Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 February 2026

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Floodwaters Yet to Recede: 19,408 Households in Bekasi Observe Fasting Amid Flooding

Severe flooding triggered by prolonged rainfall has affected 19,408 households across Bekasi Regency in West Java, forcing 376 residents to evacuate as they observe Ramadan amid rising waters. The disaster has inundated 1,026 hectares of agricultural land, threatening local food production, whilst authorities coordinate round-the-clock emergency response including communal kitchens to ensure evacuees receive meals for sahur and iftar.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme Seen as Boost for Agricultural Sector and Women's Empowerment

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is credited with driving significant agricultural sector growth, which surged to 5.33 per cent year-on-year in Q4 2025, up from just 0.68 per cent in 2024. A survey of 1,800 parents found the programme reduced daily household expenditure for 36 per cent of respondents, with 81 per cent of vulnerable households supporting its continuation.

New Criminal Procedure Code: KPK Says Only Suspects Can Be Barred from Leaving the Country

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that under the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), which took effect on 2 January 2026, travel bans may only be imposed on suspects, not witnesses. The change has immediate practical consequences, as the KPK declined to extend a travel ban on a witness in the Hajj quota corruption case whilst maintaining bans on two suspects, including former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas.

Exxon Secures Business Certainty Until 2055, Adds US$10 Billion Investment

Indonesia has confirmed the extension of ExxonMobil's oil and gas operations until 2055, accompanied by an additional investment of approximately US$10 billion (Rp168 trillion), primarily targeting the Cepu Block in East Java. The deal, announced by Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Washington, forms part of a broader US$15 billion energy purchasing agreement between Indonesia and the United States covering LPG, crude oil, and refined fuel products.

Indonesia Extends Freeport Mining Permit to 2061 with $20 Billion Investment Commitment

Indonesia extended Freeport-McMoRan's mining permit in Papua until 2061, with a $20 billion investment commitment over 20 years, as the government seeks to explore new reserves ahead of peak production in 2035. The extension allows Indonesia to increase its shareholding from 51% to 63% by 2041 without acquisition costs through an additional 12% divestment.

Elderly Toy Vendor in Deli Serdang Accused of Molesting 28 Primary School Girls

A 65-year-old toy vendor identified as L has been detained by Medan Metropolitan Police on suspicion of sexually abusing 28 female primary school pupils aged 9 to 11 in Deli Serdang regency, North Sumatra.

Kediri–Tulungagung Toll Road Progress Temporarily Halted

Construction of the Kediri–Tulungagung toll road in East Java has been temporarily suspended following the expiry of its location determination permit in December 2025, with no official word yet from the Ministry of Public Works on an extension. The 44.17-kilometre National Strategic Project, initiated by PT Gudang Garam under a public-private partnership scheme with an estimated investment of Rp9.92 trillion, faces the prospect of restarting land acquisition from scratch if the project resumes.

Bekasi Flooding Spreads, 19,408 Households Forced to Fast Amid Floodwaters

Severe flooding across Bekasi Regency, West Java, has affected 19,408 households and displaced 376 people, with water levels reaching up to 170 cm in the worst-hit areas and landslides reported in multiple villages. The disaster, triggered by a full day of heavy rainfall, has also inundated 1,026 hectares of agricultural land, threatening local food production, whilst emergency agencies scramble to provide relief supplies including meals for sahur and iftar during Ramadan.

Kebumen Golden Village Programme Empowers Economy and Creates Jobs

The Desa EMAS (Advanced and Prosperous Economy) 2026 programme, initiated by the INOTEK Foundation and Sandiaga Uno's Yayasan Indonesia Setara, has begun training 37 MSME participants in Kebumen regency in banana stalk crafts to boost rural incomes. The Kebumen regency government has pledged full support for the six-month mentoring programme, noting that 449 villages across the district have significant potential for economic development under the One Village One Product concept.

Residents of Muara Batang Angkola Village in Mandailing Natal Refuse Relocation

Residents of the flood-prone village of Muara Batang Angkola in Mandailing Natal, North Sumatra, have unanimously refused government relocation proposals, citing their economic dependence on the area. The regional disaster agency has proposed centralised relocation of 464 houses across several flood-affected villages, following severe flooding of over two metres in late November 2025 that displaced more than 600 people from the village alone.

US Supreme Court Rules Trump Tariff Policy Illegal

The United States Supreme Court has struck down President Donald Trump's tariff policies imposed on various countries, ruling them illegal. The landmark decision carries significant implications for global trade, including for Indonesia, which has been among the nations affected by US tariff measures.

Theater performance marks Bali Language Month in Denpasar

A theater performance was held in Denpasar to commemorate Bali Language Month, celebrating the region's cultural and linguistic heritage. The event showcases efforts to preserve and promote the Balinese language and cultural traditions in the province.

Theatre performances mark Balinese Language Month celebrations in Denpasar

The Bali Provincial Government is hosting a series of theatre performances as part of Balinese Language Month, running until 28 February at the Bali Cultural Park in Denpasar. Dozens of theatre groups comprising students, artists, and journalists are presenting works exploring themes of ancestral land, nature conservation, and contemporary social issues, underscoring official efforts to preserve Balinese cultural heritage.

Banjarmasin Mayor Urges House of Representatives to Review Impact of Regional Fiscal Policies

Banjarmasin Mayor Muhammad Yamin HR has called on House Commission II to reassess the impact of fiscal transfer policies to regions, warning that adjustments to regional transfers are undermining local government financial capacity and public service delivery. During a parliamentary recess visit, the mayor also raised concerns about waste management following the closure of a major landfill site, flooding infrastructure needs, and regulatory constraints hobbling regionally owned enterprises.

Military Deployment to Middle East Surpasses 2003 Iraq Invasion — Is Iran Surrounded?

The United States has undertaken an unprecedented military build-up in the Middle East, surpassing the scale and speed of deployments seen during the 2003 Iraq invasion. The movements have intensified concerns over a potential military confrontation with Iran.

Prophet Muhammad's Hair and Sandals Exhibited at Pakansari Cibinong

The Bogor Regency government is hosting a free month-long exhibition of approximately 75 artefacts attributed to the Prophet Muhammad and his companions at the Pakansari area in Cibinong throughout Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. Displays include hair, beard, sandals, a staff, the Ka'bah's kiswah, and swords belonging to prominent Islamic historical figures, reflecting the local government's engagement with religious and cultural heritage programming.

Bantul Police Intelligence Officer Suspended Over Alleged Extortion of Property Firm

A member of the Bantul Police Intelligence and Security Unit has been suspended and placed under internal affairs investigation following allegations of extorting a property development company in Bantul, Yogyakarta. The Yogyakarta Special Region Police issued a security order removing the officer from active duty and stressed it would handle the case transparently, tolerating no misconduct from its members.

Customs and Tax Authorities Seal Jewellery Shop in Pluit Over Alleged Import Violations

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise, together with the North Jakarta Regional Tax Office, sealed a safe containing jewellery at a shop in Pluit, Jakarta, on Friday over suspected import violations. The joint enforcement operation signals heightened scrutiny of the jewellery trade for customs and tax compliance.

Gerindra Legislator Presses Transport Minister on Lebaran Travel Readiness in Working Meeting

House Commission V member Novita Wijayanti raised wide-ranging transport preparedness concerns during a working meeting with Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi ahead of the 2026 Lebaran homecoming season. Key demands included maintaining the free homecoming bus programme without fleet reductions, controlling airfares, improving road lighting across several provinces, and enforcing maritime safety inspections during extreme weather.

Customs and Excise Officials Seal Jewellery Shop in Jakarta

Officers from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise sealed a safe containing jewellery at a shop in Jakarta's Pluit area on 20 February 2026, over suspected administrative violations related to imported goods. The operation was conducted jointly with the North Jakarta Regional Office of the Directorate General of Taxes, signalling a coordinated enforcement effort against potential import duty and tax irregularities in the luxury goods sector.

Civil Service Police to Go Undercover as Civilians to Monitor West Jakarta Nightlife Venues

West Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) will deploy plainclothes officers to conduct covert surveillance of nightlife establishments during Ramadan, alongside uniformed patrols. The operations aim to enforce a DKI Jakarta gubernatorial regulation restricting operating hours for nightclubs, discotheques, massage parlours, karaoke venues, and bars throughout the holy month.

Capital Market Reform: IDX Prepares to Review FCA Trading in Second Quarter

The Indonesia Stock Exchange plans to review its Full Call Auction share trading system in Q2 2026, with simplification rather than expansion the likely direction of any changes. Acting chief executive Jeffrey Hendrik said enhanced data transparency and revised free float rules could render some special monitoring board criteria unnecessary, whilst a return to continuous trading for FCA-classified shares remains a possibility.

Pertamina Chief Says Indonesia to Increase LPG Imports from US to 70 Per Cent

PT Pertamina plans to raise the share of LPG imports sourced from the United States from approximately 57 per cent to 70 per cent, as part of the Indonesia-US reciprocal trade agreement (ART) signed by Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump.

High-sugar foods not recommended for pre-dawn Ramadan meals

A nutritionist has warned against consuming high-sugar foods during sahur, advising that complex carbohydrates, protein and fibre are preferable for sustaining energy throughout the fasting day. The guidance aligns with Indonesia's Ministry of Health recommendation to limit daily sugar intake to 50 grammes, with the WHO suggesting added sugar should comprise less than 10 per cent of total daily energy intake.

Pertamina Chief: US Share of LPG Imports Could Rise to 70 Per Cent

Pertamina's president director has announced that the Indonesia-US trade agreement could increase the American share of Indonesia's LPG imports from 57 per cent to 70 per cent, as part of a broader US$15 billion energy import commitment. The deal, signed on 19 February as part of a reciprocal tariff agreement, encompasses LPG, crude oil, and refined petroleum products, with Pertamina insisting all procurement will remain subject to open tender processes.

Official: Former Kopassus Battalion Commander Now Leads Kodim 0509 Bekasi Regency

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Ronald, formerly commander of Battalion Sat 71.2 Kopassus in Cijantung, has been installed as the new District Military Commander (Dandim) of Kodim 0509/Bekasi Regency, replacing Lieutenant Colonel Sabdo Aji Wibowo. The appointment is strategically significant given Bekasi Regency's status as one of Southeast Asia's largest industrial zones, where the new commander is expected to strengthen civil-military coordination to support ongoing development and investment.

Freeport permit extended for new reserve exploration, says Bahlil

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed the extension of Freeport-McMoRan's Special Mining Business Permit (IUPK) in Papua until 2061, citing the need to explore new reserves ahead of the projected 2035 production peak.

Hundreds of North Sulawesi Police Personnel Clean Up Megamas Beach Area

Hundreds of North Sulawesi regional police personnel conducted a major clean-up of the Megamas Beach tourist area in Manado, collecting plastic waste and household refuse carried in by the tide. The initiative, led by the provincial police chief, was framed as a concrete contribution to President Prabowo Subianto's Indonesia ASRI environmental programme, and aimed to encourage broader community responsibility for waste management at one of the city's most prominent public gathering points.

Youth and Sports Minister confirms ASEAN Para Games bonuses will match SEA Games rewards

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has confirmed that cash bonuses for Indonesia's ASEAN Para Games medallists will be equal to those awarded to SEA Games 2025 athletes, signalling the government's commitment to parity for para-athletes. Indonesia secured 392 medals at the 2025 ASEAN Para Games in Thailand, finishing second overall, with individual gold medallists set to receive Rp1 billion each pending presidential approval.

Government Responds to Indonesia's Declining Corruption Perception Index in 2025

Indonesia's Corruption Perception Index score fell three points to 34 in 2025, placing the country on par with Nepal and ranking it 109th out of 180 nations surveyed by Transparency International. The government accepted the findings without dispute, pledging to study TI's recommendations and pointing to the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill as evidence of its commitment to addressing state losses from corruption.

West Jakarta Police Food Task Force Inspects Tomang Barat Market

The West Jakarta Metro Police's Food Clean Sweep Task Force conducted a routine inspection of Tomang Barat Market to monitor staple food prices and availability ahead of Ramadan. Whilst prices for rice, sugar, cooking oil, meat and eggs remained stable with sufficient stocks, authorities noted recent increases in chilli and shallot prices but deemed overall supply adequate for the fasting month.

FPCI: Energy Transition Becomes Arena for Global Competition

The Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia founder Dino Patti Djalal has declared President Prabowo's target of 100 GW of solar capacity within ten years "highly realistic and achievable," framing the energy transition as a global economic race. The FPCI's Climate Unit is assembling experts to support the government's renewable energy ambitions, citing energy security, clean energy industrialisation, and rural productivity as key drivers for accelerating solar power development across Indonesia.

Dony Oskaria and Andre Rosiade Designate Sepablock as Standard for Post-Disaster Permanent Housing

Senior officials from the House of Representatives and the state enterprise supervisory body Danantara have committed to making Semen Padang's interlocking brick product, Sepablock, the primary building material for post-disaster permanent housing across Indonesia.

China Tightens Firecracker Sales Following Explosions That Killed 20

China has imposed stringent new firecracker sales regulations after two explosions in Jiangsu and Hubei provinces killed 20 people during the Lunar New Year holiday. Authorities issued "five prohibitions and three obligations" targeting retail safety, crowd management, and storage limits, whilst ordering comprehensive inspections of all firecracker shops and warehouses nationwide.

Pursuing Oil and Gas Lifting Targets, Pertamina Opens Strategic Collaboration with Global Companies

PT Pertamina signed a memorandum of understanding with US oilfield services giant Halliburton for mature oilfield recovery, witnessed by President Prabowo Subianto at the Indonesia-US Business Summit in Washington D.C. The agreement, one of eleven investment MoUs worth a combined US$38.4 billion, focuses on enhanced oil recovery technology transfer and operational best practices to arrest natural production decline at Indonesia's ageing oil and gas fields.

Former Bima Kota Police Chief Named Suspect Following Dismissal from National Police

Former Bima Kota Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro has been named a suspect by the West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police for allegedly receiving Rp2.8 billion in gratification from a drug dealer, following his dishonourable discharge from the Indonesian National Police. He faces charges under the 2009 Narcotics Law carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years' imprisonment and a fine of up to Rp10 billion.

North Sumatra Deputy Governor Briefs Parliament on Accelerated Post-Disaster Recovery

North Sumatra's Deputy Governor Surya has updated the House of Representatives' Commission VIII on the province's rehabilitation and reconstruction progress following devastating floods and landslides in late November 2025. Temporary housing construction is under way across Tapanuli Utara and Tapanuli Selatan regencies, with livelihood recovery programmes and critical infrastructure repairs being prioritised alongside longer-term technology-based disaster mitigation systems.

Bahlil: Indonesia to Facilitate US Investors' Entry into Critical Minerals Sector

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that Indonesia will facilitate American companies seeking to invest in the country's critical minerals sector. The policy signals Jakarta's openness to US capital in a strategically important area amid growing global competition for critical mineral supply chains.

PERURI strengthens local synergy through emergency preparedness donation in Karawang

State-owned money printer PERURI has donated an ambulance to the Karawang Military District Command (Kodim 0604) as part of its corporate social responsibility programme, timed to coincide with the first day of Ramadan. The gesture reflects the SOE's ongoing commitment to building collaborative ties with strategic local stakeholders, including the Indonesian Armed Forces, in its operational base of Karawang, West Java.

Ramadan Raids: Civil Police Seize 2,105 Bottles of Illegal Alcohol in West Jakarta

West Jakarta's Civil Police (Satpol PP) seized 2,105 bottles of illegal alcohol across eight sub-districts during Ramadan enforcement operations, deploying 192 joint officers. Authorities warned that the proliferation of illegal liquor during the holy month heightens the risk of public disorder, including street brawls, and confirmed that confiscated goods will be destroyed at the National Monument in May 2026.

Fraud case ensnaring police officer's wife in Serang declared complete for prosecution

Banten Regional Police have declared the case file complete (P21) for an Rp800 million fraud and embezzlement case involving a police officer's wife identified as DV, transferring the suspect and evidence to prosecutors. The case has become complicated by a counter-report for defamation filed against the original complainant, though police maintain both matters are being handled professionally as separate proceedings.

Dietitian advises small portions of sweet food when breaking fast

A dietitian from Jakarta's Cipto Mangunkusumo National Central General Hospital has urged the public to limit sweet food consumption to one small portion when breaking their Ramadan fast, citing WHO and Indonesian Ministry of Health guidelines on daily sugar intake. The advice comes as Indonesia's Muslim population began observing Ramadan on 19 February 2026, with the expert recommending whole fruit over sugary drinks and desserts to avoid harmful blood sugar spikes.

ITB Delivers Two-Day Temporary Shelters for Cisarua Landslide Victims

The Bandung Institute of Technology has developed modular timber temporary shelters using a reciprocal frame structural system that can be erected in just two days, deploying them for residents displaced by landslides in Cisarua, West Bandung.

KPK Warns Antam to Exercise Caution When Purchasing Artisanal Mining Output

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged state-owned miner PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) to apply strict risk mitigation as it plans to purchase output from artisanal miners, warning that such operations are often controlled by certain groups to the detriment of local communities.

Pramono Says Heavy Rainfall in South Tangerang Causes Flooding in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has attributed recent flooding in the capital to heavy rainfall exceeding 200 millimetres in South Tangerang, with water flowing into Jakarta. The provincial government is coordinating flood mitigation efforts including pump deployment, weather modification operations, and collaboration with the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) to manage conditions across Jakarta and its surrounding buffer zones.

US$15 Billion Fuel and LPG Imports: Pertamina Director Ensures Transparent Process

PT Pertamina (Persero) has confirmed that its planned US$15 billion energy import from the United States will be conducted transparently through an open tender mechanism. The state-owned oil and gas company's commitment to procedural transparency comes amid scrutiny of the substantial procurement deal covering both refined fuel and LPG supplies.

Cabinet Secretary: Only President Prabowo Held Direct Bilateral Meeting with Trump

President Prabowo Subianto was the sole head of state to secure a bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump during the Board of Peace agenda in Washington DC, according to Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya. A trade agreement was signed reducing reciprocal tariffs on Indonesian imports from 32 per cent to 19 per cent, with zero tariffs granted for 1,819 priority national products including coffee, cocoa, palm oil, and semiconductors.

Pramono Anung Claims Floodwaters Recede Quickly, Within Two Hours at Most

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung claimed that flooding which inundated over 120 neighbourhood units and several major roads on 20 February 2026 receded within two hours, though disaster agency data showed 127 neighbourhood units and six roads remained affected by evening. The governor attributed the flooding to heavy upstream rainfall in Tangerang and South Tangerang, with floodwaters in the Kebon Pala area reaching 1.5 metres, whilst authorities deployed pumps to accelerate drainage.

2 Ramadhan: When the Mongols Were Humiliated by Islamic Forces and Ibn Taymiyyah's Stirring Words

The article recounts the Battle of Shaqhab (Marj al-Suffar) on 2 Ramadhan 702 H/1303 CE, when the Mamluk forces decisively defeated the Mongol army under Qutlusyah, permanently ending Mongol ambitions to conquer Syria and Egypt.

ibis Styles Batam Nagoya Launches Traditional 'Village Ramadan' Buffet with 99 Rotating Indonesian Dishes

ibis Styles Batam Nagoya is offering a special Ramadan buffet experience themed "Kampoeng Ramadhan," featuring 99 rotating Indonesian dishes at Rp199,000 per person with live entertainment. The hotel has prepared two dining areas with combined capacity for 550 guests daily and targets 7,000 visitors throughout Ramadan 2026, with nearly half of the seats already booked by individuals, community groups, and corporate clients.

Bapanas Summons Importers to Maintain Garlic Price Stability

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has called in garlic importers ahead of Ramadan to ensure price stability and adequate supply, particularly to eastern Indonesia where prices exceed government reference levels. With domestic production insufficient to meet national demand, the government is projecting increased garlic harvests of up to 4,200 tonnes in April whilst warning private operators holding import quotas to fulfil their obligation to stabilise prices through to Eid al-Fitr.

Man in Maluku Burns Prayer Hall Out of Frustration, Police Swiftly Arrest Suspect

Police in Southeast Maluku have arrested a 38-year-old man who allegedly set fire to a prayer hall under construction in Kei Besar Selatan sub-district, reportedly motivated by personal frustration. The suspect was apprehended within 24 hours of the incident, which caused damage to the rear of the building but resulted in no casualties thanks to the quick response of local residents.

Government to Receive 12 Per Cent Freeport Stake Free of Charge, Ready to Share Exploration Costs

The Indonesian government has confirmed it will acquire an additional 12 per cent stake in PT Freeport Indonesia at no cost as part of extending the mining giant's operating licence beyond 2041. In return, the government has signalled its willingness to co-fund exploration activities, marking a significant shift in the commercial terms governing one of the world's largest copper and gold mining operations.

Maluku Tenggara Police Arrest Suspect in Prayer Hall Arson Attack

Police in Maluku Tenggara arrested a suspect within 24 hours of an arson attack on a mushola (prayer hall) under construction in Ohoi Hako. The suspect, identified as S.R. alias Soleh, has been charged under Article 308 of Law No. 1/2023 on the Criminal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of nine years' imprisonment.

Supreme Court on Hendra Lie Cassation Files: May Be Returned If Formal Requirements Not Met

The Supreme Court has indicated that cassation appeal files in the Hendra Lie defamation case may be returned if they fail to meet formal requirements under the newly amended Criminal Procedure Code, which bars cassation for offences carrying sentences below five years.

KPK Coordinates with Finance Ministry Inspector General Following Customs Sting Operation

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has met with the Ministry of Finance's Inspectorate General and the Customs and Excise internal compliance unit to discuss mitigation and prevention measures following a major sting operation in early February 2026.

DPR Commission VII Holds Working Meeting with ANTARA, TVRI and RRI in Central Java

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VII convened a working meeting with the heads of the country's three principal state media bodies — ANTARA, TVRI and RRI — at the TVRI Central Java studio in Demak regency.

Tito Karnavian Affirms Relocation and Accelerated Temporary Shelter Construction for North Aceh Residents

Muhammad Tito Karnavian, heading the post-disaster rehabilitation task force for Sumatra, has pledged to expedite the construction of temporary shelters and relocate flood-affected communities in North Aceh away from high-risk zones. The government plans to move all residents from designated "red zones" to safer locations, with permanent housing guaranteed for every relocated household, whilst coordinating construction through the National Disaster Management Agency.

Traffic Corps Inspects Bocimi Toll Road, Prepares Functional Section Ahead of Eid Exodus

National Police Traffic Corps chief Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho has inspected the Bocimi Toll Road in West Java, confirming that a 5-kilometre functional section from Cibadak to Karang Tengah will be operational for the 2026 Eid mudik period to help divert traffic from arterial roads. State-owned toll operator Jasa Marga estimates 3.6 million vehicles will depart Greater Jakarta during the exodus, with roughly half heading towards the Trans-Java corridor and Bandung.

Freeport Granted Contract Extension as Government Pushes for Reserve Exploration and Increased State Ownership

Indonesia has confirmed a 20-year contract extension for PT Freeport Indonesia beyond 2041, securing an additional 12 per cent share divestment at no cost that will raise the state's ownership to 63 per cent. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stressed that the extension is essential for exploring new reserves ahead of peak production in 2035, given that underground mining exploration requires up to a decade to yield results.

PHRI Urges Government to Prepare for Extreme Weather During Lebaran Holiday

The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) has called on the government to bolster disaster preparedness and maintain safe road access amid forecasts of extreme weather during the Lebaran holiday travel period. Secretary-General Maulana Yusran stressed the need for collaboration between central and regional governments, police, and tourism operators to manage tourist surges, traffic congestion, and safety at popular destinations.

Tradition of sharing soup porridge for breaking fast at Medan Grand Mosque

The Medan Grand Mosque Al-Mashun in North Sumatra is distributing 1,500 free portions of bubur sup (soup porridge) daily throughout Ramadan 1447 H. The long-standing tradition of communal charity draws local residents to the mosque each evening to collect the porridge for breaking their fast.

Britain Refuses to Allow US Use of Its Military Bases to Attack Iran

Britain has reportedly refused to grant the United States access to its military bases, including the strategically vital Diego Garcia facility in the Indian Ocean, for potential strikes against Iran. The refusal has heightened diplomatic tensions between Washington and London, with President Trump withdrawing support for Prime Minister Starmer's plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, whilst the UK government cites concerns over international law violations.

List of Crimes by KKB Battalion Commander Homi Heluka Successfully Captured by Damai Cartenz Task Force

Security forces under Operation Damai Cartenz have arrested Homi Heluka, a battalion commander of the armed criminal group (KKB) in Yahukimo, Highland Papua, who was implicated in at least nine shooting and attack incidents against civilians and security personnel. The charges include multiple murders — notably the killing of 17 gold panners in April 2025 — arson, assault, and attacks on military and police officers spanning from 2022 to February 2026.

Bahlil Reveals Energy Deal Outcome with US, Ready to Spend US$15 Billion on Imports

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that Indonesia will allocate approximately US$15 billion to purchase energy commodities from the United States, comprising US$7 billion in refined gasoline, US$4.5 billion in crude oil, and US$3.5 billion in LPG, as part of the reciprocal trade agreement signed by Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump.

Aceh Provincial Police Foil Distribution of 50 Kilogrammes of Cannabis

Aceh Provincial Police's narcotics unit intercepted approximately 50 kilogrammes of cannabis on the Banda Aceh–Medan highway in Bireuen Regency, arresting a 58-year-old farmer from Central Aceh. The seizure, which followed a community tip-off about a minibus transporting the drugs from Nagan Raya Regency, underscores ongoing narcotics trafficking challenges in the province.

Pramono Reveals Causes Behind Jakarta Flooding Reaching 1.5 Metres

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung attributed widespread flooding of up to 1.5 metres to heavy upstream rainfall in Tangerang and South Tangerang, with floodwater flowing into the capital. The Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency recorded 127 neighbourhood units and six road sections still inundated as of Friday evening, with South Jakarta worst affected and authorities deploying pumps and coordinating a multi-agency response.

KPK to Probe Alleged Money Flows in Counterfeit Goods Case Involving Customs Chief

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will deepen its investigation into alleged money flows in a bribery and gratification case linked to counterfeit goods imports within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, though no evidence of payments reaching Director General Djaka Budi Utama has yet been found.

House of Representatives Urges Regionally Owned Enterprises to Strengthen Innovation to Boost Local Revenue

Commission II of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on regionally owned enterprises (BUMD) to bolster business innovation and strategy to sustainably increase their contributions to locally generated revenue (PAD). During a working visit to Banjarmasin, the commission reviewed Bank Kalsel's performance and urged stronger banking intermediation for MSMEs, digital transformation, and potential synergies among regional development banks through joint business groups.

Indosat launches social programmes and connectivity enhancements for Ramadan

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison has unveiled its #LebihBaikIndosat initiative ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026, encompassing network optimisation across 77 homecoming routes, an NVIDIA-backed AI assistant app, and AI-powered anti-fraud protections that have blocked over 2 billion malicious communications. The telecoms firm is also revitalising prayer halls in 19 locations nationwide, including disaster-affected areas in Aceh, as part of a broader community empowerment programme.

US Threatens Retaliation Against EU If It Restricts Access for American Arms Manufacturers

The Trump administration has warned EU member states against restricting American defence companies' access to European procurement markets, threatening retaliatory measures. The dispute highlights a fundamental tension in Washington's stance towards European defence: demanding greater European self-reliance whilst simultaneously protecting American commercial interests in the sector.

Tragic Tale of Elderly Nasi Uduk Seller Unable to Resume Business After Theft

A 65-year-old street food vendor in Bekasi lost Rp 700,000 in capital and earnings after a thief posing as a customer stole her money from a biscuit tin while she prepared his order. Despite the victim declining to file a formal police report, Bekasi Metropolitan Police are pressing ahead with the investigation using CCTV footage and witness statements, whilst the Mayor of Bekasi personally visited the elderly woman.

State Budget Law Challenged at Constitutional Court; Parliament Says Free Meal Programme Does Not Use Education Funds

Indonesia's House of Representatives has denied that the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme draws from the constitutionally mandated 20 per cent education budget, responding to a constitutional challenge filed at the Constitutional Court against the 2026 State Budget Law.

OJK Cracks Down on Stock Manipulators, Influencer with Initials BVN Fined Rp5.35 Billion

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has imposed a Rp5.35 billion fine on a capital markets social media influencer identified as BVN for manipulating share prices through coordinated social media campaigns and structured trading across multiple securities accounts between 2021 and 2022.

Police Question Truck Driver and Assistant After Train Collision at Tangerang Level Crossing

Police are investigating the cause of a collision between a trailer truck and a Soekarno-Hatta Airport train at the Poris level crossing in Tangerang, questioning whether the incident was due to technical failure or human error. The truck had become stuck on the tracks, and whilst the crash caused significant damage to the train and disrupted airport rail and commuter line services, no fatalities were reported.

OJK Reveals Influencer BVN Committed Stock Market Violations, Fined Rp 5.35 Billion

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has taken enforcement action against a social media influencer identified as BVN for alleged stock manipulation in the capital markets, imposing a fine of Rp 5.35 billion. The case highlights OJK's increasing scrutiny of influencer-driven market misconduct amid growing concerns over retail investor protection.

Indonesian government plans overhaul of state and regional firms

Indonesia's Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has announced plans for a comprehensive regulatory overhaul of both state-owned enterprises (BUMN) and regionally owned enterprises (BUMD), citing longstanding mismanagement including some Rp 5,400 trillion in loans disbursed.

Iran Prepares Draft Nuclear Deal with US, Expected Ready in 2-3 Days

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has announced that Tehran will submit a draft nuclear agreement to the United States within two to three days, to be delivered to US envoy Steve Witkoff. The diplomatic move comes amid escalating pressure from President Donald Trump, who threatened military action and set a 15-day deadline for Iran to reach an agreement on its nuclear programme, though Araghchi denied any ultimatum had been issued.

Police Arrest Female Boarding School Student Who Abandoned Baby in Mamuju Seminary Garden

Police in Mamuju, West Sulawesi, have identified a female student at an Islamic boarding school as the person who abandoned a baby whose body was found with a severed arm in the school's rear garden. The suspect, who was suffering from post-delivery haemorrhaging, confessed after investigators questioned students and teachers, whilst the baby's father has been questioned and released.

Mandiri Inhealth Strengthens Digital Services Through One by IFG Platform

Mandiri Inhealth, a subsidiary of state-owned insurer IFG Life, is expanding policyholder access to healthcare and financial services through the One by IFG digital platform, which integrates insurance, telemedicine, e-claims, and mutual fund products. The move underscores the Indonesia Financial Group's strategy to consolidate its ecosystem of insurance, guarantee, and investment services into a single digital application, available since July 2025.

One Year of Andra Soni-Dimyati: Banten's Macro Indicators Show Positive Trend

Banten province's macro-economic and development indicators have largely exceeded targets set in its 2025–2029 medium-term development plan during the first year under Governor Andra Soni and Deputy Governor Dimyati Natakusumah. The province's Human Development Index reached 77.25, placing it in the national top seven, whilst economic growth hit 5.37 per cent year-on-year, surpassing both the regional target and national benchmarks.

Erick Thohir Responds to Persib Supporter Unrest After AFC Champions League Match Against Ratchaburi FC

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has urged caution following a pitch invasion by Persib Bandung supporters after their AFC Champions League Two match against Thailand's Ratchaburi FC, saying the government should await the AFC's formal assessment before commenting on potential sanctions.

Flooding Still Submerges 127 Neighbourhood Units and 6 Roads in Jakarta

Severe flooding affected 127 neighbourhood units (RT) and six major roads across Jakarta on 20 February 2026, triggered by heavy rainfall and the overflow of multiple rivers including the Ciliwung, Angke, and Pesanggrahan. East Jakarta's Kampung Melayu recorded the worst inundation at 110–150 centimetres, whilst the regional disaster agency reported that several previously flooded areas had begun to recede.

Gibran urges Islamic groups to safeguard unity

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka called on Islamic organisations to help maintain national unity and support development efforts during a meeting with the newly appointed leadership of Persatuan Umat Islam (PUI) at the Vice Presidential Palace. The meeting, framed as part of PUI's Ramadan outreach, underscored the Prabowo administration's strategy of engaging religious and community groups as partners in advancing social stability and inclusive growth across Indonesia.

Industry Associations and Producers Respond to BNN's Vape Regulation and Nitrous Oxide Restrictions

Indonesia's alternative tobacco industry associations have welcomed the National Narcotics Agency's (BNN) engagement in dialogue on e-cigarette regulation and nitrous oxide restrictions, whilst cautioning that a total ban could prove counterproductive by fuelling black-market trade and eliminating roughly 100,000 legal jobs.

BPJS Health and Employment Service Hours During Ramadan 2026

Indonesia's BPJS Health and BPJS Employment agencies have announced adjusted service hours at branch offices during Ramadan 2026, with reduced operating times on weekdays. The government has also set revised civil servant working hours during the fasting month under Presidential Regulation No. 21 of 2023, requiring 32.5 hours per week whilst ensuring public services remain fully operational.

Viral Video of Vendor Accusing DKI Satpol PP of Illegal Levies Prompts Governor Pramono to Threaten Dismissals

A viral social media video showing a Jakarta street vendor accusing Satpol PP officers of collecting monthly illegal levies has drawn a swift response from DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung. The governor vowed to dismiss any provincial government personnel — including Satpol PP and contract workers — found guilty of extortion, stating there would be no compromise on the matter.

Ministers Celebrate Lunar New Year in Batam with Traditional Lo Hei Ceremony

Infrastructure Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman participated in Lunar New Year celebrations in Batam, Riau Islands, performing the traditional Lo Hei ceremony with local Chinese community members. The event served as an expression of government unity and national harmony across Indonesia's diverse communities.

Indonesia to provide higher education scholarships for top athletes

Indonesia's Higher Education Ministry and Youth and Sports Ministry have agreed to launch a scholarship programme for elite athletes, both active and retired, to resolve the conflict between training demands and academic pursuits. The initiative, finalised by Ministers Brian Yuliarto and Erick Thohir, will include a unified national athlete database to ensure transparent selection and monitoring of recipients.

Rano Claims 97% of Programmes Completed in One Year, With Flooding and Traffic Congestion Still Unresolved

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno claimed that 97 per cent of the administration's 40 programmes have been completed within its first year in office alongside Governor Pramono Anung. The remaining challenges — flooding, traffic congestion and poverty — will be the focus of the 2026 regional budget, with key initiatives including the normalisation of the Ciliwung River, the Transjabodetabek inter-city transport programme, and expanded subsidies for vulnerable residents.

Bali Begins Construction of New Eye Hospital to Expand Medical Tourism

Governor Wayan Koster has inaugurated construction on JEC Eye Hospitals and Clinics Bali in Sanur's Special Economic Zone for Medical Tourism, positioning the island as a healthcare destination. The facility represents Bali's strategic diversification into high-value medical tourism alongside traditional leisure travel. This infrastructure investment reflects growing regional demand for specialist healthcare services among international visitors.

PKS Calls Jokowi's Claim of Not Signing 2019 KPK Bill 'Absurd'

A PKS lawmaker on the House Commission III has dismissed former President Jokowi's claim that he opposed the 2019 revision of the KPK law by refusing to sign it, calling the assertion "absurd" since the Constitution allows unsigned bills to take effect automatically after 30 days.

Kota Tua Heritage District Operating Hours During Ramadan 2026

Jakarta's Kota Tua (Old Town) heritage district has announced adjusted operating hours for Ramadan 2026, with museums closing earlier at 3pm and the wider precinct open daily from 9am to 9pm. The district is also running a special free guided walking tour programme throughout the holy month, featuring themed routes exploring colonial Batavia, Jakarta's transport history, and the Arabian village of Pekojan.

Only 36.72% of Houses of Worship in Banten Hold Land Certificates as BPN Pushes for Acceleration

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning (ATR/BPN) has revealed that only 9,148 of Banten province's 24,910 houses of worship — roughly 36.72 per cent — possess land certificates, with most built on waqf land. Minister Nusron Wahid called for an accelerated certification drive, handing over 13 waqf certificates and overseeing the signing of memoranda of understanding between all land offices and Nahdlatul Ulama branches across the province to formalise the effort.

Popoy Ritual Results Greeted with Joy as Gorontalo Prepares for Cap Go Meh

Chinese-Indonesian residents in Gorontalo celebrated the conclusion of Chinese New Year 2557 Kongzili prayers with the Popoy divination ritual, which confirmed that the traditional Cap Go Meh procession may proceed. The joyous result, announced at the Tulus Harapan Kita Temple, signals the community's readiness to stage the annual parade through the city.

Government Evaluates Airport Security in Papua Following Aircraft Shooting

The Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs is conducting a comprehensive review of airport security systems across Papua after the shooting of a Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft. The government has temporarily closed several airports in the region to strengthen security measures by the military and police, whilst vowing to pursue armed groups threatening public safety to the fullest extent of the law.

ITB: Flash Floods in Sumatra Exceeded National Mitigation Standards

Research by the Bandung Institute of Technology found that the November 2025 flash floods across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra were triggered by Tropical Cyclone Senyar, producing rainfall with a return period of 700 to 1,000 years — far beyond the national flood mitigation standard designed for 50-year events.

Emergency bridge ends isolation of four villages in Central Aceh

The Indonesian military's 6th Combat Engineer Battalion has built an emergency bridge in Central Aceh's Ketol subdistrict, restoring access to four villages that had been cut off. A permanent replacement bridge, now 60 per cent complete, is targeted for completion in early March, providing a vital lifeline for thousands of residents.

Bogor Regency's National Health Insurance Coverage Reaches 97.9 Per Cent

Bogor Regency has achieved 97.9 per cent coverage under Indonesia's National Health Insurance (JKN) programme throughout 2025, bringing it close to the Universal Health Coverage target. The local government has expanded membership through collaboration with BPJS Kesehatan and strengthened healthcare facilities, including upgrading clinics and improving emergency services at three regional hospitals.

Foreign Nationals Dominate Motorcycle Rentals and AirBnB in Bali as Legislators Demand Crackdown

Bali legislators are pressing for immediate enforcement against foreign-owned motorcycle rental and short-term accommodation businesses operating through digital platforms, with estimated transactions reaching Rp50 trillion.

Bogor Employer Named Suspect After Months of Domestic Worker Abuse Over Trivial Kitchen Incident

A 37-year-old employer in Bogor Regency has been formally named a suspect after allegedly subjecting her 21-year-old domestic worker to six months of physical abuse, with the most recent assault triggered by the victim forgetting to turn off a stove. Bogor Police's Women and Children Protection Unit acted swiftly, elevating the case to a formal investigation within days of the complaint and confirming injuries to the victim's head, ears, hands and back through medical examination.

Police seize contents of Nganjuk gold shop in suspected money laundering case

The National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency raided a gold jewellery shop in Nganjuk, East Java, seizing gold items and financial records as evidence in a money laundering investigation linked to unlicensed mining in West Kalimantan. The case, initiated from a PPATK analytical report on suspicious transactions in the domestic gold trade, connects to illegal mining operations from 2019–2022 for which the predicate offence has already been adjudicated at the Pontianak District Court.

Trade Minister Confident Reciprocal Trade Agreement Will Boost Indonesian Exports to the US

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso expressed confidence that the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States will increase Indonesian exports, with 1,819 tariff lines set to receive zero per cent duty access within the 19 per cent import tariff framework.

Global Gold Prices Swing Wildly as Investors Await Fed Interest Rate Decision

Global gold prices rebounded 0.82 per cent to above US$5,000 per troy ounce after two consecutive days of correction, as investors scrutinised signals from the US Federal Reserve on monetary policy direction. Market participants are closely watching upcoming FOMC minutes, Core PCE data, and Fed officials' speeches for clues on whether interest rates will be held steady or cut, with analysts suggesting the broader upward trend in gold remains intact despite recent profit-taking.

Indosat confirms network readiness across 77 Lebaran 2026 homecoming routes

Indosat is preparing its telecommunications network across 77 homecoming routes spanning 8,100 kilometres and 13 cities ahead of Lebaran 2026, anticipating an 18 per cent surge in traffic from an estimated 14 million subscribers undertaking journeys.

Manokwari district government urged to review dismissal of 235 healthcare workers

A senior senator has called on the Manokwari district government to reverse its decision to terminate 235 contract healthcare workers, some of whom had served for over a decade, warning the move could severely undermine health services in the Papua Barat region. The mass dismissal, triggered by central government budget cuts effective January 2026, has drawn criticism over procedural irregularities and its inconsistency with Papua's broader development programme.

Genesis Prepares Launch in Indonesia

Hyundai Motor Group's premium brand Genesis is preparing for its official launch in Indonesia, with its local website already displaying model line-ups and 2026 pricing. Rather than immediately opening dealerships, Genesis is taking an unusual approach by conducting VIP sales consultations with existing owners to gather feedback on service expectations before its formal market entry.

Ahead of Board of Peace, Indonesian Organisation INH Begins Clearing Debris in Gaza

International Networking for Humanitarian (INH), an Indonesian philanthropic organisation, has deployed 90 volunteers to begin clearing rubble and debris from roads in the Gaza Strip, with a preliminary budget of US$400,000 and an estimated one-month timeline.

Indonesian and US Foreign Ministers Reaffirm Strategic Partnership and Support for Palestine

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met in Washington DC to reinforce the Indonesia-US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both sides pledging enhanced cooperation on regional stability and Palestinian recovery efforts.

52-Centimetre Crater Found at Situbondo Firecracker Explosion Site

Police investigating a fatal firecracker explosion in Situbondo, East Java, discovered a 52-centimetre crater at the blast site, confirming the detonation of homemade firecrackers that destroyed 12 houses and killed one person. Evidence of large-scale firecracker production was found at the scene, whilst several victims remain in intensive care with burns covering over 50 per cent of their bodies.

Dony Oskaria: West Sumatra Could Fall Into Poverty If Not Properly Managed

Dony Oskaria has warned that West Sumatra faces a critical economic situation, with growth languishing at just 3.3 per cent while inflation runs at 6 per cent. He urged industrial development as a key remedy, noting that expenditure is already outstripping income in the province.

Post-Disaster Rehabilitation in Sumatra Requires Rp56.3 Trillion in Funding

Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has identified Rp56.3 trillion in funding requirements for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, covering 2,108 activities over three years. The scale of the budget underscores the severity of recent disasters in the region, with affected communities in areas such as Aceh Tamiang still reliant on emergency shelters whilst awaiting longer-term reconstruction.

Pigai Says Komnas HAM Will Operate Like KPK Under Revised Human Rights Law

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has announced plans to grant the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) investigative powers akin to those of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), as part of a revision to the 1999 Human Rights Law targeted for completion this year.

Pram-Rano admit they have yet to resolve flooding, congestion and poverty in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung and Deputy Governor Rano Karno have acknowledged that flooding, traffic congestion and poverty remain unresolved after their first year in office, despite claiming 97 per cent completion of their 40 quick-win programmes. The provincial government is now pivoting to longer-term measures including Ciliwung River normalisation, expanded public transport through Transjabodetabek, and full budget-backed development planning from 2026.

Prabowo's Special Assistant Uses Police Free Nutritious Meals Menu Book as Diplomatic Tool in the US

President Prabowo Subianto's special assistant, Dirgayuza Setiawan, has been using the English-language edition of the police-produced Free Nutritious Meals menu book as an instrument of cultural diplomacy in Washington DC. The book, co-authored with Deputy National Police Chief Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo, has previously been presented at the Indonesian Embassy in London and the World Economic Forum in Davos, positioning Indonesia's flagship nutrition programme on the global stage.

Three BAZNAS Emergency Mosques Serving Disaster-Hit Communities for Ramadan Worship

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has completed three emergency mosques — two in Aceh and one in North Sumatra — now being used by disaster-affected communities for Ramadan worship, including tarawih prayers. Each mosque accommodates 200 to 250 worshippers and is equipped with clean water and sanitation facilities, whilst BAZNAS has also distributed worship supplies to 350 mosques across three provinces.

Pramono to Dismiss DKI Apparatus Found Guilty of Illegal Levies

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has vowed to dismiss any DKI Jakarta provincial government personnel, including contract workers, found to have engaged in illegal levies. The pledge follows a viral video showing a street coffee vendor accusing Satpol PP officers of collecting monthly payments from traders whilst simultaneously enforcing trading bans in the Kuningan area of South Jakarta.

OJK Enlists Coordinating Ministry and SROs in Capital Market Integrity Reform Task Force

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has established a Capital Market Integrity Reform Task Force comprising representatives from OJK, the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, and Self-Regulatory Organisations to oversee eight action plans targeting liquidity, transparency, enforcement, and coordination.

One Year Leading Jakarta: Pramono Showcases 21 New Green Open Spaces

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has marked his first anniversary in office by highlighting the creation of 21 new large green open spaces, plans for two additional hospitals, and a pioneering provincial ban on dog and cat meat consumption. The governor also emphasised efforts to strengthen social cohesion through inclusive religious and cultural celebrations, positioning Jakarta as a model of diversity and harmony.

Religious Affairs Minister: IKN State Mosque to serve as beacon of religious tolerance

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar declared that the State Mosque in Indonesia's new capital Nusantara (IKN) will serve as a beacon of interfaith tolerance, functioning not merely as a place of worship but as a centre for community empowerment and humanitarian values.

Pramono: RT/RW Incentive Increase Delayed Due to Revenue-Sharing Fund Cuts

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that planned incentive increases for neighbourhood and community unit (RT/RW) administrators have been postponed following a Rp15 trillion reduction in revenue-sharing funds (DBH) from the central government. The increases, a key campaign pledge from the 2024 regional elections, would raise RT administrator stipends by 25 per cent to Rp2.

Student Killing at Kampung Gajah Prompts Legislator to Highlight Urgency of Character Education

A House of Representatives legislator has called for strengthened character education and digital access restrictions for school-age children following the murder of a junior secondary school student in West Bandung. Commission X is drafting regulations to limit children's digital access, modelled on policies already being implemented in several Indonesian provinces and other countries.

Pramono Anung Banks on Enforcement to Curb Illegal Parking

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged firm enforcement action against illegal parking, instructing the Civil Service Police Unit and municipal ground staff to conduct operations across the capital. He stressed that crackdowns must be paired with broader job creation to address the root causes of informal street activities, citing public-private partnerships for urban spaces as a model for expanding economic opportunities.

Minister Pigai: Those Who Want to Abolish Free Nutritious Meals Are Opposing Human Rights

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has equated opposition to the government's free nutritious meal (MBG) programme and other populist programmes with opposing human rights. The statement frames the flagship social welfare initiative as a fundamental rights issue, potentially raising the political stakes for critics of the programme.

Traffic grinds to halt outside West Jakarta City Hall as Ring Road underpass floods

Severe flooding beneath the Kembangan Ring Road overpass brought traffic to a complete standstill along Jalan Puri Kembangan on Friday evening, with congestion stretching from the West Jakarta City Government Office to Cengkareng. Police confirmed officers were deployed to manage the gridlock, which forced numerous motorcyclists to abandon their journeys and pull over along the route.

When Is Nuzulul Quran 2026? Muhammadiyah and Government Schedules

Muhammadiyah and the Indonesian government have set different dates for the 2026 Nuzulul Quran commemoration — 6 March and 7 March respectively — owing to differing methods for determining the start of Ramadan. The discrepancy reflects the longstanding methodological divide between Muhammadiyah's astronomical calculation (hisab hakiki wujudul hilal) and the government's isbat session ruling through the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Schools in Serang Free to Determine Participation in Free Nutritious Meals Programme During Ramadan

The Serang Education and Culture Office has granted schools full authority to opt in or out of the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during Ramadan 2026, with 226 schools choosing to continue and 22 private schools declining.

Daop 8: 382,000 Train Tickets Still Available for Lebaran Period

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Regional Operations 8 in Surabaya reports that over 382,000 long-distance train tickets remain available for the 2026 Lebaran transport period, with only 31 per cent of the total 561,528 seats sold as of 20 February. The state-owned railway operator is urging early bookings whilst ensuring readiness of facilities, rolling stock, and security measures ahead of the peak holiday travel season.

Building Rural Economies to Boost National Growth

The Association of Bumiputera Nusantara Entrepreneurs (Asprindo) and the Golden Village Foundation (Yayasan Desa Emas) are deepening their collaboration to develop rural economies through mentoring, training and market access for village products. The partnership aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita agenda and the government's ambitious programme to establish 88,000 village and sub-district cooperatives, aiming to drive national economic growth from the grassroots level upward.

Surabaya City Government Strengthens Hygiene Standards for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Surabaya city government is intensifying oversight of its Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which currently serves over 207,000 beneficiaries across 67 operational service units. Of the 87 registered Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs), only 36 have obtained Hygiene Sanitation Compliance Certificates, prompting the city to issue advisory letters urging uncertified operators to complete the process promptly.

Nusron Hands Over 13 Waqf Land Certificates in Banten: 'This Belongs to the Muslim Community'

Agrarian Affairs Minister Nusron Wahid presented 13 waqf land certificates for houses of worship and religious education institutions in Banten Province, highlighting that only 36.72 per cent of the province's nearly 25,000 registered religious land plots have been certified.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima: Government Working Hard on Comprehensive SOE Overhaul

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has outlined a sweeping reform agenda for both central state-owned enterprises (BUMN) and regional government-owned enterprises (BUMD), anchored by a forthcoming draft BUMD Bill to be deliberated with House Commission II.

An Elegy of Solace for Child Disaster Survivors

Children displaced by the devastating November 2025 floods in Central Aceh are finding psychological relief through the traditional Gayo art of didong, a centuries-old form of chanted poetry. A local cultural practitioner has adapted the tradition — once reserved for adult men at formal ceremonies — to help traumatised children cope with months of displacement, using newly composed verses that address the ecological crisis behind the disaster.

Pramono Reveals First-Year Achievements Leading Jakarta: Transjabodetabek and JIS Pedestrian Overpass

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has highlighted the launch of Transjabodetabek inter-city bus services and the construction of a pedestrian overpass linking Jakarta International Stadium to Ancol as flagship achievements of his first year in office.

Surabaya City Council Backs Municipal Crackdown on Illegal Fibre Optic Poles

Surabaya's deputy speaker has endorsed enforcement operations by the city's civil service police and highways agency to remove unlicensed fibre optic cable poles, citing Regional Regulation No. 5 of 2017 on Utility Network Management. The operation confiscated 45 illegal poles across three road locations, whilst the council urged that demolition actions follow proper administrative due process including graduated warnings to pole owners.

Sumatra Rising: Aceh Tamiang Residents Reopen Ramadhan Takjil Market

Residents of Aceh Tamiang, an area devastated by flash floods, have reopened the Simpang Upah takjil market for Ramadhan 1447 H, signalling community recovery. The market, offering a variety of breaking-fast food and drinks priced between Rp1,000 and Rp15,000 per portion, is once again bustling with local shoppers as the holy month begins.

OJK Imposes Rp5.7 Billion Fine on Three Parties for IMPC Share Price Manipulation

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has fined three parties a total of Rp5.7 billion for manipulating the share price of PT Impack Pratama Industri Tbk (IMPC) over a six-year period from 2016 to 2022.

Pramono Says 700,000 KJP Recipients and 16,000 KJMU Recipients to Be Extended

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that over 707,000 recipients of the Jakarta Smart Card (KJP) education subsidy and nearly 17,000 recipients of the Jakarta Outstanding Student Card (KJMU) will continue to receive benefits, at a combined cost of approximately Rp 2 trillion. The governor also confirmed the continuation of diploma amnesty programmes, free entry to city attractions for card holders, and the expansion of free private schooling to 40 schools across Jakarta.

The Adipura Award Is More Than Just a Trophy (Part 2)

Indonesia's Adipura award is being transformed from a symbolic recognition of urban cleanliness into a comprehensive evaluation tool for regional waste management performance. The expanded assessment now covers waste sorting at source, waste reduction, processing systems, and commitments to ending open dumping at final processing sites, pushing local governments towards more equitable and sustainable governance.

DPR Urges Accelerated Execution of Rp529 Billion Budget for Sumatra Health Facilities

A member of the House of Representatives Commission IX has urged the government to speed up the realisation of Rp529.3 billion earmarked for restoring approximately 3,000 post-disaster health facilities in Sumatra, warning that the target of full functionality by March 2026 demands seamless cross-ministerial coordination.

Legislator says regional government governance must be strengthened

The chairman of the DPR's Commission II has called for stronger, more accountable regional governance following a working visit to South Kalimantan, where he met with local government heads and directors of the regional development bank. He also stressed that regionally owned enterprises (BUMD) must be managed professionally to serve as sustainable sources of local revenue rather than merely pursuing corporate profits.

Trade Minister Assures Zero-Tariff US Product Imports Will Not Harm Domestic Industry

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has assured that zero per cent tariffs on US agricultural imports such as soybeans, wheat, and cotton will not undermine domestic industry, as these commodities are essential raw materials not produced locally in sufficient quantities.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens Global Cooperation, Secures Fuel and LPG Supply Throughout 2026

Pertamina's downstream subholding, PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, has signed strategic agreements with Hartree Partners LP and Phillips 66 in Washington to secure fuel and LPG supply for 2026. The deals underscore Indonesia's efforts to bolster energy security through diversified international partnerships with major global trading and refining firms.

Cabinet Secretary: 90 Per Cent of Indonesia's Proposals Accepted, 1,819 Products Granted Zero US Tariffs

Indonesia and the United States have signed a bilateral trade pact granting zero per cent tariffs on 1,819 Indonesian products — including palm oil, coffee, cocoa, and electronic components — following intensive negotiations in which 90 per cent of Jakarta's proposals were accommodated. The agreement, accompanied by US$38.

Over One Hundred Neighbourhoods in Jakarta Still Flooded; Pramono Blames Rainfall in Tangerang

As of Friday evening 20 February 2026, 127 neighbourhood units (RT) and six roads across Jakarta remained inundated, with the worst flooding in East Jakarta reaching 1.5 metres. Governor Pramono Anung attributed the flooding to heavy upstream rainfall in Tangerang and South Tangerang, whilst asserting that prepared pumps and the absence of coastal tidal surges would allow waters to recede within two hours.

Aramco Bridge Construction in Tanah Datar Reaches 55 Per Cent Completion

Construction of an emergency aramco bridge in Tanah Datar Regency, West Sumatra, has reached 55 per cent completion as the Indonesian military and government agencies work to restore a vital road link between Tanah Datar and Solok regencies severed by flash floods in late November 2025.

Sanitation Upgraded: 100 Households in Manggarai No Longer Contaminating Rivers

Jakarta's regional water utility PAM Jaya and wastewater operator Perumda Paljaya have completed the revitalisation of communal sanitation facilities serving approximately 100 households in Manggarai, South Jakarta, equipping them with biopal wastewater treatment systems to prevent domestic waste from entering nearby rivers.

Pupuk Indonesia Announces 36 Winners of PIMA 2025 Journalism Award

State-owned fertiliser holding company PT Pupuk Indonesia has named 36 journalists as winners of its annual Pupuk Indonesia Media Award (PIMA) 2025, selected from 558 entries submitted by 335 journalists nationwide. The competition, themed "Building a Strong Fertiliser Industry for Food Sovereignty," aims to deepen public and media understanding of subsidised fertiliser governance reforms and the company's role in supporting national food self-sufficiency.

Communications Minister Discusses Indonesia's Historic Entry to Board of Peace

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid has hailed Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace forum as a historic turning point in the country's diplomacy on Palestine, marking a shift from passive condemnation to active involvement. Indonesia is set to deploy 8,000 peacekeeping troops and has been appointed deputy commander of the International Stabilisation Force mission, giving the country significant command authority in humanitarian operations.

National Unified Socio-Economic Database Marks First Anniversary

Indonesia's National Unified Socio-Economic Database (DTSEN), enacted under Presidential Instruction No. 4/2025, has completed its first year of operation with plans for increasingly granular data verification. The Central Statistics Agency is conducting ground checks in two phases covering over 11 million individuals to improve the accuracy of social assistance targeting, with completion expected by the end of April 2026.

Maluku Regional Police Commit to Improving Financial Governance Following BPK Audit

The Maluku Regional Police have pledged to rectify financial management shortcomings after a 16-day audit by Indonesia's Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) of their 2025 budget administration. Police Chief Inspector General Dadang Hartanto signed an official report committing to follow up on all audit findings and recommendations, emphasising greater discipline, accountability, and compliance with regulations across all units.

House of Representatives to Oversee Minimum Capital Policy to Protect Regional Banks

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission II is scrutinising proposed increases to minimum banking capital requirements — potentially to Rp5–6 trillion — warning that such thresholds could strain regional government budgets and undermine regional development banks. The commission pledged to consult stakeholders nationwide before adopting a position, seeking to balance prudential regulation with the sustainability of regional banks as key drivers of local economic financing.

Jakarta Metropolitan Police Cyber Crime Unit Hosts Students and Provides Cybercrime Education

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Cyber Crime Directorate hosted primary school students from Cikal and Mentari Intercultural School as part of its 'Cyber Goes To School' programme, educating children about online grooming, cyberbullying, and online gambling.

Rp4.1 Trillion of Central Java's Rp6.8 Trillion Village Fund Allocated to Koperasi Desa Merah Putih

Central Java's 2026 Village Fund of Rp6.8 trillion will see Rp4.1 trillion — over 60 per cent — ring-fenced for the government's Koperasi Desa Merah Putih cooperative programme, leaving just Rp2.6 trillion for regular village needs. The reallocation, mandated by Finance Minister Regulation No. 7/2026, slashes per-village funding from roughly Rp1 billion to Rp300–400 million and forms part of a national push to establish 80,000 cooperative outlets across Indonesia's villages.

East Jakarta Government Prunes Trees at Risk of Falling Along Jalan Raya Bogor

The East Jakarta Municipal Government has carried out preventive pruning of trees at risk of falling along Jalan Raya Bogor in Pasar Rebo, deploying nine officers to trim four trees as part of routine safety operations across all ten sub-districts. The initiative, driven by unpredictable weather conditions, targets trees that endanger road users, have become overly dense, or obstruct traffic signs and street lighting. The municipality pruned more than 20,000 at-risk trees throughout 2025.

Iran's Latest Threat to the United States

Iran has warned that all US military bases, facilities, and assets in the region would become legitimate targets should Washington launch a military strike, in a letter from its UN ambassador to the Secretary-General. The escalation follows President Trump's deployment of warships and fighter jets to the Middle East and his ultimatum giving Tehran a maximum of 15 days to reach a nuclear deal or face military action.

UI GreenMetric 2026 Adds Governance Category, Strengthening Sustainable Campus Standards

Universitas Indonesia's GreenMetric Sustainable University Rankings has introduced a new governance category for its 2026 edition, reinforcing standards for campus sustainability assessment. The programme has launched a series of Regional Information Sessions running from 19 to 27 February 2026, aimed at bolstering the quality, transparency and credibility of its global university rankings.

One Year as West Java Governor, KDM Admits Much Work Remains Despite 95.5 Per Cent Satisfaction Rate

West Java Governor Kang Dedi Mulyadi has marked his first year in office by acknowledging that significant challenges remain despite a survey indicating 95.5 per cent public satisfaction with his administration. The candid assessment, made alongside Deputy Governor Erwan, signals ongoing governance priorities for Indonesia's most populous province.

Brebes Regency Government Accelerates Infrastructure Development and Public Services

The Brebes Regency Government is intensifying infrastructure development and expanding basic public services after its first year in office. The programme focuses on improving regional connectivity and strengthening social protection for residents.

QRIS and BI-FAST Win International Praise, Promoted as Global Digital Payment Reference

Indonesia's digital payment systems, QRIS and BI-FAST, received international recognition at an Islamic Development Bank forum in Jeddah, with IsDB President Dr Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser praising the country's digital finance foundations. Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo attributed the success to strong governance, cross-sector synergy, and sustained innovation, outlining plans to further leverage artificial intelligence and data-driven policymaking.

Megawati Institute: Fact-Finding Commission's Findings on August 2025 Events Sound Democratic Alarm, Government Must Conduct Investigation

The Megawati Institute has expressed deep concern over the Fact-Finding Commission's (KPF) report on the August 2025 protest crackdowns, which documented mass arrests, use of force against civilians, and the criminalisation of young protesters.

NU's Da'wah in Its Second Century: Navigating the Digital Divide Storm

Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, has entered its second century whilst facing the challenge of adapting its religious outreach to an era of digital inequality. The article reflects on NU's historic achievement in preserving the Aswaja An-Nahdliyah tradition and the organisation's need to navigate the complexities of the digital divide in its da'wah mission.

One Year in Office, Andra Soni Meets Students Protesting Outside Banten Provincial Government

Banten Governor Andra Soni marked his first anniversary in office by personally meeting university students staging a protest outside provincial government headquarters in Serang. The students raised concerns over uneven development — particularly the neglect of southern districts Lebak and Pandeglang — as well as illegal labour brokers and dangerous overloaded lorries, with Andra pledging to follow up on the issues and acknowledging the province's limited fiscal capacity in poorer regencies.

Kodam Jaya's Electronic Waste Collection Could Serve as Role Model, Says Jakarta Environmental Agency

Jakarta's military command Kodam Jaya collected 5.5 tonnes of electronic waste through its "Jaga Jayakarta, Jaga Bumi" programme, handing it over to the DKI Jakarta Environmental Agency for proper hazardous materials management. The agency's head praised the structured, large-scale initiative as a pioneering model for other institutions and urged government bodies, private firms and organisations to replicate the effort to prevent environmental pollution from improperly managed e-waste.

OJK fines influencer BVN Rp5.35 billion over share price manipulation

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has imposed fines totalling Rp5.35 billion on social media influencer BVN for manipulating share prices through coordinated social media campaigns and nominee trading accounts across multiple stocks during 2021–2022.

Ministry of Religious Affairs: Zakat Distribution Not Intended for Free Meals Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has firmly denied that zakat funds are being directed towards the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, affirming that zakat must be distributed exclusively to the eight categories of recipients (ashnaf) prescribed by Islamic law. The clarification underscores the regulatory framework under Law No.

Interactive Flat Panels Reach Maumere, Creating Interactive Classroom Learning

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education's digital learning programme has deployed Interactive Flat Panels (IFP) to a secondary school in Maumere, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, transforming conventional whiteboard-based teaching into multimedia-driven, participatory learning. Teachers and students report significant improvements in engagement and comprehension, illustrating the government's broader push to modernise education through technology in remote regions of eastern Indonesia.

Economist: Rupiah Poised to Strengthen in Second Half of 2026

Maybank Indonesia's Global Markets Economist Myrdal Gunarto forecasts the rupiah will enter a strengthening phase from August through year-end 2026, potentially approaching the state budget assumption of Rp 16,500 per US dollar, provided global pressures ease and economic growth targets are met.

Baby's Hand Swollen and Perforated After IV Drip, Parents File Police Report Against Makassar Hospital

The parents of a nine-month-old baby have filed a police report against RS Paramount Makassar after their child's hand became severely swollen and developed holes following an intravenous drip procedure. The case, reported under Article 440 of the 2023 Health Law on alleged criminal conduct by health professionals, is pending forensic examination results from RS Bhayangkara Makassar, with the mother stating her child's hand remains visibly asymmetrical despite partial recovery.

Take Note: Ragunan Zoo Opening Hours During Ramadan 2026

Jakarta's Ragunan Zoo will remain open during Ramadan 2026 with adjusted hours from 07:00 to 15:00 WIB, Tuesday to Sunday. The popular Night at Ragunan Zoo programme has been suspended for the duration of the fasting month, effective 21 February 2026, with the zoo's management promising further updates through official channels.

Domestic Helper in Bandung Detained After Beating Employer's Child Until Nose Bled

Police in Bandung have detained a 47-year-old domestic helper identified by the initials RR for committing violence against a child at her employer's residence, causing the child's nose to bleed. The case is being handled by the Criminal Investigation Unit of Bandung Metropolitan Police.

61st UN Human Rights Council Session Next Week to Be First Chaired by Indonesia

Indonesia will preside over the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council from 23 February to 31 March 2026, marking the first time the country has led the body since its establishment in 2006. Under the theme "A Presidency for All," Indonesia plans to champion children's access to nutritious food — aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's domestic agenda — alongside issues including female genital mutilation prevention, disability rights, and sustainable development financing.

Pigai: Those Seeking to Abolish Free Nutritious Meal Programme Are Opposing Human Rights

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has declared that any parties seeking to eliminate the government's free nutritious meal programme and other populist initiatives are effectively opposing human rights. His remarks came in response to a terror incident targeting the head of Gadjah Mada University's student executive body, who had written to UNICEF criticising the programme's budget priorities.

Indonesia–US Trade Negotiations Completed, US$38.4 Billion in Investment Commitments Secured

Indonesia and the United States have concluded negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), with memoranda of understanding worth approximately US$38.4 billion signed at a bilateral business summit in Washington.

Indonesian Crew Member Killed in Cruise Ship Fire off Singapore

An Indonesian crew member died after a fire broke out in the lounge area of the Liberian-registered cruise ship World Legacy whilst it was sailing towards Singapore on 20 February 2026. All 271 passengers were safely evacuated, with four taken to hospital for precautionary checks, and the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore has been notified. The vessel is now anchored at Raffles Reserved Anchorage whilst a survey team prepares to assess the damage.

Sandiaga Uno: Rocket 2026 Creates Jobs for Indonesia's Young People

Sandiaga Uno has urged participants in the Rocket Incubation 2026 youth entrepreneurship programme to scale up their businesses and expand internationally, building on last year's success of 250 accelerated brands. The six-month incubation programme, a collaboration between several foundations and Lambung Mangkurat University, aims to develop young entrepreneurs with character, leadership and market access to strengthen Indonesia's economic future.

Andre Rosiade Distributes 1,000 Basic Food Packages to Rawang Residents, Announces Flood Mitigation Plans

Gerindra lawmaker Andre Rosiade distributed 1,000 basic food packages to residents of Rawang, Padang, whilst announcing that the Ministry of Public Works will proceed with a comprehensive flood mitigation project for the chronically flood-prone Jundul Rawang area, with tendering expected to begin by October 2026.

Jakarta Flooding Update on Friday Evening: 127 Neighbourhood Units and 6 Roads Still Inundated

Heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding across Jakarta on Friday evening, with the Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) reporting 127 neighbourhood units (RT) and six road segments still submerged as of 6pm local time. South Jakarta was the worst-affected area, with water levels ranging from 30 to 125 centimetres, whilst East Jakarta's Kampung Melayu and Bidara Cina areas saw the deepest flooding at up to 150 centimetres due to the Ciliwung River overflowing.

Police Swiftly Respond to Public Reports, Destroy Five Illegal Mining Rafts in Kuansing

Police in Kuantan Singingi, Riau, destroyed five illegal gold mining rafts found along a river in Pangean sub-district after receiving reports from local residents. Whilst no suspects were apprehended during the operation, authorities vowed continued surveillance and urged communities to report illegal mining activity, aligning the crackdown with the Riau Police's Green Policing environmental protection programme.

TB Simatupang Congestion Turns Out to Be Horrific, Says Governor Pramono

DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung personally experienced the severe traffic gridlock on TB Simatupang road in South Jakarta, travelling without an escort to verify the situation firsthand.

Former Bima City Police Chief Writes Letter Denying Receipt of Drug Kingpin's Proceeds

Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has issued a written statement from detention denying he ever received funds or narcotics from drug kingpin Koh Erwin, or ordered subordinates to collaborate with dealers. The denial comes after he was designated a suspect both for narcotics abuse — following the discovery of methamphetamine, ecstasy, and other drugs in a suitcase linked to him — and for allegedly receiving Rp2.

Building Quality Human Resources: Deputy MPR Speaker Advocates for Equitable Early Childhood Education in Rural Areas

Deputy MPR Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has urged the government to expand early childhood education (PAUD) services to Indonesia's rural areas, noting that roughly 20,000 of the country's 82,000 villages still lack such provision. Citing CSIS data highlighting limited access and inadequate policy support as fundamental weaknesses, she warned that failure to act risks entrenching disparities in the quality of Indonesia's future human resources.

Viral Video of Grand Max Driver Brandishing Knife at Ride-Hailing Taxi in South Jakarta Ends in Amicable Settlement

A Suzuki Grand Max driver who brandished a knife at a ride-hailing taxi driver during a road rage incident on Jalan Arteri Pondok Indah, South Jakarta, reached an amicable settlement with the victim before a video of the confrontation went viral. Police at Kebayoran Lama have summoned both parties again and are investigating who uploaded the footage, as a separate video of the peace agreement also exists.

One Year in Office, Pramono Concedes Congestion and Flooding Remain Unresolved

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has marked his first anniversary in office by acknowledging that the capital's core problems — traffic congestion, flooding, and air pollution — persist despite a year of policy efforts. His administration is pressing ahead with large-scale river normalisation on the Ciliwung, Cakung Lama, and Krukut rivers, aiming to gradually reduce these chronic urban challenges through 2026.

IHSG Dynamics Amid Global Sentiment and Capital Market Structure Evaluation

Indonesia's Jakarta Composite Index faces pressure from shifting global risk perceptions and an MSCI evaluation of the country's capital market transparency, liquidity, and free float structure. A potential MSCI downgrade could trigger significant capital outflows, underscoring the urgency of structural reforms to maintain Indonesia's inclusion in major global indices.

LPDP Scholarship Alumni Proud Children Are Not Indonesian Citizens; Melaney Ricardo Responds with Elegance

A state-funded LPDP scholarship alumna sparked public outrage after announcing her children's British citizenship with remarks perceived as disparaging Indonesian nationality. Celebrity Melaney Ricardo, whose own children hold dual citizenship, offered a contrasting perspective by emphasising cultural pride and Indonesian identity, highlighting the broader debate around nationalism, state investment in education, and citizenship choices.

Indonesia says zero-tariff US farm imports won't hurt local industry

Indonesia has defended its decision to eliminate tariffs on key US agricultural imports — including soybeans, wheat and cotton — arguing these commodities are not sufficiently produced domestically and that lower input costs will stabilise consumer prices.

Risk or Reward? Economists Weigh Impact of US Reciprocal Tariffs on Indonesia

Permata Bank economists warn that the 19% US reciprocal tariff poses risks to Indonesia's 2026 growth through weaker external demand and supply chain disruptions, but could yield gains if leveraged for export diversification and preferential market access. The arrangement, tied to a $38.

Indonesian Talent Scholarship Bridges Path to Higher Education

The Indonesian government has launched the Indonesian Talent Scholarship to fund outstanding students pursuing undergraduate and applied bachelor's programmes in STEM and social science fields at domestic and international universities.

Prabowo: Advance Troops to Depart for Gaza in One to Two Months

President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesia will deploy advance troops to the Gaza Strip within one to two months as part of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF), with up to 8,000 TNI soldiers being prepared for the mission. Indonesia has accepted a United States offer to serve as Deputy Commander of the ISF, which plans to station brigades across five sectors in Gaza, beginning with Rafah.

Kadin and US-ABC sign MoA to expand access for Indonesian products

Kadin Indonesia and the US-ASEAN Business Council signed a memorandum of agreement in Washington DC to broaden Indonesian business access to the US market, with a particular focus on footwear, garments, textiles, furniture, and electronics exports. Chairman Anindya Bakrie highlighted Indonesia's need for up to US$60 billion in foreign direct investment and expressed hope that a reciprocal trade agreement could strengthen bilateral economic ties.

Sumatra post-disaster: Hope grows in shelters after devastating floods

Survivors of the late November 2025 flash floods in Agam District, West Sumatra, are rebuilding their livelihoods from temporary shelters ahead of Ramadan, with displaced residents drawing on savings and the Minangkabau trading tradition to restart small businesses.

Pigai Denies Terror Threats Against UGM Student Leader Originated from Government: The Law Never Silences People

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai insisted that intimidation directed at UGM Student Executive Board chairman Tiyo Ardianto could not have come from the government, citing President Prabowo's commitment that the law must never be used to silence citizens.

Tidal Flooding Inundates Tanjung Pasir in Tangerang, 521 Families Affected

Tidal flooding struck the coastal village of Tanjung Pasir in Tangerang regency, Banten, on Friday, affecting 521 families as seawater combined with heavy rainfall surged into homes and streets. The local disaster management agency (BPBD) is preparing logistical assistance whilst residents remain in their homes awaiting the water's recession, with no evacuations ordered.

Indonesia seeks death penalty for two-tonne methamphetamine smuggling case

Indonesian prosecutors are demanding the death penalty for six suspects, including two Thai nationals, linked to the smuggling of nearly two tonnes of methamphetamine aboard the Sea Dragon Terawa vessel in Batam, Riau Islands. The case, involving 67 packages received in a mid-sea transfer and charged under Indonesia's 2009 Narcotics Law, underscores the government's hardline stance against international drug trafficking networks.

United States and Indonesia Sign MoUs Worth US$38.4 Billion; Freeport Granted Mining Permit Extension to 2061

Indonesia and the United States signed 11 memoranda of understanding worth US$38.4 billion during a business summit in Washington DC witnessed by President Prabowo Subianto, with the centrepiece being the extension of PT Freeport Indonesia's special mining permit (IUPK) to 2061 and a commitment of US$20 billion in additional investment over 20 years.

Fandi's Mother Weeps Before Hotman Paris, Denies Son's Involvement in 2-Tonne Methamphetamine Case

The mother of Fandi Ramadan, a crew member facing the death penalty for allegedly smuggling nearly 2 tonnes of methamphetamine in Batam waters, tearfully denied her son's involvement at a press conference with prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea. She appealed directly to President Prabowo Subianto and the presiding judge for her son's release, insisting he was an unwitting participant who had no knowledge of the cargo, as the defence prepares to deliver its plea at Batam District Court.

Indonesia's ISF role guarantees Gaza safety: analyst

A security analyst argues that the appointment of a senior TNI general to the deputy commander post of the International Security Force for Gaza provides a "guarantee" for Palestinian civilians, ensuring operations remain aligned with stability and civilian protection goals. President Prabowo Subianto confirmed plans to deploy approximately 8,000 TNI personnel to Gaza within one to two months, marking a significant expansion of Indonesia's international military and diplomatic footprint.

Jakarta Civil Registry Office Announces Adjusted Service Hours for Ramadan 2026

Jakarta's Civil Registry Office (Dukcapil) has announced reduced service hours during Ramadan 2026, based on the Governor's Circular Letter No. 1/SE/2026, with operating hours shortened to 08:00–15:30 on weekdays and the popular Friday Evening service suspended for the duration. The Head of DKI Jakarta's Regional Civil Service Agency stressed that the adjusted hours are designed to maintain civil servant productivity and public service standards whilst accommodating religious observance.

Pramono: Padel Courts That Disturb Residents and Lack Permits Will Face Action

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged firm action against padel courts that cause public disturbance, lack community approval, or operate without complete permits. The move follows months of complaints from residents in South Jakarta's Cilandak district, where a padel facility built without prior community consultation has generated noise exceeding 70 decibels and failed mediation attempts between operators and affected neighbours.

Pelindo Ready to Serve Lebaran Homecoming Traffic at 63 Passenger Terminals

State-owned port operator Pelindo has prepared 63 passenger and roll-on/roll-off terminals nationwide to handle the anticipated 2.5 million passengers during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period, a 5 per cent increase on the previous year.

Kepri Deputy Chief Prosecutor Explains Reasons for Seeking Death Penalty Against Crew Member of 2-Tonne Methamphetamine Ship

The Deputy Head of the Kepulauan Riau High Prosecutor's Office has justified seeking the death penalty against Fandi Ramadhan, a crew member aboard the MT Sea Dragon Tarawa tanker intercepted carrying nearly 2 tonnes of methamphetamine from Thailand.

China Expands Tibetan-Language State Broadcasting as Two US Radio Services Suspended

Beijing has dramatically expanded its Tibetan-language radio programming from one to 17 programmes, coinciding with the suspension of US-funded Radio Free Asia and Voice of America Tibetan services. Reporters Without Borders has warned that the move deepens the information vacuum in Tibet and urged democratic nations to bolster support for independent Tibetan media before alternative news sources are entirely lost.

Mother's Tearful Plea to Free Crew Member Son from Death Penalty in Two-Tonne Methamphetamine Case

The mother of Fandi Ramadhan, a crew member from Medan, has publicly pleaded for her son's release from a death penalty charge in connection with the seizure of nearly two tonnes of crystal methamphetamine at sea in May 2025. Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris has joined the appeal, urging the Attorney General to re-examine the case and calling on President Prabowo Subianto to intervene, arguing that Fandi was an unwitting participant who actively questioned the suspicious cargo.

Kim Jong Un vows to boost living standards as he opens rare congress

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un opened the ninth Workers' Party congress in Pyongyang, pledging to improve economic conditions and living standards after acknowledging the country had endured its "worst difficulties" over the past five years under heavy Western sanctions.

Indonesia says Gaza board role not backing Israel

Indonesia's Deputy Foreign Minister Arrmanatha C. Nasir defended the country's participation in the US-launched Gaza Peace Board, insisting it is aimed at ensuring Jakarta remains engaged in promoting justice and lasting peace for the Palestinian people rather than signalling support for Israel.

KPK Affirms Agriculture Ministry Corruption Investigations Ongoing Amid Lawsuit Over Alleged Delays

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that corruption investigations at the Ministry of Agriculture remain active, responding to a pretrial lawsuit filed by civil society groups Arukki and LP3HI alleging unjustified delays in case handling during 2020–2022. The lawsuit, invoking new provisions under Indonesia's revised Criminal Procedure Code, covers three clusters of suspected graft — including FMD vaccine procurement with potential state losses of Rp 75.

Osaka stunned by anonymous gold bar gift worth US$3.6 million to fix ageing water pipes

An anonymous donor gifted 21kg of gold bars worth US$3.6 million to Osaka's waterworks bureau, specifically requesting the funds be used to repair the city's deteriorating water pipes. The donation highlights Japan's growing infrastructure crisis, with Osaka needing to renew 259km of water pipes at an estimated cost of roughly 500 million yen per 2km segment — a challenge familiar to many rapidly urbanised cities across Asia.

Maluku Mobile Brigade Officer Arrested over Fatal Assault of Student in Tual

A member of the Maluku Regional Police Mobile Brigade has been detained after allegedly striking a 14-year-old Islamic secondary school student with a helmet during an illegal street racing patrol in Tual City, resulting in the boy's death. The Maluku Regional Police have initiated both criminal proceedings and a professional ethics review, with the officer facing possible dishonourable discharge.

Jokowi Speaks at Bloomberg Forum in India, Former British PM in Attendance

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo addressed a private breakfast at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum 2026 in India, presenting his views on artificial intelligence sovereignty to a high-profile audience that included former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Jokowi argued that developing countries should prioritise AI applications over building their own models and infrastructure, as a faster route to harnessing the technology's potential.

MPR Deputy Speaker Condemns Israeli Actions at Al Aqsa, Urges OIC and UN to Push for Peace

Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's MPR, Hidayat Nur Wahid, has strongly condemned Israel's renewed restrictions on worship at Al Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan, including the arrest of imams and limits on Friday prayer attendance.

Questioned as Suspect in Health Case, Richard Lee Not Detained

Influencer doctor Richard Lee was questioned as a suspect over alleged health and consumer protection violations but was not detained, instead being placed on a reporting obligation under the new Criminal Procedure Code. The case, which carries potential sentences of up to 12 years' imprisonment, stems from a complaint filed in December 2024, and police have imposed a travel ban while completing the case file for prosecution.

At 69 Years, Astra Reaffirms Long-Term Commitment to Boosting National Economy

Astra International marked its 69th anniversary with President Director Djony Bunarto Tjondro emphasising the conglomerate's long-term commitment to Indonesia's economic development through its seven business lines, over 300 subsidiaries, and more than 190,000 employees.

Agriculture Minister Conducts Surprise Market Inspection Following Price Hike Reports, Prices Drop Immediately

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman conducted a surprise inspection at Kebayoran Market in Jakarta after receiving reports of food price increases ahead of Ramadan, resulting in immediate price drops for chicken and garlic following coordinated intervention with police. The minister also uncovered subsidised MinyaKita cooking oil being sold above the regulated maximum retail price and ordered criminal investigation proceedings against the distributors responsible.

Joint team removes 286 cubic metres of rubbish from beneath Sungai Bambu toll road

A joint operation involving some 500 personnel from police, local government, and community groups cleared 286 cubic metres of waste from a temporary disposal site beneath the Ir Wiyoto Wiyono toll road in North Jakarta. The North Jakarta mayor framed the clean-up as part of President Prabowo Subianto's national drive for cleaner public spaces, whilst local environmental officials called for sustained community participation to prevent future accumulation.

First Cry at Sea: Baby Born on Hospital Ship Serving East Kalimantan's Coastal Communities

A baby girl was successfully delivered via Caesarean section aboard the doctorSHARE humanitarian organisation's floating hospital, the KR dr. Lie Dharmawan Bayan Peduli, during a medical mission in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan. The historic birth on 19 February 2026 highlights the persistent lack of comprehensive healthcare access for Indonesia's coastal populations, even in areas relatively close to urban centres.

Grilled with 35 Questions Until Midnight, Richard Lee Not Detained Despite Suspect Status — Police Explain Why

Jakarta Metropolitan Police opted not to detain Dr Richard Lee despite his formal designation as a suspect in a consumer protection and health law violation case, instead imposing a reporting obligation. The decision, citing Article 100(5) of the new Criminal Procedure Code (Law No. 20/2025), reflects the police's stated commitment to proportional and accountable law enforcement as investigators prepare to transfer the case file to prosecutors.

Lampung's Oil Resource Potential Reaches 830 Million Barrels

Geological surveys estimate Lampung Province holds around 830 million barrels of oil resources, with the broader South Sumatra Area 1 working zone potentially containing 1.4 billion barrels of oil in place. PT Pertamina EP plans to commence 2D seismic surveys in June 2026, with exploration drilling targeted for 2028 and initial production potentially beginning by 2032, underscoring the government's push to boost national oil output through accelerated upstream development.

Indonesian Army Builds Bridge in Ketol Subdistrict

The Indonesian Army is constructing a suspension bridge to connect four isolated villages in Ketol subdistrict, Central Aceh, with completion targeted for early March. The bridge is needed after an emergency crossing built earlier was threatened by rising river levels following heavy rainfall, which has also hampered aid deliveries to disaster-affected communities.

Philippines Says Communication Channels Still Open with Beijing on South China Sea

The Philippine foreign ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to "effective and principled diplomacy" in advancing national interests amid deteriorating exchanges between Manila officials and the Chinese embassy. The statement signals Manila's effort to keep diplomatic channels open with Beijing despite rising tensions over South China Sea disputes, a matter of significant regional concern for Southeast Asian nations including Indonesia.

China's Spring Festival Cultural and Tourism Campaign

China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism launched a month-long cultural and tourism campaign ahead of the Spring Festival, featuring approximately 30,000 events across the country. The campaign focuses on traditional New Year customs, performances, and exhibitions, with activities held in cities spanning Guangdong, Henan, Hubei, and Hebei provinces.

Pramono says Semanggi Park revitalisation will not use regional budget

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has announced that the revitalisation of the six-hectare Semanggi Park in Central Jakarta will be funded entirely through creative financing based on naming rights, rather than drawing on the regional budget (APBD).

Australian study links childhood BMI genetics with adult diabetes and heart disease risk

Researchers at the University of Queensland, using long-term data from the University of Bristol's "Children of the 90s" study, have found that genetic factors influencing body mass index around age 10 and overall growth rates from ages one to 18 are more strongly associated with later-life risks of diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease.

Rosan Plans to Import 50 Boeing Aircraft in Addition to Energy Purchases

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has revealed plans to purchase 50 Boeing aircraft and import up to US$15 billion worth of energy annually from the United States under the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART). The deals, which include gas and crude oil imports, form part of broader bilateral trade and investment discussions currently in the pipeline across oil, gas, and other sectors.

IPC Terminal Petikemas Ready to Handle Ramadan Logistics Surge

IPC Terminal Petikemas (IPC TPK), a subsidiary of state-owned port operator Pelindo, is bolstering operational capacity at Tanjung Priok and five other terminals ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah by adding two rubber-tyred gantry cranes and optimising work schedules to handle the anticipated surge in basic necessities and consumer goods. The company reported container throughput of 299,891 TEUs in January 2026, a 6.

Indonesia Commits to Purchasing 50 Boeing Aircraft as Part of Prabowo–Trump Tariff Agreement

Indonesia has confirmed plans to purchase 50 Boeing aircraft as part of the reciprocal tariff agreement between President Prabowo Subianto and President Donald Trump. Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, who also serves as CEO of sovereign wealth fund Danantara, will oversee technical negotiations with Boeing, with the deal aimed at strengthening flag carrier Garuda Indonesia's fleet whilst reinforcing US–Indonesia trade ties.

Iran Ready to Respond Firmly to Any Military Aggression: US Must Bear Full Responsibility

Iran has warned it will respond "firmly and proportionally" to any US military aggression, following reports that American forces in the Middle East are on standby for a potential strike on Tehran. In a letter to the UN Secretary-General and Security Council, Iran's permanent representative invoked Article 51 of the UN Charter on self-defence, urged immediate UN action, and stressed that all enemy military assets in the region would become legitimate targets in the event of an attack.

MPR Deputy Speaker Urges Renewable Energy as Core Pillar of National Resilience

MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno has called for renewable energy to be elevated to a central pillar of national resilience, arguing that energy security should be treated on par with national security amid geopolitical turbulence.

Richard Lee Not Detained After Questioning at Jakarta Metropolitan Police as Suspect

Doctor Richard Lee was questioned for over eight hours at Jakarta Metropolitan Police headquarters as a suspect in an alleged consumer protection violation linked to beauty products and services, but was released without detention and placed under a reporting obligation. The police confirmed that the case file is being completed for submission to prosecutors, while a separate pre-trial challenge by Lee against his suspect designation was rejected by the South Jakarta District Court.

Airport Train Struck by Truck at Poris Evacuated, Rail Services Return to Normal

The Soekarno-Hatta Airport train was struck by a trailer truck at a level crossing on the Rawabuaya-Batuceper line, dragging the vehicle approximately 100 metres along the tracks. Following a major emergency response involving infrastructure crews and heavy recovery equipment, both rail tracks were cleared and services restored by the afternoon. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns at Indonesian level crossings where road and rail traffic intersect.

Indonesia to Chair UN Human Rights Council Session in Geneva, Hundreds of World Officials to Attend

Indonesia, as President of the UN Human Rights Council for 2026, will lead the 61st session in Geneva from 23 February to 31 March, with more than 100 high-level officials confirmed to attend. The session, coinciding with the Council's 20th anniversary, will see Indonesia promote its "Presidency for All" theme and advance President Prabowo Subianto's priority of strengthening children's access to nutritious food as a human rights issue.

Prabowo and Trump Sign Trade Agreement Following Board of Peace Summit

Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump signed a landmark trade agreement in Washington D.C. on 19 February 2026, granting zero-tariff access for 1,819 Indonesian agricultural and industrial products to the US market while reducing reciprocal tariffs from 32 to 19 per cent.

Beyond Energy: Rosan Plans Import of 50 Boeing Aircraft

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has revealed that Indonesia's Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the United States includes plans to purchase 50 Boeing aircraft alongside energy imports worth US$15 billion annually. The deal, which covers gas and crude oil procurement, underscores Jakarta's effort to manage its trade balance with Washington whilst securing major investment commitments across the oil, gas, and aviation sectors.

Freeport McMoRan Pledges USD 20 Billion Investment in Indonesia Over Next 20 Years

Freeport McMoRan has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indonesian government committing approximately USD 20 billion in additional investment over the next two decades, as part of broader Indonesia-US economic cooperation agreements tied to the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade. The deal also includes a 20-year extension of Freeport's mining concession from 2041 to 2061, reflecting deepened bilateral cooperation on critical minerals access.

GAIKINDO: Domestic Industry Capable of Meeting Commercial Vehicle Demand

Indonesia's automotive industry association GAIKINDO has asserted that domestic manufacturers have sufficient capacity to meet the country's commercial vehicle needs, pushing back against government plans to import commercial vehicles from India. With national production capacity of over 400,000 pick-up and light commercial vehicles per year and an ecosystem employing 1.

Koko Erwin, Drug Dealer Who Bribed Senior Police Officer AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, Named Suspect

West Nusa Tenggara police have named drug dealer Koko Erwin as a suspect for bribing AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, then head of Bima City police, with Rp1 billion to secure protection for his methamphetamine operations. The case, which also implicates Kuncoro and intermediary AKP Malaungi, exposes deep-seated corruption within the regional police force, with the bribe reportedly intended to help purchase a luxury vehicle for the senior officer.

Viral Outcry Over Foreign Flags Flying on Bali Beaches Prompts Official Crackdown

A viral social media post questioning the display of large foreign flags at beach areas in Bali's Legian prompted local authorities to order their removal. The Legian village head confirmed that beach vendors had previously been warned but ignored instructions, and enforcement action was taken on grounds of aesthetics, nationalism, and the absence of any official state event justifying the displays.

Not Just Hunger: The 'Greatest Test' of Fasting That Often Goes Unnoticed

A senior Muhammadiyah leader has warned that the true challenge of Ramadan fasting lies not in abstaining from food and drink, but in restraining harmful speech and overcoming anthropocentric attitudes. Speaking at Yogyakarta's historic Gedhe Kauman Mosque, Fathurrahman Kamal argued that modern society's elevation of reason over revelation and its reduction of happiness to material satisfaction have trapped people in self-centred orientations that fasting is specifically designed to correct.

Prabowo Says There Are Parties Who Want Gaza Peace to Fail

President Prabowo Subianto warned at the inaugural Peace Council meeting in Washington D.C. that certain groups are actively seeking to undermine the Gaza peace process, stressing that a two-state solution remains the only viable path forward.

Flood-Affected Community Observes 40-Day Prayer Tradition During Ramadan

Residents of Jorong Duo Koto in Tanah Datar regency, West Sumatra, who were affected by flash floods, are continuing their traditional 40-day congregational prayer practice spanning from mid-Sha'ban through Ramadan 1447 Hijriah.

DKI Jakarta to Continue Weather Modification Operations When Rainfall Exceeds 200mm

The DKI Jakarta provincial government will continue conducting weather modification operations (OMC) whenever rainfall exceeds 200 millimetres, as part of its flood prevention strategy. Preliminary evaluations by the Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) indicate the operations have successfully reduced rainfall by 23.

Dony Oskaria endorses sepablock as permanent housing construction material

BP BUMN chief and Danantara COO Dony Oskaria has backed the use of sepablock — an interlocking brick product made by PT Semen Padang — as the standard material for permanent housing (huntap) built for disaster-affected communities in West Sumatra.

SAM Air Purchases Three New Aircraft to Strengthen Humanitarian Missions and Pioneer Aviation

PT Yasa Artha Trimanunggal has acquired three new aircraft to bolster the operational capacity of its subsidiary PT Semuwa Aviasi Mandiri (SAM Air). The purchase is aimed at strengthening the airline's humanitarian mission operations and pioneer aviation services in underserved regions of Indonesia.

Bidara Cina Residents Continue Hunt for Breaking-Fast Snacks Amid Flooding

Residents of Bidara Cina in East Jakarta's Jatinegara district refused to let floodwaters reaching up to 1.7 metres dampen their Ramadan spirit, venturing out to buy takjil (breaking-fast snacks) despite waterlogged and muddy streets.

KPK Discusses Corruption Mitigation with Finance Ministry Inspectorate and Customs Compliance Unit

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) held coordination meetings with the Finance Ministry's Inspector General and the Directorate General of Customs and Excise's Internal Compliance Unit to discuss preventive measures following the exposure of corruption within the customs authority. Six suspects have been named in an import-related corruption case, with evidence worth Rp 40.5 billion seized, including cash and gold.

Tangerang Railway Line Restored to Two Tracks After Truck Struck by Soekarno-Hatta Airport Train at Poris Crossing

Railway services on the Tangerang commuter and Soekarno-Hatta airport lines have been restored to two-track operation with speed restrictions after a truck carrying a lifeboat was struck by an airport-bound train at the Poris Station crossing on Friday morning. The collision dragged the truck approximately 100 metres, disrupting services for several hours, though no fatalities were reported and all passengers were safely evacuated.

BRIN Highlights Importance of Religious Institutions in Post-Disaster Trauma Recovery

A researcher from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has underscored the central role of religious institutions and spirituality in post-disaster trauma recovery and ecosystem restoration. The researcher argued that spiritual practices must be complemented by strict environmental regulations to build social, spiritual, and ecological resilience in disaster-affected communities.

Economist predicts rupiah to stabilise at Rp16,800 per US dollar by year-end

Permata Bank's chief economist Josua Pardede forecasts the rupiah will settle between Rp16,700 and Rp16,800 per US dollar by the end of 2026, supported by assessments from MSCI and Moody's. He noted the currency remains undervalued relative to economic fundamentals and could strengthen once external sentiment eases, whilst cautioning that interest rate transmission to the banking sector remains constrained by tight funding costs.

KPK Says Travel Bans Can Now Only Be Imposed on Suspects

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that under the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) effective 2 January 2026, it can only impose overseas travel bans on suspects, not witnesses. The change led to the lifting of a travel ban on Hajj tour operator owner Fuad Hasan Masyhur, whilst bans on former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his ex-special adviser were extended as they hold suspect status in a Hajj quota corruption case.

Sinar Mas Donates Qurans Through PBNU and IPNU to Mark Ramadan

Sinar Mas's Muslim Foundation (YMSM) has donated 2,000 copies of the Quran to Nahdlatul Ulama's central board (PBNU) and the IPNU Alumni Council for distribution to mosques, prayer halls and Islamic educational institutions during Ramadan. Since 2008, the conglomerate and its business pillars, including APP Group, have donated more than 1.3 million Quran copies, 150,000 reading guides, and 300 sets of Braille Qurans nationwide.

Trade Minister: Zero-Tariff US Product Imports Will Not Disrupt National Industry

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has defended the zero per cent tariff on US agricultural imports such as soybeans, wheat and cotton, arguing these are essential raw materials not produced domestically. The policy, part of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade between Indonesia and the United States, aims to reduce production costs and maintain affordable prices for staple foods including tofu, tempeh and instant noodles.

Prabowo Claims Conditions in Gaza Have Improved

President Prabowo Subianto claimed that conditions in the Gaza Strip have improved, asserting that humanitarian aid is flowing at its highest levels in years, following the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington D.C.

For the Muezzin: Break the Fast or Call the Maghrib Prayer First?

The article addresses a practical question of Islamic ritual priority during Ramadan: whether a muezzin should break their fast or perform the maghrib call to prayer first when sunset arrives. This reflects the intersection of communal religious duty and personal devotional practice in Indonesian Muslim life.

Flooding Submerges Bidara Cina in East Jakarta, Reaching 1.7 Metres

Severe flooding hit the Tanjung Lengkong area of Bidara Cina, Jatinegara, East Jakarta, with water levels reaching 1.7 metres at their deepest point, affecting approximately 500 households or 1,300 residents. The flooding was triggered by heavy rainfall across southern Jakarta since early Friday morning, compounded by alert level 3 water conditions at Manggarai that impeded downstream drainage, though authorities reported no evacuations were yet necessary.

Democrat Politician Criticises Jokowi's Sudden Claim of Rejecting KPK Law Revision

Former Commission III member Didik Mukrianto of the Democrat Party has criticised ex-President Joko Widodo's recent claim that he opposed the 2019 revision of the KPK Law, calling it an attempt to wash his hands of responsibility.

Indonesia to Import US$15 Billion in Oil and Gas from US Annually

Indonesia has agreed to import US$15 billion worth of oil and gas annually from the United States as part of a broader bilateral trade agreement valued at US$33 billion, encompassing liquefied petroleum gas, crude oil, processed gasoline, commercial aircraft, and agricultural products.

Trump Gives Iran 10–15 Day Ultimatum to Reach Nuclear Deal

US President Donald Trump has issued a 10–15 day deadline for Iran to agree a nuclear deal, warning that "bad things" will follow if no substantive agreement is reached, whilst the United States deploys its largest naval and air force presence to the Middle East in decades. The escalating tensions have pushed Brent crude back above US$70 per barrel for the first time since July 2025, as Iran warns it will respond "firmly and decisively" to any military aggression.

Israel Restricts Palestinian Worshippers at Al-Aqsa on First Friday of Ramadan

Israeli forces severely restricted Palestinian access to Al-Aqsa Mosque on the first Friday of Ramadan, capping entry at 10,000 worshippers and turning away thousands at military checkpoints despite some holding valid permits. The crackdown comes amid heightened Israeli security measures in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, including increased arrests and expulsion orders in the weeks leading up to the holy month.

BRIN Researcher Says Ecotheology Offers Solution for Dual Post-Disaster Trauma

A researcher from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has proposed ecotheology as an integrative approach to addressing the twin traumas of ecological destruction and psychosocial harm suffered by communities after natural disasters.

Realising Indonesia's Aquatic Food Sovereignty

An opinion piece argues that aquatic food — including shrimp, fish, and seaweed — should serve as a central pillar of Indonesia's food sovereignty agenda under President Prabowo's Asta Cita programme. The author highlights persistent inequalities in access to nutritious aquatic food across regions and the marginalisation of small-scale fishers, calling for robust aquatic food policies to improve nutrition, value chains, and export markets.

FIFA President Discusses Building 25,000-Seat Stadium in Gaza at Board of Peace Summit

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced a partnership with the Board of Peace to build football infrastructure in Gaza, including a national stadium seating up to 25,000, at the inaugural summit in Washington DC. The event was attended by dozens of heads of state, including Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, underscoring the international diplomatic dimension of the reconstruction initiative, which carries a combined investment of approximately US$73.5 million.

How Much Is Zakat Fitrah in 2026? Here Are the Rates

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has set the 2026 zakat fitrah rate at Rp 50,000 per person, equivalent to 2.5 kilogrammes or 3.5 litres of premium rice, whilst fidyah has been set at Rp 65,000 per person per day. The rates, established through BAZNAS Chairman's Decree No. 14 of 2026, were determined following an in-depth review of rice prices across Indonesia and will serve as a uniform guideline for zakat collection during Ramadan 2026.

Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo Promotes Adoption of Japanese Agricultural Technology in Indonesia

The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo is urging young Indonesian farmers participating in the 41st batch of the Indonesian Young Farm Leaders Training Program in Japan (IYFLTPJ) to apply Japanese modern farming techniques to strengthen Indonesia's agricultural sector. The programme, a 40-year collaboration between the Indonesian and Japanese governments, has trained over 650 young farmers who serve as change agents and farm leaders across Indonesia's regions.

World Today: Former Prince Andrew Arrested in Epstein-Linked Investigation

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to allegations he passed sensitive government documents to Jeffrey Epstein, before being released under investigation.

Provincial Legislature Warns of Looming Waste Crisis Linked to Sarimukti Facility Conditions

West Java's provincial legislature has warned of a potential waste emergency in Greater Bandung, as the Sarimukti waste processing facility's remaining capacity is predicted to last only one more year. With its replacement facility, Legok Nangka, not due for completion until 2029, legislators are urging local governments and residents to immediately implement waste sorting at source to bridge a critical three-to-four-year gap and avert rubbish piling up on streets.

Analyst: US Zero Per Cent Tariff to Benefit Indonesia's Textile Industry

A leading Indonesian economist argues that the newly agreed US zero-tariff scheme for Indonesian textiles will significantly boost export-oriented manufacturers, who send over 60 per cent of their output to the American market.

After Receiving Price Hike Reports, Agriculture Minister Amran Conducts Surprise Market Inspection — Prices Immediately Drop by Rp 15,000

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman conducted a surprise inspection at Pasar Kebayoran in Jakarta after receiving public complaints about rising food prices, resulting in an immediate Rp 15,000 per kilogram drop in chicken prices following coordination with police. The inspection also uncovered MinyaKita cooking oil being sold above its regulated maximum retail price, with the minister warning that all food sector actors must comply with pricing regulations ahead of Ramadan.

What Time Is Ngabuburit? Ramadan 2026 Iftar Schedule

The article explores the Sundanese cultural tradition of ngabuburit — the practice of filling time before iftar during Ramadan — and provides the complete 2026 iftar schedule for DKI Jakarta as published by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The ideal time for ngabuburit is generally from around 4.30pm until the maghrib call to prayer, which falls between 6.07pm and 6.18pm WIB throughout Ramadan 1447 H.

South Korea's Yoon Prolongs Cycle of Convicted Presidents

A Seoul court sentenced former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to life imprisonment on sedition charges for his short-lived martial law declaration in December 2024, deepening political divisions rather than resolving them. The conviction has split the conservative People Power Party, whilst the ruling Democratic Party pushes for harsher punishment, all against the backdrop of a slowing economy, rising US tariffs, and local elections looming in June.

Director General of Population and Civil Registration Pushes Banyumas and Depok to Become Role Models for Digital Identity Transformation

Indonesia's Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) at the Ministry of Home Affairs is positioning Banyumas Regency and Depok City as pilot regions for the national Digital Population Identity (IKD) transformation programme. The initiative aims to integrate digital population services across social assistance, healthcare and banking sectors, with the goal of making social protection distribution more targeted, transparent and accountable.

ETLE Precision Drone Patrol Monitors Traffic on Sukaraja-Sukabumi Route Ahead of Operasi Ketupat 2026

Indonesia's National Traffic Police Corps (Korlantas Polri) is deploying precision ETLE drone patrols to monitor traffic flows along the Sukaraja-Sukabumi corridor in preparation for Operasi Ketupat 2026, the nationwide security operation for the Eid al-Fitr holiday period. The technology-driven approach provides real-time aerial surveillance of vehicle volumes, congestion patterns, and potential bottlenecks, reinforcing the force's commitment to digital transformation in traffic management.

Agriculture Minister Amran Conducts Surprise Inspection at Kebayoran Market After Reports of Rising Chicken Prices

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman personally inspected Kebayoran Market in Jakarta after receiving reports of inflated chicken and garlic prices during Ramadan, with a single phone call to police reportedly causing chicken prices to drop from Rp40,000 to Rp25,000 per kilogram. The minister also seized evidence of subsidised cooking oil (MinyaKita) being sold well above its mandated retail price, ordering law enforcement to trace the supply chain and seal offending businesses.

Epstein Scandal: What You Need to Know About Andrew

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a common law offence, and released pending further investigation. The arrest caps years of scandal surrounding his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which led to King Charles stripping Andrew of his royal titles in November 2025 and his removal from the royal residence at Windsor.

New BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Chief Pledges to Expand Membership Coverage

Newly appointed BPJS Ketenagakerjaan chief executive Saiful Hidayat has outlined a five-year strategic plan built around three pillars — Coverage, Care, and Credibility — with a particular focus on extending social security protection to informal workers, migrant workers, and MSMEs. The new board of directors and supervisory council for the 2026–2031 term were inaugurated by Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, following Presidential Decree No.

Last-Minute Room Bookings Affect Hotel Occupancy Rates

The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) has revealed that last-minute room bookings by tourists are making it increasingly difficult to predict hotel occupancy rates. The trend is driven by road travellers who use digital platforms to compare prices and facilities at the last moment, in contrast to air travellers who plan their trips well in advance.

Majority of Kebon Pala Residents Accept Ciliwung River Normalisation

Most residents of Kebon Pala in Kampung Melayu have expressed willingness to accept the planned normalisation of the Ciliwung River, a strategic Jakarta provincial government programme aimed at flood control. Data collection for the project has already been underway for several months, though some residents remain concerned about the impact on their homes and are calling for fair compensation, proper relocation, and transparent community engagement throughout the process.

Police Propose Including Whip Pink in Narcotics Law to Prevent Misuse

Indonesia's National Police have proposed that nitrous oxide (N2O) sold in Whip Pink canisters be added to the appendix of the Narcotics Law, citing widespread recreational misuse and regulatory loopholes that currently prevent enforcement. Distributors are exploiting gaps by using fictitious business-to-business transaction schemes to circumvent BPOM oversight, whilst the substance has become a lifestyle trend promoted at major music festivals and on social media.

Home Affairs Minister inspects post-disaster reconstruction in East Aceh

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian visited East Aceh to inspect progress on post-disaster reconstruction, highlighting the district as one of five requiring particular attention among the 18 affected regencies and municipalities in Aceh. The minister distributed community aid and emphasised the government's commitment to restoring damaged infrastructure, clearing mud deposits, repairing irrigation channels, and reopening severed road access across the affected areas.

Indonesia and US Agree on Zero Per Cent Tariff for Textile Products: Key Provisions

Indonesia and the United States have signed an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) granting zero per cent tariffs on Indonesian textiles and garments through a Tariff Rate Quota mechanism tied to Indonesia's purchase of American raw materials such as cotton and man-made fibre.

Misbakhun Responds to Economic Outlook 2026: Indonesia Needs Investment with Real Impact

House of Representatives Commission XI Chairman Misbakhun has called for Indonesia to pursue investments that deliver tangible outcomes — creating industries, expanding employment, and building national capacity — in response to the government's Economic Outlook 2026 forum.

Ramadan Roundup: Sundanese Quran Exhibition in Bandung

An exhibition of the Al Quran Sundawi, featuring Quran pages adorned with calligraphy and traditional West Javanese ornamental motifs, is being held at the Quran Gallery of the Centre for Islamic Da'wah Studies (Pusdai) in Bandung throughout Ramadan 1447 H. The educational exhibition aims to preserve both Islamic and Sundanese cultural heritage through the unique fusion of religious scripture and regional artistic traditions.

ZTE and MyRepublic Partner to Deliver 5G FWA Services Outside Java

Chinese technology firm ZTE has formed a strategic partnership with internet provider MyRepublic to roll out 5G Fixed Wireless Access broadband services across Indonesia's outer islands, including Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara. The collaboration, dubbed Project Ascend, aims to bridge the digital divide by bringing high-speed wireless broadband to underserved areas with medium-to-low population density, leveraging the 1.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Also Drives Economy and Education

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has emphasised that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is designed not only to improve children's health but also to stimulate local economies and support education. The Ministry of Home Affairs is finalising a circular letter to guide regional heads in implementing 17 designated local government roles under Presidential Regulation No.

ICW Criticises DPR for Reinstating Sahroni as Commission III Deputy Chair

Indonesia Corruption Watch has sharply criticised the House of Representatives for reappointing Ahmad Sahroni as Deputy Chair of Commission III, the body overseeing legal affairs, arguing his controversial remarks that sparked nationwide protests in August 2025 make him unfit for public office. Sahroni had been found guilty of an ethics violation and suspended for six months, but returned to active duty in early February 2026.

Ministry of Home Affairs Targets 20% Activation of Digital Population Identity by 2026

Indonesia's Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration has set a target of 20 per cent activation of the Digital Population Identity (IKD) among mandatory ID card holders by 2026, alongside significant infrastructure upgrades including a Tier 3 Data Centre and ISO 27001 security standards. The ambitious work plan for 2026-2027 aims to build a lasting digital legacy for population administration services, with particular emphasis on reaching remote and underdeveloped regions.

Reflections on Corruption Cases in the Tax Sector

A series of sting operations by Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in early 2026 has exposed systemic graft within the tax administration, including bribery linked to tax audits and refund manipulation. The article argues these recurring cases signal a fundamental failure of internal oversight and merit-based governance, demanding simultaneous bureaucratic and law enforcement reform to safeguard public finances and fiscal credibility.

Hankook strengthens distributor network to capitalise on 2026 market opportunities

South Korean tyre maker Hankook Tire Sales Indonesia is deepening collaboration with 24 selected distributors across Indonesia after achieving 130 per cent sales growth in 2025. The company's 2026 strategy centres on three product lines — electric vehicle tyres, SUV tyres, and commercial vehicle technology — while also targeting the replacement tyre segment as consumers hold on to vehicles longer.

When Flooding in Rawa Buaya Becomes a Children's Water Playground

Recurring flooding in Rawa Buaya, West Jakarta, has once again turned residential areas into improvised playgrounds for local children, highlighting the normalisation of flood conditions in the capital. Residents report being largely inured to flood-related illnesses, though minor ailments such as chills and colds remain common, raising questions about long-term public health and infrastructure investment in flood-prone neighbourhoods.

BKSAP and Foreign Ministry Discuss Dynamics of Indonesia's Participation in Board of Peace

Indonesia's Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Body (BKSAP) held coordination talks with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss the implications of Indonesia's membership in the Board of Peace (BoP), stressing that involvement must remain consistent with constitutional principles and support for Palestinian independence.

Noisy Padel Court Draws Residents' Complaints; Pramono Vows Firm Action If Permits Are Incomplete

Residents in Cilandak, South Jakarta, have lodged complaints over noise generated by a padel court operating in their neighbourhood. Jakarta Governor Pramono has pledged to take firm enforcement action should the facility's permits prove incomplete, signalling the administration's readiness to crack down on businesses flouting licensing requirements.

Glass industry urges review of pick-up truck import plan

Indonesia's flat and safety glass industry association is calling on the government to reassess plans to import 105,000 pick-up trucks from India in fully built-up form, warning it could reduce domestic automotive glass demand by around 10 per cent. The Industry Minister has affirmed that Indonesia is capable of producing pick-up trucks domestically, noting that sourcing 70,000 units locally would generate approximately Rp27 trillion in backward economic linkages.

Pasar Jaya Director's Bold Move to Attract Gen Z and Millennials

Pasar Jaya, Jakarta's state-owned market operator, is pursuing a strategy to attract younger consumers by creating distinctive offerings at each traditional market. The initiative includes promoting vintage goods at Pasar Santa and upgrading public facilities such as clean toilets, ATM kiosks, and contemporary food courts.

China Boosts Mudik Transportation During Lunar New Year Holiday

China has ramped up transportation capacity across civil aviation, railways, and other sectors during the Spring Festival mudik season. Enhancements include intermodal air-rail transport, quiet carriages, baggage delivery services, and priority lanes for vulnerable groups, all aimed at ensuring safe and smooth passenger travel.

Cipulir Residents Miss Pre-Dawn Meal as They Scramble to Save Belongings During Flooding

Residents of Cipulir in South Jakarta were forced to skip their Ramadan pre-dawn meal (sahur) after flash flooding compelled them to urgently salvage household items. The Jakarta Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) reported 123 neighbourhood units and nine road segments remained inundated, deploying multiple agencies to pump out floodwater and provide basic necessities to affected communities.

JCI Closes Lower Amid US-Iran Tensions; Three LQ45 Stocks Buck the Trend

Indonesia's Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) edged down 0.03 per cent to 8,217.76 on Friday, weighed down by escalating US-Iran tensions and a lack of fresh positive domestic catalysts. Despite broader market weakness — particularly in the non-cyclical consumer, transport, and energy sectors — three LQ45 blue-chip stocks posted notable gains, led by XLSMART Telecom Sejahtera (EXCL) surging 9.09 per cent.

Indonesia Sees US Export Boost After Trade Pact

Indonesia and the United States have struck a reciprocal trade agreement that will grant zero-tariff access for 1,819 Indonesian tariff lines, covering key commodities such as palm oil, coffee, cocoa, rubber, semiconductors and textiles. The deal, which Jakarta hopes to ratify this year, is expected to further widen Indonesia's already substantial US$21.12 billion trade surplus with the US recorded in 2025.

Despite Previous Cancellation, Is a US Attack on Iran Imminent? Here Are 6 Indicators

US news outlet Axios has identified six factors suggesting a potential military conflict between the United States and Iran, amid President Donald Trump's renewed pressure campaign since returning to the White House. The analysis highlights escalating tensions that could lead to armed confrontation between the two nations.

DPR Member Ilham Permana Urges State Spending to Deliver Sustainable Impact

Golkar parliamentarian Ilham Permana has called for the Rp 24.66 trillion procurement of 105,000 commercial vehicles for the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih programme to be treated as a strategic industrial policy opportunity, not merely a logistics transaction.

From Papua to Aceh: Regions Race to Develop Rice Paddies for Food Self-Sufficiency

Regions across Indonesia, from Papua to Aceh, are simultaneously accelerating efforts to create new rice paddies as part of the national food self-sufficiency drive. The coordinated push involves area-specific strategies, including large-scale land clearing, to strengthen national food security.

Differences in Fasting Between Muslims, Jews, and Christians

The article explores the comparative religious practice of fasting across Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, noting that the Quran itself acknowledges fasting was prescribed for communities preceding Islam. It highlights how this shared obligation connects the Abrahamic faiths whilst each tradition maintains distinct rules and observances.

Britain Will Not Allow US to Use Diego Garcia Base to Attack Iran

The British government has reportedly refused to permit the United States to use its military bases, including Diego Garcia, as a launching platform for fighter jets to strike Iran. The decision, reported by the BBC, signals London's reluctance to be drawn into a potential US-Iran military confrontation and has significant implications for Indo-Pacific security dynamics.

Hundreds of Homes in Petogogan, South Jakarta Submerged by Flooding as Water Levels Reach One Metre

Severe flooding struck the Petogogan area of Kebayoran Baru in South Jakarta on Friday, submerging hundreds of homes with water levels reaching up to one metre. The inundation in the Pulo Raya neighbourhood, caused by intense rainfall, saw floodwaters of approximately 30 to 50 centimetres disrupting residents' daily activities, highlighting the capital's persistent vulnerability to urban flooding.

Pramono Claims to Have Been Managing Floods Since Morning, DI Panjaitan and Daan Mogot Roads Already Receded

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung stated that flooding along key arterial roads including Jalan DI Panjaitan and Jalan Daan Mogot was resolved within two hours on Friday morning. The provincial government confirmed it conducts weather modification operations whenever the Meteorological Agency forecasts rainfall exceeding 200mm per day, signalling an increasingly proactive approach to flood management in the capital.

Pramono to Take Firm Action on Noisy Padel Court Next Week

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged to take decisive action next week against a padel court in Haji Nawi, South Jakarta, following persistent noise complaints from residents. The facility reportedly lacks full permits and community approval, with locals reporting noise from 6am to midnight that has caused health issues including hypertension.

Thieves Break Into State Primary School in Cibinong, Bogor Using Chemicals to Open Padlocks

Police are investigating a break-in at a state primary school in Cibinong, Bogor, where thieves used chemicals to destroy padlocks and stole dozens of electronic devices including 24 computers, 60 tablets, and various other equipment. The perpetrators remain unidentified as investigators piece together evidence from damaged locks and tools left at the scene.

Official: New Board of Supervisors and Directors of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan for 2026-2031

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed the new leadership of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (Workers' Social Security Agency) for the 2026-2031 term, with Saiful Hidayat replacing Pramudya Iriawan Buntoro as President Director. The new leadership outlined a five-year strategic vision built around three pillars — Coverage, Care, and Credibility — focusing on expanding protection to informal and migrant workers, digitalising services, and strengthening institutional governance and public trust.

Peace Board Discusses Gaza's Future as Hamas Sets Preconditions

Hamas has insisted that any political process regarding Gaza's future must begin with a complete cessation of Israeli "aggression" and the lifting of the blockade, responding to the inaugural meeting of US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace in Washington. Indonesia has committed to deploying up to 1,000 troops to Gaza by April as deputy commander of the newly formed International Stabilisation Force, with potential expansion to 8,000 by June, pending final approval from President Prabowo.

Pramono: Rp134 Billion Semanggi Park Revitalisation Requires No Regional Budget Funds

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has launched the Rp134 billion revitalisation of Semanggi Park, funded entirely through private sector collaboration rather than the regional budget (APBD). The project grants an unnamed partner naming rights for 11.5 years — comprising 1.5 years of construction and 10 years of operations — with the six-hectare site targeted for completion by 22 June 2027 as a landmark gift for Jakarta's 500th anniversary.

Two-Toned Waters at Gunungkidul's Baron Beach Explained

Heavy rainfall in the Wonosari area has caused the waters at Baron Beach in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, to split into two distinct colours — brown and blue — since 17 February. Authorities say the phenomenon is caused by floodwaters from underground rivers carrying sediment to the coast, and whilst safe for tourists, the turbidity has disrupted the local PDAM water supply.

President's Speech at the Roundtable Business Summit Session

Indonesia's President addressed US and Indonesian business leaders in Washington, D.C., outlining a major bilateral trade agreement and inviting American companies to view Indonesia as both an attractive market and a strategic production base.

Rio Haryanto Responds After Solo Civil Servant Leaks His Personal Data

Former Formula 1 driver Rio Haryanto has spoken out after a civil servant in Solo posted his marriage administration documents on social media without redaction. The offending government employee has undergone a disciplinary hearing conducted by Solo's Civil Service Agency, with Haryanto forgiving the individual but urging stronger personal data protections within government institutions.

Attorney General's Office Refutes Medan Crew Member's Claim of Ignorance Over 2-Tonne Methamphetamine Cargo

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has defended the death penalty demand against Fandi Ramadhan, a 26-year-old crew member from Medan, in a case involving the smuggling of nearly two tonnes of methamphetamine, asserting that trial evidence proves his full awareness and active participation.

Shopping Centre Transformation Deemed Vital for Safeguarding Regional Purchasing Power

The transformation of Grand Mall into Lippo Mall Lampung is being viewed as more than a rebranding exercise, with analysts highlighting its role in sustaining regional consumer spending and generating economic multiplier effects. Approximately 25 per cent of incoming brands will be opening their first outlets in Lampung, with staged tenant launches from June 2026 expected to boost local employment, MSME supply-chain participation, and service-sector activity.

Rp11 Billion Modern Fishing Village in Mataram to Be Completed by May 2026

The ambitious Kampung Nelayan Modern (Modern Fishing Village) project in Bintaro, Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, funded by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries at a cost of Rp11 billion, has reached 10.98 per cent physical progress and is targeted for completion by May 2026.

Prabowo's diplomacy fast-tracks major trade deals: Minister

Trade Minister Santoso credited President Prabowo's diplomatic presence for accelerating the conclusion of several major trade agreements, including a 19 per cent reciprocal tariff deal with the United States and the long-awaited Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Indonesia also finalised trade pacts with Canada and Eurasia, alongside a US$38.

Prayers for Indonesia and Palestine at Adara Relief International's 18th Anniversary

Adara Relief International marked its 18th anniversary with a thanksgiving ceremony at its Jakarta office, where Palestinian cleric Sheikh Muhammad Said Bakr led prayers for both Indonesia and Palestine. The event underscores the Indonesian humanitarian organisation's longstanding engagement with the Palestinian cause.

Bogor Regency Council Speaker Urges Public to Maintain Order During Ramadan

Bogor Regency DPRD Speaker Sastra Winara has called on residents to maintain public order during Ramadan, urging parents to supervise young people who gather on streets late at night and encouraging productive activities instead. He also addressed the ongoing reorganisation of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) around the regency government complex and Pakansari Stadium, asking traders to be patient as local authorities complete the process.

Ministry of Finance Clarifies Purbaya's Statement on Judicial Review of State Budget Act over Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance has issued a clarification after Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's remarks about a judicial review of the 2026 State Budget Act were widely perceived as dismissive of honorary teachers' legal challenge.

Bogor Regency Council Prioritises 23 School Sites in Babakan Madang for 2027 Repair Plan

Bogor Regency DPRD member Agus Salim has earmarked 23 school sites in Babakan Madang sub-district for rehabilitation under the 2027 budget, with Rp 4 billion in legislative initiative funds allocated for school furniture procurement. Separately, another council member is pushing for the construction of a new state junior secondary school in Ciampea on a 1.2-hectare plot of publicly owned land, targeting operations by the 2026/2027 academic year.

South Sumatra Police Chief Collaborates with Interfaith Forum, MUI, and LDII to Maintain Public Order

The South Sumatra Police Chief hosted leaders from the Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB), the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), and the Indonesian Islamic Propagation Institute (LDII) to strengthen collaboration on maintaining public order across the province.

President Prabowo Reaffirms Commitment to Tackling Stunting and Driving Inclusive Economic Growth

Speaking at a Business Summit roundtable in Washington DC, President Prabowo Subianto outlined his administration's strategy to combat child stunting — which affects a quarter of Indonesian children — by reallocating savings from expenditure efficiencies to priority nutrition programmes.

Banten Provincial Government Allocates Rp 36.66 Billion for Eight Mobile Clinics

The Banten Provincial Government has budgeted Rp 36.66 billion for eight telemedicine-equipped mobile clinics to be deployed to remote and underserved areas across the province. The vehicles will carry advanced medical equipment including ventilators, ultrasound machines, portable X-ray units, and ECG devices, all integrated with a telemedicine system linked to specialist doctors at regional hospitals.

Attorney General's Office Explains Reasons for Seeking Death Penalty Against Crew Member in 2-Tonne Methamphetamine Ship Case

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has defended its decision to seek the death penalty for Fandi Ramadhan, a ship crew member from Medan, and five other defendants in a case involving the smuggling of nearly two tonnes of methamphetamine by an international narcotics syndicate.

Indonesia and US Agree on Rp649 Trillion Trade and Investment Cooperation

Indonesia and the United States signed trade and investment commitments worth US$38.4 billion (Rp649.42 trillion) at the US-Indonesia Business Summit 2026 in Washington D.C., covering agriculture and manufacturing sectors including major semiconductor investments.

Pramono Breaks Ground on Semanggi Park Revitalisation with Rp 134 Billion Budget

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has launched the revitalisation of Semanggi Park in South Jakarta, with a budget of Rp 134 billion funded entirely by private partners rather than the regional budget. The project, intended to transform the six-hectare site into a new iconic landmark for Jakarta, is targeted for completion by 22 June 2026, coinciding with the capital's 500th anniversary celebrations.

Padel Courts Proliferate Across Indonesia as MP Urges Residents' Comfort Be Prioritised

The chairwoman of the DPR's Commission X has called on local governments to ensure the rapid expansion of padel courts complies with spatial planning rules and environmental impact assessments, particularly regarding noise standards. The statement comes amid growing public complaints about noise from padel facilities, with one Jakarta court operator already agreeing to install soundproofing and limit operating hours during the fasting month.

Flood Points in Jakarta Rise to 168 Neighbourhood Units, Water Levels Reach 1.5 Metres

Jakarta's Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported that flooding had spread to 168 neighbourhood units (RT) and inundated seven roads across four municipalities on Friday afternoon, with the worst-hit area of Kampung Melayu in East Jakarta recording water levels of up to 1.5 metres.

South Sumatra Police Chief Strengthens Collaboration with Interfaith Forum, MUI, and LDII to Maintain Public Order

South Sumatra's Police Chief Insp. Gen. Sandi Nugroho hosted leaders from the Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB), the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), and the Indonesian Islamic Propagation Institute (LDII) to bolster cooperation on maintaining security and public order in the province.

South Korea's ex-President Yoon apologises after life sentence over martial law

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has issued an apology following his life sentence for imposing martial law, expressing regret for the hardship caused to the public while maintaining the sincerity of his intentions. The statement, released through his lawyers, underscores the deeply polarising nature of the martial law crisis that upended South Korean politics.

Asos co-founder Quentin Griffiths dies in Thailand after falling from Pattaya condo balcony

Quentin Griffiths, who co-founded the British online fashion retailer Asos, died on 9 February after falling from the 17th floor of an apartment block in Pattaya, Thailand. Thai police said initial investigations suggest suicide, with no indications of foul play, and noted Griffiths had been involved in two ongoing court cases linked to disputes with his Thai ex-wife that may have caused him stress.

Preparing for Safe and Comfortable Lebaran 2026 Homecoming: BKI and Transport Ministry Conduct Spot Checks on Passenger Ships

State-owned maritime classification bureau PT Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI) and the Directorate General of Sea Transport have conducted seaworthiness spot checks on passenger vessels ahead of the 2026 Lebaran homecoming season in Makassar. The inspections cover physical ship conditions, engines, safety equipment, and passenger facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards during the anticipated surge in sea travel.

House Commission I Demands Open Discussion on Deployment of 8,000 TNI Troops to Gaza

Members of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission I have called for open parliamentary debate on the planned deployment of 8,000 TNI soldiers to Gaza under the International Stabilisation Forces (ISF), raising concerns about rules of engagement, troop safety, and the sovereignty implications for the Palestinian people.

Brace Yourselves: AI Said to Be Capable of Cutting Millions of White-Collar Jobs in the Near Future

Former US presidential candidate Andrew Yang has warned that millions of white-collar workers in the United States risk losing their jobs within 12 to 18 months due to the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence. Yang highlighted the potential domino effect on consumer spending, housing markets, and tax revenues, whilst renewing his call for universal basic income, workforce retraining programmes, and taxation of AI companies profiting from automation.

Not Just a Smartwatch, but a Mini Laboratory Used by Scientists

Garmin is positioning its wearable devices as scientifically validated health data tools, opening access to research institutions and universities through its Garmin Health ecosystem and the 2026 Health Research Grant programme. In collaboration with analytics platform Fitrockr, the company enables complex health metrics from consumer smartwatches to be translated into clinically useful insights for medical research and patient monitoring.

Indonesia's Baznas distributes 650 iftar packages in Jakarta

Indonesia's state-backed alms body Baznas delivered 650 iftar meal packages to orphanages, Islamic boarding schools and mosques across Jakarta as part of its broader Ramadan outreach programme targeting vulnerable communities. The initiative, aimed at easing financial pressures on low-income households during the fasting month, was welcomed by recipient organisations including the Rasulullah Orphan Foundation and the Al Qalam Islamic Boarding School.

Danantara Chief Discusses Plan to Purchase 50 Boeing Aircraft with the United States

Indonesia's Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has confirmed plans to purchase 50 Boeing aircraft as part of a broader package of economic cooperation agreements tied to the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States. The deal, still subject to further negotiations with Boeing, sits alongside a commitment to import US$15 billion worth of American crude oil and gas annually, underscoring Jakarta's efforts to rebalance its trade relationship with Washington.

Florida Airport to Be Renamed After President Donald Trump

Florida's Republican-controlled legislature has approved a bill to rename Palm Beach International Airport after President Donald Trump, with Governor Ron DeSantis expected to sign it into law. The renaming is part of a broader campaign by Trump to attach his name to prominent public institutions, including the Kennedy Center and proposed changes to Penn Station and Dulles Airport, though some efforts have been rebuffed.

Riau Police Chief Inspects Suspension Bridge in Kuansing: For the Safety of Schoolchildren

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan inspected the construction of the 83-metre Merah Putih Presisi suspension bridge in Kuansing Regency, a project aimed at restoring safe access for schoolchildren and boosting the local economy. The bridge, connecting Muara Petai and Muara Tiu Makmur villages, is part of a broader police-led infrastructure initiative targeting five bridge sites across the regency, highlighting the Indonesian National Police's expanding role in rural development.

Indonesia Secures US Duty Exemptions for 1,819 Tariff Lines: Minister

Indonesia and the United States have concluded an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) granting zero import duty on 1,819 Indonesian tariff lines covering key commodities including palm oil, coffee, semiconductors, and aircraft parts.

Airlangga: Indonesia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement Focuses Solely on Trade

Indonesia and the United States have concluded negotiations on an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) that deliberately excludes non-economic clauses covering nuclear reactors, the South China Sea, and defence cooperation.

Nyi Ageng Serang, National Heroine and War Adviser to Diponegoro

Nyi Ageng Serang (1762–1855), a descendant of Sunan Kalijaga and grandmother of Ki Hajar Dewantara, played a crucial strategic role in the Java War (1825–1830) as Prince Diponegoro's war adviser and field commander. Recognised as a national heroine by Presidential Decree No. 084/TK/1974, she is remembered for her guerrilla tactics, her Islamic teachings, and a lifetime of resistance against Dutch colonial rule spanning from the Giyanti War to the Java War.

Freeport Commits Rp 337 Trillion Investment Over 20 Years, Not Just Licence Extension

Freeport-McMoRan has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indonesian government committing US$20 billion (approximately Rp 337.6 trillion) in additional investment over the next 20 years, announced alongside the extension of PT Freeport Indonesia's special mining licence (IUPK) to 2061.

Only 42% of Waqf Land Certified, Minister Nusron Reveals Obstacles on the Ground

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid disclosed that only 42 per cent of Indonesia's waqf land — roughly 468,000 out of a target of 900,000 parcels — has been certified, citing low public awareness and lost waqf pledge deeds as key obstacles.

Ahead of Ramadan, Sinar Mas Donates Quran Copies to PBNU and IPNU Alumni Council

The Sinar Mas Muslim Foundation (YMSM) donated 2,000 printed Quran copies to the Nahdlatul Ulama executive board and the IPNU Alumni Council ahead of Ramadan, continuing the conglomerate's long-running endowment programme. Since 2008, Sinar Mas and its APP Group subsidiary have distributed more than 1.

Indonesia says US energy deal will not shift domestic policy

Indonesia's Energy Ministry has affirmed that a US$15 billion commitment to purchase American fuel — comprising LPG, crude oil and refined petrol — under a new reciprocal trade agreement will not alter the country's energy self-sufficiency agenda. The ministry stressed that the commercial arrangement is separate from domestic energy policy, noting that plans to curb diesel imports remain intact and that no diesel purchase obligation exists under the deal.

House Commission X Demands Sumatra School Rehabilitation Be Completed Before Lebaran

The House of Representatives' Commission X has urged the government to complete the rehabilitation of disaster-affected schools across three Sumatran provinces before the Lebaran holiday, as 99 schools remain operating from emergency tents or temporary classrooms.

'Democracy is working': Analysts say Yoon conviction proves strength of South Korea's institutions

A Seoul court sentenced former South Korean President Yoon to life imprisonment for damaging the nation's democracy. Analysts argue the landmark ruling demonstrates the resilience of South Korea's democratic institutions, even as deep political divisions within the country persist.

Andre Rosiade Distributes 500 Basic Food Packages to Residents in Padang's Gates District

Gerindra Party's West Sumatra chairman Andre Rosiade distributed 500 basic food packages to residents in Padang ahead of Ramadan, as part of the party's 18th anniversary celebrations. Rosiade, who is also Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission VI, was unable to attend in person as he was accompanying BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria on engagements in West Sumatra, highlighting the intersection of political outreach and state investment agency activities.

ARUKKI-LP3HI Sue KPK Over Three Allegedly Stalled Ministry of Agriculture Corruption Cases

Two civil society organisations have filed a lawsuit against Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for allegedly failing to act on three clusters of suspected corruption at the Ministry of Agriculture between 2020 and 2022, invoking the new Criminal Procedure Code's provisions on unjustified case delays. The cases, involving vaccine procurement, livestock ear-tag procurement, and cattle acquisition with potential state losses of Rp 75.

President Prabowo warns of efforts to derail Gaza peace

President Prabowo attended the inaugural Gaza Board of Peace Summit in Washington, warning that various groups may seek to obstruct a comprehensive peace solution. Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to Gaza's reconstruction and stabilisation, expressing readiness to contribute to an International Stabilisation Force while supporting the two-state solution for Palestine.

Beware of Fake BTS "Arirang" Tickets: ARMY Fans Warned of Scam Campaign

Kaspersky researchers have uncovered a phishing campaign targeting BTS fans following the announcement of the group's 2026 "Arirang" world tour, with fraudulent websites mimicking the official Weverse fandom platform to steal money and personal credentials. The cybersecurity firm warns that stolen data may be sold on the dark web for long-term identity fraud, and urges fans across the Asia-Pacific region to verify website authenticity before making any purchases.

Indonesia and US agree to expand energy trade partnership with $15 billion annual import commitment

Indonesia and the United States have agreed to a major energy trade partnership involving annual imports of gas and crude oil worth $15 billion, with the agreement signed by Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump as part of the 'New Golden Age US-Indonesia Alliance.' The two countries are simultaneously exploring expanded investment cooperation in the oil and gas sector and other strategic industries under the coordination of Indonesia's Ministry of Investment and Trade.

Special Needs School Teacher in Yogyakarta Reported to Police for Allegedly Harassing Disabled Student

A special needs school teacher in Yogyakarta has been reported to police after allegedly sexually harassing a disabled female student between November and December 2025. The Yogyakarta Education, Youth and Sports Agency is conducting its own investigation alongside the police inquiry, with the agency head confirming preliminary admissions have been made but a formal examination report is still pending.

Jakarta Gains New Family Destination as Tamini Square Unveils Major Children's Theme Park

Tamini Square in East Jakarta has launched FruitCity Park, a 5,000-square-metre themed children's playground claimed to be one of the largest indoor play areas in the district. The opening forms part of the shopping centre's broader reconceptualisation strategy, shifting towards entertainment tenants to attract families and younger demographics amid evolving retail market dynamics.

Boosting Two Domestic Economic Growth Engines, Purbaya: Global Economy, I Don't Care!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa declared that Indonesia's economy is 90 per cent dependent on domestic factors, asserting that if both government spending and private sector investment engines run in tandem, growth of at least 6 per cent is achievable regardless of global conditions. His remarks signal a policy orientation firmly focused on domestic demand and protecting the market for local entrepreneurs as Indonesia pursues its ambitious 8 per cent growth target.

Minister Pigai Secures Attorney General's Approval for Investigation Unit at Komnas HAM

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has obtained backing from Attorney General ST Burhanuddin for the establishment of an investigation unit within Indonesia's National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM), which currently holds only inquiry powers over serious human rights violations.

Attorney General's Office: CPO Export Code Manipulation Using POME Ruse Only Occurred in Indonesia

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has confirmed that the fraudulent reclassification of crude palm oil (CPO) exports as palm oil mill effluent (POME) was a scheme executed solely on the Indonesian side, with destination countries recording the shipments correctly as CPO. The corruption case, which caused estimated state losses of Rp10.6 to Rp14.

Ramadan: MUI Chairman Urges Muslims to Refrain from Spreading Slanderous and Gossipy Content

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has issued a Ramadan advisory urging Muslims to use the holy month as an opportunity to spread positive and inspirational content whilst refraining from producing or disseminating slander, gossip, and hate speech online. MUI Chairman KH Anwar Iskandar also called on broadcasters, media outlets, content creators, and social media activists to present educational material during Ramadan, outlining nine key guidelines for the Muslim community.

Sukabumi Man Robbed in Central Jakarta, Accused of Spitting Before Motorcycle Seized

A 21-year-old man from Sukabumi, West Java, fell victim to a robbery in the Cempaka Putih area of Central Jakarta after two unknown assailants falsely accused him of spitting at them before absconding with his motorcycle. Central Jakarta Police are conducting an investigation into the incident, which resulted in an estimated Rp 18 million loss for the victim.

Trump Orders Release of Government Documents on UFOs and Aliens

US President Donald Trump has directed federal agencies to begin identifying and releasing government files related to UFOs, UAPs, and extraterrestrial life, fulfilling a long-standing demand from segments of the American public. The order follows viral remarks by former President Barack Obama appearing to confirm the existence of alien life, which Trump characterised as a leak of classified information.

Central Java Rice Production for January–March 2026 Expected to Reach 3.35 Million Tonnes of Milled Dry Grain

Central Java has launched its main rice harvest simultaneously across all 35 regencies and cities for the January–March 2026 period, with production forecast at 3.35 million tonnes of milled dry grain — a 14 per cent increase on the same period in 2025. Governor Ahmad Luthfi has set an ambitious full-year production target of 10.55 million tonnes and promoted a mechanised "train system" harvesting method that cuts processing time by up to 90 per cent compared with manual methods.

Elderly Nasi Uduk Seller in Bekasi Unable to Resume Trade After Rp 700,000 Stolen

A 65-year-old street food vendor in Bekasi lost her entire working capital of Rp 700,000 to a thief who posed as a customer, leaving her unable to continue trading. Bekasi Mayor Tri Adhianto personally visited the victim, whilst police are pursuing an investigation using CCTV footage despite the woman declining to file a formal report, having accepted her loss.

KPK Highlights 'Safe Houses' as New Method for Corruptors to Stash Money

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified the use of so-called "safe houses" as an emerging tactic employed by corrupt officials to conceal illicitly obtained wealth. The anti-graft body is scrutinising this new modus operandi as part of its broader efforts to trace and recover proceeds of corruption.

WhatsApp Groups Get Tidier: New Feature Allows Sharing Chat History with New Members

WhatsApp has launched a new Group Message History feature enabling admins and members to share between 25 and 100 recent messages with newly added group members. The feature, which is end-to-end encrypted and optional, is being rolled out gradually as part of WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to improve group chat quality and privacy.

Jokowi Attends Bloomberg New Economy Forum in India

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo travelled to New Delhi to participate in the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, where discussions centred on the critical issue of artificial intelligence sovereignty. Jokowi, who serves on the Bloomberg New Economy advisory board, used the platform to highlight Indonesia's digital infrastructure achievements, including the QRIS universal payment system, whilst advocating for economic intelligence through downstream industrialisation and the EV battery sector.

9-Year-Old Balinese Boy Tragically Killed by Father's Dump Truck

A 9-year-old boy was fatally struck by his father's dump truck in Denpasar, Bali on 18 February 2026 after the father negligently operated the vehicle whilst his son stood in front of it. The boy suffered fatal head injuries after the vehicle lurched forward when the driver suddenly released the clutch. Denpasar Police are continuing their investigation, with charges against the father still pending determination.

Riau Islands Manpower Agency Banks on Job Training Centres to Reduce Unemployment

The Riau Islands Province Manpower and Transmigration Agency is relying on its three Job Training Centres (BLK) to tackle the region's open unemployment rate, which stood at 6.35 per cent as of November 2025. With Batam identified as the largest contributor to unemployment due to an influx of jobseekers from outside the region, the centres claim a 99 per cent employment rate for graduates by aligning vocational training programmes with local industrial labour market needs.

Unesa records 53,237 applicants for SNBP 2026 admissions pathway

Universitas Negeri Surabaya (Unesa) has seen a 26.2 per cent surge in applicants for the 2026 national achievement-based university admissions pathway (SNBP), reaching 53,237 candidates competing for 6,532 places. The sharp increase in interest, bolstered by nine new study programmes, reflects growing public confidence in the state university's educational quality and its expanding academic offerings.

Iftar Schedule for Today, Friday 20 February 2026

Indonesian Muslims entered the second day of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah on Friday 20 February 2026, with iftar times varying across the archipelago's time zones. The Ministry of Religious Affairs' Directorate General of Islamic Community Guidance published official schedules, with Jakarta's iftar at 18:18 WIB and times ranging through to 18:50 WIT in Ternate, eastern Indonesia.

Feeling Aggrieved, Residents Block Offroad and Motocross Routes in Sukawana-Cikole

Perhutani, the state forestry corporation, has closed access to the Nyawang Bandung tourism site in Desa Sukajaya, Lembang sub-district, West Bandung Regency, following local residents' protests over alleged harmful offroad and motocross activities. The closure, enacted on Thursday 19 February 2026, reflects growing tensions between commercial recreational land use and the interests of surrounding communities on state forest land.

Surya Paloh Speaks on the Meaning of Ramadan Before Puan, Anies and Other National Figures

NasDem Party chairman Surya Paloh used a joint iftar event with orphans in Jakarta to frame Ramadan as a moment for strengthening national commitment and public service, rather than merely ritual fasting. The gathering drew a notable cross-party lineup including DPR Speaker Puan Maharani, former vice-president Jusuf Kalla, Anies Baswedan, and several serving ministers, underscoring NasDem's efforts to project political solidarity and social outreach during the holy month.

Planning to Break Your Fast at Istiqlal Mosque? Here's What You Need to Know

Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia's largest, is providing thousands of free iftar meal packages daily throughout Ramadan 1447 H, with weekend distributions reaching up to 10,000 packages. On the first day of fasting, 6,000 packages were distributed with contributions from private donors, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, and the Saudi Arabian Embassy, which donated 2,000 biryani rice packages.

Ministry of Public Works ready to anticipate extreme weather risks during Lebaran homecoming

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works has outlined comprehensive preparations to deal with potential extreme weather — including heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides — along key routes during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period. The ministry is coordinating with BMKG, the national police traffic corps, and the Ministry of Transport, which is also considering weather modification operations and has estimated around 144 million people will travel for the holiday.

Prabowo and Trump Sign Trade Deal as Cabinet Secretary Highlights Personal Rapport

President Prabowo Subianto formally signed a trade agreement with US President Donald Trump, with Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya emphasising the role of personal diplomacy in securing the deal. Indonesia was reportedly the only country among more than 15 nations present to conclude a direct agreement signed by both heads of state, marking what the government described as a historic moment in bilateral trade relations.

Ramadan 1447 Hijriah: Government and Mosque Initiatives across Indonesian Regions

The Bengkulu City Government has issued a special circular instructing all mosques within its jurisdiction to remain open around the clock throughout the holy month of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. The initiative reflects local government efforts to facilitate religious observance and community welfare during the fasting month across various regions of Indonesia.

Iran Warns It Will Respond Firmly to Any Military Aggression

Iran's permanent representative to the United Nations has warned that Tehran will respond "firmly and proportionally" to any military aggression, stating that the United States would bear "full and direct responsibility" for the consequences.

Freeport Granted Permit Extension Through Mine Life, Agreement Details Revealed

PT Freeport Indonesia has signed a memorandum of understanding for the extension of its Special Mining Business Permit (IUPK), with the agreement executed on 18 February 2026. The permit extension, which would cover the full remaining life of the mine, represents a significant milestone in the long-running negotiations over Freeport's mining operations in Papua.

Two Sides of Ramadan Beneath the Roof of a Temporary Shelter

Flash flood and landslide survivors in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, face a deeply emotional Ramadan 1447 Hijriah whilst living in temporary shelters (huntara), grieving lost family members and coping with drastically altered lives. The article highlights the human toll of natural disasters through the story of Yuni Efnita, who lost her sister and young niece to the floods and now watches her orphaned nephews struggle with their mother's absence during the holy month.

Hundreds of Motorcycles Seized in Illegal Street Racing Raid on Former Porong-Gempol Toll Road

Police conducted a raid on illegal street racing activities in the former Porong-Gempol Toll Road area in Sidoarjo, East Java, seizing hundreds of motorcycles. The article body was not available, with only the headline provided by the source.

NTB High Prosecution Office Receives Investigation Notice for Drug Lord Who Bribed Police Chief Rp1 Billion

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecution Office has received formal investigation notices for both Koko Erwin, a suspected drug lord who allegedly paid Rp1 billion in bribes, and AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, the former Bima City police chief who received the payments. Didik has already been dishonourably discharged from the police force following an ethics hearing, and faces multiple criminal investigations including drug possession after narcotics were found at his home in Tangerang.

Dozens of Electronic Devices Stolen from State Primary School in Cibinong, Bogor

Thieves broke into SDN Karadenan 01, a state primary school in Cibinong, Bogor, making off with dozens of electronic devices including 24 desktop computers, 60 tablets, projectors, and other equipment from multiple rooms. The burglary, which occurred in the early hours of 16 February and went viral on social media, is under investigation by local police, who are awaiting a formal report from the school's headmaster.

Trade Minister: Prabowo's diplomacy accelerates strategic trade agreements

Trade Minister Budi Santoso credited President Prabowo Subianto's international diplomacy with fast-tracking several major trade deals, including a reciprocal tariff agreement of 19 per cent with the United States signed in Washington DC.

Hundreds of Homes Flooded in Rawa Terate Cakung as Pumps Deployed

Heavy rainfall since the early hours of Friday caused flooding of up to 80 centimetres in Rawa Terate, Cakung, East Jakarta, inundating around 172 homes in one neighbourhood alone. Authorities deployed high-capacity water pumps and emergency personnel, whilst the DKI Jakarta Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported 61 neighbourhood units and six roads across the capital were submerged by 07:00 local time.

Viral: Foreign Woman Goes on Rampage at Gili Trawangan Prayer Hall Over Quran Recitation Speaker

A foreign woman caused a disturbance at a prayer hall on Gili Trawangan during the first night of Ramadan, damaging a microphone and injuring a resident after being disturbed by the sound of communal Quran recitation. The incident, which went viral on social media, highlights ongoing tensions between tourism and local religious practices on one of Indonesia's most popular island destinations.

FIFA and UEFA Presidents Accused of Aiding War Crimes

A coalition of advocacy groups has filed a 120-page complaint with the International Criminal Court accusing FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin of aiding war crimes and crimes against humanity in occupied Palestinian territories. The complaint centres on the participation of Israeli football clubs based in illegal settlements in leagues sanctioned by the two governing bodies, which are alleged to have provided financial and structural support to these clubs.

Motorola Edge 70 Fusion specifications revealed, featuring up to 12GB RAM

Motorola is preparing to launch the Edge 70 Fusion as its first Edge-series handset of 2026, powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset with up to 12GB of RAM. The mid-range device stands out with a 6.78-inch quad-curved OLED display at 144Hz, a substantial 7,000mAh battery with 68W fast charging, and dual IP68/IP69 plus military-grade MIL-STD-810H durability certifications, all running Android 16.

FIFA Chief Infantino Attends Board of Peace Summit — What's His Business There?

FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington DC, announcing a "true partnership" between FIFA and the Trump-backed peace council. The partnership centres on large-scale football infrastructure projects in the Gaza Strip, including 50 mini arenas, academies, and a national stadium, aimed at rebuilding communities through sport.

Indef assesses Danantara downstream projects could drive inclusive growth

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) projects that Danantara's strategic downstream processing initiatives could lift GDP by approximately 3 per cent above baseline in the initial phase, driven by capital accumulation and total factor productivity gains.

Dony Oskaria Lays Foundation Stone for School Rebuilding After Flood Disaster

Danantara COO and BP BUMN Head Dony Oskaria laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of SDN 49 Batang Kabung in Padang, which was severely damaged by the hydrometeorological disaster of late November 2025. The school is being rebuilt by state-owned PT Inalum as part of the Danantara group's corporate social responsibility programme, with the new facility comprising six classrooms and four functional rooms at a site 500 metres from the destroyed original location.

Member of Parliament: Indonesia's Role as ISF Deputy Commander Reflects Global Trust

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has praised Indonesia's appointment as Deputy Commander of the International Stabilization Force (ISF) for Gaza, describing it as a reflection of global confidence in the Indonesian military's professionalism and the country's diplomatic credibility. Indonesia is among the first five nations to commit personnel to the force, with plans to deploy up to 8,000 TNI troops for humanitarian, medical, and security operations in post-conflict Gaza.

Polestar Promises Four New Electric Models by 2028

Polestar has announced plans to launch four new fully electric models by 2028, with CEO Michael Lohscheller emphasising a focus on performance to rival German premium marques such as BMW M, Mercedes-AMG, and Audi. The Swedish-Chinese manufacturer is also looking to expand its high-performance BST sub-brand across its lineup, including the next-generation Polestar 2 sedan, the Polestar 3 SUV, and the Polestar 4 crossover coupe.

President Prabowo greenlights addition of 70,000 forest rangers

President Prabowo has approved the recruitment of approximately 70,000 additional forest rangers, targeting a ratio of one ranger per 2,000 hectares to secure Indonesia's 125 million hectares of forest. The decision dramatically upgrades an initial proposal for 21,000 new rangers, addressing a severe staffing shortage that currently sees just 4,800 rangers nationwide — each responsible for an average of 25,000 hectares.

Prabowo Praises Gaza Ceasefire: The Achievements Are Real

President Prabowo Subianto praised the Gaza ceasefire at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington D.C., reaffirming Indonesia's commitment to deploy up to 8,000 troops to the International Stabilisation Force. While the move earned appreciation from US President Donald Trump, it has drawn domestic criticism from Indonesia's Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI), which argues participation in the US-led body betrays Indonesia's longstanding pro-Palestinian stance.

Deputy Public Works Minister: Bina Marga Forms Road Readiness Monitoring Team for Lebaran 2026

The Ministry of Public Works has established a nationwide monitoring team to ensure road and bridge readiness ahead of the 2026 Lebaran exodus, targeting zero potholes on toll roads and national highways during the peak travel period. An estimated 143.9 million people are projected to travel during the holiday, with the Transport Ministry preparing over 35,000 vehicles, vessels, trains, and aircraft to handle the massive movement.

Digital Identity Protection for Customers Becomes Key in the Mobile-First Economy Era

Indonesia faces a surging wave of identity-related cyber fraud, with over 60 per cent of fintech scams now involving stolen or synthetic identities during digital onboarding, whilst BSSN recorded 26 million malware and phishing incidents between 2023 and 2024.

Special Needs School Teacher in Yogyakarta Accused of Sexually Abusing Student

A civil servant teacher at a special needs school in Yogyakarta has been reported to police for allegedly sexually abusing a 17-year-old female student on multiple occasions in late 2025. The teacher has been suspended from teaching duties by the Yogyakarta Special Region Education and Sports Agency, which is coordinating with the Indonesian Child Protection Commission to provide support, whilst police process the formal complaint.

Six Special Virtues of Ramadan Fasting Unique to the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad

Inmates at Baturaja Detention Centre are being taught that prison bars need not be a barrier to devout worship, with religious instruction framing Ramadan fasting as the ultimate form of self-management. The programme highlights six distinctive virtues of Ramadan fasting said to be exclusive to the followers of Prophet Muhammad.

Freeport Mining Permit Extended by 20 Years as Government Secures Rp336 Trillion Investment

Indonesia has signed a memorandum of understanding with Freeport-McMoRan to extend the Special Mining Business Permit (IUPK) for the Grasberg mine in Central Papua by 20 years, covering 2041 to 2061. The deal secures a committed investment of USD 20 billion (approximately Rp336.4 trillion), which the government expects will significantly bolster state revenues through taxes, royalties, and downstream economic benefits.

Zero Down Time Strategy Becomes Fuso's Key Approach to Strengthening Services in 2026

PT Krama Yudha Tiga Berlian Motors (KTB) is doubling down on its Zero Down Time strategy for Mitsubishi Fuso commercial vehicles in 2026, aiming to minimise operational downtime for business customers through 24-hour workshops, mobile service units, and digital tools. The company maintains its dominant position as Indonesia's top commercial vehicle brand for 55 consecutive years, with the Fuso Canter commanding a 55.1 per cent share of the light-duty truck segment.

Coordinating Minister Cak Imin Urges BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to Prioritise Migrant Workers and Informal Sector

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar has instructed the newly inaugurated leadership of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to expand social security coverage, with a particular focus on informal sector workers and Indonesian migrant workers. The directive, issued following the inauguration of new directors for both BPJS Kesehatan and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, also emphasised stricter enforcement of employer compliance obligations and faster, more transparent claims processing.

Prabowo Guarantees Conducive Investment Climate in Indonesia Before American Business Leaders

President Prabowo Subianto addressed American business leaders at a summit hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, pledging that Indonesia would consistently maintain a stable and conducive investment climate underpinned by rule of law, anti-corruption efforts, and fiscal discipline.

Aceh Requires Fogging Supplies to Tackle Post-Flood Mosquito Crisis

Aceh Tamiang's Health Department is urgently requesting fogging equipment and chemicals from the Ministry of Health to combat a dramatic surge in mosquito populations following the late November 2025 flash floods, with 11 suspected dengue cases recorded since December. The district needs 14 additional fogging machines to service 216 villages and 35 displacement sites, as all existing equipment was destroyed in the flooding.

Energy Ministry says US trade deal does not alter Indonesia's energy independence trajectory

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has affirmed that the bilateral trade agreement with the United States, which includes approximately US$15 billion in energy imports, does not alter the country's national energy independence policy. The deal covers LPG, crude oil, and refined gasoline purchases but notably excludes diesel imports, whilst critical minerals cooperation and renewable energy trade terms remain under negotiation.

Ubud Palace to Conduct Balancing Ceremony After Ancient Fig Tree Collapses

The Ubud Palace will conduct a Mercaru Ngeresigana Kerubuhan ceremony on 20 February 2026 following the catastrophic collapse of a 300-year-old sacred fig tree that crashed onto palace grounds on 15 February. The ceremony, rooted in Bali's Tri Hita Karana philosophy, seeks to restore spiritual and natural balance following the disaster, reflecting the tree's historical significance to the palace's founding and the deep cultural importance of such rituals in Balinese Hindu practice.

Cruise Ship Fire in Singapore Kills One Indonesian Crew Member

A fire aboard the cruise ship World Legacy off the coast of Singapore killed one Indonesian crew member and led to the evacuation of all 271 passengers. Preliminary investigations indicate the blaze broke out in a lounge area on the ninth deck on Friday morning, with the cause still under investigation by Singapore's maritime authorities.

Viral Video of Women Chatting on Busway Divider Sparks Humour and Safety Concerns

A viral video showing two women casually chatting on the busway lane divider in Jakarta's Mampang area has drawn widespread amusement and safety concerns from netizens. The incident highlights the persistent issue of informal use of dedicated public transport infrastructure in Indonesian cities, as residents spontaneously repurpose spaces not designed for pedestrian activity.

Indonesia to Import US Oil Worth Rp253 Trillion Annually

Indonesia has committed to purchasing US$15 billion worth of crude oil annually from the United States as part of a broader economic cooperation package linked to the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade signed by Presidents Prabowo and Trump. The deal also includes plans to acquire 50 Boeing aircraft and potential investment in oil and gas infrastructure, signalling a significant deepening of bilateral trade ties aimed at addressing the US trade deficit with Indonesia.

KPKP Sub-agency: Ramadan Staple Goods Supply Secured in North Jakarta

North Jakarta's KPKP sub-agency head confirmed that staple food supplies remain adequate and prices stable ahead of Ramadan, following joint inspections with Metro Jaya Police, Bapanas, and Bulog at Koja Market. Weekly monitoring teams are deployed across two markets in each North Jakarta sub-district, with authorities prepared to intervene should any price spikes occur during the religious holiday period.

Central Java Provincial Government Officially Implements 5 Per Cent Vehicle Tax Discount Until End of 2026

The Central Java provincial government has officially enacted a 5 per cent relaxation on motor vehicle tax (PKB), effective from 20 February 2026 through to the end of the year. The discount measure is aimed at easing the tax burden on vehicle owners across the province.

PKB: Deployment of TNI Troops to Gaza Must Be Discussed with Parliament

A PKB lawmaker on the House Commission I has called on the Defence Ministry to consult parliament before deploying up to 8,000 TNI personnel to Gaza as part of the US-led International Stabilisation Force. The demand follows President Prabowo Subianto's commitment at the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington, which has drawn criticism from rights groups who argue the mission undermines Indonesia's pro-Palestine stance.

Xpeng wins three awards at IIMS 2026 exhibition

Chinese electric vehicle brand Xpeng swept three prestigious awards at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2026, including Best Premium MPV for the X9, Best Premium EV Sedan for the Next P7, and Best Booth.

CORE: Industrialisation Remains Vital for Indonesia's Economic Growth Targets

The Center of Reform on Economics (CORE) has warned that Indonesia's 8 per cent economic growth target is unattainable without deeper industrialisation, expressing concern that the US-Indonesia reciprocal trade agreement prioritises zero-tariff access for raw commodities rather than high value-added manufactured goods.

List of Serious Charges Against Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Leading to Dishonourable Discharge

Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro has been dishonourably discharged from the Indonesian National Police after being found guilty of multiple serious violations by the Police Code of Ethics Commission. The charges include abuse of authority, sexual misconduct, drug offences, and breaching his oath of office, with the hearing drawing testimony from 18 witnesses at National Police Headquarters in Jakarta.

When Hunger Tests Integrity

Local governments across West Nusa Tenggara province are enforcing strict civil servant discipline during Ramadan, with pay deductions for tardiness and enhanced supervision despite reduced working hours. The fasting month serves as a proving ground for bureaucratic commitment, as public demand for health, administrative, and security services intensifies even as official working hours are cut from 37 to 32.5 hours per week in line with national policy.

Prajogo Pangestu's Subsidiary Partners with Global Firm for Geothermal Project in Lampung

Star Energy Geothermal, a subsidiary of Prajogo Pangestu-controlled Barito Renewables Energy (BREN), has signed a collaboration agreement with global technology company SLB to develop the Sekincau geothermal project in Lampung. The partnership covers project planning, integrated drilling services, and a framework for identifying future geothermal opportunities both in Indonesia and internationally, including North America, positioning Indonesia as a global hub for geothermal energy expertise.

Ministry predicts 144 million travellers for 2026 Eid homecoming

Indonesia's Transportation Ministry forecasts approximately 144 million people will travel during the 2026 Eid homecoming period, with the actual figure likely to exceed projections as it did last year when 154 million travelled against a forecast of 146 million.

South Jakarta Immigration Raids 'Celebrity Portrait' Event, 13 Foreign Nationals Found in Violation

South Jakarta's Immigration Office has deported 13 Chinese and Malaysian nationals who were working illegally as photographers, make-up artists, and stylists at a commercial 'Celebrity Portrait' photo shoot event. The foreign nationals held visit permits that did not authorise employment, prompting their deportation via Soekarno-Hatta Airport and a ban on re-entering Indonesia for a specified period.

Paediatrician: Train children to fast through fun challenges

A paediatrician in Samarinda has recommended that parents introduce fasting to young children by framing it as an exciting month-long challenge, beginning with familiarisation at age three to four and half-day fasts by age five to six.

Freeport Extends Indonesia Contract to 2061 with $20 Billion Investment

Indonesia has agreed to extend Freeport-McMoRan's Special Mining Business Licence (IUPK) for the Grasberg mine in Central Papua by 20 years to 2061, with an investment commitment of approximately US$20 billion. The memorandum of understanding was signed alongside a broader reciprocal trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States, signalling deepening economic ties between the two nations under the Prabowo and Trump administrations.

KPK Summons Regional Officials and Council Members from Ponorogo

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned heads of several regional government agencies and a local council member from Ponorogo, East Java, as part of its investigation into alleged corruption involving suspended Regent Sugiri Sancoko. The case, which originated from a sting operation in November 2025, encompasses multiple clusters of alleged bribery related to position procurement, hospital project contracts, and gratification within the Ponorogo regency administration.

Date Products from Israeli-Occupied Territories Allegedly Exported with False Labels

An investigation has revealed that a significant proportion of date products sold in European markets are allegedly using false labelling to conceal their true origins in Israeli-occupied territories. The Anadolu report points to strong indications of systematic mislabelling in the international date trade, raising questions about consumer transparency and trade compliance.

Surabaya Retains 'Highly Satisfactory' Rating at SAKIP & ZI Awards 2025

Surabaya has maintained its AA rating in the 2025 Government Agency Performance Accountability System (SAKIP) assessment, reflecting sustained excellence in local governance. The city's achievement is attributed to continuous improvement, cross-agency collaboration, real-time data-driven innovation, and precisely targeted social interventions reaching residents by name and address.

Tourism Security Synergy and Bali's Economic Optimism Ahead of Major Holidays in 2026

Bali is reinforcing its tourism sector through a specialised civil service police unit that takes a humanistic approach to patrolling nearly 500 tourist sites, reducing violations and educating visitors on local cultural norms. Bank Indonesia data from January 2026 shows rising business optimism on the island, with upcoming religious celebrations including Imlek, Nyepi, Ramadan, and Eid al-Fitr expected to serve as additional catalysts for economic growth in the first quarter.

Empowering Zakat Recipients: From MBG Supply Chains to New Zakat Payers

This opinion piece argues that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme's vast supply chain presents an untapped opportunity to empower zakat recipients (mustahik) by connecting them to real markets, ultimately transforming them into zakat payers (muzaki).

Jakarta Metropolitan Police Arrest Drug Dealer in Bekasi, Seize 1.3 Kg of Cannabis

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Narcotics Directorate apprehended a suspected drug dealer at a photocopy shop in Rawalumbu, Bekasi, West Java, seizing 1,337 grammes of cannabis found in a cardboard box. The arrest, carried out on 19 February following a tip-off from the public, underscores the force's ongoing campaign to eradicate narcotics trafficking across the Greater Jakarta area.

Prabowo Introduces 18 Strategic Projects to American Investors

President Prabowo Subianto pitched 18 strategic downstreaming projects to US business leaders at a Chamber of Commerce summit in Washington, spanning sectors from aluminium smelting and copper processing to solar modules and bio-jet fuel. The push underscores Indonesia's ambition to move up the global supply chain by expanding domestic processing capacity, with the sovereign wealth fund Danantara positioned as the primary financing vehicle alongside a US$3 billion waste-to-energy initiative.

Overnight Rain Causes Flooding of Up to 1.2 Metres in Villa Tomang, Tangerang

Heavy overnight rainfall in Tangerang Regency caused severe flooding of up to 1.2 metres in the Villa Tomang Baru housing estate, affecting some 300 households across five neighbourhood units and severing a key road link between Tangerang Regency and Tangerang City. Local disaster agency crews are pumping floodwaters into the nearby Cirarab River as residents evacuate to relatives' homes or safer locations.

iPhone 17 Pro Max Becomes Most Traded-In Smartphone

The iPhone 17 Pro Max has become the most frequently traded-in smartphone on the second-hand market despite being released only months ago, accounting for 11.5 per cent of the top 20 trade-in devices according to SellCell data. The model's resale value has declined by only 25.4 per cent over 145 days since launch — less than its predecessor — suggesting stronger value retention and indicating that owners are capitalising on still-high resale prices.

Rawa Buaya in West Jakarta Flooded as Kali Angke Overflows, Residents Rush to Save Belongings

Flooding from the overflowing Kali Angke river inundated several neighbourhood units in Rawa Buaya, West Jakarta, with water levels reaching 70 centimetres on Friday 20 February. Residents reported the flooding began after the pre-dawn sahur meal and peaked around 11:00 WIB, forcing them to evacuate motorcycles and household goods to higher ground.

Jakarta Metropolitan Police Arrest Marijuana Dealer with 1.3 kg in Bekasi

Jakarta Metropolitan Police's narcotics directorate arrested a suspected marijuana dealer in Rawalumbu, Bekasi, seizing 1,337 grammes of cannabis found in a cardboard box at a photocopy shop. The arrest, carried out on 19 February following a community tip-off, underscores the force's ongoing commitment to combating drug trafficking across the Greater Jakarta area.

KAI Focuses on Restoring Airport Rail Line Following Level Crossing Incident

PT Kereta Api Indonesia temporarily suspended Airport Commuter Line services after a truck struck a train at the Poris–Batu Ceper level crossing in Tangerang on Friday morning. All passengers were safely evacuated with no casualties reported, and KAI targeted partial restoration of one track from 14:30 WIB whilst pursuing legal action against the offending vehicle operator.

List of Indonesian-US Business Agreements Signed in Prabowo's Presence

Indonesian and American business leaders signed 11 cooperation agreements worth a total of US$38.4 billion following a business summit hosted by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) and the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC.

Singapore Energy Asset Acquisition — Chandra Asri Strengthens National Petrochemical Industry

PT Chandra Asri Pacific's acquisition of energy and chemical assets in Singapore through subsidiary Aster Chemicals and Energy is seen by analysts as a strategic move to bolster both the company's regional position and Indonesia's national petrochemical sector. The expansion, which encompasses refinery management, ethylene crackers, and fuel retail networks, is complemented by domestic investment in a Chlor Alkali–Ethylene Dichloride plant in Cilegon projected to cut imports by Rp4.

South Sulawesi prepares price standardisation posts to maintain stability during Ramadan

South Sulawesi's regional leadership forum conducted surprise inspections of markets to ensure staple goods prices remain stable during Ramadan. Anticipating potential price rises ahead of Eid, the provincial government and state logistics agency Bulog plan to establish price standardisation posts across several markets to serve as price benchmarks for the public.

Toyota RAV4 in Japan Features Home Power Supply Lasting Up to Seven Days

Toyota has launched plug-in hybrid and GR Sport versions of the RAV4 in Japan, featuring a "Power Supply Time Priority Mode" capable of powering a household for up to seven days at a constant 400W load. The vehicle combines a 2.5-litre engine with dual electric motors and a 22.7 kWh battery pack, producing a combined output of 324 hp, whilst also serving as a versatile external power source for various applications from camping to live broadcasting.

Thousands Affected by Flooding in East Jakarta, No Evacuations Yet

Flooding and waterlogging across five urban villages in East Jakarta has affected 1,382 residents from 432 households, though no evacuation shelters have been established as most residents chose to remain in their homes. Floodwaters reached up to 125 centimetres in some areas, with joint response teams continuing to monitor water levels and coordinate with relevant agencies.

Indonesia-US Trade Deal on Livestock Slaughter Risks Breaching Halal Assurance Regulations

The Indonesia-US Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) contains provisions in Annex III Article 2.22 that require Indonesia to accept American livestock slaughter practices and exempt a wide range of US products from halal certification, potentially contravening Indonesia's Law No. 33/2014 on Halal Product Assurance.

Ministry of Public Works Prepares Additional 10 Functional Toll Roads to Support Lebaran Exodus

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works is preparing 10 additional functional toll road sections spanning 290.855 kilometres to ease traffic flow during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period, which is expected to see some 144 million travellers. The government is also coordinating traffic management measures including contraflow systems, one-way schemes, and odd-even number plate restrictions on congestion-prone toll roads.

Ministry of Education: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Boosts Vocational Students' Competencies

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education reports that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is enhancing vocational students' competencies and workplace readiness through school-managed nutrition fulfilment kitchens at SMK Perikanan dan Kelautan Puger in Jember, East Java.

What Lies Ahead for South Korea After Former President Yoon Is Sentenced to Life in Prison?

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol was found guilty of insurrection and sentenced to life imprisonment following his December 2024 martial law declaration. Analysts warn that despite the verdict, deep political polarisation and structural democratic deficiencies remain, requiring constitutional reform, bureaucratic overhaul, and generational change within Yoon's People Power Party.

Palu Nutrition Fulfilment Coordination Team Ensures Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Sigi Continues During Ramadan

The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, will continue operating throughout Ramadan, with the National Nutrition Agency issuing guidelines for adapted distribution. Muslim students will receive special Ramadan meal packages comprising light, shelf-stable nutritious foods such as bread, eggs, milk, dates and fruit, distributed on effective school days from 23 February to 14 March 2026 across 16 nutrition service units in the regency.

Indonesia Basketball Association Extends Partnership with Molten until 2029

The Indonesian Basketball Association (Perbasi) has extended its official ball partnership with Molten's exclusive Indonesian distributor, PT Pradajaya Sportivo Indonesia, through to 2 July 2029. The deal covers match balls for both 5x5 and 3x3 basketball across national team preparations, domestic competitions, and grassroots development programmes, reflecting a commitment to strengthening the country's basketball ecosystem with internationally standardised equipment.

Yogyakarta Provincial Narcotics Agency Foils Smuggling of 2.71 kg of Marijuana from Sumatera

The Yogyakarta Provincial Narcotics Agency (BNNP DIY) intercepted a suspect carrying 2.71 kilogrammes of marijuana at Jombor Terminal in Sleman, having travelled from Baturaja in South Sumatera. The suspect, a repeat offender who was previously jailed in 2022 for a similar offence and released in April 2025, faces charges under narcotics legislation carrying penalties up to and including the death sentence.

India showcases homegrown AI models to spark its own 'DeepSeek moment'

India unveiled several domestically developed AI models at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, including multilingual large language models optimised for 22 Indian languages, as Prime Minister Modi championed "Made in India" innovation.

Pretrial Hearing: Former HSU Chief Prosecutor Demands Rp 100 Billion in Compensation from KPK

Former Hulu Sungai Utara chief prosecutor Albertinus P Napitupulu has filed a pretrial motion at the South Jakarta District Court challenging the legality of his arrest, detention, and seizure of assets by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in an alleged extortion case.

Analyst considers 8,000 TNI troops deployed to Gaza an ideal number

A security analyst has assessed that Indonesia's commitment of 8,000 TNI soldiers to the Gaza peacekeeping mission is proportionate given the enormous scope of the mandate, which includes overseeing demilitarisation, clearing 70 million tonnes of rubble, and protecting reconstruction of hundreds of thousands of homes.

House Commission I Backs Indonesia as ISF Deputy Commander: A Sign of Global Trust in the TNI

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I has thrown its support behind the country's appointment as deputy commander of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) for Gaza, with Vice Chairman Dave Laksono calling it a reflection of global confidence in the TNI's professionalism.

Witness Reveals Why He Approved Billions in Credit for Rezky Herbiyono: Nurhadi's Son-in-Law

A bank branch manager testified at the Jakarta Corruption Court that the position of former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi was an undocumented but decisive factor in approving tens of billions of rupiah in credit to his son-in-law, Rezky Herbiyono.

Jakarta Metropolitan Police on Alert for Public Order Disturbances During Ramadan

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have warned of potential public order disturbances during Ramadan, citing illegal street racing and poorly organised pre-dawn meal charity convoys as key concerns. The police urged families to steer young people towards positive activities and called on organisers of roadside charity events to coordinate properly with authorities to avoid traffic hazards and ensure aid reaches intended recipients.

Bali's Civil Service Police Deploy Specially Trained Personnel to Secure Tourism Sector

Bali's Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) has deployed 80 specially trained officers across the province, Badung regency, and Buleleng regency to patrol tourist sites, educate visitors on local regulations, and manage informal traders.

BRI President Director: Credit Acceleration Requires Demand-Side Strengthening

BRI chief Hery Gunardi has warned that Indonesia's sluggish credit growth is driven not by a lack of banking liquidity but by weak demand, as businesses and households adopt a wait-and-see posture amid slowing GDP contributions from manufacturing, trade and agriculture. With new consumer lending demand plunging from 62.9 per cent to 13.

Bank Danamon Still Studying Entry into Paylater Business

Bank Danamon is exploring a move into the paylater business to strengthen its retail segment penetration, with options including distribution through group entity Home Credit Indonesia and synergies with parent company MUFG Group's startup investments. The bank reported solid 2025 results, with consolidated net profit of IDR 4 trillion (up 14 per cent year-on-year), credit growth of 9 per cent, and improving asset quality with NPL falling to 1.7 per cent.

Commission IV Pushes for Swift Solutions to Address TPPAS Sarimukti Overcapacity

Commission IV of the West Java Provincial Legislature has raised alarm over the critically overloaded TPPAS Sarimukti waste processing facility in West Bandung Regency, warning that Zone V — the final disposal area — has exceeded capacity and can only receive waste for roughly one more year.

DPD Chairman Secures 500 Substandard Housing Renovation Units for Bengkulu Province

DPD Chairman Sultan Bachtiar Najamudin has secured 500 units of Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance (BSPS) for substandard homes in Bengkulu Province under the 2026 fiscal year budget, with plans to push for 3,000 units in 2027. The programme, part of President Prabowo Subianto's national Three Million Homes strategic initiative, provides Rp20 million per household for building materials and labour costs to bring uninhabitable dwellings up to standard for low-income families.

Why Is Indonesia Sending Thousands of Troops to Gaza?

Indonesia has announced plans to deploy up to 1,000 soldiers to Gaza by April, potentially rising to 8,000 by end of June, making it the first country to openly commit troops to the US-backed International Stabilisation Force. The move carries significant domestic and geopolitical risks, with the government insisting troops will serve humanitarian rather than combat roles and that deployment does not signal normalisation of relations with Israel.

Truck Dragged 100 Metres After Being Struck by Airport Train; Police Investigate Delayed Barrier

A container truck was dragged approximately 100 metres after being struck by a Soekarno-Hatta Airport train at a level crossing near Poris Station in Tangerang, causing the train to derail. Police are investigating why the crossing barrier had not yet lowered despite the warning siren having already sounded, suggesting a possible malfunction that allowed the truck to enter the tracks before the barrier closed.

Gen Z Are the Most Diligent Savers and Investors, Driven by Soaring House Prices and Economic Uncertainty

New research shows Generation Z is twice as likely as older generations to increase their savings, debunking the stereotype that young people are frivolous spenders. Soaring house prices, stagnant wages, and economic uncertainty have prompted Gen Z to budget aggressively, build investment portfolios, and plan for retirement from a young age, with social media financial content and intergenerational wealth transfers further fuelling the trend.

Central Java Provincial Government Intensifies Affordable Food Campaign and Market Operations to Stabilise Staple Prices

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has ordered market operations and 308 Affordable Food Campaign (GPM) events across all districts through March 2026 to curb rising staple food prices ahead of Ramadan. Chilli prices have surged to around Rp 80,000 per kilogram in the province, driven partly by demand from Jakarta, prompting the provincial agri-business agency JTAB to sell subsidised chillies at Rp 65,000 per kilogram.

In a "Swap" Against Trump's Tariffs, Indonesia Purchases 50 Boeings and Extends Freeport's Mining Permit

Indonesia and the United States have signed a sweeping reciprocal trade agreement under which Washington will eliminate tariffs on 1,819 Indonesian product items in exchange for Jakarta opening its market to 99 per cent of US goods, purchasing 50 Boeing aircraft worth US$13.5 billion, importing US energy and agricultural products, and extending Freeport's mining licence in Papua beyond 2041.

Prabowo: We Want a Lasting and Peaceful Solution for Palestine

President Prabowo Subianto used the inaugural meeting of the US-initiated Board of Peace in Washington to call for a permanent and peaceful solution to the Palestinian conflict, reaffirming Indonesia's commitment to deploying approximately 8,000 troops to Gaza as part of an International Stabilisation Force.

Freeport Extends Investment in Indonesia for 20 Years Worth Rp337.6 Trillion

Indonesia and US mining giant Freeport-McMoRan have signed a memorandum of understanding to extend the company's Special Mining Business Permit (IUPK) at Grasberg, Central Papua, for 20 years (2041–2061), with a committed investment of US$20 billion.

KPK Investigates Additional Safe Houses in Customs Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the existence of further safe houses linked to a bribery scandal involving senior Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials, having already seized Rp 5 billion in cash from one such location in Ciputat, South Tangerang.

Freeport to Add Rp337.6 Trillion in Investment over 20-Year Period

Freeport-McMoRan has signed a memorandum of agreement with the Indonesian government on critical minerals management, committing an additional USD 20 billion (Rp337.6 trillion) in investment over the next two decades. The announcement came alongside the signing of an Indonesia-US Agreement on Reciprocal Trade establishing a 19 per cent reciprocal tariff across 1,819 tariff lines, with key Indonesian exports including palm oil, coffee, and cocoa receiving full tariff exemptions.

KPK Summons Ponorogo District Officials and DPRD Member in Regent Sugiri Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned 12 witnesses, including a Ponorogo district council member and several senior local government officials, as it deepens its investigation into suspended Regent Sugiri Sancoko. The case encompasses three clusters of alleged corruption — bribery for official appointments, project-related kickbacks, and gratification — totalling some Rp 2.6 billion across four suspects.

Land Movement Triggers Landslides in Bogor, Residential Wall Collapses

Multiple landslides struck South Bogor and surrounding areas after heavy rainfall combined with unstable soil conditions caused ground movement, damaging several homes. The Bogor City Disaster Mitigation Agency reported no casualties, but retaining walls collapsed along key roads and a 1.5-metre cliff gave way, threatening nearby residences. The incidents highlight ongoing geological vulnerability in Bogor's densely populated hillside neighbourhoods.

Victorious Takaichi promises 'strong and prosperous' Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi used her first parliamentary policy address after the LDP's landslide election victory to outline an assertive defence posture targeting China's activities in the East and South China Seas, whilst pledging sustained economic stimulus.

Massive Village Vehicle Procurement Raises Questions Over Rationale

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VII has questioned a Rp24.66 trillion contract awarded to PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara for 105,000 commercial vehicles from Indian manufacturers Mahindra and Tata Motors, intended for village cooperative operations.

Latest Update on Truck Collision with Soekarno-Hatta Airport Train in Batuceper: Commuter Line Resumes on Single Alternating Track

A truck carrying a lifeboat collided with a Soekarno-Hatta Airport Commuter Line train at a level crossing near Poris Station in Batuceper, Tangerang, causing the train to derail and paralysing services on the Tangerang line and airport route. By 13:00 WIB, KAI Commuter confirmed that Tangerang Commuter Line services had partially resumed using a single alternating track at reduced speed, whilst offering full refunds to affected airport train passengers.

President Prabowo: Law Enforcement Key to Stable Investment Climate

Speaking at a Gala Iftar Dinner Business Summit at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, President Prabowo Subianto underscored his administration's commitment to governance reform, human capital development, and robust law enforcement as pillars of a stable investment climate.

KPK Summons Central Lampung Health Office Official in Regent Ardito Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned a commitment-making official from the Central Lampung Health Office as a witness in the bribery and gratification case against suspended Regent Ardito Wijaya. Investigators allege Ardito demanded 15-20 per cent fees on procurement projects since taking office in February 2025, receiving an estimated Rp 5.75 billion through intermediaries including his brother and a local councillor, with five suspects named in total.

Indonesia-US Trade Deal Outcome: Freeport Mining Licence Extended, Rp 337 Trillion in Additional Investment

Indonesia has signed a memorandum of understanding with Freeport-McMoRan to extend PT Freeport Indonesia's special mining licence, securing US$20 billion in new investment over the next 20 years as part of a reciprocal trade agreement with the United States. The deal, which also increases the Indonesian government's shareholding in PTFI by 12 per cent after 2041, is expected to generate approximately US$6 billion annually in state revenues, with significant benefits flowing to Papua.

Cak Imin: BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Must Ensure Workers Do Not Fall into Poverty Due to Redundancy Risks

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar has stressed that BPJS Kesehatan and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan must serve as the state's primary instruments for safeguarding the public's economic resilience against life risks including illness, workplace accidents, and redundancy.

Meeting Sugiono, US Secretary of State Thanks Indonesia for Joining Board of Peace

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington DC, where Rubio expressed gratitude for Indonesia's support as a founding member of the Board of Peace initiative launched by President Donald Trump. The two ministers reaffirmed their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and committed to deepening economic and security cooperation across the Indo-Pacific, whilst also discussing Indonesia's commitment to post-conflict reconstruction in Gaza.

Foreign Woman Disturbed by Quran Recitation Speakers on Gili Trawangan Threatens Locals with Machetes

A foreign woman on Gili Trawangan, North Lombok, escalated a confrontation with local residents after destroying a prayer hall microphone during Quran recitation sessions, later threatening villagers with two machetes when they came to retrieve a stolen mobile phone. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between foreign residents and local communities over religious practices in Indonesia's popular tourist destinations.

Indonesia Still Plans to Buy 50 Boeing Jets Under Reciprocal Trade Deal, Rosan Says

Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani has confirmed that Indonesia still intends to purchase 50 Boeing aircraft as part of the Agreement of Reciprocal Trade recently signed with the United States, a deal valued at approximately $13.5 billion. The commitment underscores Jakarta's strategy of using large-scale procurement to secure more favourable tariff terms from Washington, with US tariffs on Indonesian goods reduced from 32 per cent to 19 per cent under the agreement.

Task Force Chief Tito Breaks First Fast and Performs Tarawih Prayers in Aceh Tamiang

Task Force Chief Muhammad Tito Karnavian marked the first day of Ramadan 2026 by breaking fast and performing Tarawih prayers with disaster-affected communities in Aceh Tamiang, one of the worst-hit areas across three provinces in Sumatra. He reaffirmed the central government's commitment to accelerating post-disaster recovery, detailing housing repair grants of up to Rp60 million and highlighting ongoing priorities including displaced persons, mud clearance, and clean water provision.

Police Chief Orders Force-Wide Urine Tests Following Senior Officer's Drug Case

Indonesia's National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has ordered mandatory urine testing for all officers across the force following the arrest of former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro on drug charges. Didik, who has been dishonourably discharged, was found in possession of methamphetamine, ecstasy, and other narcotics, and is alleged to have received Rp2.8 billion in drug proceeds from a dealer over a six-month period.

Indonesia launches national action plan for blue carbon ecosystems

Indonesia has launched RENAKSI, a national action plan for blue carbon ecosystems covering 2025–2030, reinforcing its status as holder of approximately 17 per cent of the world's blue carbon reserves across 3.45 million hectares of mangrove forests and 660,000 hectares of seagrass meadows.

Police Evacuate Ill Residents Affected by Flooding in Pela Mampang, South Jakarta

Police and search-and-rescue teams deployed rubber boats and skiffs to evacuate women, children, the elderly, and sick residents from flooding of 20–70 centimetres in Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta. The flooding, which struck on Friday 20 February 2026, was caused by heavy overnight rainfall compounded by overflow from the upper Ciliwung River catchment in Bogor.

Tito Karnavian Performs Dawn Prayer and Distributes Aid in East Aceh

Post-disaster reconstruction task force chief Muhammad Tito Karnavian visited East Aceh to review rehabilitation progress and distribute community aid from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Karnavian highlighted that five Aceh districts require particular attention due to damage to infrastructure, mud deposits, disrupted irrigation and severed road access, pledging continued government commitment to recovery efforts.

Samudera Indonesia (SMDR) Chief Unveils 2026 Business Strategy

Samudera Indonesia CEO Bani M. Mulia has outlined the company's 2026 business strategy centred on efficiency and flexibility, in response to rising global protectionism. Despite trade tensions, Mulia remains optimistic about logistics growth, citing record container throughput in Singapore and China's export diversification, whilst emphasising Indonesia's large domestic market as a buffer against global headwinds.

Kura Kura Bali SEZ Launches Sustainable Agricultural Revolution With Community Partnership

Kura Kura Bali Special Economic Zone on Serangan Island has launched an innovative agricultural development programme in partnership with the Nukari community, featuring land-based crop cultivation and a floating garden project on a 1,713 square-metre pond. The initiative is supported by a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility utilising advanced ARB technology that recycles 1,100-1,200 cubic metres of treated water daily for irrigation, aquaculture, and fish breeding.

Saudi Arabia Distributes Iftar Packages, Calls Indonesian Muslims "the Best"

Saudi Arabia distributed 2,000 iftar packages at Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque as part of King Salman's Joint Iftar Programme, with the Saudi religious attaché praising Indonesian Muslims as "the best community.

Vale Indonesia Addresses Nickel Price Fluctuation Challenges

Vale Indonesia's President Director Bernardus Irmanto has defended the mining industry whilst acknowledging the need for responsible practices, stating that mining itself is the "backbone of civilisation." Amid ongoing nickel price volatility, the company is developing an ecosystem-based strategy to mitigate the impact of market fluctuations on its operations.

Prabowo Affirms Commitment to Safeguarding Business Climate Before US Corporate Leaders

President Prabowo Subianto attended the US-Indonesia Business Summit 2026 in Washington D.C., securing USD 38.4 billion in investment commitments from major American corporations. The visit focused on finalising the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), which is expected to significantly reduce barriers for Indonesian products entering the US market, marking a new chapter in the bilateral strategic partnership.

Banyumas and Depok Communities Prepare to Enter the Digital Administration Era

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration is preparing Banyumas Regency and Depok City as pilot areas for the Digital Population Identity (IKD) programme, aiming to eliminate reliance on physical documents for public services. The initiative is intended to strengthen data integration for national social protection programmes and improve the accuracy of welfare distribution.

No Security Guards Needed, Just AI

Thousands of French supermarkets are deploying AI-powered surveillance to detect shoplifting in real time, with some retailers reporting theft losses cut by half. However, France's data protection authority CNIL warns that the commercial use of such behavioural analysis cameras is prohibited without specific legislation, placing the technology in a legal grey area despite its rapid adoption.

Saudi Arabia hosts joint iftars and distributes dates across Indonesia throughout Ramadan

The Saudi Arabian Embassy in Jakarta has launched a nationwide Joint Iftar Programme distributing 40,000 food packages and 40 metric tonnes of dates across multiple Indonesian cities and university campuses during Ramadan, under instructions from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Coordinating Minister Cak Imin Warns New BPJS Directors: Stop Wasteful Spending and Ceremonial Events!

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar has issued a stern warning to the newly inaugurated directors of BPJS Kesehatan and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, demanding an end to wasteful spending and ceremonial events in managing the more than Rp5 trillion annual operational budget. The minister also called for heightened vigilance against fraud, fictitious claims, and membership abuse, stressing that public trust is the cornerstone of Indonesia's social security system.

Transport Minister Requests Places of Worship Be Readied as Rest Areas for Lebaran Homecoming

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi visited Yogyakarta to coordinate preparations for the 2026 Lebaran homecoming season, requesting that mosques along mudik routes be optimised as rest areas for travellers. The government is also promoting a work-from-anywhere policy from 13 to 27/28 March 2026 to stagger the flow of homecoming traffic, though challenges remain in applying this to the private manufacturing sector.

King Charles's Brother Released After Arrest in Connection with Epstein Case

Prince Andrew, the former Duke of York, was arrested at his Norfolk residence on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to his role as a British trade envoy, before being released later the same day whilst remaining under investigation. The arrest followed the US Department of Justice's release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein inquiry, with King Charles stating that the law must take its course and the family would fully cooperate with authorities.

BRIN promotes public-private partnership for research vessel project

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is pursuing a public-private partnership to modernise the country's research vessel fleet under a 20-year concession, with contract signing targeted for Q1 2027. The initiative aims to close a significant gap between Indonesia's current 2,500 annual research sailing days and the estimated 8,000-day requirement, strengthening the nation's marine research capacity and subsea economic exploration.

House Commission X Chair Pushes for Mandatory Noise Dampeners at Padel Courts

The chair of House of Representatives Commission X has urged local governments to require noise dampening measures and restrict operating hours for padel courts following widespread complaints about disturbances to nearby residents. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has also responded, announcing he will summon padel court operators and relevant stakeholders next week to review compliance with permits and regulations.

Transport Minister Predicts 144 Million Travellers for Lebaran 2026 Exodus

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi forecasts approximately 144 million people will travel during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period, with actual figures potentially exceeding the survey estimate as occurred last year. The government has announced a comprehensive package of traffic management measures, freight restrictions, flexible working arrangements, and inter-agency coordination to ensure safety across all transport modes during the peak travel season.

Fandi, Ship Crew Member from Medan, Faces Death Penalty for Smuggling 2 Tonnes of Narcotics

A 26-year-old ship crew member from Medan, Fandi Ramadhan, faces the death penalty at Batam District Court for his role in smuggling nearly two tonnes of methamphetamine aboard the vessel Sea Dragon, which collected the drugs from a Thai fishing boat off Phuket.

Poland Urges Its Citizens to Leave Iran Immediately

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called on all Polish nationals to leave Iran without delay, warning that escalating conflict could render evacuation impossible within hours. The urgent appeal follows US President Donald Trump's ultimatum giving Iran a maximum of 15 days to reach a nuclear deal, backed by a significant American military build-up in the region.

OJK Enacts Insurance Broker Business Licence Following Name Change for PT Bastama Mitra Persada

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has formally enacted the insurance broker business licence for PT Bastama Mitra Persada Insurance Broker, following its name change from PT Bastama Mitra Persada, through decree KEP-8/PD.02/2026 dated 20 January 2026. The company is required to conduct its business in compliance with prevailing laws and OJK supervisory requirements.

KPK Appoints New Heads of Investigation and Prosecution

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) inaugurated six new senior officials on Friday, including former KPK spokesperson Tessa Mahardika Sugiarto as Director of Investigation and prosecutor Budhi Sarumpaet as Director of Prosecution. The appointments follow the earlier swearing-in of three new senior deputy heads earlier in the week, signalling a significant leadership reshuffle at Indonesia's anti-graft body.

KPK Reveals Reason for Not Extending Travel Ban on Maktour Boss in Hajj Quota Case

The KPK chairman explained that the travel ban on Maktour Travel owner Fuad Hasan was not renewed because Indonesia's new Criminal Procedure Code restricts travel bans to suspects only, and Fuad has not been designated as one.

Indonesia, Germany boost higher education ties

Indonesia's Minister Brian Yuliarto and German Ambassador Ralf Beste have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in higher education, research, and student exchanges. The discussions highlighted plans to expand university partnerships, joint degree programmes, and doctoral research aligned with Indonesia's national priorities including food security, renewable energy, and digitalisation.