace Meeting and Sign Trade Tariff Deal with Trump Today
President Prabowo Subianto is set to attend the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington DC and sign a trade tariff agreement with US President Donald Trump. Cabinet Secretary Prasetyo Hadi expressed hopes for more favourable terms but acknowledged the final outcome depends on negotiations. Prabowo and his delegation arrived at Andrews Military Base on 17 February ahead of the scheduled engagements.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:02 WIB
Respecting the Solemnity of Ramadan: From Car Free Day Suspensions to Local Government Security Patrols
The Mataram city government in West Nusa Tenggara has decided to temporarily suspend its weekly Car Free Day activities on Jalan Udayana during the holy month of Ramadan. The measure forms part of broader local government efforts to respect the solemnity of the fasting month, alongside enhanced security patrols.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:00 WIB
Sunset, Takjil, and Shared Spaces
This reflective piece examines how Ramadan traditions in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, serve as a nexus of spirituality, micro-economic activity, and urban public space management. The article argues that the Ramadan narrative in modern Indonesia must be understood as a balance between religious devotion, socio-economic dynamics, and responsive public services shaped by local culture.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 08:00 WIB
Rumours of Netanyahu Having Cancer and a Pacemaker: Is He Seriously Ill?
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has issued a detailed medical report refuting social media rumours that he is suffering from blood cancer and prostate cancer. The report, signed by his personal physician and specialists, confirms he is in good overall health, with stable cardiac function following a pacemaker implantation in July 2023, and is currently recovering from a post-operative urinary tract infection.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:58 WIB
Whip Pink Abuse: National Narcotics Agency Pushes for Strict Regulation
Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) is calling for urgent regulation of nitrous oxide (N2O), marketed as "Whip Pink," which is being freely sold and misused as a recreational inhalant at entertainment venues. Police have uncovered distribution networks using fictitious business-to-business transactions to circumvent food and drug regulatory oversight, whilst medical experts warn the substance poses fatal cardiac risks including heart stoppage.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:57 WIB
Married Couple in Surabaya Named Suspects in Toddler Abuse Case
A married couple in Surabaya has been arrested and named suspects for physically abusing their four-year-old niece, who was found locked alone in their rented room with extensive injuries. The pair face a minimum of five years' imprisonment under Indonesia's Domestic Violence Act and Child Protection Law, after neighbours discovered the starving child crying for help behind a locked door.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:56 WIB
Bringing Freeport Boss and Kadin Chief Along, Prabowo Meets American Business Leaders
President Prabowo Subianto opened his official agenda in Washington DC on 18 February 2026 by meeting the US Chamber of Commerce, US-ASEAN Business Council, and US-Indonesia Society ahead of the signing of a reciprocal trade agreement (ART) with the United States.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:53 WIB
Chilli and Shallot Prices Climb at Kramat Jati Central Market
Prices of large red chillies and shallots at Jakarta's Kramat Jati Central Market have risen significantly at the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, driven by dwindling supply from key production centres such as Brebes in Central Java. Authorities including the National Food Agency and the Criminal Investigation Division of the National Police have conducted inspections to ensure the price increases stem from genuine supply constraints rather than market manipulation.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:53 WIB
West Java Governor to Suspend Ojek, Becak and Angkot Operations for Two Weeks Ahead of Lebaran
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi plans to halt operations of ojek (motorcycle taxis), becak (pedicabs), delman (horse-drawn carriages) and angkot (public minibuses) for a fortnight surrounding Lebaran 1447 H to ease congestion along mudik routes. The policy, developed in coordination with West Java Police, would give informal transport operators a 14-day break with compensation, following a similar scheme applied during the 2025/26 New Year holiday period.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:46 WIB
List of Narcotics Evidence Found in Suitcase of Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik
The National Police's Professional and Security Division has convened an ethics hearing for former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, who was found in possession of a white suitcase containing methamphetamine, ecstasy, alprazolam, and other narcotics.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:43 WIB
Ministry of Marine Affairs Temporarily Halts Unlicensed Reclamation Activities in Gresik
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has temporarily halted maritime spatial utilisation activities by PT Surya Sarana Marina (SSM) covering 1.72 hectares in Gresik, East Java, for operating without the required Marine Spatial Utilisation Conformity Approval (PKKPRL).
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:42 WIB
Expert proposes voluntary licence scheme to curb book piracy
A legal expert from Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta has proposed a voluntary licence framework that would allow copyright holders to grant usage rights to third parties, including the government, in exchange for fair compensation to combat rampant book piracy.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:42 WIB
Ethics Hearing for Former Bima Police Chief Over Drugs Case Held Today
The Indonesian National Police's Professional and Security Division held an ethics hearing for former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro over narcotics possession. The case underscores the police force's stated zero-tolerance stance towards drug abuse within its ranks, with senior officials emphasising that no special treatment will be afforded to officers or their families involved in narcotics networks.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:36 WIB
Four Facts About the Crash That Destroyed the Fence of Jusuf Kalla's Residence
A female driver crashed her Hyundai Santa Fe into the fence of former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla's residence in the Dharmawangsa area of South Jakarta in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The driver, suspected of having fallen asleep at the wheel, has requested mediation to resolve the matter and repair the damaged fence, whilst police continue investigating the cause of the accident.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:33 WIB
Jakarta Toll Road Traffic Update on First Day of Ramadan: Multi-Vehicle Pile-Up Reported
Heavy congestion was reported across several Jakarta toll roads on the first morning of Ramadan fasting, with dense traffic on the Jagorawi, Jakarta-Cikampek, and Jakarta-Tangerang corridors heading towards the capital. Jasa Marga also reported a multi-vehicle pile-up on the Inner City Toll Road near Cawang towards Pluit, with officers attending the scene.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:33 WIB
Fact-Finding Commission Reveals Indications of Military Involvement in August Demonstrations
A Fact-Finding Commission has identified indications of Indonesian military (TNI) involvement in the August 2025 demonstration riots, categorised across four levels: incitement, negligence, deliberate inaction, and a breakdown in command accountability. However, the commission stated it has not found sufficient evidence to conclude institutional TNI involvement in the form of illegal operations or orders deliberately designed to create unrest.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:31 WIB
Prabowo invites US businesses to invest in Indonesia
President Prabowo Subianto used a business summit at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC to court American investors, highlighting 18 downstream processing projects, rare earth mineral reserves, and an imminent reciprocal trade agreement. Accompanied by senior ministers and the heads of Pertamina and Freeport Indonesia, Prabowo pitched Indonesia's political stability, anti-corruption reforms, and investor-friendly climate as key draws for US strategic partnership.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:29 WIB
List of Three New KPK Deputies: From Enforcement to Corruption Prevention
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) inaugurated three new senior deputies on 18 February, filling critical leadership positions in enforcement, prevention, and coordination. The appointments, formalised under Presidential Decree No. 23/TPA of 2026, signal a renewed push in Indonesia's anti-corruption apparatus with figures drawn from both police and civilian backgrounds.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:20 WIB
Rain Expected to Drench Multiple Indonesian Cities on First Day of Ramadan Fasting
Indonesia's meteorological agency BMKG has forecast light to moderate rainfall across most major cities on the first day of Ramadan, 19 February 2026, as the country remains at the peak of its wet season. BMKG head Teuku Faisal Fathani warned the public to remain vigilant against extreme weather, with very high rainfall expected in West Java, Central Java, East Nusa Tenggara, and South Sulawesi through February and March.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:17 WIB
Papua's Locked Skies: Why Pioneer Airstrips Keep Being Targeted
Following the fatal shooting of two Smart Aviation pilots at Danawage Koroway Batu airstrip in Boven Digoel, South Papua, on 11 February 2026, the Transport Ministry has temporarily closed 11 pioneer airstrips across Papua effective 16 February, with five others placed under heightened military-police security.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:15 WIB
South Sumatra DPRD Member and Son Arrested by Prosecutors over Rp 1.6 Billion Bribery
The South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office arrested a sitting Muara Enim regency council member identified as KT and his son RA on suspicion of receiving Rp 1.6 billion in bribes linked to a Rp 7 billion irrigation development project. Investigators seized a Toyota Alphard allegedly purchased with the bribe money and have detained both suspects for 20 days, with the probe potentially expanding to implicate the Muara Enim regent.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:14 WIB
256 East Jakarta Civil Service Police Personnel to Maintain Order During Ramadan
East Jakarta has deployed 256 Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) personnel to maintain public order during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah/2026, supported by rapid response units, community protection squads, and 56 operational vehicles. In a coordinated effort, the East Jakarta Metropolitan Police have also established 27 integrated security posts staffed by police, military, municipal government, and community elements to prevent social disturbances during the holy month.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:05 WIB
7 Latest Facts as Bus Company Director Named Suspect in Deadly Krapyak Toll Road Crash
The director of PT Cahaya Pariwisata Transportasi has been named a suspect alongside the bus driver following a fatal crash on the Krapyak toll road in Semarang that killed 16 passengers in December 2025. Investigations revealed the bus had been operating illegally since 2022 without a route permit, the 22-year-old driver held a forged licence, and the company failed to comply with basic safety standards — with 8 of its 12 buses lacking route permits and roadworthiness certificates.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:04 WIB
Humanities roundup: Free Nutritious Meals during Ramadan and presidential cattle aid for disaster survivors
A roundup of key social policy stories covers the National Nutrition Agency's call for creative local food preparation in the Free Nutritious Meals programme during Ramadan, alongside growing alarm over child suicide cases in Indonesia. The government also demonstrated attention to Acehnese cultural traditions by distributing presidential cattle aid to disaster survivors for the pre-Ramadan meugang tradition.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:03 WIB
Jakarta Civil Service Police Anticipate Brawls at 48 Locations During Ramadan
Jakarta's Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) are deploying 1,900 mobile and standby personnel to monitor 43 brawl-prone locations across the capital during Ramadan, coordinating with the police and military for early intervention. Beyond anti-brawl measures, the unit will crack down on illegal alcohol distribution and regulate pavement vendors at 18 locations across five city areas, following directives from Deputy Governor Rano Karno to maintain order whilst adopting a humanitarian approach.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 07:00 WIB
DPR Leadership Rebukes Jokowi: No Law Can Be Made Without Presidential Letter
Deputy Speaker of the DPR Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal has pushed back against former President Jokowi's claim of non-involvement in the 2019 KPK Law revision, pointing out that no legislation can proceed without a Presidential Letter (Surpres). The remarks come after Jokowi voiced support for reverting the KPK Law to its original version, whilst State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirmed the government has no plans to amend the law.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:50 WIB
Key Facts: Five Suitcases Containing Rp5 Billion Found in Safe House Linked to Customs Bribery Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered a second safe house in Ciputat, South Tangerang, containing five suitcases filled with Rp5 billion in cash linked to a bribery and gratification case involving senior Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:43 WIB
Director of PO Cahaya Trans Named Suspect in Fatal Krapyak Toll Road Crash
The president director of PT Cahaya Wisata Transportasi has been named a suspect over the fatal bus crash on the Krapyak toll road in Central Java that killed 16 people in December 2025. Police allege the company illegally operated the Bogor-Yogyakarta route since 2022 without permits from the Ministry of Transport, and that the director failed to oversee driver recruitment, training, and licence verification.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:30 WIB
These Are the 69 Transjakarta Stops Providing Prayer Rooms
PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) has equipped 69 bus stops across its main corridors and strategic integration points with prayer rooms (mushalla) to enable Muslim passengers to perform prayers during their journeys, particularly during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:21 WIB
Unlike Jokowi, Presidential Palace Has No Plans to Revise KPK Law
The Prabowo administration has distanced itself from former President Jokowi's support for reverting the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) law to its pre-2019 version. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirmed there have been no internal government discussions on revising the KPK law, despite the proposal being raised by former KPK chairman Abraham Samad during a meeting with President Prabowo.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:19 WIB
Bamsoet Discusses Competitive Intelligence and SOE Reputation
Member of Parliament Bambang Soesatyo has called for competitive intelligence to become a priority agenda in the transformation of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), arguing that corporate reputation is critical to business sustainability and social legitimacy.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:16 WIB
Defence Minister Offers Encouragement to Families of Soldiers Killed in Landslide
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin visited the families of 23 Marine soldiers who perished in the Cisarua landslide in West Bandung, conveying condolences on behalf of President Prabowo Subianto. The minister pledged state recognition and guarantees for the bereaved families, and distributed additional assistance from the Ministry of Defence, though the nature of the aid was not disclosed.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:12 WIB
Polish military bans Chinese-made vehicles from entering their facilities
Poland's military has imposed restrictions on Chinese-manufactured vehicles accessing military zones, citing data security concerns over built-in sensors and cameras. The ban extends to critical infrastructure facilities, with vehicles permitted entry only after certain functions are disabled, reflecting broader NATO security standards amid growing Western wariness of Chinese technology.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:09 WIB
Mobile Driving Licence Services on 19 February 2026: Schedule for Jakarta and Surrounding Areas
Mobile driving licence (SIM Keliling) renewal services have resumed normal operations across Jakarta, Bekasi, Bogor, and Bandung following schedule adjustments during the Lunar New Year holiday period. The services, which operate at designated locations throughout the greater Jakarta metropolitan area and West Java, facilitate SIM A and SIM C renewals at fees set under Government Regulation No. 60/2016 on non-tax state revenue.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 06:00 WIB
Update on Sting Operation Against Muara Enim DPRD Member and Son in Irrigation Network Case
The South Sumatra High Prosecution Office arrested a Muara Enim regional councillor and his son in a sting operation over alleged receipt of Rp1.6 billion in bribes linked to an irrigation development project worth Rp7 billion. Investigators seized a luxury Alphard vehicle believed purchased with the illicit funds, and authorities indicated the probe may expand to include examination of local government officials, potentially including the Muara Enim Regent.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:59 WIB
11 Pioneer Airports in Papua Temporarily Closed for Security Following Smart Air Pilot Shooting
Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has ordered the temporary closure of 11 pioneer airports and airstrips across Papua as a preventive measure following the shooting of a Smart Air pilot and co-pilot at Koroway Batu Airport in South Papua on 11 February 2026. The ministry is coordinating with the military and police to restore adequate security before gradually resuming air services, and has confirmed that operators suspending flights on safety grounds will face no sanctions.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:54 WIB
First Tarawih prayer: Renowned Acehnese cleric calls on faithful to begin Ramadan with repentance
Tgk Ishak Malem, known as Abi Lamkawe, delivered the sermon at the first Tarawih prayer at Banda Aceh's Grand Baiturrahman Mosque, urging the community to begin Ramadan 1447 Hijriah with sincere repentance. The event saw lower attendance than previous years due to heavy rainfall, whilst the cleric emphasised that repentance is the most important spiritual practice after faith itself.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:52 WIB
Public Kitchen Provides Sahur Meals for Disaster Survivors in South Tapanuli
A public kitchen at an evacuation site in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, is providing pre-dawn Ramadan meals for 220 families displaced by flash floods. Whilst the kitchen's workload has eased as survivors acquire their own rice cookers, it continues to serve those still dependent on communal food provision across three evacuation points.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:49 WIB
Yesterday's Roundup: YouTube Service Restored, Automotive Industry Growth Continues
A news roundup covering several developments including YouTube's recovery from a global outage, the National Collective Management Institute's distribution of Rp6.58 billion in music royalties, Samsung Galaxy S26 price increases driven by AI-fuelled memory chip costs, and the Ministry of Industry's assessment that the two-wheeled vehicle sector demonstrates strong resilience with consistent year-on-year growth.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:45 WIB
DKI Jakarta to Monitor Seasonal Takjil Vendors to Protect Pedestrian Rights
Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) will regulate rather than ban seasonal takjil (breaking-fast snack) vendors who typically crowd the capital's pavements during Ramadan 2026. Authorities have identified 19 pavement locations across the five municipalities for focused enforcement, aiming to balance the economic opportunities of the fasting month with pedestrians' right of way.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:39 WIB
BMKG forecasts rain across most major Indonesian cities
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across most major cities on Thursday, with thunderstorms expected in parts of Kalimantan.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:32 WIB
Energy Minister Accompanies President Prabowo to Strengthen Energy Diplomacy in the US
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia accompanied President Prabowo Subianto for bilateral talks with US President Donald Trump in Washington DC, focusing on strategic energy and mineral resources cooperation. The diplomatic engagement aims to bolster Indonesia's energy security, advance downstream processing, attract investment, and support technology transfer whilst aligning with the country's 2060 net zero emission target.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:30 WIB
JCI Has Potential to Reach 8,596 Despite Correction Risk: Five Analyst Stock Picks for Potential Gains
The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) is projected to extend its upward trend after closing at 8,310.22 with a 1.19 per cent gain, with potential to reach 8,596 if it breaks above the SMA-20 line. Binaartha Sekuritas analyst Ivan Rosanova identified key support and resistance levels whilst recommending five stocks — ASII, BBCA, BBNI, BRPT and EMTK — as potential opportunities for investors.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:29 WIB
Dompet Dhuafa builds meunasah in Aceh to revive tarawih prayers after disaster
Charitable foundation Dompet Dhuafa has constructed a meunasah — a traditional Acehnese community, worship and religious education centre — in Pidie Jaya, Aceh, to enable residents to observe Ramadan following devastating floods and landslides in late 2025. The facility, named Meunasah Al-Hijra, symbolises broader post-disaster recovery efforts encompassing not only physical reconstruction but also the spiritual and social rehabilitation of affected communities.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:26 WIB
Flash Flood Survivors in South Tapanuli Have First Sahur of Ramadan in Emergency Tents
Survivors of the November 2025 flash floods in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, marked the first pre-dawn meal of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah in emergency shelters, nearly three months after the disaster destroyed their homes. Displaced residents from Huta Godang and Garoga villages relied on communal kitchens at the Batu Hula evacuation post, with survivors expressing their longing for the comfort of observing Ramadan in their own homes.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:21 WIB
Patahudding: Ramadhan Serves as Momentum for Evaluation and Development Direction in Luwu
Luwu Regent Patahudding has outlined the district's strategic development priorities centred on public welfare, including agricultural growth, infrastructure expansion, digital governance transformation, and poverty alleviation. He also highlighted concerns over high Quranic illiteracy rates, rising crime linked to online gambling, and domestic violence, announcing a curfew circular for schoolchildren as a preventive measure.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:18 WIB
Prabowo Meets US Chamber of Commerce, USINDO, USABC Ahead of Reciprocal Trade Agreement Signing
President Prabowo Subianto began his official agenda in Washington DC by meeting the US Chamber of Commerce, US-ASEAN Business Council, and US-Indonesia Society ahead of signing a reciprocal trade agreement with President Trump.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:18 WIB
Shallow M 3.5 Earthquake Strikes Tojo Una-una in Central Sulawesi
A magnitude 3.5 earthquake struck Tojo Una-una Regency in Central Sulawesi in the early hours of 19 February 2026, with a shallow depth of just 5 kilometres. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported the epicentre was located on land, though no information on damage or casualties was immediately available.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:10 WIB
List of Adjusted Working Hours for Civil Servants in DKI Jakarta During Ramadan 2026
The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has issued a circular adjusting civil servant working hours during Ramadan 2026, reducing the work week from 37.5 hours to 32.5 hours whilst introducing flexible start times. Governor Pramono Anung's policy shortens daily effective working hours to 6.5 hours, though exemptions apply for staff providing direct public services or handling urgent duties.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:02 WIB
A Century of Memories: Grandmother Sharifah's Naked-Eye Ramadan Crescent Sightings from the Peaks of Maysan
A near-centenarian woman in the mountainous villages of Saudi Arabia's Maysan Province recounts how communities once relied solely on naked-eye hilal sightings from mountain peaks to mark the start of Ramadan. The article documents the rich communal traditions surrounding crescent moon observation — from hilltop bonfires and echoing takbir calls to collective meals — and contrasts them with the modern astronomical methods now employed at the Majardah Thaqif Observatory.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:02 WIB
Century-Old Memories: Grandmother Sharifah's Tradition of Observing the Ramadan Crescent with the Naked Eye from Maysan's Peaks
Sharifah binti Atiyah Al-Thaqafi, nearly a century old, recounts how communities in the mountainous Maysan Province east of Mecca once determined the start of Ramadan through naked-eye observation of the crescent moon from mountain peaks, followed by bonfires and takbir calls echoing between hilltops. The article documents the transition from this deeply communal, centuries-old tradition to modern astronomical methods using telescopes, digital imaging, and computational applications.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:00 WIB
Vape Devices Infiltrated with Narcotics Targeting Teenagers, BNN Reveals
The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has revealed that drug traffickers are increasingly using vape devices as a vehicle for narcotics distribution, particularly targeting young people. Laboratory testing of 341 vape liquid samples found synthetic cannabinoids, methamphetamine, and etomidate in 35 samples, whilst vape usage in Indonesia has surged tenfold over the past decade.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 05:00 WIB
'Strategic Transformation': Can Batam Build Its Digital Economy Into a Regional Hub?
CNA examines Batam's ambitions to position itself as a regional digital economy hub, anchored by the Nongsa Digital Park special economic zone. Local leaders and businesses discuss the city's strategic transformation whilst acknowledging persistent challenges around talent development and long-term sustainability of the digital ecosystem.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:56 WIB
Yesterday in politics: Prabowo in the US, DPR on Sumatran aid
A roundup of key political developments includes President Prabowo Subianto's working visit to the United States focused on economic cooperation, and parliamentary coordination on disaster relief for Sumatra. The House of Representatives and government agreed to streamline emergency funding exceeding Rp4.3 trillion for hydrometeorological disaster response, whilst displacement figures across three provinces dropped dramatically from over two million to roughly 13,000.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:53 WIB
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto on KPK Law Revision: We Don't Want to Get Caught Up in It, We Just Want to Work
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto has distanced the anti-corruption agency from the ongoing discourse surrounding a potential revision of the 2019 KPK Law, stating the commission will simply work under existing legislation. The debate was sparked by former KPK chairman Abraham Samad's request to President Prabowo Subianto to restore the original 2002 KPK Law, a proposal endorsed by former president Joko Widodo but explicitly ruled out by the Prabowo government.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:50 WIB
Nurul Wathon Mosque at Pakansari Holds Inaugural Tarawih Prayers, Draws Massive Congregation
The Nurul Wathon Mosque in the Pakansari Stadium complex in Cibinong, Bogor Regency, West Java, held its first-ever Tarawih prayers at the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriyah, attracting an overflow congregation. The inauguration of communal worship at this newly operational mosque underscores the role of public religious infrastructure in Indonesia's urban development areas.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:50 WIB
Judicial Bribery Case: Former Palm Oil Executive Faces 15-Year Prison Demand
Prosecutors have demanded a 15-year prison sentence for M Syafei, former Head of Social Licence at Wilmar Group, for bribing judges at the Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court handling a Rp40 billion CPO export corruption case. The demand includes a Rp600 million fine and Rp9.3 billion in restitution, reflecting the severity of a scheme that prosecutors say undermined judicial integrity. Three advocates alleged to have participated in the bribery have also faced sentencing demands.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:37 WIB
Viral Prayer Gathering Outside Jokowi's Home: Aide Speaks Out
A video of residents holding a tahlilan (Islamic prayer gathering) outside former President Joko Widodo's Solo residence went viral on social media, prompting his aide to confirm the event took place on 18 January 2026. The gathering by members of a Banyumas Islamic boarding school was intended to pray for Jokowi's wellbeing, though the ex-president was unable to meet them as he had to fly to Jakarta that morning to attend the wedding of President Prabowo Subianto's personal assistant.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:34 WIB
Jokowi's Aide Responds to Former President's Solo Home Being Dubbed "Solo's Wailing Wall"
Former President Joko Widodo's private residence in Solo went viral after it appeared on Google Maps under the name "Tembok Ratapan Solo" (Solo's Wailing Wall), prompting visitors to flock to the site for photographs. Jokowi's aide confirmed awareness of the incident but said there would be no additional security measures, urging the public to respect the property as a private residence rather than a landmark.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:31 WIB
'Rasa Bhayangkara Nusantara' Book Launched in US as President Prabowo's Cultural Diplomacy Instrument
The English-language edition of the Indonesian cookbook 'Taste of Nusantara: 80 Bhayangkara Menu for Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals Program' was officially presented at the Indonesian Embassy in Washington DC on 18 February 2026, as part of President Prabowo Subianto's cultural diplomacy programme.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:30 WIB
House Commission I's Conditions on TNI Troop Deployment to Gaza Under Board of Peace
House Commission I has set strict conditions for Indonesia's planned deployment of TNI troops to Gaza, insisting the mission serve purely humanitarian purposes under a UN mandate and not become entangled in Israel's occupation agenda. A composite brigade of 8,000 personnel is being prepared, with an advance team of 1,000 targeted for readiness by April 2026, though deployment remains contingent on political decisions and international mechanisms ahead of the Board of Peace summit in Washington.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:30 WIB
On Whoosh Project Debt Being Paid with State Budget, Purbaya Says: Awaiting Presidential Directive
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed he is still awaiting directives from President Prabowo regarding the repayment scheme for the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail (Whoosh) debt, which is reportedly set to be covered entirely by the state budget (APBN). The disclosure that APBN funds would be used came from State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, though technical negotiations remain ongoing under Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani's leadership, with no final decision yet reached.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:15 WIB
Buzzers in Attorney General's Obstruction of Justice Case Face 8-10 Years' Imprisonment
Three defendants — an advocate, a private television director, and a social media buzzer — have been prosecuted for obstructing Attorney General's Office investigations into major corruption cases involving CPO exports, PT Timah tin trading, and sugar imports. Prosecutors demanded sentences of 8 to 10 years' imprisonment and fines of Rp600 million each, alleging the defendants orchestrated a scheme to shape negative public opinion against the handling of the cases.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:09 WIB
Sharia, Interpretation, and the Long Road to Justice
An opinion piece examines Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's assertion that Islamic banking in Indonesia has not fully implemented genuine sharia principles, effectively only rebranding conventional banking terminology as "sharia." The article explores the systemic gap between the label and substance of Islamic finance in the country, raising questions about regulatory integrity and the path toward authentic sharia-compliant banking.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:03 WIB
PBNU: Sahur Wake-Up Calls Must Observe Proper Etiquette and Reasonable Volume
The chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama's executive board (PBNU), KH Ahmad Fahrur Rozi, has called on Muslims to exercise restraint and courtesy when waking neighbours for the pre-dawn sahur meal during Ramadan, urging reasonable volume levels and consultation with local residents. His remarks highlight the importance of tolerance in Indonesia's pluralistic society, particularly towards non-Muslim neighbours, the elderly, the ill, and infants.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 04:00 WIB
MRT Jakarta Permits Passengers to Break Fast on Trains: Limited to 10 Minutes with Plain Water and Dates
PT MRT Jakarta has announced a policy permitting passengers to break their Ramadan fast aboard trains and in paid areas, but only with plain water and dates within 10 minutes of the Maghrib call to prayer. The policy, effective from 19 February 2026, is part of a broader Ramadan campaign called #MelajuPenuhMakna that includes social initiatives such as communal iftar events for orphans and people with disabilities, public donations, and Ramadan charity packages.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:34 WIB
Fake Driving Licence and Illegal Route Exposed in Deadly Krapyak Toll Road Bus Crash
Police have named the director of PT Cahaya Pariwisata Transportasi as a suspect in the Krapyak toll road crash that killed 16 people in December 2025, citing his failure to oversee operations, knowingly permitting an unlicensed route, and employing an untested driver with a counterfeit licence.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:30 WIB
Landslide at Morowali Mining Area Kills One Worker
A landslide struck the waste dump area of PT QMB within the Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) compound in Central Sulawesi, burying heavy equipment and killing one worker. Authorities suspect soft ground conditions caused the slide, and a comprehensive investigation is under way by the provincial labour inspection authority and the company's Quick Response Centre.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:30 WIB
Islamic Boarding School Head in NTB Named Suspect for Sexual Assault Using "Womb Cleansing" Ruse
The head of an Islamic boarding school in East Lombok, NTB, has been named a suspect and arrested at Lombok International Airport whilst attempting to flee to the Middle East after being accused of sexually assaulting female students. The suspect allegedly deceived victims over a period of years by claiming that sexual intercourse was a spiritual "womb cleansing" ritual, with one victim enduring abuse for a decade and now suffering severe depression.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:30 WIB
AHY Announces Annisa Pohan Is Seven Months Pregnant: 'God Willing, the Baby Will Be Born Under the Fire Horse Zodiac'
Democratic Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono announced at the party's 2026 Lunar New Year celebration that his wife Annisa Pohan is seven months pregnant with their second child. AHY noted the baby would be born under the Fire Horse Chinese zodiac sign, sharing his own Horse zodiac, and expressed hope that the spirit of the Fire Horse year would drive Indonesia's progress and prosperity.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:30 WIB
Ministry of Communications Explains Why Unused Internet Quotas Cannot Be Rolled Over
Indonesia's Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) defended the practice of expiring unused internet data quotas during a judicial review hearing at the Constitutional Court. The ministry argued that mandating quota rollovers would impose unmeasurable costs on telecommunications operators, potentially leading to tariff increases, reduced affordable package options, and degraded network quality.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:28 WIB
Start of Ramadan: Thousands of Israeli Police Tighten Access to Al-Aqsa
Israeli occupation forces imposed strict restrictions across East Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank on the first day of Ramadan 1447 H. Thousands of police were deployed to limit access to Al-Aqsa Mosque, significantly curtailing Palestinian worshippers' ability to reach the holy site during the sacred month.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:06 WIB
DPR Refutes Jokowi's Statement: Impossible to Discuss Laws Without Presidential Letter
The Indonesian House of Representatives has publicly contradicted former President Jokowi's claim that he did not sign the revised KPK Law, with Deputy Speaker Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal asserting that no legislation can proceed without a presidential letter (surpres).
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:02 WIB
Vatican Firmly Rejects Membership of Trump's Board of Peace
The Vatican has officially declined to join US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, with Cardinal Pietro Parolin citing the Holy See's unique nature and insisting that international crisis management should remain under United Nations authority. The decision is significant given that Indonesia is among the dozen-plus nations that have joined the board, which held its inaugural summit on 19 February 2026 with pledges exceeding US$5 billion for Gaza reconstruction and humanitarian efforts.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:00 WIB
Strict Oversight on Sahur On The Road: Jakarta Police Deploy Criminal Investigation and Mobile Brigade Units
Jakarta Metropolitan Police will deploy joint patrols comprising all policing units — from criminal investigation to mobile brigade — every night throughout Ramadan to prevent disorder during Sahur On The Road (SOTR) activities. The integrated security operation aims to curb illegal street racing, brawls, and other criminal acts that typically surge during the pre-dawn hours of the fasting month.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:00 WIB
Free Entry to Ancol During Ramadan: Here Are the Conditions
PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk, the publicly listed company managing Jakarta's premier coastal recreation destination, is offering free entry throughout Ramadan 1447 Hijriah from 5pm to 11pm daily. Visitors must book online in advance, with a maximum of two free tickets per person per day, though vehicle and ride tickets remain separately charged.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 03:00 WIB
Coordinating with KPK, Purbaya Already Knows Identity of Finance Ministry Official Linked to Alleged Gratification
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed he knows the identity of the Ministry of Finance official reported to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) over alleged gratification involving a Toyota Alphard from a private party. The minister suggested the gratification allegations may have been deliberately leaked by parties opposed to his plan to promote the official concerned, whilst pledging to consult directly with the KPK and assess the case objectively.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 02:58 WIB
Children affected by Central Aceh disaster receive psychological support
Children displaced by the November 2025 Sumatran floods in Central Aceh have been receiving psychological counselling through a programme run by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology in partnership with Teuku Umar University. The three-month disaster school programme has provided trauma healing for 90 children and toddlers in Toweren village, most of whom have now returned to their homes after sheltering at emergency posts.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 02:55 WIB
Transport Minister: Ministry of Transport's 2026 Budget Prioritises Infrastructure and Safety
Indonesia's Ministry of Transport has been allocated Rp28.48 trillion for 2026, with safety, connectivity, and national strategic programmes as key priorities. After Rp1.35 trillion was ring-fenced for President Prabowo Subianto's directives, the effective working budget stands at Rp27.13 trillion, covering maritime, rail, aviation, and road transport as well as post-disaster reconstruction and economic stimulus measures.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 02:30 WIB
Imsak and Subuh Schedule for the First Day of Ramadan, Thursday 19 February 2026
Muslims across Indonesia commenced the Ramadan 1447 Hijriah fast on 19 February 2026, with the Ministry of Religious Affairs publishing official imsak and subuh schedules for cities nationwide. The schedules, spanning all three Indonesian time zones, guide the faithful on when to conclude their pre-dawn meal, with Jakarta's imsak falling at 04:31 WIB and subuh at 04:41 WIB.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 02:30 WIB
Religious Affairs Minister Requests Rp702 Billion for Flood-Damaged Madrasahs and Pesantren in Sumatra
Indonesia's Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has submitted a proposal for Rp702.90 billion in special funding to reconstruct hundreds of madrasahs, pesantren, and houses of worship damaged by floods and landslides in Sumatra in late November 2025. The request, which remains pending approval from the State Secretary Minister, would cover the rehabilitation of facilities still non-operational, with the majority of affected institutions already having resumed activities.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 02:13 WIB
House Commission V Pushes Sea Bus Transport to Tackle Bali's Traffic Congestion
The chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission V has urged the development of sea bus services as a near-term solution to Bali's worsening traffic congestion, driven by booming tourism on the island. Speaking during a working meeting with the Transport Minister, Lasarus argued that optimising existing ports for passenger ferry routes would be faster and more realistic than waiting for major infrastructure projects such as new railways, toll roads, or the proposed northern airport.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 02:04 WIB
Three defendants in corruption obstruction case face 8–10 years' imprisonment demands
Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences of 8 to 10 years for three defendants accused of obstructing law enforcement in three major corruption cases involving tin commodity management, crude palm oil exports, and sugar imports. The defendants — a former TV crew member, a buzzer team leader, and a lawyer — allegedly orchestrated negative public opinion campaigns through social media to influence the handling of the cases being investigated by the Attorney General's Office.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 02:00 WIB
UGM Student Council Chair Receives Threats After Criticising Child Suicide Cases in NTT; Palace Responds
The chair of Gadjah Mada University's Student Executive Board received intimidation and kidnapping threats via WhatsApp after publicly criticising government handling of child suicide cases in East Nusa Tenggara. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi acknowledged the right to criticise but urged students to exercise "Eastern manners" and responsible language, promising to look into the threats — a response critics may view as deflecting from the substance of the complaint.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:58 WIB
Coordinating Minister AHY Affirms Batam's Key Position as Free Trade Zone and Economic Gateway
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has reaffirmed Batam's strategic importance as a free trade zone and Indonesia's economic gateway to Southeast Asia.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:44 WIB
Carnival Sound Systems Blasting Until Dawn in Mojokerto Cause Residents' Ceiling Plaster to Collapse
The Medali Spectacular Carnival 2026 in Mojokerto drew criticism after 32 high-powered sound systems operated from afternoon until dawn, reportedly damaging residents' homes. The village head downplayed the incident, claiming residents had signed consent forms acknowledging the risks beforehand, raising questions about local governance accountability and community event regulation.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:43 WIB
Pilgrimage on the Wet Earth of South Tapanuli's Mass Grave
Families of landslide victims in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, visited the mass burial site during Ramadan to pay their respects. The grave soil remains waterlogged months after the devastating landslide struck Batu Godang village in late November, with mud still visible on village roads and houses.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:30 WIB
Following Prabowo's Lead, Police College Students Send 70 Cattle to Aceh Flood Victims
Students from Indonesia's Police Science College have donated 70 cattle to disaster-affected communities in Aceh to support the traditional Meugang celebrations ahead of Ramadan. The donation follows President Prabowo Subianto's personal contribution of 1,455 cattle to flood and landslide victims in the province, highlighting both humanitarian relief efforts and the cultural significance of the Acehnese tradition of communal meat preparation before major religious occasions.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:20 WIB
Three defendants in CPO bribery and money laundering case face 9 to 17 years' imprisonment
Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences ranging from 9 to 17 years for three defendants charged with bribing judges to secure an acquittal in a crude palm oil export corruption case, alongside money laundering totalling Rp52.5 billion.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:07 WIB
Police Academy Students Donate 70 Cattle for Meugang Tradition in Aceh
Students from the Police Science College (STIK) Class of 83 donated 70 cattle to disaster-affected communities in Aceh to ensure they could observe the traditional meugang custom ahead of Ramadan. The initiative, led by STIK Chairman Inspector General Eko Rudi Sudarto, reflects the institution's commitment to humanitarian values and direct community engagement in post-disaster recovery efforts.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:02 WIB
Bawaslu and Ministry of Religious Affairs in Central Jakarta Sign MoU to Boost Electoral Literacy
The Central Jakarta Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) and the local Ministry of Religious Affairs office have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance electoral literacy, promote participatory oversight in educational institutions and places of worship, and strengthen civil servant neutrality commitments.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 01:00 WIB
Police Find Firecrackers at Scene of Deadly Situbondo Explosion
A fatal explosion destroyed a house in Situbondo, East Java, killing one person and injuring six others, with police recovering large firecracker casings believed to have caused the blast. The bomb disposal squad from Bondowoso has been called in to secure the scene, whilst police have urged residents to cease firecracker production ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:54 WIB
Danish King Returns to Greenland Amid Trump's Territorial Ambitions
King Frederik X of Denmark has embarked on a three-day visit to Greenland to demonstrate solidarity with the autonomous territory coveted by US President Donald Trump. The visit comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Copenhagen, with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressing confidence that Trump still harbours designs on the mineral-rich Arctic island despite withdrawing threats to seize it by force.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:54 WIB
Parliament and Government Agree to Redirect Disaster Emergency Funds from Other Budget Lines
Indonesia's parliament and government have agreed to temporarily redirect disaster emergency response funds from other budget allocations for Sumatra's recovery, as approval from the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) has yet to be issued. Deputy Speaker of the House Sufmi Dasco highlighted the need to expedite bureaucratic procedures for disbursing emergency funds so the Ministry of Public Works can carry out post-disaster reconstruction more efficiently.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:43 WIB
Hundreds of Malaysian Muslims Perform First Tarawih Prayers at Kuala Lumpur's National Mosque
Hundreds of Muslims in Kuala Lumpur gathered at Malaysia's National Mosque for the first Tarawih prayers of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah on 18 February 2026. The 20-rakaat prayers were led by Imam Ahmad Mujahid bin Salleh Sani, with congregants praising the mosque's strategic location, comfortable facilities, and capacity to accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:34 WIB
Transport Minister Coordinates Lebaran 2026 Travel Readiness with Jakarta Governor Pramono
Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has coordinated with Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to ensure safe and smooth Lebaran 2026 transport operations, with Jakarta being one of the provinces with the highest population movement nationally. Surveys project 3.67 million vehicles leaving Jakarta and 3.54 million returning during the Lebaran travel period, with peak exodus forecast at 259,000 vehicles on 18 March and peak return flow of 285,000 vehicles on 24 March 2026.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:33 WIB
Bekasi Residents Urge West Java Provincial Government to Immediately Repair KH Ma'mun Nawawi Road
Residents of Bekasi Regency are demanding that the West Java provincial government urgently repair the severely damaged 26-kilometre KH Ma'mun Nawawi Road, a vital arterial route connecting Bekasi to Bogor that has deteriorated for years without comprehensive maintenance.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:30 WIB
Former Bima Police Chief Tests Positive for Drugs; National Police Commission Speaks Out
The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has called for aggravated sentencing for all police officers involved in narcotics cases, responding to the arrest of former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro for drug possession. Commissioner Choirul Anam stressed the need to dismantle the drug networks supplying officers and urged a unified commitment from police, prosecutors, and judges to demonstrate the state's resolve against narcotics.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:29 WIB
Illegal Parking Attendants in Tanah Abang Charge Rp100,000; Deputy Governor Rano Karno: Once a Year Is Fine
Eight illegal parking attendants were arrested in Jakarta's Tanah Abang district for charging exorbitant fees of up to Rp100,000 for cars during the early Ramadan rush. Deputy Governor Rano Karno downplayed the situation as a recurring annual phenomenon while affirming enforcement efforts involving the Civil Service Police, national police, and military personnel to restore order within days.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:26 WIB
KPK Chief Says Agency Does Not Want to Be Trapped in Debate Over Law Revision
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto has stated that the anti-corruption body does not wish to become entangled in the discourse surrounding the proposed revision of its governing law back to the original 2002 version. The debate was sparked by former KPK chief Abraham Samad's request to President Prabowo Subianto, with former president Jokowi expressing support for the reversion, though the Presidential Palace has firmly stated there are no plans to revise the law.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:16 WIB
Amir Syamsudin and Hamdan Zoelva File Amicus Curiae Brief for Defendant in Cooking Oil Corruption Case
Former Minister of Law and Human Rights Amir Syamsudin and former Constitutional Court Chief Justice Hamdan Zoelva have joined 26 other prominent figures in filing an amicus curiae brief in defence of Jak TV director Tian Bahtiar, who is charged with obstructing investigations into three corruption cases.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:16 WIB
Deputy Head of PRR Task Force: TNI Committed to Sustainable Disaster Management
The Indonesian military's post-disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Acceleration Task Force held a coordination meeting with the House of Representatives to discuss ongoing recovery efforts in Sumatra. TNI Chief of General Staff Lt Gen Richard Tampubolon affirmed that the military's involvement in disaster response is continuous rather than temporary, encompassing everything from emergency response through to infrastructure rebuilding and socio-economic recovery programmes.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:10 WIB
Fate of Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro to Be Decided Today as Ethics Hearing Convenes
Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro faces an ethics hearing at National Police headquarters after being named a suspect in a drugs case. The hearing follows the discovery of methamphetamine linked to officers in his network, with police emphasising that his relationship with a female officer involved in the case was strictly professional. The outcome could end the senior officer's career, amid growing public scrutiny of drug abuse within the Indonesian police force.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:10 WIB
Malaysian Government Retrieves Citizen Living in Hardship After Marrying Indonesian National
The Malaysian government has repatriated Norida Akmal Ayob, a Malaysian woman who endured 18 years of poverty and domestic violence in Lombok after marrying an Indonesian man. The rescue operation involved close cooperation between Malaysian and Indonesian authorities, including both countries' foreign affairs and immigration departments. Malaysia's Deputy Home Affairs Minister personally oversaw the case after the woman's family in Perak appealed for help.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:09 WIB
Sanctions for Nightlife Venues Violating Operating Hours During Ramadan: From Warnings to Business Licence Revocation
Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) has outlined escalating sanctions for nightlife establishments that breach operating hour restrictions during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, with business licence revocation as the most severe penalty.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:05 WIB
Habib Rizieq Freezes TPUA Leadership — What Are the Reasons?
Habib Rizieq Shihab, founder of the Team for the Defence of Ulama and Activists (TPUA), has frozen the organisation's leadership amid internal turmoil. Former TPUA chairman Eggi Sudjana said he accepted the decision willingly and denied reports that he had been sacked, calling such claims misleading.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:02 WIB
Dasco: Agriculture Ministry's Budget Reallocation for Disaster Relief Should Be Emulated
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad praised Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman's swift reallocation of ministry funds for post-disaster recovery in Sumatra, urging other ministries to follow suit. The Agriculture Ministry has shifted Rp1.4 trillion from its regular budget towards an estimated Rp4.7 trillion recovery requirement, whilst securing rice stocks of approximately 100,000 tonnes to cover three months of food needs in affected areas.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:02 WIB
Israel Permits 10,000 Palestinian Worshippers to Al-Aqsa During Ramadan, Access Limited to Elderly and Children
Israel has announced it will allow only 10,000 Palestinian worshippers to attend Friday prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan, restricting access to men aged 55 and over, women aged 50 and over, and children up to 12 years old.
Thu, 19 Feb 2026, 00:00 WIB
Hiker Goes Missing on Kawah Ijen Trail in Banyuwangi
A hiker has gone missing on the Kawah Ijen crater trail in Banyuwangi, East Java, after becoming separated from his group during an ascent. The Banyuwangi Search and Rescue Office has deployed a seven-member rescue team supported by multiple agencies, highlighting ongoing safety concerns for hikers at the popular volcanic site.