Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 February 2026

460 articles found

Child Dies from Suspected Abuse by Stepmother in Sukabumi, KPAI Demands Swift Legal Action

A 12-year-old boy died with bruises and burns on his body, allegedly abused by his stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java. The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has condemned the act and demanded swift legal proceedings, calling for maximum sentencing under the Child Protection Act with an additional one-third penalty as the perpetrator is a parent.

Flood-affected residents build place of worship from swept-away logs

Residents of Sahraja Village in East Aceh, devastated by flash floods in November 2025, are constructing a prayer house using logs carried by floodwaters, though they still require government assistance for fuel and additional timber. The village, where 243 families lost their homes, public facilities and farmland, received emergency aid from BNPB and volunteers including tents and worship equipment ahead of Ramadan.

Proposed vertical housing for workers in Bekasi moves forward

The Indonesian government has begun following up on proposals to build subsidised vertical housing for factory workers near industrial estates in Bekasi, West Java, with the Deputy Minister of Housing having inspected the proposed site in Cibitung.

Maluku Police Affirm Swift and Transparent Dismissal Process for Bripda MS

Maluku Regional Police have confirmed that an ethics hearing for Bripda MS, a mobile brigade officer accused of fatally assaulting a madrasah student, will proceed swiftly with a target of dishonourable dismissal. The police chief emphasised that both the ethics and criminal proceedings are being handled transparently, with case files expected to be submitted to prosecutors by midweek.

Cabinet Secretary: Claims That US Products Can Enter Indonesia Without Halal Certification Are Untrue

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has denied reports that US products can enter Indonesia without halal certification following the recent reciprocal tariff agreement signed by Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump. He affirmed that all products subject to mandatory halal certification must still carry official halal labels, whether issued by US halal bodies such as HTO and IFANCA or by Indonesia's BPJPH, and that cosmetics and medical devices must obtain BPOM clearance.

Palestine Received 66 Building Permits in West Bank as Israel Granted 22,000 to Settlers

Israeli authorities issued only 66 building permits to Palestinians in the occupied West Bank over an 11-year period, compared with 22,000 permits granted to illegal Israeli settlers, according to Haaretz. The stark disparity has accelerated demolitions of Palestinian structures, with at least 2,461 buildings destroyed in the past two years alone, displacing some 3,500 people and fuelling concerns over de facto annexation of the territory.

Golkar Secretary General: LPDP Scholarships Must Be Accessible to All Social Classes

Golkar Party Secretary General Muhammad Sarmuji has called for affirmative action reforms to Indonesia's LPDP state scholarship programme, arguing that its current requirements structurally favour wealthy applicants who can afford quality English courses and elite schooling.

Indonesia eyes India chip, AI cooperation at New Delhi summit

Indonesia is strengthening its semiconductor and AI capabilities through strategic cooperation with India and global technology leaders. Deputy Minister Nezar Patria engaged with Tata Group, Netweb, Qualcomm, and Intel on technology transfer and workforce development, leveraging Indonesia's abundant critical mineral reserves. The initiative also showcases Indonesian innovations in AI-based agricultural productivity and healthcare solutions supporting UN sustainability goals.

Bridge Connecting Ponorogo and Trenggalek Collapses; Residents Rely on Emergency Gondola

A bridge linking the Ponorogo and Trenggalek regencies in East Java has collapsed, forcing local residents to construct a makeshift gondola river crossing over the Jabak River. The community-built emergency gondola to Gedangan Village, Ngrayun, Ponorogo highlights ongoing infrastructure vulnerabilities in rural Java and the lack of rapid government response to restore connectivity.

Gerindra Calls Proposed 7% Parliamentary Threshold 'Too High' for Political Parties

Gerindra's Honorary Board Chairman Ahmad Muzani has pushed back against NasDem's proposal to raise the parliamentary threshold to 7%, calling it excessively high and burdensome for political parties. While Muzani supports retaining a parliamentary threshold in principle, he argues the specific figure should be determined through consensus in the House of Representatives.

One Year of Pramono-Rano Administration: Jakarta DPRD Deputy Speaker Highlights Persistent Flooding Problem

Jakarta's Deputy Speaker of the DPRD has criticised the continued occurrence of flooding in the capital after one year under Governor Pramono Anung and Deputy Governor Rano Karno. The remarks underscore unresolved infrastructure and flood-mitigation challenges that remain a key governance issue for the Jakarta provincial administration.

Armed Criminal Group Attacks Security Post in Nabire, Police Recover Two Charred Bodies

An armed criminal group (KKB) attacked and set fire to a security post belonging to PT Kristalin Ekalestari in Nabire, Central Papua, resulting in the discovery of two charred bodies. The victims have been transferred to Nabire Regional Hospital for autopsy, according to the spokesperson for the Damai Cartenz 2026 security operation.

Ramadan Safari: West Java Governor Conducts Open 'Audit' of Bekasi Regency Budget

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi publicly scrutinised Bekasi Regency's 2026 budget during a Ramadan Safari event, questioning infrastructure spending claims and criticising land-use practices that have worsened flooding. The regency's Rp7.7 trillion budget shows personnel expenditure as the largest component at Rp3.56 trillion, whilst road infrastructure allocation stands at just Rp230 billion — far below the Rp1.2 trillion figure cited by the acting regent.

Deputy Ministers Irene Umar and Veronica Tan Open National Lunar New Year Festival in Central Jakarta

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar and Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Veronica Tan officially opened the National Lunar New Year Festival at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta. The eight-day event, themed "Harmoni Imlek Nusantara," offers free entry, complimentary health screenings including ultrasound examinations, and blood donation facilities, underscoring Indonesia's unity in diversity during Ramadan.

Khofifah Urges East Java Regional Heads to Catalogue Intangible Cultural Heritage

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has called on all regents and mayors across the province to systematically inventory their intangible cultural heritage, with findings to be verified, documented in academic manuscripts, and digitised. The initiative aims to preserve East Java's cultural wealth for future generations while strengthening the region's tourism ecosystem.

Government accelerates permanent housing and infrastructure reconstruction in flood-hit Pidie Jaya

The Indonesian government is accelerating permanent housing construction and critical infrastructure repairs in Pidie Jaya district following devastating floods in late 2025. Government ministers emphasised that accurate local authority data is essential for speeding up construction, whilst coordinating repairs to bridges, sabo dams, and embankments to restore vital access routes and reduce future flooding risk.

Ministry of Home Affairs: South Sulawesi Ramadhan Leadership Camp Strengthens Central–Regional Synergy within Asta Cita Framework

The Director General of Regional Autonomy at the Ministry of Home Affairs praised South Sulawesi's Ramadhan Leadership Camp as a model for strengthening civil service leadership and central-regional government synergy, recommending it for replication across other provinces. He highlighted the province's strong performance in education and health governance indicators whilst noting ongoing challenges in regional autonomy implementation.

Secret Service Shoots Armed Man Attempting to Enter Trump's Florida Residence

US Secret Service agents fatally shot an armed man in his early twenties who breached the security perimeter at President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida early on Sunday morning. The suspect was carrying what appeared to be a rifle and a fuel canister, and was killed after raising the weapon when ordered to drop his items. Trump was in Washington at the time of the incident and no Secret Service protectees or officers were harmed.

Damaged Homes Surveyed Following Floods and Landslides in Tukka, Central Tapanuli

The Central Tapanuli Disaster Response Team is verifying data on approximately one hundred severely damaged homes in Tukka Village following floods and landslides. The findings will be submitted to the central government, presumably to facilitate disaster relief and reconstruction assistance for affected residents in North Sumatra.

Bank Indonesia Extends Currency Exchange Booking Schedule, Starting 24 February 2026

Bank Indonesia has brought forward the second phase of its rupiah currency exchange booking for Java to 24 February 2026, two days earlier than originally planned, in response to overwhelming public demand ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. The central bank has prepared Rp185.6 trillion in fit-for-circulation banknotes, including Rp8.6 trillion specifically allocated for currency exchange services across 2,883 locations nationwide.

Deputy Minister for Women's Empowerment Stresses Importance of Diversity as Indonesia's Strength

Deputy Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Veronica Tan highlighted Indonesia's diversity as a national strength at the opening of the Lunar New Year Festival 2577 in Jakarta. The festival, running from 17 February to 3 March 2026, aims to embody the national motto "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" (Unity in Diversity) whilst also boosting the grassroots economy through increased MSME transactions and tourism growth.

AHY Emphasises Values-Based Development and Integrity During Ramadhan Safari in Pandeglang

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono stressed that national development must extend beyond physical infrastructure to encompass the building of values, character, and integrity. The statement was made during a Ramadhan Safari event in Pandeglang, Banten province.

Central Tapanuli District Government Verifies Data on Homes Damaged by Flash Floods

The Central Tapanuli district government in North Sumatra is conducting a fresh round of data verification on homes damaged by flash floods that struck in November 2025, targeting the sub-districts of Tukka and Badiri. The exercise has already identified 10 previously unrecorded damaged homes in Tukka alone, where over 100 houses were affected.

North Jakarta Administration Urges Residents to Strengthen Community Bonds During Ramadan

The North Jakarta municipal government held a Ramadan Safari event at Al Husna Mosque in Tanjung Priok, calling on residents to strengthen social solidarity and community ties during the holy month. Officials highlighted the DKI Jakarta provincial government's "Jaga Jakarta" programme aimed at maintaining neighbourhood security and social order, while also urging community leaders and youth to prevent street brawls through positive activities.

Vegetable Farmers Ready to Maintain Supply During Ramadan and Eid

Vegetable farmers across key production centres in Indonesia are preparing to maintain fresh food supply during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. However, they face challenges from high rainfall and rising production costs, raising concerns about potential price fluctuations and supply disruptions during the peak demand period.

Imlek Festival 2577 Offers Free Health Checks for the Public

The Imlek Festival 2577–Harmoni Imlek Nusantara, held at Lapangan Banteng in Jakarta, is providing free health screenings including blood tests and breast and cervical ultrasounds to ID-card holders. Organised by Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar, the festival celebrates cultural diversity and interfaith harmony, with its peak celebration scheduled for 28 February 2026.

After Ramadan Tour, Saan Mustopa Intensifies Political Consolidation in West Java Constituency 8

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Saan Mustopa concluded his Ramadan tour with political consolidation efforts across West Java Constituency 8, encompassing Cirebon City, Cirebon Regency, and Indramayu Regency. The NasDem Party deputy chairman urged party cadres to adopt a "winner's mentality" and strengthen organisational structures down to the grassroots level in preparation for the 2029 elections.

Bekasi Regency's Baznas Targets Rp3 Billion in Zakat Fitrah Collections for 2026

The National Zakat Agency (Baznas) of Bekasi Regency has set a collection target of Rp3.03 billion for zakat fitrah during Ramadan 2026, a significant increase from the Rp2.09 billion collected in 2025.

Nusantara Lunar New Year Harmony Celebrates Chinese-Indonesian Cultural Acculturation

The 2026 Lunar New Year Festival held at Lapangan Banteng in Jakarta showcased the theme "Nusantara Lunar New Year Harmony," highlighting the cultural acculturation between Chinese and Indonesian traditions. The event, featuring traditional lion dance performances, served as a platform to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen national unity.

Rano Says This Year Is the Momentum to Strengthen Development Programme Implementation

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno stated that 97 per cent of the 40 quick-win programmes launched with Governor Pramono Anung have been completed within a year, and that efforts will now focus on strengthening implementation. He identified flooding, traffic congestion and urban poverty as Jakarta's three principal challenges, outlining strategies including river normalisation, public transport expansion via Transjabodetabek, and continued transport subsidies for 15 vulnerable groups.

High public demand prompts Bank Indonesia to extend currency exchange booking schedule

Bank Indonesia has increased quotas and brought forward the second-phase booking schedule for rupiah currency exchanges in Java via its PINTAR application, responding to overwhelming public demand ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. The central bank has prepared Rp185.6 trillion in fit-for-circulation banknotes, including Rp8.6 trillion specifically for currency exchange services across 2,883 locations nationwide.

PPP Deputy Chairman Receives West Java Ulama's Call to Prioritise Deliberation and Islamic Values

During a Ramadan safari visit to West Java's Islamic boarding schools, PPP Deputy Chairman Agus Suparmanto was urged by prominent ulama to return the party to its foundational principles of deliberation (musyawarah) and Islamic values. The visit underscores PPP's efforts to mend ties with religious leaders ahead of the 2029 elections, with clerics warning that the party's central leadership has strayed from its Islamic roots and must end its culture of expelling cadres.

After the Largest US Aircraft Carrier Enters the Mediterranean

The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, has entered the Mediterranean Sea en route to the Middle East as US-Iran tensions escalate, with President Trump stating he is "considering" limited strikes against Iran if negotiations fail. Tehran residents report sleepless nights and have begun stockpiling essentials, whilst Sweden and Serbia have urged their nationals to leave Iran.

Muzani on Paloh Still Considering Support for Prabowo's Two Terms: It's Not Yet Time

Gerindra Honorary Board Chairman Ahmad Muzani has responded to NasDem Chairman Surya Paloh's hesitation over backing President Prabowo Subianto for a second term, stating that it is simply not yet time to nominate anyone for the presidency. While Gerindra has already resolved at its congress to endorse Prabowo for 2029, Muzani expressed respect for other parties' decision-making processes and gratitude towards any coalition partners offering early support.

Defence University hopes young Jayawijaya generation will receive full scholarships

Indonesia's Defence University (Unhan) is encouraging young people from Jayawijaya Regency in Papua Pegunungan to apply for full scholarships across its faculties, including medicine, pharmacy, engineering and sciences. The initiative, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, prioritises students from eastern Indonesia and Papua through an affirmative action programme that covers tuition, accommodation, laptops and living allowances.

Peusangan River Hit by Disaster, Sumatran Elephant Ecosystem Altered

Natural disasters in Sumatra have caused landslides and significant widening of the Peusangan River in Bener Meriah, Aceh, disrupting the habitat and behavioural patterns of both tame and wild Sumatran elephants. The Conservation Response Unit reports that elephants are struggling to access traditional feeding and drinking sites now destroyed by landslides.

MPR Speaker warns police abuse case involving child's death in Tual must serve as lesson

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani has urged Indonesia's National Police to treat the fatal assault of a 14-year-old boy by a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer in Tual, Maluku, as a serious lesson for the institution. The incident occurred during an early-morning patrol when the officer allegedly struck the victim with a tactical helmet, causing fatal injuries.

Bali Hit by Mass Power Outage, PLN Reveals the Cause

A widespread power outage struck several areas of Bali on Sunday evening, 22 February 2026, caused by a fault in the major Java–Bali transmission system. State electricity firm PLN deployed technical teams and restored full power across the island within less than an hour, with supply confirmed at 100 per cent by 8.36pm local time.

KAI Regional Division 6 Urges Public to Take Advantage of 30% Discount on Lebaran Train Tickets

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Regional Division 6 in Yogyakarta is reminding the public that the government-backed 30 per cent discount on commercial economy-class train tickets for the 2026 Lebaran travel period remains available. The programme covers 85 train services in the Yogyakarta operational area for travel between 14 and 29 March 2026, as part of the government's stimulus policy to support public mobility during major religious holidays.

PT Sucofindo and PT Surveyor Indonesia Receive Indonesia Top Achievements of the Year 2026 Awards

State-owned enterprises PT Sucofindo and PT Surveyor Indonesia were recognised at the Indonesia Top Achievements of the Year 2026 ceremony for their contributions to environmental compliance and national assurance services respectively.

Iran Retaliates, Designates EU Naval and Air Forces as Terrorist Entities

Iran has officially designated the naval and air forces of all European Union member states as "terrorist entities," marking a significant escalation in tensions between Tehran and Brussels. The move represents a new chapter in the deteriorating relationship between Iran and the EU, with potential implications for international diplomacy and regional security dynamics.

Police ensure security for Chinese New Year 2577 celebration in Jakarta tonight

Jakarta's Mobile Brigade (Brimob) bomb squad conducted thorough sweeps of the venue for the national Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili celebration at a hotel on Jalan Sudirman, Central Jakarta. No suspicious objects or hazardous materials were found, and authorities urged the public to report any security concerns via the 110 hotline.

Indonesian military repairs inter-village bridge in Central Tapanuli

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has deployed 100 personnel from Infantry Battalion 908/Gaja Dompak to rebuild a bridge connecting two villages in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, after flash floods destroyed the structure for a second time. The bridge is the sole access route for residents of Sigiring-giring Village, who have been isolated since the floods first struck in November 2025.

Free café-style coffee served to tarawih congregants at Al Makna prayer hall in Lumajang

A prayer hall in Lumajang, East Java, is offering free café-style coffee to tarawih prayer congregants every fortnight throughout Ramadan. The initiative by the Al-Makna Al-Islami prayer hall organisers aims to provide refreshment for worshippers during their itikaf while awaiting the evening prayers, blending contemporary coffee culture with traditional religious observance.

ISKI East Java Urges Vigilance Over Digital Impact on Adolescent Mental Health

The Indonesian Communication Scholars Association (ISKI) East Java has called on the public to be alert to the impact of digital pressure on adolescent mental health, following a spate of student suicides and rising device dependency across Indonesia.

Muslim Balinese observe Megibung tradition during Iftar

Muslim communities in Bali preserve the Megibung tradition—a communal dining custom—during Ramadan's Iftar meal. This cultural practice demonstrates how indigenous Balinese traditions blend with Islamic observance, reflecting the diverse religious heritage of Indonesia.

Megibung tradition during iftar among Bali's Muslim community

Bali's Muslim community observed the traditional Balinese communal dining practice of megibung during iftar at Baitul Makmur Mosque in Denpasar. The event, held during Ramadan, aimed to strengthen brotherhood and foster fellowship among Muslims by blending Islamic observance with local Balinese cultural traditions.

Two victims of sunken vessel in Donggala Regency declared missing

Two crew members of the KLM Nur Ainun Balqis, which sank in the Makassar Strait off Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi, have been declared missing after a seven-day search operation by a joint SAR team was called off. Three of the five people on board were rescued by local fishermen, whilst the search for the remaining two was hampered by uncertainty over the exact location where the vessel went down.

Bringing JKN Reactivation Services Closer to Border Communities

The 2026 update of Indonesia's National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) has resulted in approximately 2,000 residents in the border district of Natuna, Riau Islands, being reclassified to higher welfare categories, causing them to lose their government-subsidised national health insurance (JKN) coverage. Many affected residents contend their economic conditions have not genuinely improved, raising concerns about access to healthcare in one of Indonesia's most remote border regions.

Jakarta Food and Drug Agency Shares Tips on Choosing Safe Takjil During Ramadan

The Jakarta Centre for Food and Drug Control (BBPOM) has issued guidance for the public on selecting safe takjil — snacks traditionally consumed to break the fast — during Ramadan. The agency urged consumers to be more discerning before purchasing, prioritising food safety in their choices.

Overstay Status Uncovered After Foreign Woman Protests Quran Recitation Loudspeakers

A New Zealand woman identified as ML was found to have overstayed her visa after an incident in which she vandalised a prayer hall's microphone and threatened locals with machetes on Gili Trawangan, Lombok. The confrontation was sparked by her objection to loudspeakers used for tadarusan (communal Quran recitation) during Ramadan, and she has been taken to the immigration office for further investigation into her overstay status.

ASDP Introduces Discounts and Single Tariff Scheme for 2026 Lebaran Transport

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is offering a 100 per cent discount on port service charges — equivalent to roughly 21.9 per cent of total ticket prices — across seven major crossing routes during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period, with a stimulus budget of Rp 35.55 billion benefiting an estimated 2.4 million travellers.

MPR Speaker Muzani Urges Islamic Boarding School Students to Broaden Their Studies Beyond the Pesantren

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani attended an iftar gathering at the Asshiddiqiyah Islamic Boarding School in West Jakarta, where he encouraged students to take advantage of the digital era to expand their learning beyond religious studies. He emphasised that pesantren education provides foundational methodology, and urged students to pursue higher education — including overseas — to deepen their knowledge in both religious and secular disciplines.

House Commission X Condemns Brimob Officer's Fatal Assault on Madrasah Student, Demands Strict Punishment

The chair of House of Representatives Commission X has strongly condemned the fatal assault of a 14-year-old madrasah student by a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer in Tual, Maluku. Hetifah Sjaifudian demanded transparent legal proceedings and a comprehensive review of police use-of-force protocols, warning that impunity for such acts erodes public trust in state institutions.

Toraja Narcotics Unit Chief Allegedly Received Rp13 Million Weekly Payments from Drug Dealer

The South Sulawesi Police's Professional and Security Division is investigating allegations that the head of the North Toraja Police narcotics unit received weekly bribes of Rp13 million from a methamphetamine dealer. The officer and a subordinate have been detained following the arrest of a drug suspect found in possession of 100 grams of methamphetamine, who implicated the police officers during questioning.

Public Works Minister Inspects Planned Construction Sites in Jember

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo visited several sites in Jember, East Java, earmarked for infrastructure repair following flood damage and a new flyover construction. The 1.1-kilometre flyover at the Mangli intersection is planned to address increasing traffic volumes in the area.

Answering Blora's Hopes for Infrastructure Development

Blora Regent Arief Rohman has allocated over Rp 400 billion for road infrastructure in 2025, completing 103 vital road segments and bringing regional infrastructure development to nearly 70 per cent. The district is also supporting National Strategic Projects whilst facing challenges from central government budget efficiency cuts of nearly Rp 370 billion, prompting calls for additional central funding and investment schemes.

Collaboration and Breakthroughs in Luthfi-Yasin's First Year Leading Central Java

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi and Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maemoen have pursued a "collaborative government" approach in their first year, partnering with universities, businesses, investors and neighbouring provinces to deliver programmes in healthcare, education and poverty reduction. The province recorded 5.37 per cent economic growth in Q4 2025, exceeding the national average of 5.11 per cent, while investment realisation reached a ten-year high of Rp 88.50 trillion.

Andre Rosiade Distributes 1,000 Staple Food Packages: Following Gerindra Chairman's Directive

Gerindra politician Andre Rosiade distributed 1,000 staple food packages to residents of Pasir Lohong village in Pariaman, West Sumatra, as part of the party's 18th anniversary celebrations and pre-Ramadan assistance efforts. The initiative, which has seen some 65,000 packages distributed across West Sumatra, follows a directive from President and Gerindra Chairman Prabowo Subianto for all party cadres to serve the public.

One Year of Ahmad Luthfi – Taj Yasin's Leadership: Economy Grows, Poverty Declines

Central Java recorded 5.37 per cent economic growth in Q4 2025, surpassing the national average of 5.11 per cent, while investment realisation hit a ten-year high of Rp 88.50 trillion. The province's poverty rate fell from 9.48 per cent in March to 9.39 per cent in September 2025, though officials acknowledge further work is needed on human development indicators.

Jember's Resolve to Eliminate Extreme Poverty

Jember Regency has been grappling with extreme poverty for the past decade. Under the leadership of Regent Muhammad Fawait, poverty figures have declined over the past year through improvements to basic public services.

Deputy Defence Minister Acknowledges Deployment of 8,000 TNI Troops to Gaza Not Yet Scheduled

Indonesia's Deputy Defence Minister Donny Ermawan confirmed that 8,000 military personnel have been prepared for a peacekeeping mission in Gaza but no deployment schedule has been set following Indonesia's joining of the US-initiated Board of Peace.

Muzani: Indonesia Joins Board of Peace to Free Palestine from Israel's Grip

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani hailed Indonesia's participation in the Board of Peace (BoP) as a concrete diplomatic step towards Palestinian liberation, praising President Prabowo Subianto's bold diplomacy. Muzani also highlighted the positive outcomes of Prabowo's visit to Washington DC, including significant investment memoranda of understanding with the United States.

Spirit of Innovation in Balangan Regency Aligns with National Strategic Programmes

Balangan Regency in South Kalimantan has achieved notable governance milestones under Regent Abdul Hadi's second term, including top marks in public service indices and a decline in poverty rates. The regency's innovative programmes — ranging from zero-interest MSME loans to education grants — have earned it the highest National Regional Innovation Index and the Most Innovative Regency award at the 2025 Innovative Government Award.

Robinsar-Fajar Repair Cilegon's Fiscal Health and City Landscape

Cilegon Mayor Robinsar and Deputy Mayor Fajar Hadi Prabowo have turned an inherited budget deficit into an Rp 80 billion surplus in their first year by rationalising spending and correcting Rp 110 billion in overstated revenue. The pair are also tackling hundreds of billions in third-party arrears whilst pursuing urban renewal, social welfare programmes, and economic empowerment initiatives in Indonesia's fourth-largest GDP-contributing city.

Racing to Fix Decrepit Roads

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has dramatically ramped up road rehabilitation spending from Rp 400 billion to over Rp 2 trillion, repairing 474 km of roads in one year under the "Jalan Leucir" programme. The initiative targets the notorious Parung Panjang route, dubbed the "Death Road" where at least 213 people have died, and aims to achieve 95.5 per cent road serviceability across the province by 2027 whilst preparing Rp 4.

Commission III to Oversee Stepmother Child Murder Case in Sukabumi

The chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission III has pledged to oversee the case of a 12-year-old child allegedly killed by her stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java, through to trial. The commission condemned the abuse and urged police to pursue charges under the Child Protection Act, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years' imprisonment.

BPJS Kesehatan Denpasar Office Reports Vandalism Case to Police

The BPJS Kesehatan branch office in Denpasar, Bali, was vandalised by unknown perpetrators who threw stones and hung protest banners, allegedly in connection with the deactivation of subsidised health insurance for nearly 38,000 low-income residents across three districts.

From Military Barracks to New Classrooms: The Spirit of Gapura Panca Waluya

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has partnered with the Indonesian military (TNI) in the Gapura Panca Waluya programme to reform the character of students in the province. The initiative targets youths previously involved in motorcycle gangs and street brawls, transforming them into disciplined and well-mannered individuals through military-style training.

Lampung's Milestones of Progress Towards a Golden Indonesia

Lampung Governor Mirza and Deputy Governor Jihan are accelerating the province's development through three key missions: strengthening the village-based economy, improving human resource quality, and transforming government services. The initiatives align with the broader national vision of achieving a "Golden Indonesia."

Brawijaya University Researcher: Crackdown on Illegal Cigarettes Must Be Completed

A senior researcher at Brawijaya University warns that failure to tackle illegal cigarettes will continue to suppress Indonesia's tobacco excise sector, with legal cigarette production falling 3 per cent in 2025 and excise revenue missing its target by nearly 8 per cent.

Mojokerto's Waste Management Model Showcased in Japan

Mojokerto Mayor Ika Puspitasari presented the city's waste management achievements at the invitation of Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, highlighting a 40 per cent reduction in waste generation and a 42 per cent recovery rate. The East Java city, which has served as a pilot project for a Japanese consortium over the past three years, plans to establish a refuse-derived fuel facility to further advance its circular economy approach.

Banyuwangi Moves Swiftly to Implement ASRI Programme

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani has declared the launch of the Banyuwangi ASRI programme, accelerating President Prabowo Subianto's national initiative for a Safe, Healthy, Clean and Beautiful Indonesia.

Igniting Hope to the Farthest Corners of Bogor

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto and Deputy Regent Ade Ruhandi are working to maintain hope for the district's 5.7 million residents amid extreme regional disparities. The leadership pair is focused on bold decision-making and building public trust to address inequality across the vast regency.

Maluku Police Confirm Expedited Dishonourable Discharge for Brimob Officer Who Assaulted Minor

Maluku Regional Police are fast-tracking the dishonourable discharge of a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer accused of fatally assaulting a 14-year-old boy during a patrol in Tual City. An ethics hearing was scheduled for Monday, with criminal case files expected to be handed to prosecutors by midweek, as the police chief emphasised zero tolerance for violence by officers.

The Moving Story of Titin, a Disabled Quran Teacher Who Refuses to Surrender to Circumstance

Titin Maryatin, a disabled woman from Kroya Village in Indramayu, West Java, dedicates her life to teaching Quran recitation from her modest home despite her physical limitations. Her story highlights the resilience of individuals with disabilities in rural Indonesia and the grassroots role of community religious education.

Breaking Down Barriers: Truly Becoming the People's House

Bandung City Council Chairman Asep Mulyadi has launched initiatives to transform the local parliament into an accessible "People's House," including the 'DPRD Listens' programme and digitalised public complaints channels. He highlighted persistent poverty and unemployment in Bandung whilst pushing for budget transparency, food self-sufficiency, and stronger regulations to support local SMEs in modern retail spaces.

Iran says indirect negotiations with US to continue in March

An anonymous senior Iranian official has indicated that indirect talks between Iran and the United States are expected to resume in early March, with the possibility of an interim agreement. The two sides remain divided over the scope and mechanism of US sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme, though Tehran has signalled willingness to consider measures such as exporting enriched uranium stockpiles and reducing enrichment levels.

Nabire Gold Mine Attacked by Armed Separatist Group, 198 People Evacuated

Armed separatist fighters led by Aibon Kogoya attacked a gold mining security post operated by PT Kristalin in Nabire, Central Papua, killing two people and prompting the evacuation of 198 individuals including 26 Chinese nationals. Security forces remain on high alert, with further sweeping operations planned to locate and evacuate miners still believed to be in the area.

Pekanbaru More Advanced and Sustainable

Under the leadership of Mayor Agung Nugroho and Deputy Mayor Markarius Anwar, Pekanbaru has recorded structured progress exceeding its targets. The achievements are serving as a foundation for the city's ongoing transformation towards becoming cleaner, healthier, more competitive, and sustainable.

OJK and Baznas Strengthen Financial Literacy for One Thousand Orphans in Malang

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Malang has partnered with the National Zakat Agency (Baznas) to deliver financial literacy education to one thousand orphans and underprivileged individuals as part of the GERAK Syariah programme during Ramadan. The initiative, attended by the Mayor of Malang and senior officials from Bank Indonesia and Baznas, aims to equip vulnerable youth with basic financial management skills and introduce them to Islamic financial products.

MPR Speaker Says Pesantren Students Have Greater Opportunity for Intensive Learning

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani stated that Islamic boarding school (pesantren) students have a unique advantage for more intensive learning due to their residential study environment. Speaking during a Ramadan Safari visit to Pondok Pesantren Asshiddiqiyah in Jakarta, Muzani urged students to maximise their opportunities by studying beyond religious subjects, noting that the pesantren's alumni have gone on to hold various professional and public positions.

Prakarsa: Building with Data and Concrete Action

The City of Bandung is undergoing a fundamental shift in its approach to urban development, moving away from top-down grand plans towards data-driven, community-centred initiatives. This new paradigm prioritises honest data, direct observation, and everyday dialogue with residents as the foundation for development policy.

Lawmaker Samuel Wattimena Urges Sepak Takraw Athletes in Kendal to Excel Academically

Indonesian House of Representatives member Samuel Wattimena called on young sepak takraw athletes in Kendal, Central Java, to pursue academic excellence alongside their sporting achievements during a Four Pillars socialisation event. The Citra Kartika club, established in 1983, boasts around 100 athletes and has produced national team members who won gold at the Cambodia SEA Games.

Badung Regency Advances Through Sapta Kriya Adi Cipta Programme

Badung Regency in Bali has outlined its first-year achievements under Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa, centred on the Sapta Kriya Adi Cipta programme that addresses traffic congestion, waste management, clean water supply, and education. Key infrastructure projects include four new road sections and an undersea water distribution pipeline from Estuary WTP to Nusa Dua, which has increased water distribution capacity from 420 to 490 litres per second.

Lalampa, a favourite iftar dish, granted communal intellectual property protection

Lalampa, a traditional delicacy from North Maluku widely consumed during Ramadan iftar, has been officially registered as communal intellectual property under the geographical indication of origin category from the Sula Islands. The registration by the Directorate General of Intellectual Property under the Ministry of Law reflects broader efforts to protect Indonesia's traditional foods and cultural heritage through formal legal frameworks.

Malinau Regent Wempi Aligns National Strategic Programmes to Build a Superior Generation

Malinau Regent Wempi Wellem Mawa outlines five flagship programmes — compulsory education, the Village Graduate scheme, Millennial Independence, Healthy Agriculture, and Smart Government — that have driven the North Kalimantan district to achieve zero extreme poverty for two consecutive years.

String of Police Officers Ensnared in Drug Cases, from Regional Chiefs to Unit Heads

A growing number of Indonesian National Police officers have been implicated in drug trafficking and abuse cases, ranging from regional police chiefs to narcotics unit heads. Recent arrests include a narcotics unit chief in North Toraja who allegedly received weekly payments from drug networks, adding to high-profile cases involving a former regional police chief sentenced to life imprisonment and another officer sentenced to death for facilitating an international drug syndicate.

Deputy Creative Economy Minister: Lunar New Year Festival Showcases Nation's Harmonious Diversity

Deputy Creative Economy Minister Irene Umar stated that the Lunar New Year Festival 2577 — Harmoni Imlek Nusantara — aims to highlight Indonesia's harmonious diversity, with the event coinciding with Ramadan to foster interfaith reflection.

CSIS: Through Board of Peace, Indonesia Could Play Role in Advancing Two-State Solution

A senior CSIS researcher argues that Indonesia should leverage its significant troop contribution to the Gaza International Stabilisation Force to gain greater influence within the US-led Board of Peace in pushing for a two-state solution for Palestine.

Saraswati Fellowship Graduates 30 Women After Three-Month Mentorship Programme

The Saraswati Fellowship, initiated by parliamentarian Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo, has graduated 30 women from across Indonesia after a three-month mentorship programme designed to prepare them for senior leadership roles.

Indef: Investors Will Shift to Safe Assets Amid Tariff Uncertainty

The head of Indef's Macroeconomics and Finance Centre warns that global investors are likely to move funds into safe-haven assets such as US government bonds and the US dollar as American tariff policies generate heightened policy uncertainty.

ART with the US: Malaysia and Indonesia Closely Guard Halal Standards

Malaysia and Indonesia have affirmed that halal standards will not be compromised in the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) negotiations with the United States. Both nations have stressed that trade cooperation must not undermine their established halal certification frameworks.

Revealed: New Zealand National Who Rampaged at Gili Trawangan Prayer Hall Found to Have Overstayed Visa

A New Zealand woman who vandalised a prayer hall on Gili Trawangan and threatened locals with a machete has been found to have overstayed her visit visa, according to North Lombok police. The incident, which went viral on social media, occurred when the woman protested against loudspeakers used for Quran recitation during Ramadan, and she has since been taken to the immigration office for further examination.

Six Villages in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara Hit by Floods, Main Roads Turned into Rivers

Six villages across the Sanggar and Tambora subdistricts of Bima Regency in West Nusa Tenggara were struck by severe flooding after two consecutive days of heavy rainfall. Hundreds of homes, public facilities including schools and a mosque, were submerged, whilst provincial roads were inundated with mud and debris, with one road effectively transformed into a river after its embankment eroded.

Food Prices Remain High at Start of Ramadan, Eggs and Chilli Continue to Rise

Food prices at traditional markets in Cirebon have yet to decline as Ramadan begins, with eggs and chilli among the commodities still seeing increases. The persistently high prices are burdening consumers and reducing turnover for itinerant vegetable vendors, highlighting ongoing food affordability concerns during the fasting month.

Probolinggo Regent Personally Leads Flood Response Across Five Sub-districts

Probolinggo Regent Mohammad Haris and Deputy Regent Fahmi AHZ personally led flood response efforts across five sub-districts following extreme rainfall that caused some of the worst flooding in the regency's recent history. The disaster, which struck the regency capital of Kraksaan and surrounding areas, swept away children in Sidodadi Village, Paiton, while authorities coordinated cross-sector assessments before distributing emergency food reserves to affected families.

BNSP urges Indonesian Students Association Worldwide to actively integrate national certification

Indonesia's National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP) has called on the Indonesian Students Association Worldwide (PPI Dunia) to play an active role in integrating internationally recognised certifications with national standards. BNSP Chairman Syamsi Hari emphasised the importance of competency awareness among young Indonesians and highlighted the organisation's potential to identify popular overseas certifications not yet widely known in Indonesia.

YPMAK Empowers Community Economy Through Village Working Group Programme

The Amungme and Kamoro Community Empowerment Foundation (YPMAK), which manages PT Freeport Indonesia's partnership funds, is driving economic empowerment for indigenous Papuan communities through its Village Working Group (Pokja) programme. The programme encompasses 91 working groups across coastal, urban, and highland areas of Mimika, targeting the Amungme, Kamoro, and five other Papuan tribes as beneficiaries.

Meunasah in Aceh Besar Provides 200 Packets of Traditional Acehnese Porridge Daily During Ramadan

A village prayer hall in Aceh Besar's Kuta Baro district is upholding a generations-old tradition by preparing around 200 packets of ie bu peudah, a spicy Acehnese porridge, daily throughout Ramadan for communal iftar. The tradition, sustained entirely through community donations and voluntary cooking shifts, highlights the enduring role of the meunasah as a centre of social and cultural life in rural Aceh.

On Prabowo's Instructions, Gerindra North Sumatra Distributes 1,000 Takjil Packages Daily

The Gerindra Party's North Sumatra branch is distributing 1,000 packages of takjil (breaking-fast snacks) and boxed meals daily throughout Ramadan, following directives from party chairman Prabowo Subianto. The programme, centred at the provincial party office and replicated across district-level branches, is presented as a demonstration of the party's social commitment during the holy month.

Government Holds National Lunar New Year Festival with Free Film Screenings and Health Checks

The Indonesian government staged its inaugural National Lunar New Year Festival at Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta, featuring free health screenings, film previews, and an open museum on Chinese-Indonesian cultural integration.

Formasi Proposes Regulatory Relaxation for Tobacco Industry

The Forum of Indonesian Tobacco Industry Communities (Formasi) has called on the government to relax regulations governing the tobacco products industry while cracking down on illegal cigarette circulation, arguing this would better boost state excise revenue than legalising illicit operators.

OKU Disaster Agency Clears Landslide Debris from Gunung Meraksa Village Road

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Ogan Komering Ulu regency in South Sumatra has completed clearing landslide debris that blocked a key road linking two sub-districts after heavy rainfall. No casualties were reported, and authorities have deployed early warning signs whilst urging motorists to remain vigilant against further landslides.

Police Chief: TNI-Police Evacuate 198 People from Kali Musairo Mining Site

Indonesian security forces evacuated 198 people, including 26 Chinese nationals, from a gold mining site in Nabire, Central Papua, following a deadly attack by an armed separatist group. The assault on PT Kristalin's security post, led by Aibon Kogoya, killed two people, prompting further sweep operations to locate remaining miners in the area.

Thailand Sinks Malaysian Vessel After It Rammed Patrol Ship

The Royal Thai Navy fired warning shots at a Malaysian trawler that attempted to ram a patrol vessel after being caught fishing illegally in Thai territorial waters near Lipe Island. The trawler subsequently sank, injuring one crew member, while two others were detained — all three were revealed to be Thai nationals working under contract in Malaysia.

Pakistani air strikes reported in Afghan territory

Pakistan launched air strikes across multiple districts in eastern and southeastern Afghanistan on Sunday, claiming to target seven Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and ISKP camps in retaliation for recent suicide bombings. The Afghan government condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty, reporting civilian casualties including women and children, whilst Pakistan urged the interim Afghan government to prevent its territory being used as a base for terrorist operations.

Pondok Cina Station in Depok Changes Entry and Exit Routes, Rail Crossing No Longer Accessible

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Commuter has restructured passenger flow at Pondok Cina Station in Depok, rerouting access through a new second-floor entrance via an adjacent apartment building effective 21 February 2026. The change eliminates the dangerous pedestrian rail crossing between platforms, with the old eastern entrance permanently closed off, as part of efforts to improve passenger safety and comfort.

Congregants from across Aceh join Ramadan suluk worship for 1447 Hijri

Dozens of congregants from various districts across Aceh province are participating in the annual Ramadan suluk spiritual retreat at Dayah Darul Aman in Aceh Besar, though numbers have fallen from around 100 last year to 64 this year due to the impact of hydrometeorological disasters in late 2025.

Road severed by landslide in Malalak, Agam, West Sumatra now reconnected

The government has successfully reconnected a road in Malalak, Agam, West Sumatra, that was severed by a landslide in late November 2025, with PT Hutama Karya Infrastruktur carrying out the reconstruction of the more than 300-metre stretch. The road, which serves as an alternative route between Padang and Bukittinggi, has not yet been opened to the public as construction work continues.

Government responds to Australia's measles notification from Indonesian travel history

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has acknowledged Australia's notification of a measles case linked to travel from Bandung, involving an 18-year-old Australian citizen with complete prior vaccinations who tested positive in Perth on 8 February 2026. Authorities are conducting epidemiological investigations and intensifying surveillance in West Java as measles remains a significant health concern, with 9,760 confirmed cases recorded in Indonesia during 2025.

Landslide in Tasikmalaya Severs Road Linking Two Subdistricts

A landslide triggered by heavy rainfall struck Kampung Daleum in Tasikmalaya Regency, West Java, severing the road connecting Sukarame and Tanjungjaya subdistricts. The collapse, spanning approximately 30 metres in height and 50 metres in width, has forced residents to take lengthy detours while joint emergency teams work to clear the debris.

2026 Lunar New Year Festival Features Open Museum and SMEs

The Indonesian government is staging its inaugural National Lunar New Year Festival 2026 at Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta, aiming to attract up to 10,000 visitors. The event is positioned as a cultural preservation effort that also strengthens national unity and supports small and medium enterprises.

Women's Empowerment Ministry Coordinates on Child Killed by Brimob Officer in Maluku

Indonesia's Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection is coordinating with local authorities following the death of a 14-year-old boy allegedly assaulted by a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer in Tual, Maluku. The officer, identified as First Private MS, has been named a suspect and faces up to 15 years' imprisonment under the Child Protection Act after reportedly striking the victim with a tactical helmet during a patrol operation.

Brimob Bomb Squad Secures National Chinese New Year Celebration in Central Jakarta

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Mobile Brigade (Brimob) bomb disposal unit conducted a thorough security sweep at the Grand Sahid Jaya Hotel ahead of the national celebration of Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili. The sterilisation operation found no suspicious objects or hazardous materials, with authorities emphasising their commitment to ensuring the safety of religious events across the capital.

Gohu ikan in high demand during Ramadan iftar

The traditional North Maluku dish gohu ikan — raw fish served with sago and boiled cassava — sees surging demand during Ramadan as a popular iftar food. The North Maluku regional office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights has urged communities and government bodies to protect this traditional knowledge through communal intellectual property registration to prevent it from being lost or claimed by outside parties.

South Korea Protests Japan's 'Takeshima Day' Event over Disputed Islands

South Korea has lodged a formal protest against Japan's Takeshima Day ceremony held by Shimane Prefecture, demanding its immediate cancellation and summoning a senior Japanese diplomat in Seoul. The disputed Dokdo/Takeshima islands remain a persistent source of bilateral tension rooted in Japan's colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula, with the territory sitting atop potentially vast natural gas hydrate reserves worth billions of dollars.

Monas Receives 2,837 Visitors on First Sunday of Ramadan

The National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta welcomed 2,837 visitors on the first Sunday of Ramadan, with Chinese tourists comprising the largest group of foreign visitors. The monument continues to operate during the fasting month on adjusted hours, opening Tuesday to Sunday while closing on Mondays for maintenance.

Central Lombok Police Hunt Snatch Theft Suspect Who Targeted Chinese National

Police in Central Lombok are investigating a snatch theft targeting a Chinese national in the Kuta village area near the Mandalika tourism zone. The victim, identified as Rui Bao, had a bag containing a passport, cash, Chinese residence ID and SIM card snatched by a motorcyclist on Saturday evening, prompting authorities to increase patrols across the tourist district.

Issuers with Less Than 15% Free Float to Receive Special Notation

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) will enforce a minimum free float requirement of 15% for listed companies with a two-year transition period, marking non-compliant issuers with special notations to help retail investors identify stocks with lower liquidity. Companies that fail to meet the standard face delisting from the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The policy is part of broader capital market reforms aimed at improving market quality and global competitiveness.

Police Officer Dies at South Sulawesi Regional Police Barracks: Teenage Non-Commissioned Officer, Father Holds Aipda Rank

A 19-year-old police officer, Bripda DP, died after allegedly suffering violence at the hands of senior officers at the Samapta Directorate barracks of the South Sulawesi Regional Police. The Internal Affairs division is investigating the incident and has questioned six officers so far, with the victim's body transferred to Bhayangkara Hospital in Makassar to determine the cause of death.

Deputy Defence Minister: Siri' Na Pacce Values as a Source of National Strength

Deputy Defence Minister Donny Ermawan highlighted the Bugis-Makassar philosophy of Siri' Na Pacce as a powerful foundation for national defence awareness, speaking at a Ramadan Leadership Camp in Makassar. South Sulawesi recorded a high National Defence Index score of 3.632 in 2025, though Ermawan urged further efforts to instil these values among the younger generation. He also stressed the strategic role of civil servants in maintaining national unity amid political dynamics.

National Nutrition Agency Clarifies Social Media Rumours About Free Nutritious Meal Distribution During Sahur

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has denied social media claims that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme would be distributed during sahur (pre-dawn meal) throughout Ramadan. The agency confirmed the information circulating online is inaccurate, moving to set the record straight on the government's flagship nutrition programme amid widespread speculation on social media.

US Tariff Direction Not Yet Final, Indonesia Must Exercise Caution

The United States' tariff policy towards multiple countries, including Indonesia, is assessed as still evolving and not yet fully finalised. The Indonesian government has been urged to exercise caution and avoid rushing its response to the shifting trade dynamics.

Maintaining Economic Momentum by Strengthening the People's Purchasing Power

Indonesia's economy grew 5.11 per cent in 2025, with GDP per capita surpassing US$5,000 for the first time, yet questions persist about whether these macroeconomic gains translate into real improvements for ordinary citizens. The article argues that sustaining growth requires deliberate policies to bolster household purchasing power, particularly given the dominance of informal employment and the vulnerability of lower-income groups to rising prices.

Commission III Member Urges Law Enforcement to Exercise Caution in 2-Tonne Methamphetamine Smuggling Case

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission III from the PKB faction, Abdullah, has called on law enforcement to exercise greater care in handling the case of Fandi Ramadhan, a 26-year-old crew member from Medan facing the death penalty in connection with a 2-tonne methamphetamine smuggling case. The legislator's intervention highlights parliamentary scrutiny over the proportionality of sentencing for lower-ranking individuals caught up in major narcotics trafficking operations.

Festive Celebrations Welcome Ramadan 1447 Hijriah Across the Nation

Communities across Indonesia's major islands are marking the arrival of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah with diverse cultural traditions, from Java's Dugderan festival — this year celebrated as a symbol of interfaith harmony — to Kalimantan and Sulawesi's Tarhib and Koko'o parades. Despite ongoing post-disaster recovery efforts in Aceh and North Sumatra, residents there continue to uphold their traditional cattle-slaughtering customs, demonstrating resilience amid adversity.

HKI confirms Malalak Road not yet open to public following disaster

State-owned contractor PT Hutama Karya Infrastruktur has confirmed that the Malalak Road in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, remains closed to the general public despite being passable by motorcycles following flash floods. The company has deployed multiple excavators to accelerate road repairs, while warning motorists not to use the Malalak route as an alternative to the also-closed Lembah Anai Road in Tanah Datar Regency.

Prabowo, LPDP, State Investment, and the Nationalism Crisis

The controversy surrounding LPDP scholarship alumna Dwi Sasetyaningtyas, who publicly suggested her children need not be Indonesian citizens, has exposed a nationalism crisis and prompted calls for a total overhaul of the state scholarship body's screening and monitoring systems. With LPDP managing Rp180.

Ramadan Safari in Cirebon: Saan Pushes to Strengthen NasDem-Pesantren Synergy

NasDem Party Deputy Chairman and Deputy Speaker of the House Saan Mustopa visited a historic Islamic boarding school in Cirebon as part of the party's 2026 Ramadan Safari programme. He praised the pesantren's role in producing quality human resources and called for deeper collaboration between NasDem and Islamic educational institutions, underscoring the party's strategy to strengthen ties with religious communities ahead of future political contests.

Bantul proposes 60 schools to Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education for revitalisation

Bantul regency in Yogyakarta has proposed 60 schools — 42 primary and 18 junior secondary — to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education for revitalisation in 2026, citing deteriorating conditions and inadequate facilities. The proposals, coordinated with the regional planning agency, prioritise severely damaged schools, building on a 2025 programme that covered 43 institutions including kindergartens.

Government Explains BPOM's Role in Indonesia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement

The Indonesian government has denied that the Indonesia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART), signed on 19 February 2026, will weaken the National Agency of Drug and Food Control's (BPOM) oversight of American products.

Police: Permanent Housing Construction in Aceh Tamiang Reaches 45 Per Cent Progress

Construction of 150 permanent housing units for victims of hydrometeorological disasters in Simpang Kanan, Aceh Tamiang Regency, has reached 45 per cent completion, with land levelling at 80 per cent. The Aceh Regional Police chief visited the site as part of the national police's commitment to ensuring timely delivery, with completion targeted before the end of the Eid al-Adha period so displaced residents can be relocated as soon as possible.

Deputy Creative Economy Minister calls Imlek Festival a step in promoting cultural wealth through diplomacy

Deputy Creative Economy Minister Irene Umar has described the Imlek Festival 2577–Harmoni Imlek Nusantara as a platform for showcasing Indonesia's cultural wealth and top creative economy talent on the world stage. The festival, running from 17 February to 3 March 2026 in Jakarta, features an Indonesia Wave x K-Pop collaboration highlighting the growing cultural diplomacy between Indonesia and South Korea in the creative industries.

From ASRI to Strengthening Food Security

President Prabowo Subianto's ASRI (Safe, Healthy, Clean, Beautiful) movement, introduced during the Indonesia Economic Outlook 2026 address, is positioned not merely as an environmental cleanliness campaign but as a foundational framework linking ecological health to national food sovereignty. With Indonesia's rice production rising 13 per cent in 2025 yet rice imports having surged to 4.

98,000 teachers sit professional certification exam in Ministry of Religious Affairs' PPG Batch 4

Nearly 98,000 teachers under the Ministry of Religious Affairs participated in the Professional Teacher Education (PPG) Batch 4 knowledge examination, the final stage before obtaining educator certificates. The programme, aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's human development agenda, will qualify successful candidates for professional allowances, with civil servant teachers receiving one month's basic salary and non-civil servant teachers receiving Rp2 million per month.

Indonesian Embassy Records Surge in Returns of Citizens from Cambodia Online Scam Syndicates

The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh has facilitated the return of 692 citizens formerly trapped in online scam syndicates since late January 2026, with 462 returning in the past week alone. The crisis has escalated sharply, with 4,725 Indonesians reporting to the embassy since mid-January — nearly matching the entire 2025 caseload — prompting diplomatic engagement with Cambodian authorities and expectations of further increases ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

Magnitude 6 Earthquake Strikes Fiji Islands; BMKG Confirms No Tsunami Risk for Indonesia

A magnitude 6 earthquake struck the southern Fiji Islands at a depth of approximately 653 kilometres, triggered by the subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Australian Plate. Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the quake poses no tsunami threat to Indonesian territory and urged coastal communities to remain calm.

Khofifah Distributes Social Assistance to Thousands of Beneficiaries in Malang

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa distributed social assistance, business capital grants, gratuities, and zakat to thousands of beneficiaries in Malang Regency. The programme, funded entirely from the East Java provincial budget, targets vulnerable families, persons with disabilities, and social welfare workers, with the aim of stimulating economic independence and alleviating poverty.

Foreign Investors Show Strong Appetite for BBRI Shares

Foreign investors recorded significant net buying of PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI) shares on the Indonesia Stock Exchange on 20 February 2026, with Rp 404.4 billion in net purchases—the largest among all listed stocks that day. Brokerage Oso Sekuritas has included BBRI as a preferred stock pick for 2026, citing improving asset quality and a reversal of profit momentum, with a 12-month price target of Rp 4,230 per share as the market has passed its pessimistic low point.

House of Representatives Pledges to Oversee Case of Child Allegedly Killed by Stepmother in Sukabumi

The chairman of House Commission III, Habiburokhman, has vowed to oversee the case of a 12-year-old boy who died allegedly from abuse by his stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java. The commission condemned the incident and urged police to apply child protection laws carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years' imprisonment, while also calling for a thorough investigation into whether the abuse was sustained over time, which would constitute an aggravating factor.

Fatwa on the Use of Mosque Loudspeakers

The article discusses a religious fatwa concerning the use of loudspeakers at mosques, particularly in the context of Ramadhan activities such as communal Quran recitation (tadarus). The ruling addresses the regulation of sound amplification in places of worship, a recurring subject of public policy debate in Indonesia.

Police pledge transparency in handling case of Brimob officer allegedly beating student to death in Tual

Indonesia's National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has pledged full transparency in handling the case of a Brimob (Mobile Brigade) officer, Brigadier MS, who allegedly assaulted two students in Southeast Maluku, resulting in the death of a 14-year-old boy. The police have issued a formal apology for the officer's conduct, which they say contravenes institutional values, and have invited the victims' family and the public to monitor the legal proceedings.

GP Ansor Says Prabowo's Board of Peace Diplomacy Aims for a More Peaceful World

The chairman of Gerakan Pemuda Ansor (GP Ansor) has praised President Prabowo Subianto's participation in the Board of Peace, describing it as a calm yet firm diplomatic strategy that positions Indonesia as a bridge for dialogue in a divided world.

Government Says ART Opens Zero Per Cent Tariff Access and Boosts US Investment

The Indonesian government has outlined the benefits of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) between Indonesia and the United States for national exports and investment. The deal is considered to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesian products through zero per cent tariff access whilst encouraging greater American investment flows into the country.

Indonesia evacuates mining workers in Papua after armed attack

An armed attack by Aibon Kogoya's criminal group on a mining operation in Papua's Nabire district killed two workers, prompting authorities to evacuate over 75 employees, including 26 Chinese nationals. The incident underscores persistent security challenges threatening Indonesia's mining sector and foreign investment in resource-rich regions.

Government Denies All US Products Exempt from Halal Certification

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has clarified that the halal labelling and certification exemption agreed under the recent reciprocal trade deal with the United States does not apply to all American products. Food and beverages remain subject to mandatory halal certification, whilst exemptions cover cosmetics, medical devices, and manufactured goods, which must still meet safety and quality standards.

Islamic Educational Tourism: 75 Artefacts of Prophet Muhammad and Companions Exhibited in Bogor

An exhibition of 75 artefacts belonging to Prophet Muhammad and his companions is being held at the Laga Satria Building in Pakansari, Bogor Regency, serving as an Islamic educational tourism attraction. The display offers visitors the opportunity to view historical Islamic relics, combining religious heritage preservation with public education.

Dozens Killed in Pakistani Strikes on Seven Militant Targets in Afghanistan

Pakistan launched its most extensive cross-border air strikes since October's border clashes, targeting seven militant locations along the Afghan frontier in response to recent suicide bombings. Afghan authorities reported dozens of civilian casualties, including women and children, after strikes hit a madrasa and homes in Nangarhar and Paktika provinces. The escalation underscores the deepening security tensions between the two nations over militant safe havens in Afghan territory.

GP Ansor: Prabowo's Diplomacy at the Board of Peace for a More Peaceful World

The chairman of GP Ansor has praised President Prabowo Subianto's participation in the Board of Peace (BoP), describing it as a quiet yet firm diplomatic strategy positioning Indonesia as a bridge for dialogue in a divided world.

North Toraja Narcotics Unit Chief Arrested in Drug Case

The head of the narcotics unit at North Toraja Police, alongside a subordinate officer, has been arrested in connection with drug trafficking in the regency. The case emerged after a suspect caught with 100 grammes of methamphetamine revealed the officers had been receiving weekly payments of Rp 13 million since September 2025, prompting South Sulawesi's internal affairs division to launch a deeper investigation.

DPD Chairman Sultan: Prabowo's Trade Diplomacy Strengthens Koperasi Merah Putih Development

The Chairman of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD) has praised President Prabowo's trade diplomacy with the United States, which secured a reduction in export tariffs from a potential 32 per cent to 19 per cent, along with zero-tariff access for 1,819 strategic commodity lines.

Indonesian Military Builds Bailey Bridge in Bener Meriah to Accelerate Disaster Recovery

Indonesian military personnel deployed as part of the Natural Disaster Response Task Force are constructing a bailey bridge in Karang Rejo village, Bener Meriah regency, Aceh, to restore transport access severed by hydrometeorological disasters in late November 2025. The temporary bridge, being built during Ramadan by engineering battalions, is expected to revive local economic activity while authorities work towards a permanent replacement.

Expert says Indonesia increasingly recognised in global peace architecture

An international relations expert from Padjadjaran University argues that Indonesia's participation in the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington DC has elevated the country's standing in global peace architecture. The expert stressed that Indonesia must uphold transparency, accountability and advocacy principles in the board, whilst also recommending upgrades to the military's peacekeeping training centre in Sentul to meet world-class standards.

National Nutrition Agency: No Free Nutritious Meal Distribution During Sahur

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has denied viral social media claims that the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) would be distributed during pre-dawn sahur hours in Ramadan. The agency confirmed that MBG distribution during Ramadan is limited to Mondays and Thursdays between 08:00–09:00 and 11:00–12:00, with no distribution taking place during the first five days of the fasting month.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme During Ramadan: National Nutrition Agency Denies Sahur Distribution Claims

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has refuted claims that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme would be distributed during pre-dawn sahur hours throughout Ramadan. The agency clarified that during the fasting month, MBG distribution is limited to Mondays and Thursdays during daytime hours, with boarding schools and Islamic boarding schools receiving meals prepared during the day for consumption at iftar.

Aceh Police Accelerate Bridge Construction to Restore Access for 7,000 Residents

The Aceh Regional Police are fast-tracking construction of a bailey bridge to restore transport access for approximately 7,000 residents of Lhok Cut Village in North Aceh, cut off since hydrometeorological disasters struck in late November 2025. The bridge, provided with assistance from the National Police Chief, is critical for daily activities including education and the distribution of agricultural produce to urban markets.

Public Works Minister recommends four-lane flyover construction in Jember

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has advised Jember Regent Muhammad Fawait to build a four-lane flyover at the Mangli intersection to address long-term traffic congestion in the East Java regency. The central government is targeting a 2026 construction kick-off with an estimated three-year completion timeline, as local officials frame the project as critical infrastructure to attract investment and support Jember's industrialisation ambitions.

Forestry Ministry Reports Elephant Death Suspected from Electrified Wire in Aceh

A female Sumatran elephant, approximately 20 years old, was found dead in Aceh Tengah regency, suspected to have been killed by high-voltage electrified wire set up on a community plantation. The Aceh Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has secured the site and issued a stern warning against the dangerous practice of installing electrified wires, which threatens both wildlife and human safety.

LPDP Responds to Viral Content: 'It's Enough That I'm Indonesian, My Children Shouldn't Be'

Indonesia's Education Fund Management Institution (LPDP) has responded to a controversy surrounding viral content posted by one of its alumni, who boasted about securing foreign passports for her children with the provocative statement that being an Indonesian citizen was enough for her but not for her offspring.

Young Police Officer Dies in Suspected Assault by Senior at Makassar Barracks

A young police officer with the rank of Bripda, identified by the initials DP, has died in suspected assault by senior officers at the police barracks within the South Sulawesi Regional Police headquarters in Makassar. The Internal Affairs division is investigating after the victim's family discovered bruises and a bloodied mouth on the body, contradicting initial reports that the officer had merely fallen ill.

Tips for Choosing Safe Takjil During Ramadan

Jakarta's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BBPOM) has issued guidance on selecting safe takjil (breaking-fast snacks) during Ramadan, advising the public to avoid food with unusual odours or overly bright colours. The agency reported that 4.1 per cent of takjil samples tested in 2025 failed to meet safety standards and has begun intensified food surveillance ahead of the 2026 Ramadan season.

PDIP Legislator Calls for Public Awareness Campaign Before Motorcycle Mudik Ban

A PDIP legislator has urged the government not to rush a proposed ban on interprovincial motorcycle travel during the Lebaran mudik season, insisting that extensive public socialisation must come first. The proposal, raised during a House Commission V meeting with the Transport Minister, cited motorcycles as the cause of nearly 50 per cent of mudik-related accidents. The debate highlights tensions between road safety concerns and the deeply rooted cultural tradition of mudik homecoming.

The Brilliance of Majapahit During Europe's Age of Darkness

This essay contrasts the flourishing Majapahit Empire of 14th-century Southeast Asia with a Europe ravaged by the Hundred Years' War and the Black Death, arguing that Majapahit's dual leadership model produced a remarkably stable and prosperous maritime civilisation.

Amid Fiscal Pressures, Bandung Regent Fights for Part-Time PPPK Teacher Salaries

The Bandung Regency government has formally requested the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to permit Operational Assistance for Education Units (BOSP) funds to be used towards paying part-time PPPK teacher salaries. The move highlights the fiscal constraints faced by local governments in meeting their obligations to contract-based government employees in the education sector.

Ministry of Home Affairs Responds to Luwu Raya Province Demands: Moratorium Still in Effect

The Ministry of Home Affairs has stated that demands for the creation of a new Luwu Raya Province cannot be acted upon in the near term due to the ongoing moratorium on the establishment of new autonomous regions. The Director General of Regional Autonomy emphasised that any such proposal must follow established mechanisms and await central government policy decisions.

Riau Police Chief Issues Ramadan 2026 Decree: Firecrackers and Convoys Banned

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has issued a public order decree ahead of Ramadan 2026, banning firecrackers, street racing, and motorcycle convoys to ensure peaceful worship across the province. The decree invokes multiple laws including the 2009 Traffic Act and the 1951 Emergency Law on explosives, reflecting heightened law enforcement measures targeting youth delinquency and public disturbances during the fasting month.

Tanah Abang Visitor Surge Forecast for Early March 2026

Tanah Abang Block A market management expects a significant surge in visitors from 4 March through to the eve of Eid al-Fitr, potentially exceeding 30,000 daily visitors. Jakarta's Deputy Governor Rano Karno recently visited the market to ensure service readiness and crack down on illegal parking ahead of the Ramadan shopping peak.

Indonesia to Continue Levying VAT on US Companies under Reciprocal Trade Agreement

The Indonesian government has confirmed that the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States does not grant US companies any special tax exemptions, with VAT continuing to apply equally to all foreign firms. The non-discrimination clause ensures US companies receive the same tax treatment as those from other trading partners, preserving Indonesia's tax sovereignty whilst maintaining a competitive investment climate.

BPKH Reveals Hajj Management Funds Reach Rp180 Trillion, Optimal Benefits for Pilgrims Assured

Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has disclosed that funds under its management have reached Rp180 trillion, underscoring the scale of financial stewardship behind the annual pilgrimage. The agency affirmed that the value of benefits derived from these funds for pilgrims would be optimised.

House Commission VIII Monitors Distribution of PKH and Staple Food Social Assistance in Batam

House of Representatives Commission VIII conducted a working visit to Batam to oversee the distribution of social assistance totalling Rp75.4 billion across Riau Islands Province, including the Family Hope Programme (PKH) and staple food aid. The visit also examined social welfare services and protections for vulnerable groups, including approximately 14,000 vulnerable workers such as online motorcycle taxi drivers and boat operators.

Examining the Impact of the 15% Free Float Requirement: What Lies Ahead for Sharia Bank Issuers?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange is finalising regulations requiring a minimum 15 per cent public free float for listed companies. Sharia-compliant bank issuers, several of which currently have low public shareholding ratios, face significant pressure to divest shares or undertake corporate actions to meet the new threshold.

ICAISD 2025 Conference Proceedings Officially Indexed on IEEE Xplore, UBSI Strengthens Global Reputation

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has achieved international recognition with the publication of its ICAISD 2025 conference proceedings on IEEE Xplore, a prestigious global academic database. The achievement reinforces the university's position as a leading digital creative campus on the international stage.

Residents Complain Depok Baru Station Access Limited to Stairs: 'It's Suffocating'

Residents have highlighted the lack of accessibility at Depok Baru commuter rail station, where the only means of crossing between platforms is an underpass accessible solely by stairs, effectively excluding elderly passengers and persons with disabilities. Despite wheelchairs being available on each platform, they are rendered useless without lifts or ramps, prompting some commuters to switch to neighbouring stations altogether.

BI Holds Interest Rates: Optimal Investment Strategy for General Insurance

Bank Indonesia's decision to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 4.75% in February 2026 has been welcomed by the general insurance industry, with major insurers such as Jasindo and Aswata confirming no changes to their existing investment strategies. The sector's total investments reached Rp 131.43 trillion in 2025, with government securities (SBN) comprising the largest allocation at Rp 47.

Home Affairs Minister pushes for accelerated permanent housing in Pidie Jaya

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, heading the post-disaster rehabilitation task force for Sumatra, is pressing local government leaders to expedite data validation and construction of permanent housing for disaster-affected residents in Pidie Jaya, Aceh.

Indonesia-US Trade Agreement Still on Track Following US Supreme Court Ruling

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has confirmed that the bilateral trade agreement signed with the United States on 19 February 2026 remains in effect despite the US Supreme Court ruling striking down President Trump's global tariff policy as unconstitutional. Indonesia is seeking to preserve zero-tariff arrangements for key commodities including coffee, cocoa, palm oil, electronics, textiles, and footwear, while a 60-day consultation period proceeds.

MP describes police assault on teenager in Tual as brutal act

A member of the House of Representatives Commission III has condemned the fatal assault of a 14-year-old boy by a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer in Tual, Maluku, demanding criminal prosecution beyond mere dismissal. The incident occurred during a patrol when the officer allegedly struck the victim with a tactical helmet, causing fatal injuries. The lawmaker stressed that state apparatus must protect citizens, not harm them, and called for decisive legal action through civilian courts.

Five Bangladeshi Nationals Held Captive in Buleleng, Bali; One Escapes

Police in Buleleng, Bali are investigating the alleged kidnapping and unlawful detention of five Bangladeshi nationals in the Gerokgak area, after one victim managed to escape and file a report. The victims were reportedly lured with promises of employment in Australia before being bound, gagged with tape, and threatened with a knife at a hotel in Pemuteran.

PBSI Refreshes Men's Doubles Coaching Structure

Indonesia's Badminton Association (PBSI) has reshuffled its men's doubles coaching staff to maintain performance consistency and enhance team dynamics ahead of international competitions. The reorganisation sees Chafidz Yusuf and Thomas Indratjaja swap roles between the senior and development squads, combining elite-level experience with youth development expertise to strengthen regeneration efforts.

Police Detain Wrong-Way Motorcyclist Who Caused Fatal Accident in Bogor

Police in Bogor have detained a motorcyclist identified by the initials AF who was riding against traffic and caused a fatal collision in Cibinong, killing one person. The traffic enforcement unit is conducting an intensive investigation, collecting evidence including CCTV footage, whilst the vehicles involved have been impounded.

Wild elephant herd demolishes employee housing buildings in Siak, Riau

A herd of approximately 11 wild elephants entered an employee housing complex of PT Arara Abadi in Siak Regency, Riau, demolishing a security quarters wall and damaging three motorbikes. The Siak Police chief highlighted that the incursion reflects the growing overlap between wildlife habitats and human activity, calling for preventive measures rather than repressive action to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.

LPDP Alumna Proud Her Child Became Foreign Citizen: Deputy Minister Stella Responds

Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology Stella Christie responded to a viral video by an LPDP scholarship alumna who expressed pride in her child obtaining British citizenship, stating "it's enough that I'm Indonesian, my children shouldn't be." Stella emphasised that state-funded scholarships represent a moral debt to the nation, whilst cautioning that excessive restrictions on scholarship recipients could prove counterproductive.

Public Works Minister Pledges to Rebuild Bridge Destroyed by Flooding in Jember

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has committed to rebuilding an inter-village bridge in Pakusari, Jember, East Java, that was destroyed by flooding in late December 2025, using state budget funds. The minister announced a broader collaboration between central, provincial, and district governments to address 16 bridges and 50 dams in the region, alongside other infrastructure projects including road widening, a flyover, and market revitalisation.

House Commission III to Oversee Case of Sukabumi Boy Allegedly Killed by Stepmother

The chairman of House of Representatives Commission III has condemned the alleged fatal abuse of a 12-year-old boy in Sukabumi, reportedly at the hands of his stepmother. The commission has urged Sukabumi police to conduct a thorough investigation and pledged to monitor the case through to trial, with the perpetrator potentially facing up to 15 years' imprisonment under Indonesia's Child Protection Act.

Australian Nationals Contract Measles After Visiting Indonesia, Health Ministry Responds

Indonesia's Health Ministry has confirmed receiving an official notification from Australian health authorities regarding a measles case linked to travel from Indonesia, and is coordinating with Australia and WHO Indonesia on the matter.

Cinnamon bark trade begins recovery following disaster in Agam, West Sumatra

The cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum burmannii) trade in Agam, West Sumatra, has begun to recover over the past month after flash floods and landslides in late November 2025 severed key road links. Sales to Asian and European export markets are gradually resuming as damaged road sections connecting the producing areas are reconnected.

The Cleric Who Transformed a Den of Vice into Samarinda's Oldest Centre of Worship

The article recounts the history of Masjid Shirathal Mustaqiem, Samarinda's oldest mosque, and the transformation of its surrounding neighbourhood from a notorious vice district into a centre of Islamic worship in the late 19th century. The change is attributed to Said Abdurachman bin Assegaf, an Arab-descended nobleman and merchant from the Pontianak Sultanate, who settled in the area and dedicated himself to Islamic proselytisation along the strategic trade routes of East Kalimantan.

Semarang City Government and Residents Collaborate to Clean Jaten River

The Semarang city government joined forces with residents, military personnel, schools, and community groups to clear accumulated rubbish from the Jaten River in Pudak Payung as part of National Waste Awareness Day. Mayor Agustina Wilujeng said the collaborative clean-up was an anticipatory measure during the rainy season, as debris blocking waterways beneath bridges has been a key contributor to flooding in the area.

MUI: Avoid Buying US Products with Unclear Halal Status

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged the public to avoid purchasing American products that lack clear halal certification, emphasising that Indonesia's halal product guarantee law is non-negotiable.

Malalak Farmers Urge Government to Address Cinnamon Selling Prices

Cinnamon farmers in Malalak, Agam Regency, West Sumatra, are calling on the government to regulate and improve the selling price of their produce, which currently fetches only Rp30,000–40,000 per kilogramme despite being an export commodity reaching markets in Malaysia and Europe. The farmers, who depend on cinnamon as their primary livelihood, note that trees require 8–15 years to mature, yet economic pressures force premature harvesting, further depressing prices.

Pertamina Papua Educates Community on Nutrition to Prevent Stunting Through Local Foods

Pertamina Patra Niaga's Jayapura Integrated Terminal has launched a CSR programme providing nutrition education based on local Papuan foods to posyandu volunteers and community members as part of stunting prevention efforts.

Sumedang Police: Suspect Used Airsoft Gun in Violent Robbery in Girimukti

Police in Sumedang, West Java, have uncovered new evidence that an airsoft gun was used in a violent robbery that killed a man in Girimukti on Sunday morning. The victim, who had left home after the pre-dawn meal to sell a mobile phone in a cash-on-delivery transaction, was found with stab wounds and an airsoft projectile still lodged in his head. The Sumedang police criminal investigation unit is coordinating with the West Java provincial police to expedite the case.

Traces of Community Solidarity in Cirebon Through a Bowl of Ramadan Porridge

In the historic Arab Quarter of Panjunan in Cirebon, West Java, a centuries-old Ramadan tradition endures as residents prepare and distribute one hundred portions of harisah — a Middle Eastern-origin porridge made with coconut milk and goat meat — to the local community before the evening call to prayer. The practice, carried out from a weathered colonial-era house, exemplifies how culinary traditions of Arab descent have become woven into the cultural fabric of Cirebon across generations.

KH Zainur Arifin: From Commander of the Santri to National Hero

The article profiles KH Zainul Arifin Pohan, a senior Nahdlatul Ulama cleric and politician who commanded the Hizbullah militia of Islamic boarding school students during Indonesia's independence struggle. Wounded by a stray bullet during an assassination attempt on President Sukarno at Eid al-Adha prayers in 1962, he died ten months later and was posthumously declared a National Hero by presidential decree in 1963.

Pertamina Patra Niaga ensures One Price fuel supply to Krayan remains secure

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that One Price fuel supplies to the remote border region of Krayan in North Kalimantan remain secure and normal following a previous cargo plane incident. The state energy firm resumed deliveries using an Air Tractor AT-802 aircraft to distribute Pertalite to the frontier fuel station, whilst also accelerating energy distribution efforts ahead of Ramadan.

KPAI: Violence Against Child Allegedly by Stepmother in Sukabumi Constitutes Filicide

Indonesia's Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has classified the death of a 12-year-old child, allegedly abused by their stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java, as a case of filicide. The commission highlighted that filicide falls under the category of severe domestic violence, driven by factors including economic stress, jealousy, anxiety, and poor emotional regulation by parents.

Indonesia's megadiversity poised to become world cultural hub

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has positioned Indonesia as a potential global cultural center, citing its 1,340 ethnic groups and vast prehistoric heritage spanning 60,000 to 70,000 years. He introduced the "Out of Nusantara" concept to emphasise Indonesia's role in human migration history, whilst highlighting the nation's historical tolerance and religious harmony as exemplified by well-preserved Hindu and Buddhist temples maintained by the Muslim majority.

Health Ministry responds to measles notification involving foreign national who travelled from Indonesia

Indonesia's Health Ministry has received an official notification from Australian health authorities regarding a measles case in an Australian national who travelled from Indonesia. The ministry is coordinating with Australia and WHO Indonesia whilst conducting epidemiological investigations in West Java, with no additional linked cases found so far. Indonesia recorded 9,760 confirmed measles cases in 2025 and 269 cases up to February 2026, though no national outbreak has been declared.

FedEx: US Tariff Policies Driving Foreign Companies to Relocate to Indonesia

FedEx Indonesia's Managing Director Garrick Thompson says US tariff policies are prompting foreign firms, particularly those previously based in China, to relocate or expand operations to Indonesia.

Andre Rosiade: Indonesia to Maintain Halal Certification for US Food and Beverage Products

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade has dismissed speculation that US products would be exempt from halal certification following a reciprocal trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States. The government confirmed that halal certification remains mandatory for all US food and beverage products entering Indonesia, whilst non-halal items must be clearly labelled to protect domestic consumers.

List of 12 Global Investment Firms That Met Prabowo in the US, From BlackRock to Bernstein

President Prabowo Subianto met with leaders of 12 major global investment firms collectively managing US$16 trillion in assets during his working visit to Washington DC on 20 February 2026. The nearly two-hour meeting, facilitated through BPI Danantara, explored strategic partnerships across technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, real estate, and the digital economy, with firms providing input on policy consistency, rule of law, and capital market development.

DKI Jakarta Councillor on Noisy Padel Courts: Must Be Taken Seriously

A DKI Jakarta councillor has urged authorities to seriously address residents' complaints about noise from padel courts in Cilandak, South Jakarta, questioning whether the facilities hold proper permits under the city's nuisance regulations. Governor Pramono Anung has directed relevant agencies to inspect the courts and pledged firm action early next week against facilities lacking complete permits and community approval.

Brawl Before Sahur: Six Students in Bogor Apprehended Carrying Stone-Filled Sarongs

Police in Cariu, Bogor, West Java, detained six secondary school students who were involved in a pre-dawn brawl during Ramadan, seizing a sarong filled with stones intended as a weapon. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about youth violence during late-night hours in the fasting month, with authorities urging parents and community leaders to more closely supervise children's activities.

PMI's Major Investment: Building Factories, Laboratories and Empowering Thousands of Workers

Philip Morris International has invested over USD 6.5 billion in Indonesia and remains optimistic about the country's long-term investment prospects. The tobacco giant employs more than 90,000 workers directly and indirectly, operates 52 production facilities, and has built ASEAN's first smoke-free alternative product factory in Karawang, West Java, alongside a research laboratory staffed by 200 Indonesian scientists.

House Commission XI Member Urges LPDP Alumni DS to Show Self-Awareness

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission XI has criticised a viral statement by an LPDP scholarship alumna who declared she would ensure her children obtain foreign citizenship rather than remain Indonesian. Melchias Markus Mekeng called the remarks unethical and demeaning to the nation, noting the scholarship was funded by Indonesian taxpayers through the state budget. The alumna has since issued a public apology on social media.

Police Officer in Makassar Dies After Alleged Assault by Senior at South Sulawesi Police Dormitory

A 19-year-old junior police officer, Bripda DP, died after allegedly being assaulted by a senior officer at the Samapta dormitory of the South Sulawesi Regional Police in Makassar. The Professional and Security Division (Propam) of South Sulawesi Police has launched an investigation, with six officers currently being questioned over the incident.

Minimise Conflict: Siak Police Urge Residents Not to Use Force Against Wild Elephants

Siak Police have called on residents and companies to refrain from aggressive action against wild elephants that entered a PT Arara Abadi employee housing compound in Riau's Minas district, damaging buildings and motorcycles. The police chief emphasised that the encroachment reflects shrinking wildlife habitats increasingly overlapping with human activity, urging preventive measures and coordinated monitoring to minimise human-wildlife conflict.

Brimob Officer Beats Child to Death, KPAI Calls It a Serious Violation

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has condemned the alleged fatal beating of a 14-year-old student by a Brimob (Mobile Brigade) officer in Tual, Maluku, demanding maximum criminal penalties and dishonourable discharge. KPAI characterised the violence as a constitutional violation, calling for a national review of use-of-force procedures involving children and full restitution for the victim's family.

Indonesia Condemns US Ambassador's Remarks That Israel Has Right to Most of Middle East

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a joint statement with several Middle Eastern nations condemning US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee's assertion that Israel has a right to most of the Middle East. The statement reaffirms that Israel holds no sovereignty over occupied Palestinian or Arab territories and warns that such remarks undermine peace efforts and contravene international law.

KPAI: Sukabumi Child's Death Allegedly at Hands of Stepmother Classified as Filicide

Indonesia's Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has classified the death of a 13-year-old boy in Sukabumi, allegedly abused by his stepmother, as a case of filicide. The commission revealed alarming national statistics, with 60 filicide cases recorded in 2024 and over 40 in 2025, and called for maximum criminal penalties for the perpetrator as well as broader community education to prevent domestic violence against children.

DMDI Indonesia Distributes 10,000 Aid Packages to Disaster-Affected Communities in Sumatra

Dunia Melayu Dunia Islam (DMDI) Indonesia, together with Artha Graha Peduli, has delivered humanitarian aid to 10,000 people affected by flash floods and landslides across Aceh Tamiang, North Sumatra and West Sumatra. The relief effort, which has been ongoing for over two months, includes cash assistance, essential supplies, and the cleaning of homes, places of worship and schools, timed to coincide with communal iftar events during Ramadan 1447 H.

Plight of Aceh Flood Victims: Too Embarrassed to Shelter with Relatives During Ramadan

Thousands of survivors of the November 2025 Sumatran floods in Aceh's Bener Meriah regency are forced to move between relatives' homes during Ramadan after their houses were destroyed, whilst awaiting completion of temporary shelters. With over 32,500 displaced persons across Aceh province and 1,411 homes damaged in Bener Meriah alone, local authorities report that 70 per cent of the 914 planned temporary shelters are now occupied, with full completion targeted for the following week.

Herd of Elephants Enters Employee Housing in Siak, Police Confirm No Casualties

A herd of eleven wild elephants entered the employee housing compound of PT Arara Abadi in Siak Regency, Riau, damaging a security quarters building and three motorcycles before retreating to the forest. The Siak Police Chief emphasised that the incident reflects growing human-wildlife conflict driven by shrinking elephant habitats overlapping with human activity, and called for preventive rather than repressive approaches.

House Commission X Chair Condemns Brimob Violence That Killed Student in Maluku

The Chair of House Commission X has strongly condemned the killing of a 14-year-old madrasah student by a mobile brigade (Brimob) officer during a patrol in Tual, Maluku, demanding transparent legal proceedings and zero impunity. The officer, identified as First Class Private MS, has been named a suspect under the Child Protection Law and the new National Criminal Code, facing up to 15 years' imprisonment.

National Synergy Accelerates Stunting Reduction: From Ramadhan Safari to Foster Parent Programmes

Indonesia is intensifying its national stunting reduction efforts through collaboration between local governments, the private sector, and national programmes. Entering 2026, various innovations ranging from Ramadhan Safari initiatives to foster parent schemes are being deployed across the archipelago to tackle childhood malnutrition.

Parents Praise Sekolah Rakyat Programme: 'Our Child's Development Has Been Remarkable'

Parents of students enrolled in the government's Sekolah Rakyat (People's School) boarding programme in Medan have praised the initiative for transforming their children's lives. The programme, linked to the Ministry of Social Affairs' Programme Keluarga Harapan (PKH), provides free education, meals, uniforms and boarding facilities for children from economically disadvantaged families, offering a pathway to break the cycle of poverty.

AGP builds environmental awareness culture through simultaneous clean-up campaign

Artha Graha Peduli (AGP) and the wider Artha Graha Group conducted a simultaneous clean-up drive across their operational areas to mark National Clean Day and National Waste Awareness Day 2026. The initiative, which included waste management partnerships and support for SMEs, aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Indonesia ASRI movement promoting safe, healthy, clean and beautiful environments.

Ministry of Social Affairs and Parliament Strengthen Protection for Human Trafficking Victims

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs and House Commission VIII conducted a working visit to a shelter in Batam to review protection services for victims of violence and human trafficking. The visit also confirmed the upgraded status of the Tanjungpinang Protection and Trauma Centre into an integrated service hub for border areas, alongside the disbursement of social rehabilitation assistance totalling millions of rupiah to beneficiaries.

Gold Mine in Nabire Attacked by Armed Criminal Group: 2 Dead, 26 Chinese Nationals Evacuated

An armed criminal group led by Aibon Kogoya attacked a gold mining site operated by PT Kristalin Nabire in Legari, Central Papua, killing two people whose identities have yet to be confirmed. A joint military-police team is evacuating workers, including 26 Chinese nationals, from the site, following an earlier evacuation of 75 people the previous day. The incident underscores the persistent security challenges facing mining operations in Papua's remote highland regions.

Tesla Held Liable for Autopilot-Related Crash

A federal judge in Miami has upheld a US$243 million jury verdict against Tesla over a fatal 2019 crash involving its Model S autopilot feature, marking the first federal jury ruling on a deadly autopilot-related accident. Tesla was found 33 per cent responsible for the collision that killed a 22-year-old woman and injured her partner, with the verdict comprising US$42.6 million in compensatory damages and US$200 million in punitive damages.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry Condemns US Ambassador's Statement That Israel May Occupy the West Bank

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry joined 14 Arab and Muslim nations, along with the OIC, Arab League, and GCC, in issuing a joint statement strongly condemning US Ambassador Mike Huckabee's remarks suggesting that Israeli occupation of the West Bank is acceptable. The joint statement warned that such provocative declarations violate international law, threaten regional stability, and contradict US President Donald Trump's own comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict.

Deputy Minister Stella on LPDP Alumni: Every State Scholarship Is a Debt of Gratitude

Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology Stella Christie has weighed in on a viral controversy involving an LPDP scholarship recipient who declared she would ensure her children hold foreign citizenship rather than Indonesian. Stella stressed that every state scholarship represents a moral debt and that the controversy reflects a failure of moral education, whilst cautioning that excessive restrictions on scholarship recipients would be counterproductive.

Probolinggo Floods: Five Sub-Districts Affected, Water Levels Reach 1.5 Metres

Severe flooding struck five sub-districts in Probolinggo Regency, East Java, after a river embankment collapsed in the early hours of Sunday, with water levels reaching up to 1.5 metres. Authorities evacuated residents including the elderly, children, pregnant women and the ill, whilst the regional government pledged a comprehensive review of embankment conditions and river normalisation to prevent future occurrences.

Ramadan: A Month of Blessings that Drives the National Economy

The article discusses how Ramadan serves as a significant driver of Indonesia's national economy, with the spirit of generosity and sharing during the holy month stimulating economic activity. It highlights how religious observance translates into tangible economic momentum across the country.

PGN Ranks Among Top 500 Asia-Pacific Companies

State-owned gas company PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) has been ranked 288th out of 500 in TIME Magazine's list of the best Asia-Pacific companies, earning international recognition for its business resilience amid global economic challenges. The ranking underscores PGN's standing as a key player in Indonesia's energy sector and its capacity to maintain strong performance despite headwinds.

PGN Commits to Maintaining Harmonious Energy Supply

State gas company PGN has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a reliable energy supply during the Chinese New Year festivثtivities. The Year of the Fire Horse celebrations in Jakarta's Chinatown district symbolise hopes for energy, speed, and renewed spirit.

Cinnamon from disaster-hit area in Agam reaches European market

Cinnamon farmers in Malalak sub-district, Agam Regency, West Sumatra — an area devastated by flash floods in late November 2025 — have resumed exports to Europe and Malaysia via Bukittinggi. Farmgate prices remain well below pre-pandemic levels at Rp30,000–40,000 per kilogramme, prompting calls for government intervention to support growers who must wait up to 15 years for each harvest.

Fadli Zon highlights Indonesia's potential as global cultural centre

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has declared that Indonesia has the potential to become a global cultural centre and superpower in culture, citing the nation's extraordinary diversity of over 17,000 islands, 1,340 ethnic groups, and hundreds of local languages.

Deputy Defence Minister Delivers National Defence Briefing for Civil Servants

Deputy Defence Minister Donny Ermawan provided national defence strengthening materials to South Sulawesi provincial civil servants during a Ramadan Leadership Camp in Makassar. He emphasised that national defence is not solely the responsibility of the military and police but extends to all elements of the nation, including civil servants in their governance and public service roles.

Major Explosions Rock Ukraine Ahead of Russian Invasion Anniversary

Ballistic missile strikes hit Kyiv before dawn on Sunday, just two days before the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The attacks, which caused fires in residential buildings, were followed by a nationwide air raid alert and prompted Poland to scramble fighter jets along its border.

Sumedang Police Foil Youth Brawl Disguised as Sarong Fight

Police in Sumedang, West Java, intercepted a planned youth brawl disguised as a traditional sarong fight during Ramadan patrols, confiscating weapons including sharpened rulers and a machete. Ten young people were detained for processing and parental notification before being released, as part of broader preventive and educational policing efforts during the holy month.

BCA Syariah Dominates Profit-Sharing Financing as Industry Still Tests Appetite for Risk-Sharing

BCA Syariah achieved a dominant position in profit-sharing-based financing by the end of 2025, with such products accounting for 71.9 per cent of its total financing portfolio of Rp13.2 trillion. The figure highlights strong public demand for genuine Islamic risk-sharing instruments, even as the broader sharia banking industry remains cautious about expanding this model.

MKMK Chairman Reported to Ethics Council Amid Adies Kadir Investigation

The chairman of the Constitutional Court's Honour Council (MKMK), I Dewa Gede Palguna, has been reported to his own ethics body by a student forum alleging he breached judicial conduct standards. The complaint comes amid an ongoing ethics investigation into Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir's appointment, with Palguna insisting the new report will not disrupt proceedings, even as the House of Representatives declared the MKMK lacks authority to pursue the Adies Kadir case.

Wahyu Cakraningrat in the Majapahit Royal Tradition

Abdullah Makhmud Hendropriyono presents a philosophical treatise on the Javanese-Majapahit concept of Wahyu Cakraningrat — the cosmic mandate legitimising royal authority — and its relevance to the establishment of the Kraton Majapahit Jakarta. The essay argues that this cultural institution represents a symbolic continuation of Majapahit's unifying legacy in modern Indonesia, reframing the ancient concept of divine mandate as cultural rather than political legitimacy.

MUI's Response on US Products Being Exempt from Halal Certification

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has firmly stated that halal certification requirements for products entering and circulating in Indonesia are non-negotiable. The statement was issued following a trade agreement between the Indonesian government and the United States, underscoring the tension between trade liberalisation commitments and domestic religious regulatory standards.

Economists: Indonesia-US Trade Deal Is Asymmetric

Indonesian economists have warned that the reciprocal trade agreement signed between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump is fundamentally asymmetric, risking deeper economic dependence on the United States. While Indonesia gains zero-tariff access for 1,819 product lines, critics argue the deal's binding commitments on digital trade, critical minerals, local content requirements, and regulatory standards severely constrain Jakarta's industrial policy flexibility.

Explanation of Sukabumi Boy's Condition Before Death in Suspected Stepmother Abuse Case

Police are investigating the death of a 13-year-old boy in Sukabumi, West Java, who allegedly suffered abuse at the hands of his stepmother while home from boarding school. Medical examinations revealed extensive abrasion wounds and suspected second-degree burns across the victim's body, though autopsy results showing chronic lung disease and organ congestion have complicated the determination of the cause of death.

100 GW Solar Power Programme Becomes Momentum for Energy Regulation Reform

Indonesia's ambitious 100 gigawatt solar power plant (PLTS) development programme is being hailed as a strategic opportunity to dismantle regulatory barriers that have long impeded the country's energy transition. The massive target is expected to drive comprehensive reform of energy regulations to accelerate renewable energy deployment.

Police Chief: Employees and 26 Chinese Nationals Evacuated from Mining Site

A joint TNI-Polri team is evacuating employees of PT Kristalin Nabire, including 26 Chinese nationals, from a gold mining site in Legari, Nabire Regency, Central Papua, following a deadly attack by an armed separatist group led by Aibon Kogoya that killed two people. Around 75 people had already been evacuated the previous day, with operations continuing along the Musairo River to remove remaining workers and artisanal miners from the area.

Government Facilitates US Investors in Indonesia's Critical Minerals Sector

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed the government will facilitate US companies investing in critical minerals, whilst firmly maintaining the ban on raw mineral exports and commitment to downstream processing.

Balinese Language Counsellors Conserve Ancient Manuscripts on Lontar Palm Leaves

Balinese language counsellors participated in the 2026 Lontar Conservation Festival in Denpasar, working to preserve ancient manuscripts written in Balinese script on palm leaves. Organised by the Bali Provincial Culture Office, the event aims to maintain and safeguard these ancestral cultural heritage artefacts.

Foreign Ministry condemns US Ambassador's statement that Israel may occupy the West Bank

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs joined 14 Arab and Muslim nations, along with the OIC, Arab League, and GCC secretariats, in issuing a joint statement strongly condemning US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee's remarks suggesting Israeli occupation of the West Bank is acceptable.

Ministry of Home Affairs: 370 Regional Subdivision Proposals Including Luwu Raya Stalled by Moratorium

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs has received 370 proposals for new autonomous regions, including the formation of Central Luwu Regency and Luwu Raya Province, but all remain blocked by the existing moratorium on regional subdivision. The Director General of Regional Autonomy stated that the moratorium policy is still in effect, even as protests demanding the creation of new regions in South Sulawesi have led to road blockades on the trans-Sulawesi highway.

Barisan Merah Putih: Papua Security Situation Requires Serious Attention

The Barisan Merah Putih Republik Indonesia (BMP RI) chapter in Raja Ampat has called for serious attention to the ongoing security situation in Papua, where civilian casualties from armed group violence continue to mount on a near-monthly basis. The organisation urged the state to enforce the law firmly and fairly to protect civilians, while condemning all acts amounting to humanitarian violations and calling for dialogue to restore peace in the region.

Ministry seeks additional budget to revitalise 60,000 schools

Indonesia's Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti is requesting additional budget approval to expand the national school revitalisation programme, targeting 71,000 schools nationwide by 2026 under President Prabowo Subianto's education modernisation initiative.

Indonesia Ranks Among Asia's Top Ten for Ultra-Wealthy Individuals

Indonesia has entered the top ten Asian nations by number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, with 8,120 citizens holding assets exceeding US$10 million, placing it ninth in Asia and 21st globally. The trend reflects growing domestic wealth accumulation driven by strategic sectors such as technology, finance, commodities and property, though it also underscores persistent challenges around income inequality and equitable distribution of wealth.

Arab Nations Condemn US Ambassador's Remarks on the Middle East

The Arab League, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have strongly condemned US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee's claim that Israel has a "biblical right" to control the entire Middle East. The diplomatic backlash highlights growing tensions between Arab states and Washington at a critical juncture in Gaza ceasefire negotiations, with Egypt calling the remarks a "blatant violation" of international law and Saudi Arabia warning of serious consequences for regional peace and the international order.

Government Affirms US Food and Beverage Imports Must Have Halal Certification

The Indonesian government has reaffirmed that all food and beverage products imported from the United States must carry halal certification, with no exceptions granted. The policy underscores Indonesia's commitment to enforcing its mandatory halal certification requirements on all imported consumer goods, a significant regulatory consideration for US-Indonesia trade relations.

Flood alert: Tangerang city government urges residents to monitor river water levels

The Tangerang city government has declared an alert status over potential flooding during Ramadan, urging residents to monitor rising river water levels caused by prolonged overnight rainfall. All pump stations across the city have been activated, with portable pumps on standby for emergency response, as several residential areas have already experienced flooding from river overflows at the start of Ramadan.

Residents Say Depok Baru Station Lacks Disability and Elderly Access, Call for Lifts

Residents have criticised Depok Baru commuter rail station for its lack of accessibility for disabled passengers and the elderly, highlighting that the only way to cross between platforms is via a narrow staircase underpass with no lift or escalator. Commuters report that some passengers have switched to other stations or abandoned rail travel altogether due to the inaccessible facilities, and are calling on authorities to install lifts or alternative crossing infrastructure.

Civil Coalition Demands Criminal Prosecution of Brimob Officer Who Beat Student to Death in Tual

A coalition of Indonesian civil society organisations is demanding criminal prosecution of a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer accused of fatally beating a secondary school student in Tual, Maluku, rejecting mere disciplinary sanctions as insufficient. The case, which went viral after video footage emerged showing the victim bleeding to death, has reignited calls for police reform and the eradication of militaristic culture within the Indonesian National Police.

Deputy Minister Stella Responds to Viral LPDP Alumni's 'I'm Enough as Indonesian Citizen, Not My Children' Remark

Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology Stella Christie has weighed in on the viral controversy surrounding an LPDP scholarship alumna who declared she would ensure her children hold foreign citizenship rather than Indonesian.

Prabowo Meets 12 US Business Magnates: They Are Very Interested in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto met with 12 major American business leaders during his visit to Washington, opening up investment opportunities in Indonesia, particularly in economic supply chains and job creation. The US executives, who have previously collaborated with sovereign wealth fund Danantara Indonesia, expressed strong confidence in Indonesia's improving business climate and economic outlook.

Strengthening Educational Infrastructure: WSBP to Build Udayana University's L-SSIT Laboratory

PT Waskita Beton Precast Tbk (WSBP) has secured a contract from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to construct the Smart System and Integrated Technologies Laboratory (L-SSIT) at Universitas Udayana in Bali. The project underscores the government's commitment to bolstering higher education infrastructure through state-owned enterprise involvement.

Brazilian President Urges UN Security Council Reform, Reveals Reasons

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has called for urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council during a state visit to India, arguing it must better represent Global South nations. Lula emphasised that expanding both permanent and non-permanent membership — including seats for Brazil and India — is essential for the legitimacy and efficiency of global governance, reaffirming the long-standing advocacy of the G-4 group comprising Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany.

Challenging Britain: Descendants of Sultan HB II Renew Demand for Historical Promises from the 1812 Geger Sapehi

Descendants of Yogyakarta's Sultan Hamengkubuwono II are pressing Britain to honour historical commitments stemming from the Geger Sapehi (Sepoy Affair) of 1812, when British forces intervened in the Javanese court. The renewed claim comes in the wake of President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to London in January 2026, which secured Rp 90 trillion in investment commitments but left unresolved colonial-era grievances.

Extreme Weather: Nganjuk Residents Urged Not to Shelter Under Large Trees

The Nganjuk Regional Disaster Management Agency has warned residents to avoid sheltering under large trees and billboards amid extreme weather conditions, after strong winds toppled a large tree blocking a major road in Baron subdistrict. The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across several regions of Indonesia, including East Java, prompting wider alerts for potential flooding and weather-related disruptions.

Medan mayor urges public not to fear reporting drug trafficking

Medan Mayor Rico TP Waas has called on residents to actively report suspected drug activity in their neighbourhoods, highlighting the city's status as one of Indonesia's worst-affected areas for narcotics abuse. The appeal comes as Medan Metropolitan Police successfully uncovered 526 drug cases involving 718 suspects within the first 100 days of operations, underscoring the scale of the problem and the administration's commitment to eradication efforts.

Historian reveals peaceful conversion of Kutai Kingdom from Hinduism to Islam

An East Kalimantan historian has detailed how the inclusive preaching approach of Islamic scholar Tuan Tunggang Parangan peacefully transformed the Kutai Kingdom from a Hindu monarchy to an Islamic sultanate around 1575. The local government has allocated one billion rupiah for the restoration of the scholar's tomb complex, aiming to develop it as an integrated religious tourism, cultural, and historical destination.

Thailand Welcomes Return of Chinese Tourists During Holiday Season

Thailand has launched major initiatives to recapture Chinese tourist arrivals, which declined last year due to safety concerns, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand rolling out Chinese New Year 2026 promotions under the "China and Thailand Are One Family" campaign.

US Cosmetic Products Not Required to Hold Halal Certification as LPPOM Highlights Regulatory Consistency Concerns

The newly signed Indonesia-United States trade agreement has raised questions over halal certification requirements for US products entering Indonesia. LPPOM, the body responsible for halal product assessment, has highlighted concerns regarding the consistency of regulations, particularly as US cosmetic products appear to be exempt from mandatory halal certification whilst food and beverage products remain subject to existing rules.

Tourist visits to Hong Kong during Lunar New Year holiday surpass 1.16 million

Hong Kong recorded over 1.16 million tourist arrivals between 15 and 20 February, with mainland Chinese visitors accounting for more than 980,000 of the total during the Spring Festival holiday. The influx drove significant gold jewellery sales as tourists purchased horse-themed accessories to celebrate the Year of the Horse, whilst many visitors opted for deeper exploration of less touristy areas such as Lamma Island.

Brazil Urges Trump to Treat All Countries Equally on Trade Tariffs

Brazilian President Lula has called on US President Donald Trump to treat all nations equally regarding trade tariffs, following Trump's announcement of a global tariff increase to 15 per cent. The appeal comes as the US Supreme Court ruled that the 1977 law relied upon by Trump does not authorise the president to impose tariffs, and amid signs of improving relations between Brasília and Washington ahead of a planned bilateral meeting next month.

Culture Minister Reviews Collections and Development Potential of Mpu Tantular Museum

Culture Minister Fadli Zon visited the Mpu Tantular State Museum in East Java to assess its collections, facilities, and potential for development as an educational and cultural hub. He called for stronger exhibition narratives, creative merchandise based on museum collections, and greater private sector involvement in museum development across Indonesia.

Residents and Police Foil Teenage Brawl in Depok

Local residents in Depok, West Java, assisted police in dispersing a group of teenagers who had gathered for a planned street brawl, with the youths found carrying light bulbs and golf clubs. The teenagers were subsequently enrolled in a short religious programme organised by Depok Metropolitan Police's community guidance unit, highlighting the role of civilian-police collaboration in maintaining public order.

Aceh Flood Victims Still in Emergency Tents During Ramadan, Tito Expresses Concern

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian expressed dismay that nearly 48,000 Aceh flood victims remain displaced across 262 evacuation sites as Ramadan begins, with many still living in emergency tents. He urged the Public Works Ministry to accelerate construction of temporary housing, whilst officials reported that only 6,211 temporary shelters had been built since mid-February 2026 following devastating floods and landslides late last year.

Bengkulu Food and Drug Authority Intensifies Processed Food Supervision During Ramadan

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) in Bengkulu has stepped up surveillance of processed food products during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah/2026 as part of a nationwide programme to ensure food safety. Initial inspections found no expired, unlicensed, or substandard products, though minor administrative violations were identified and addressed through guidance to business operators.

Sewage spill continues as Trump approves emergency declaration

US President Donald Trump has approved an emergency declaration for Washington, D.C. following a major sewage pipe collapse that has released over 200 million gallons of wastewater into the Potomac River since 19 January. FEMA has been authorised to coordinate federal disaster relief efforts across the District of Columbia and affected areas in Maryland and Virginia, whilst city officials have assured residents that drinking water remains unaffected.

National Nutrition Agency Denies Claims That Free Nutritious Meal Partners Earn Rp 1.8 Billion in Profit

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has refuted viral claims that partners operating nutrition service units (SPPG) for the free nutritious meal programme earn net profits of Rp 1.8 billion per year, calling the figure a "fictitious assumption." The agency clarified that the amount represents maximum gross revenue before substantial costs, noting that partners must invest Rp 2.5–6 billion of their own funds to build facilities, with break-even not expected for at least two years.

Fadli Zon: Indonesia Has Potential to Become Global Cultural Centre

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has declared that Indonesia's extraordinary cultural megadiversity — spanning over 17,000 islands, 1,340 ethnic groups, and hundreds of regional languages — positions the country as a potential global cultural superpower. He also introduced the concept of "Out of Nusantara" to highlight Indonesia's strategic role in the history of human migration, citing evidence of ancient human life in the archipelago dating back 60,000 to 70,000 years.

Depok Municipal Government Strengthens Food Price Monitoring During Ramadan

The Depok municipal government is conducting daily monitoring of staple food prices across traditional markets and modern retailers throughout Ramadan and ahead of Eid al-Fitr, in coordination with the National Food Agency, police, and trade authorities. While cooking oil remains stable at Rp15,700 per litre, red cayenne pepper has surged to Rp120,000 per kilogramme, making it one of the commodities with the sharpest price increases.

Police Reform Committee Enters Final Stage of Reporting to Prabowo

The Committee for the Acceleration of Police Reform (KPRP), established by President Prabowo Subianto in November 2025, is finalising its report on key reform proposals for submission to the president. The ten-member committee, chaired by former Constitutional Court chief Jimly Asshiddiqie, has been examining recruitment, education, discipline, and oversight within the Indonesian National Police, and has indicated its recommendations may necessitate legislative changes.

Indonesia Ready for Any Outcome After US Tariff Ruling, Prabowo Says

President Prabowo expressed confidence in Indonesia's readiness to navigate new US tariff policies following a Supreme Court ruling, noting that previous diplomatic efforts had successfully reduced tariff exposure from 32% to 19%. With the new baseline set at 10%, the Indonesian government views the shift positively and is prioritising zero-tariff protection for key export commodities including coffee, cocoa, electronics, textiles, and crude palm oil.

WSBP Wins Contract for Construction of Smart System and Integrated Technologies Laboratory Building at Udayana University, Bali

WSBP has secured a construction contract for the Smart System and Integrated Technologies Laboratory Building (L-SSIT) at Udayana University in Bali, assuming full responsibility for all construction phases including structural, architectural, and mechanical-electrical-plumbing systems. The project is intended to strengthen research and technological development at the university whilst enhancing educational facilities and innovation.

WSBP Secures Contract for Smart System and Integrated Technologies Laboratory Building at Udayana University, Bali

PT Waskita Beton Precast Tbk (WSBP) has won a new contract from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to construct the Smart System and Integrated Technologies Laboratory (L-SSIT) at Udayana University in Bali. The contract, signed on 20 February, reinforces the state-owned construction firm's growing portfolio in the education infrastructure sector, with the facility expected to bolster research and integrated technology development at the university.

Culture Minister Highlights Indonesia's Cultural Wealth at UMSURA Studium Generale

Culture Minister Fadli Zon delivered a lecture at Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya on the vision and strategy for advancing Islamic culture in Indonesia, emphasising the nation's extraordinary cultural diversity across more than 17,000 islands and 1,340 ethnic groups. He called for collaboration between government, universities, the private sector, and communities to harness culture as an economic force, diplomatic instrument, and foundation of national identity.

KPAI Spotlights Case of Mobile Brigade Officer Who Beat Madrasah Student to Death

Indonesia's Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged police to transparently investigate the death of a 14-year-old madrasah student in Southeast Maluku, allegedly beaten to death by a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer. The commission is coordinating with the National Police Commission and the Women and Children Protection Directorate at Police Headquarters, demanding swift legal proceedings and social assistance for the victim's family under the Child Protection Act.

Agriculture Ministry: Meat and Egg Prices Stable at Cibitung-Tambun Markets

Indonesia's Agriculture Ministry conducted surprise inspections at two markets in Bekasi regency, confirming that beef, chicken and egg prices remain stable with no significant spikes. Beef was found priced between Rp130,000–Rp140,000 per kilogramme, with supply chains from local slaughterhouses and the regional enterprise Perumda Dharma Jaya helping to maintain steady availability.

Iranian Students Stage Massive Anti-Government Protests

Iranian university students held the first large-scale anti-government demonstrations since last month's brutal crackdown, with protests erupting across multiple campuses in Tehran and Mashhad. The protests come amid heightened US-Iran tensions over Tehran's nuclear programme, with President Trump warning of possible military action if a deal is not reached within days.

This Week in the Indonesian Economy (15-21 Feb 2026)

The week of 15 to 21 February 2026 will be remembered as one of the most consequential in recent economic memory, defined above all by a sweeping trade and investment package concluded in Washington D.C.

Brazilian President Urges UN Security Council Reform

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for urgent reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, during a state visit to India. Lula emphasised the need to expand both permanent and non-permanent membership to better represent Global South nations, reaffirming the G4 group's long-standing advocacy for seats for Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany.

This Week in Indonesian Politics (15-21 Feb 2026)

The week of 15 to 21 February 2026 will be remembered in Indonesian political history primarily for one seismic development: President Prabowo Subianto's appearance in Washington DC for the inaugural Board of Peace summit, where Indonesia committed 8,000 TNI personnel to a proposed International Security Force for Gaza and Prabowo himself was appointed the body's Deputy Commander.

This Week in Indonesian Business and Investment (15-21 Feb 2026)

Rarely does a single week reshape Indonesia's economic narrative as dramatically as the one just concluded. From the signing ceremony in Washington to a courtroom in the United States capital, the seven days between 15 and 21 February 2026 produced developments that will reverberate through Indonesian trade policy, investment strategy, and domestic politics for months to come.

Khofifah Thanks Saudi Arabian King for Kampung Haji Permit

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia's King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for granting Indonesia a dedicated area near Masjidil Haram in Makkah, known as Kampung Haji Indonesia.

Ukrainian National Allegedly Kidnapped in Bali, Police Intensify Border Checkpoints

A 28-year-old Ukrainian citizen, Ihor Komarav, has been reported missing in Bali after an alleged kidnapping on Saturday evening. Gianyar police deployed dozens of officers from multiple units to conduct vehicle checks at border crossings, though the operation yielded no suspects or suspicious vehicles. The case highlights ongoing security concerns for foreign nationals in Indonesia's top tourist destination.

German Chancellor to Visit US to Present EU Stance on Tariffs

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced he will travel to Washington next week to present a coordinated European Union position on US tariffs. The visit follows a US Supreme Court ruling that struck down President Trump's tariff scheme under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, prompting Trump to impose interim 10 per cent tariffs on all imports for 150 days.

Rules That Could Force LPDP Scholar's Husband to Repay Scholarship Funds After 'Only I Need to Be Indonesian' Controversy

Indonesia's Education Fund Management Institution (LPDP) has summoned a scholarship alumnus identified as AP for potentially failing to fulfil his mandatory domestic service obligation, following a viral social media controversy sparked by his wife's statement that their children need not be Indonesian citizens.

US Intelligence Claims China Developing Next-Generation Nuclear Weapons

US intelligence agencies believe China is developing a new generation of nuclear weapons, including missiles capable of carrying multiple miniaturised warheads and low-yield tactical nuclear weapons. China has firmly denied the allegations, accusing Washington of political manipulation aimed at pursuing nuclear hegemony, whilst the Trump administration seeks to bring Beijing into nuclear arms agreements.

Kadin Urges President to Cancel Import of 105,000 Vehicles for Village Cooperatives, Warning It Could Kill Automotive Industry

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has called on President Prabowo Subianto to cancel plans to import 105,000 commercial vehicles worth Rp 24.66 trillion from India for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme, warning the move could devastate the domestic automotive sector.

Medan city government intensifies dawn patrols during Ramadan to maintain public order

The Medan city government has stepped up dawn patrol operations throughout Ramadan 1447 Hijriah as a preventive measure to maintain public security and order. Mayor Rico TP Waas has instructed the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) to coordinate joint patrols with local police, targeting areas deemed vulnerable to disturbances and focusing on preventing youth from engaging in activities that breach public order.

UNS Study Highlights Importance of Synchronising Derivative Regulations

A study by Universitas Sebelas Maret's constitutional research centre has flagged potential legal defects in Government Regulation 28/2024, arguing that combining tobacco and e-cigarette rules under a single regulation may exceed the delegated mandate of the 2023 Health Law.

Prabowo Subianto Explores Investment Opportunities with 12 US Conglomerates

President Prabowo Subianto met with 12 leading US business and investment figures in Washington on 20 February 2026, seeking to attract foreign investment across infrastructure, energy, technology, and property sectors.

Yusril: Brimob Officer Who Assaulted Child in Maluku Must Face Ethics and Criminal Proceedings

Coordinating Minister for Law and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra has demanded that a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer suspected of fatally assaulting a 14-year-old boy in Tual, Maluku, face both ethics hearings and criminal prosecution. The officer, identified as Bripda MS, has been named a suspect and charged under Child Protection and Criminal Code provisions carrying up to 15 years' imprisonment, whilst the Police Reform Committee prepares to finalise its recommendations for the President.

Joint Task Force Raids Illicit Alcohol in North Jakarta Ahead of Ramadan

A joint operation by North Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) seized 637 bottles of illicit alcohol from various stalls across the district at the start of Ramadan. The raid, involving 165 combined personnel, was conducted to enforce Regional Regulation No. 8/2007 on Public Order and ensure residents can observe the fasting month in a safe and orderly environment.

DMDI Indonesia and Artha Graha Peduli Distribute 10,000 Parcels in Sumatra

Dunia Melayu Dunia Islam (DMDI) Indonesia and Artha Graha Peduli have distributed Ramadan parcels to 10,000 orphans and disadvantaged flood victims across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. The initiative complements government-led post-disaster recovery efforts, with Interior Minister Tito Karnavian confirming that President Prabowo Subianto has mobilised all resources to accelerate rehabilitation in the affected regions.

Madurese Community in Malaysia Strengthens Faith Through Short Sermons and Quran Recitations

The Madurese community in Malaysia, through its unity organisation MPPM, is conducting a series of religious and social programmes during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah/2026 in Kuala Lumpur. Activities include nightly congregational prayers, short sermons, collective Quran recitation with a target of completing it twice, and charitable aid for Indonesian citizens in need.

Government Denies All US Products Exempt from Halal Certification, Says Food Rules Still Apply

The Indonesian government has clarified that halal certification requirements for food and beverages remain in force for US products entering the country, despite the newly signed reciprocal trade agreement with the United States.

Government Answers 22 Public Questions Still Shrouded in Mystery About the Indonesia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has published responses to 22 frequently asked questions about the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) signed by President Prabowo and US President Donald Trump. The agreement reduces US reciprocal tariffs on Indonesian goods from 32 per cent to 19 per cent and grants exemptions for key export commodities including palm oil, cocoa, coffee, rubber, and textiles, safeguarding an estimated 4–5 million direct jobs in labour-intensive industries.

Large Explosions Heard in Ukraine Following Ballistic Attack Warning

Powerful explosions rocked Kyiv early on Sunday morning after military authorities issued a ballistic missile threat warning, urging residents to seek shelter. Air defence units were reported to be intercepting drones over the wider Kyiv region, with no immediate casualties reported, as the Ukrainian capital continues to endure intensified Russian winter strikes on energy and military infrastructure.

Deputy Minister for Human Rights: Child Abuse in Tual Violates Human Rights Law

Indonesia's Deputy Minister for Human Rights has condemned the alleged fatal assault of a 14-year-old boy by a mobile brigade (Brimob) officer in Tual, Maluku, declaring it a serious violation of the Human Rights Act and the Convention Against Torture. The officer, identified by the initials MS, has been named a suspect and faces up to 15 years in prison under child protection laws, whilst the ministry has demanded a transparent investigation and justice for the victim's family.

DPR Ethics Council Claims Ahmad Sahroni Has Completed His Sanction

The chairman of the DPR's Ethics Council (MKD) has declared that Ahmad Sahroni's six-month suspension has effectively ended, allowing his reinstatement as Deputy Chairman of Commission III, despite the sanction technically not expiring until 5 March 2026. Parliamentary watchdogs IPC and Formappi have challenged the reinstatement as potentially unlawful under the MD3 Law, arguing that Sahroni's inactive status should still be in effect with approximately two weeks remaining on his suspension.

Zelensky Says Ukraine Will Do Everything to Achieve Peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that his country would do whatever is necessary to ensure the next round of negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia yields results for Ukraine and peace. The statement follows the latest round of talks held in Geneva on 17-18 February, which ended without breakthroughs on key issues, as Zelensky announced upcoming meetings with European partners to strengthen coordination.

Golkar Secretary General: LPDP Scholarships Must Not Be Reserved for the Wealthy, Clear Affirmative Action Needed

Golkar Party Secretary General M. Sarmuji has called for affirmative action reforms to Indonesia's LPDP state scholarship programme, arguing its stringent requirements effectively exclude candidates from lower socio-economic backgrounds. His comments came in response to public outrage over an LPDP recipient who celebrated her child's British naturalisation, reigniting debate over whether taxpayer-funded scholarships disproportionately benefit the already privileged.

Coal and Nickel Production Cuts: The Impact on Miners

The Indonesian government has slashed coal and nickel production quotas in the 2026 Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) to maintain supply-demand balance and stabilise commodity prices. Industry experts warn the cuts will disrupt mining companies' long-term contracts and have knock-on effects on contractors, workers, and suppliers in mining regions, with some firms seeing quotas reduced by up to 90 per cent.

Two Men Caught on CCTV Stealing Motorbike in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta; Police Investigate

CCTV footage of two men stealing a motorbike in broad daylight in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta has gone viral on social media. One suspect, disguised in a ride-hailing driver's jacket, surveilled the parked vehicle before his accomplice took it. Police have launched an investigation after the owner reported the theft, which occurred on 19 February.

Commission VI Deputy Chair: Village Cooperative Commercial Vehicle Imports Must Align with Constitution

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Nurdin Halid has warned that the planned import of 105,000 commercial vehicles from India worth Rp24.66 trillion for village cooperative operations must comply with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, which mandates that the economy serve the people's welfare.

KPK Backs Government and Parliament's Deliberation of Asset Forfeiture Bill

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has voiced its support for the deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill by the government and the House of Representatives, arguing it will strengthen the legal framework for combating corruption and recovering state losses.

Indonesia requests zero per cent import tariffs from US for flagship national products

Indonesia has formally requested that the United States maintain zero per cent import tariffs on several flagship national products, including coffee, following President Donald Trump's announcement of a blanket 10 per cent global tariff policy. The move underscores Jakarta's efforts to shield key export commodities from Washington's protectionist measures.

Tehran Residents Unable to Sleep Soundly Amid Rising US-Iran Tensions

Tehran residents report growing anxiety and sleeplessness as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate, with many stockpiling essential supplies in preparation for a potential military conflict. The fears follow last year's 12-day war between Iran and Israel and President Trump's recent ultimatum giving Tehran 15 days to reach a nuclear deal, leaving diplomatic outcomes uncertain.

Brimob Officer Beats Madrasah Student to Death; Coordinating Minister Yusril: Truly Beyond the Bounds of Humanity

A Brimob (Mobile Brigade) police officer identified as Bripda MS has been named a suspect after allegedly beating a 14-year-old madrasah student to death in Tual, Maluku. Coordinating Minister for Law and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra condemned the act as "truly beyond the bounds of humanity" and stressed that no law enforcement officer is above the law.

Deputy Human Rights Minister: What Brimob Member Did in Tual Constitutes Serious Abuse

Deputy Minister of Human Rights Mugiyanto has condemned the actions of a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) police officer who fatally abused a child in Tual, Maluku, describing the incident as a serious form of abuse. The statement underscores growing government scrutiny of police conduct and human rights violations involving law enforcement personnel in the region.

In-Depth Look at the Indonesia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement: From Zero Tariffs to Import Regulations

Indonesia and the United States have formally signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), granting zero tariffs on 1,819 Indonesian export products including palm oil, coffee, and cocoa, whilst Indonesia opens its market to 99 per cent of US goods at zero tariffs.

Prabowo Meets 12 Global Investment Giants in the US: Indonesia Is No Longer a 'Sleeping Giant'

President Prabowo Subianto held a nearly two-hour meeting in Washington DC with 12 of the world's largest investment firms, collectively managing approximately USD 16 trillion in assets. The investors expressed strong interest in long-term partnerships across technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, real estate and the digital economy, whilst appreciating Indonesia's emphasis on legal certainty and the establishment of the Danantara sovereign wealth fund.

Foreign National Who Raged Over Recitation Loudspeaker in Gili Trawangan Found to Have Overstayed Visa

A foreign woman who went viral after causing a disturbance at a prayer hall in Gili Trawangan over loudspeakers used for Ramadan Quran recitation has been found to have overstayed her visa. Immigration authorities have taken her into custody and are now determining whether to deport her or pursue other legal sanctions, whilst police have deployed personnel to prevent further tensions between locals and the foreign national's family.

Village Cooperative Vehicle Import Plan: Kadin Urges Government to Prioritise Domestic Production

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has called on President Prabowo Subianto to cancel plans to import 105,000 commercial vehicles worth Rp 24.66 trillion from India, intended to support village cooperative operations. Kadin argues that domestic manufacturers should be prioritised, reflecting broader tensions between Indonesia's trade relationships and its industrial policy goals.

Trump to Send Hospital Ship to Greenland

US President Donald Trump has announced plans to send a hospital ship to Greenland, the autonomous Danish territory he has long coveted and threatened to seize by force. The move comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Denmark over Greenland's strategic importance, with Trump having only recently walked back his threats after reaching a framework agreement with NATO chief Mark Rutte to ensure greater US influence in the Arctic region.

Andre Rosiade Hosts Communal Rendang Cooking with Disaster Survivors at Batang Anai Temporary Shelter

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade collaborated with food vlogger Chef Magdalena to cook rendang and host a communal iftar for around 120 residents of the Batang Anai temporary shelter in Padang Pariaman, who were displaced by the late 2025 flash floods. The event, which included the distribution of 100 basic food parcels, highlighted ongoing post-disaster welfare efforts and the condition of the 40-unit temporary housing complex built for affected communities.

Mudik Congestion Declining, Government Urged to Focus on Reducing Motorcycle Accidents

Deputy Chairman of Commission V of the House of Representatives, Syaiful Huda, has continued to advocate for restrictions on motorcycle use during long-distance Lebaran 2026 mudik travel. The proposal aims to reduce the high number of road accidents involving motorcycles during the annual homecoming period, as traffic congestion figures have already shown improvement.

Yusril Calls Brimob Officer's Assault on Student in Tual 'Beyond Humanity', Demands Criminal Prosecution

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra condemned the alleged fatal assault of a child by a Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer in Tual, Maluku, describing it as an act "beyond humanity." He demanded that the suspect, identified as Bripda MS, face criminal prosecution for the incident.

Halal Orchestration and Trade Harmony for Consumer Protection

The article examines the signing of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) between Indonesia and the United States on 19 February 2026, framing it as a significant moment for reflection on trade relations. It explores the intersection of halal certification requirements and trade harmonisation as mechanisms for consumer protection.

Stepmother Denies Causing Tragic Death of Sukabumi Boy

A 13-year-old boy from Sukabumi died with extensive burn and bruise injuries, with his stepmother denying viral allegations that she forced him to drink boiling water. Police have interviewed 16 witnesses and are cross-referencing testimony with autopsy results showing second-degree burns and blunt trauma indicators, as the case draws significant public attention and online outrage.

Identity of Woman Found Dead with Gagged Mouth in Malang Revealed

Police have identified the body of a 17-year-old girl from Nganjuk found in a river in Malang, East Java, with her hands bound and mouth gagged. A joint investigation team comprising Malang Police, East Java Regional Police, and the National Criminal Investigation Agency has been formed to hunt down the perpetrators of the suspected murder.

LPDP Alumni Controversy Over 'Proud of Foreign-National Child' Attributed to Lack of Obligation to Indonesia

An education expert has criticised Indonesia's LPDP state scholarship programme following a social media furore over an alumna who declared she was content for her children not to hold Indonesian citizenship. The controversy has reignited debate about the lack of binding career commitments for scholarship recipients, with calls for the government to adopt models used by Malaysia and South Korea that tie funding to specific employment upon return.

Tito Karnavian Distributes Aid to Banda Aceh Residents During Ramadan Visit

Interior Minister Tito Karnavian concluded his Ramadan tour of disaster-affected areas in Aceh by leading dawn prayers at the Grand Baiturrahman Mosque in Banda Aceh and distributing hundreds of worship supply packages, including Quran donations from President Prabowo Subianto.

Prabowo confirms mutually beneficial trade agreement with Trump

Indonesia and the United States have finalised a reciprocal trade agreement with a 19 percent tariff rate on Indonesian imports, along with a $38.4 billion trade and investment commitment across multiple sectors. President Prabowo was the only head of state to meet bilaterally with US President Trump during the Board of Peace summit in Washington, concluding lengthy negotiations on fair tariff terms between the two nations.

Foreign Ministry Urges Indonesian Citizens in Iran to Stay Alert After Trump Considers Limited Strike

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has called on Indonesian nationals in Iran to heighten their vigilance following US President Donald Trump's statement that he is considering limited military strikes against Iran. The Indonesian Embassy in Tehran reports the situation remains normal, but the government maintains its Level 1 alert status — in place since June 2025 — and has prepared contingency evacuation plans whilst urging citizens to consider leaving independently if conditions deteriorate.

Weekly Gains See Jakarta Composite Index Close at 8,271 with Market Capitalisation of Rp 14,941 Trillion

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed the trading week of 16–20 February 2026 in positive territory at 8,271, with total market capitalisation reaching Rp 14,941 trillion. The Indonesia Stock Exchange reported a week of gains, reflecting continued investor confidence in the Indonesian equity market.

PBNU Inaugurates 41 Nutrition Service Units, Targets One Thousand Sites to Support Pesantren Nutrition Improvement

The central board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) has officially launched 41 NU Nutrition Programme Service Units (SPPG) based at the Darul Qur'an Islamic Boarding School in Labuapi, West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The organisation has set an ambitious target of establishing one thousand nutrition service points nationwide to bolster nutritional standards across pesantren.

Swapping Street Racing for Sprinting: Riau Police's Approach to Engaging Youth in Pekanbaru

Riau Provincial Police have launched a 100-metre sprint competition during Ramadan 2026 as a humanistic strategy to deter illegal street racing among young people in Pekanbaru. The nightly events, organised by the Traffic Directorate under the theme 'Healthy Body, Strong Spirit', aim to channel youth energy into positive activities whilst fostering community ties and public order during the holy month.

Ahmad Sahroni Returns to Lead Commission III of the House, Ethics Council Confirms Proper Procedure

The House of Representatives Ethics Council (MKD) has confirmed that the reinstatement of NasDem politician Ahmad Sahroni as Deputy Chairman of Commission III followed all applicable rules, with his six-month suspension having concluded. Sahroni, who was formally re-nominated by the NasDem faction on 19 February 2026, will resume his duties leading sessions of the law, human rights and security commission from 10 March following the current parliamentary recess.

Interpol Fugitive Rifaldo Arrested at Ngurah Rai Airport for Human Trafficking and Online Fraud in Cambodia

Indonesian police have arrested Interpol red notice subject Rifaldo Aquiono Pontoh at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport on charges of human trafficking and international online fraud based in Cambodia. The suspect allegedly lured victims through social media job advertisements promising high salaries, only to subject them to severe violence, passport confiscation, and unpaid wages.

Viral Case of Sukabumi Teenager Allegedly Killed by Stepmother: The Facts

A 13-year-old teenager from Jampang Kulon, Sukabumi Regency, died allegedly after being abused by her stepmother. The case has gone viral on social media, raising concerns about child protection and domestic violence in Indonesia.

US Ambassador Condemned Over Claim That Israel Is Entitled to Most of the Middle East

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has drawn sharp condemnation from Arab and Muslim nations after stating in an interview that Israel has a right to most of the Middle East. Saudi Arabia branded his remarks "extremist rhetoric," whilst Egypt called them a "blatant violation" of international law, with both demanding clarification from Washington.

Profile of Bripda MS, Brimob Officer Suspected of Fatally Assaulting Madrasah Student

A member of the Indonesian Mobile Brigade (Brimob), identified as Bripda MS, has been detained after allegedly assaulting a 14-year-old madrasah student in Tual, Maluku, leading to the boy's death. The National Police chief has pledged a transparent legal process, whilst the Maluku police chief issued a public apology, with the officer facing potential dishonourable discharge if found guilty of serious misconduct.

10 Teenagers Arrested for Brawling in Depok, Immediately Enrolled in Intensive Islamic Programme

Police in Depok arrested 10 teenagers involved in a street brawl in Cipayung and immediately enrolled them in an intensive Islamic boarding programme (pesantren kilat) held at the Depok Metro Police headquarters mosque during Ramadan. The programme, which includes supervised prayers and Quran recitation, is part of a broader police initiative to curb youth violence in the city by combining law enforcement with religious rehabilitation.

MUI Bali: Coinciding Idul Fitri and Nyepi Represents Special Moment

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of Bali has described the coincidence of Idul Fitri 1447 Hijriyah and the Balinese Hindu Day of Silence (Nyepi) of Saka Year 1948 as a special moment for the community. The convergence of the two major religious holidays highlights Indonesia's interfaith harmony and the unique multicultural character of Bali.

Prabowo Responds to US Supreme Court Ruling Overturning Trump's Tariffs

President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia respects the US domestic political process and is prepared for all eventualities after the US Supreme Court struck down Trump's global tariffs as unconstitutional.

Tito Affirms Acceleration of Permanent Housing and Bridge Construction During Iftar in Pidie Jaya

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, heading the post-disaster rehabilitation task force for Sumatra, has pledged to accelerate permanent housing construction and bridge rebuilding for disaster-affected residents in Pidie Jaya, Aceh. He stressed that accurate data from local governments is critical to expediting housing delivery, whilst also coordinating with the Public Works Minister on a permanent two-lane bridge to restore the strategic Medan–Banda Aceh route.

National Nutrition Agency Denies Claims That SPPG Partners Earn Rp 1.8 Billion Net Profit Per Year

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has refuted social media claims that partners operating kitchens for the Free Meal Programme (MBG) receive net profits of Rp 1.8 billion per year, clarifying the figure represents a return on initial capital investment ranging from Rp 2.5 billion to Rp 6 billion.

Stepmother's Defence After Child's Tragic Death in Sukabumi

A 13-year-old boy from Jampangkulon, Sukabumi Regency, died under suspicious circumstances, with his stepmother named as a suspect in an alleged abuse case. The stepmother denies the allegations, claiming the child's extensive injuries were caused by leukaemia and an autoimmune condition, whilst post-mortem results revealed second-degree burns and blunt force trauma across the victim's body.

New Barriers to Agricultural Trade

A new trade barrier mechanism has emerged in the form of public sentiment, which operates without specific government policy and is thus legally defensible and difficult to challenge. The article analyses how economic, social, political, health, and environmental concerns shape consumer attitudes towards foreign agricultural products — from US-China trade war impacts on grain prices to EU rejection of palm oil and GMOs.

Just One Day After Announcing 10 Per Cent, Trump Immediately Raises Tariff to 15 Per Cent

US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday (21/2/2026) that he would increase his new global tariff on imports from all countries from the 10 per cent announced just the day before to 15 per cent. The rapid escalation signals heightened trade tensions with significant implications for Indonesian exports and global trade dynamics.

US Supreme Court Ruling Fails to Deter Trump, Who Plans to Raise Global Tariffs to 15%

US President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 15% global tariff, up from the 10% declared a day earlier, despite a Supreme Court ruling striking down his previous tariffs as unconstitutional. The move signals Trump's determination to pursue aggressive trade policy through alternative legal authorities, albeit with a 150-day limit unless Congress extends them. The escalation carries significant implications for global trade dynamics, including for Indonesia and other trading partners.

Australian warship transits Taiwan Strait as China intensifies military monitoring

The HMAS Toowoomba, an Australian Navy frigate, conducted a routine transit through the Taiwan Strait on 21-22 February, with China's military tracking the vessel throughout its passage. The incident exemplifies escalating geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, as China continues to challenge foreign naval movements through waters it claims as territorial whilst US-allied navies assert freedom of navigation rights in this strategically vital corridor.

Culture Minister Urges Private-Government Collaboration to Develop Mpu Tantular Museum

Culture Minister Fadli Zon visited the Mpu Tantular State Museum in East Java, calling for stronger collaboration between the private sector and local government to revitalise the facility and its 15,000-piece collection. He emphasised the need for improved exhibition design, creative merchandise based on museum intellectual property, and transforming the museum into a living cultural hub rather than merely a repository of artefacts.

Al-Aqsa Set to Become 'Detonator' as Israel 'Tears Up' Worship Agreement

Experts warn that the six-decade-old agreement governing Muslim and Jewish worship at Jerusalem's holy sites is on the verge of collapse. Growing pressure from Israeli hardliners threatens the delicate status quo arrangement at Al-Aqsa Mosque, raising fears of a significant escalation in tensions.

UNAIR Lecturer Stresses Importance of Financial Management for Micro-Enterprise Operators

A lecturer from Universitas Airlangga's Faculty of Vocational Studies provided financial literacy training to micro-enterprise operators in post-disaster Aceh, emphasising proper bookkeeping and financial planning as essential for business survival. The programme covered profit-and-loss reporting under Indonesia's micro-enterprise accounting standards and break-even point analysis, aiming to strengthen the resilience of small businesses amid post-disaster economic uncertainty.

Pressured by America, Iran Refuses to Submit, Warns Retaliatory Strikes Will Be Broader and Unlimited

Iran has declared it will not yield to American coercion over its nuclear programme, with a defence source warning that any retaliatory strikes would be wider in scope and without limits. The statement underscores escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, with significant implications for regional stability and global geopolitics.

Husband of 'I'll Be the Only Indonesian Citizen, Not My Children' Woman Faces LPDP Scholarship Fund Repayment

Indonesia's Education Fund Management Agency (LPDP) has summoned AP, husband of viral social media figure DS, over allegations he has not fulfilled his post-study service obligations in Indonesia. AP faces potential sanctions including full repayment of his scholarship funds, whilst DS herself has completed her required service period.

Ethics Council Confirms No Violation in Ahmad Sahroni's Reinstatement to Commission III

The House of Representatives' Ethics Council (MKD) has confirmed that there were no procedural violations in the reinstatement of Ahmad Sahroni as Deputy Chairman of Commission III. MKD Chairman Nazaruddin Dek Gam stated that Sahroni's six-month suspension, imposed in November 2025, had effectively concluded, and that his reinstatement was properly proposed by the NasDem Party in accordance with parliamentary regulations.

Minister of Culture Backs World Puppet Day 2026 Celebrations Following Meeting with UNIMA

Indonesia's Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has pledged government support for the 2026 World Puppet Day commemoration, scheduled for 24-26 April in Yogyakarta, following a meeting with the Indonesian chapter of the Union Internationale de la Marionnette (UNIMA).

KP2MI Successfully Conducts Integrated Operation to Repatriate Indonesian Migrant Worker from Oman

The Indonesian government repatriated a migrant worker from Muscat, Oman, following intensive cross-country coordination involving the KP2MI, Indonesian embassies in Muscat and Doha, and airline operators. Minister Mukhtarudin ordered a full investigation into possible non-procedural recruitment practices, reaffirming that the protection of Indonesian migrant workers remains a national priority with zero tolerance for illegal practices.

Danantara Facilitates Prabowo's Meeting with World-Class Investors in the US, Asset Value Reaches 16 Trillion Dollars

President Prabowo Subianto held a Presidential Forum on Strategic Capital & Partnership in Washington, DC, with Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani facilitating meetings with major global investors. The forum showcased Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara, which manages assets valued at approximately USD 16 trillion, as a key vehicle for attracting international capital and strategic partnerships.

Dino Laments Prabowo's Failure to Raise Two-State Solution at Board of Peace Summit

Former Deputy Foreign Minister Dino Patti Djalal criticised President Prabowo Subianto for not mentioning the two-state solution or Palestinian statehood during his speech at the inaugural Board of Peace summit in Washington DC, despite other Muslim-majority nations doing so. Prabowo only raised the two-state solution during a subsequent press conference, where he also claimed conditions in Gaza had improved and announced plans to deploy 8,000 Indonesian troops to the territory.

Bogor Regency DPRD Speaker Gives Positive Assessment of Rudy-Jaro's First Year of Leadership

The Speaker of the Bogor Regency Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) has given a positive evaluation of the first year under the leadership of Regent Rudy and Deputy Regent Jaro. The article, however, contained almost entirely non-article navigation and promotional content, with the substantive body text absent from the provided source.

Environmental Action: AGP and Bank Artha Graha Internasional Hold Simultaneous ASRI Movement

Artha Graha Peduli (AGP) and Bank Artha Graha Internasional organised a simultaneous environmental clean-up campaign called the ASRI Movement to mark National Clean-Up Day and National Waste Awareness Day 2026. The initiative, held on Saturday 21 February 2026, involved all business units within the Artha Graha network and underscores the corporate group's commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Agus Fatoni Receives Excellence in Regional Financial Governance 2026 Award

Agus Fatoni, Director General of Regional Financial Development at the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been awarded the Excellence in Regional Financial Governance 2026. The honour was presented at the Indonesia Top Achievements of the Year 2026 ceremony in Jakarta.

After Arresting Illegal Parking Attendants Charging Rp100,000 in Tanah Abang, Jakarta Government Targets Dozens of Other Locations

The Jakarta provincial government is expanding its crackdown on illegal parking attendants following the arrest of eight individuals charging exorbitant fees of Rp100,000 in the Tanah Abang Market area of Central Jakarta. Authorities have identified over a dozen additional locations for enforcement action against the illicit parking racket.

Jakarta Car Free Day Quieter During First Week of Ramadan, but Residents Remain Enthusiastic About Exercise

Jakarta's weekly car free day at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout saw noticeably fewer visitors during the first week of Ramadan, with overcast and drizzly weather adding to the subdued atmosphere. Despite fasting, regular attendees continued their exercise routines, with many noting that the quieter conditions made for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

US Ambassador Permits Israel to Control Entire Middle East Region in Accordance with the Bible

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee made controversial remarks on The Tucker Carlson Show, stating that Israel should control the entire Middle East region as described in the Bible. The comments have provoked anger among Arab nations and raise significant implications for US foreign policy in the region.

Deputy Investment Minister Speaks on Glass Lift Project Halted by Bali Governor

The Investment Ministry is conducting a field validation to verify the permits of a glass lift project at Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, which was ordered demolished by Bali Governor Wayan Koster despite being 70 per cent complete. The Deputy Investment Minister noted the project was classified as medium-low risk under the OSS licensing system, whilst local government and Bali's regional parliament are pushing for stricter oversight to ensure investments comply with spatial planning regulations.

Pertamina's Waste Management Programme Generates Rp 3.2 Billion for Local Communities

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has reported that its waste management programme, conducted under its Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) scheme, has generated Rp 3.2 billion in economic value for local communities. The initiative highlights the state-owned energy company's efforts to create tangible economic benefits through environmental sustainability programmes.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Targets Krueng Tingkeum Bridge in Bireuen for Completion by July 2026

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, heading the post-disaster rehabilitation task force for Sumatra, has announced that the permanent Krueng Tingkeum Bridge in Bireuen, Aceh, is targeted for completion by July 2026, with construction currently at 18 per cent progress. The bridge, replacing a temporary bailey structure, is a critical link on the Medan–Banda Aceh route and is expected to significantly improve mobility for Aceh residents.

BMKG: Shallow Earthquake Strikes Gayo Lues, Aceh on Sunday Morning

A magnitude 4.2 tectonic earthquake struck Gayo Lues in Aceh province early Sunday morning, triggered by activity along the Oreng segment of the Great Sumatran Fault. The shallow quake, at a depth of just 10 kilometres, was felt in Gayo Lues and Bener Meriah but no structural damage has been reported thus far.

Weekly Roundup: Civil Servant Holiday Allowances to US Tariff Talks Following Supreme Court Ruling

Indonesia's key economic developments over the past week include the Finance Minister's confirmation that civil servant holiday allowances will be disbursed in the first week of Ramadan, and the government's assurance of continued tariff negotiations with the United States following the US Supreme Court's overturning of President Trump's reciprocal tariff policy.

Four Surabaya Regional Agencies Awarded Corruption-Free Zone Status

Four regional agencies under the Surabaya city government have been awarded Corruption-Free Zone (WBK) status by the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform. The recognition reflects the city's efforts in strengthening bureaucratic reform and digitalising public services.

AWC 2026 Census Discovers 99 Bird Species Along Jakarta's Coast

The simultaneous Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2026 recorded 99 bird species with hundreds of individual birds across three coastal areas of Jakarta. The census results underscore the ecological significance of Jakarta's coastal ecosystems for waterbird conservation.

Gold prices this morning: UBS at Rp3.061 million/gram and Galeri24 at Rp3.047 million/gram

Gold bar prices at Pegadaian rose significantly on Sunday morning, with UBS gold reaching Rp3.061 million per gram and Galeri24 at Rp3.047 million per gram. This represents an increase of Rp52,000 and Rp63,000 per gram respectively from the previous day's prices.

Accompanying the Sick in Their Most Vulnerable Moments

The article profiles freelance patient caregivers in Jakarta, highlighting the emerging gig economy role of independent hospital companions who fill gaps left by absent family members. It explores the emotional labour, financial precarity, and personal motivations of young women working as caregivers, earning up to Rp2.5 million per month with no fixed hours, raising broader questions about Indonesia's healthcare support infrastructure.

South Sulawesi Provincial Government Strengthens Civil Servant Leadership Through Ramadan Camp

The South Sulawesi provincial government is holding a week-long Ramadan Leadership Camp at the Sudiang Hajj Dormitory in Makassar, bringing together 735 structural officials, 100 school principals, and 16 regional enterprise directors. The programme, described as a first-of-its-kind initiative for the province, combines religious reflection with training in regional financial management, procurement, asset management, and leadership ethics.

China Achieves Breakthrough in Optical Communication and 6G Technology

A Chinese research team has developed a unified communication system bridging fibre optic and wireless networks, setting new world records in data transmission speed. The system achieved 512 Gbps over fibre optic and 400 Gbps over wireless networks, with demonstrated 6G capabilities exceeding current 5G standards by more than tenfold, potentially reshaping future telecommunications architecture.

Chilli Prices Surge to Rp 140,000 per Kilogram as Government Moves to Intervene

Red cayenne chilli prices at Jakarta's Pasar Minggu market have surged to Rp 140,000 per kilogram ahead of Lebaran, up from a normal range of Rp 90,000–100,000, driven by heavy rainfall disrupting harvests and supply chains. Bulog president director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani has pledged to coordinate with chilli traders and industry associations to bring prices back to normal levels before the holiday period.

US-led Peace Board raises concerns over Gaza and Palestinian solutions

Regional analysts have expressed serious concerns about the US-led "Board of Peace" proposed to oversee post-war governance in Gaza, warning it lacks international legitimacy and sidelines Palestinian rights. Egyptian political scientists described the initiative as a personalised instrument tied to President Trump rather than a credible multilateral mechanism, cautioning it could deepen global divisions rather than deliver a just resolution.

New Chapter in Bogor Domestic Worker Abuse Case: Employer Summoned Over Assault Triggered by Turning Off Stove

Police in Bogor, West Java, have named a 37-year-old employer, identified as OAP, as a suspect in the physical assault of her 21-year-old domestic worker, FH, after the incident went viral on social media. The suspect, who allegedly kicked, pinched and struck the victim over the trivial matter of turning off a stove, has been summoned for questioning on Monday, 23 February 2026, though she has not yet been detained.

Danantara Claims Interest from 12 Global CEOs

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has attracted interest from 12 global corporate leaders during President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to the United States, with investors viewing it as a potential strategic local partner. The CEOs reportedly appreciated the president's emphasis on corporate governance and legal certainty, with some considering establishing representative offices in Indonesia as a long-term commitment.

1,500 Hectares of Paddy Fields in Pidie Jaya Still Buried Under Mud

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian inspected flood-damaged paddy fields in Pidie Jaya, Aceh, where approximately 1,500 hectares remain buried under mud up to one metre thick, threatening the district's status as a regional rice granary. The Agriculture Ministry has allocated around Rp336 billion to accelerate the rehabilitation of flood-affected farmland across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to safeguard food supply.

MKD: No Procedural Violations in Sahroni's Reinstatement as Deputy Chair of Commission III

The House Ethics Council (MKD) chairman confirmed that Ahmad Sahroni's six-month suspension has been duly served, clearing the way for his return as a leader of Commission III. NasDem Party proposed his reinstatement on 19 February 2026, effective 10 March 2026 following the parliamentary recess, with MKD affirming all procedures complied with existing regulations.

5 Facts About Bripda MS Being Named Suspect After Striking Student to Death

A Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officer, Bripda MS, has been named a suspect after allegedly striking a 14-year-old student with a tactical helmet during an illegal street racing patrol in Tual, Maluku, causing the boy's death. The officer faces charges under the Child Protection Act and the Criminal Code, with a maximum sentence of seven years' imprisonment, whilst Indonesian National Police headquarters has issued a formal apology and pledged transparent legal proceedings.

Prabowo: Trade Deal with US Is Mutually Beneficial

President Prabowo Subianto met with US President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss bilateral trade and cooperation. The 30-minute meeting focused on forging a mutually beneficial trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States, signalling efforts to strengthen economic ties between the two nations.

Regions in Indonesia Forecast to Experience Very Heavy Rainfall Today

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across several provinces including West Java, Central Java, East Java, East Nusa Tenggara, Central Papua and Highland Papua on Sunday. The agency urged the public to remain vigilant against potential flooding, waterlogging and disruptions caused by extreme weather, which may be accompanied by strong winds and lightning.

Deputy Head of BGN Refutes UGM Student Council Narrative on Free Nutritious Meal Partner Profits

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has responded to claims by the UGM Student Executive Board chairman that free nutritious meal (MBG) programme partners earn net profits of up to Rp1.8 billion. The deputy head of BGN denied the narrative, pushing back against the student organisation's assertions regarding the financial arrangements of the flagship government nutrition programme.

Foreign National Who Protested Quran Recitation Sound in Gili Trawangan Found to Have Overstayed Visa

A New Zealand citizen identified as ML, who vandalised a mosque's microphone and threatened locals with a machete over loudspeaker use during Ramadan Quran recitation sessions in Gili Trawangan, has been taken into immigration custody after being found to have overstayed her visitor visa.

Foreign National's Outburst Over Quran Recitation Speaker Prompts Response from MUI and Religious Affairs Ministry

Indonesia's Council of Ulema (MUI) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs have responded to a viral incident in which a foreign woman went on a rampage at a prayer hall in Gili Trawangan, Lombok, after being disturbed by loudspeaker sound during Quran recitation on the first night of Ramadan.

Lebaran 2026 Train Tickets: 480,000 Seats Sold, 98,000 Still Available

State-owned railway operator KAI's Jakarta Operations Area 1 reports that 480,000 tickets have been sold for the 2026 Lebaran transport period from 11 March to 1 April, with approximately 98,000 seats still available from Gambir and Pasar Senen stations.

Cayenne pepper at Rp68,836/kg, eggs at Rp31,889/kg on fourth day of fasting

National consumer food prices on the fourth day of Ramadan show cayenne pepper holding at Rp68,836/kg and eggs at Rp31,889/kg, as reported by the National Food Agency's (Bapanas) price panel. While several staple commodities including rice, cooking oil, and flour recorded price declines from the previous day, beef and chicken prices edged upward, reflecting typical demand pressures during the fasting month.

LPDP Scholarship Recipient Sparks Controversy with 'I'll Be the Only Indonesian Citizen, Not My Children' Remark

An alumni of Indonesia's LPDP state scholarship programme sparked public outrage after posting a viral video celebrating her child's British citizenship, declaring "it's enough that I'm Indonesian, my children shouldn't be.

Walhi Questions Freeport's Inclusion in Indonesia-US Economic Negotiation Strategic Agenda

Indonesian environmental advocacy organisation Walhi has raised concerns over the extension of a memorandum of understanding between the Indonesian government and Freeport-McMoRan Inc regarding the continued operations of PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) until copper and gold reserves in Papua are exhausted. The group questions why Freeport's interests have been incorporated into the strategic agenda of bilateral economic negotiations between Indonesia and the United States.

Top 3: LPDP Scholar's Child Becomes Foreign National, MBG Budget Breakdown, and TNI Forces in Gaza

Three major stories dominated Indonesian news: the LPDP scholarship fund summoned the husband of an influencer who celebrated her child obtaining British citizenship, raising questions about scholars' service obligations; Foreign Minister Sugiono clarified that Indonesian troops in Gaza's International Stabilisation Force would only act in self-defence; and legal challengers at the Constitutional Court revealed significant education budget cuts to fund the free nutritious meals programme.

Constitutional Court Ethics Council Chair Responds to Ethics Complaint Filed Against Him

The chairman of the Constitutional Court's Honorary Council (MKMK), I Dewa Gede Palguna, has been reported to the very body he leads over alleged ethical violations, following a complaint by the Indonesian Student Forum (Formasi). Palguna assured that the complaint would not disrupt the council's ongoing proceedings against Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir, which have already reached the deliberation stage.

Jakarta Residents Urged to Report No-Smoking Zone Violations

A Jakarta regional legislator has called on residents to use the JAKI mobile application to report violations of the city's newly enacted No-Smoking Zone regulation. The appeal follows findings by a youth alliance that tobacco advertising remains widespread near public spaces and educational institutions, prompting calls for better enforcement and allocation of tobacco excise revenue towards protecting children and curbing cigarette promotion.

US Parks Dozens of Fighter Jets in Jordan as Iran Threatens to Strike All American Bases in Middle East

Dozens of US fighter jets have been spotted at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Iran has threatened to attack all American military bases across the Middle East, according to satellite imagery reported by the New York Times.

As Part of Indonesia-US Cooperation, Pertamina Strengthens Ties with American Companies

State-owned energy firm Pertamina is deepening cooperation with several US energy companies to boost national oil and gas production through technology transfer and human resource capacity building. The initiative forms part of broader Indonesia-United States bilateral cooperation efforts, signalling Jakarta's continued reliance on American expertise to develop its hydrocarbon sector.

MUI and Ministry of Religious Affairs Respond After Foreign National Protests Quran Recitation Sounds

A foreign woman went viral after vandalising a prayer hall's microphone and threatening locals with machetes on Gili Trawangan during the first night of Ramadan, prompting responses from Indonesia's top Islamic bodies. The Indonesian Ulema Council urged restraint and mutual respect, whilst the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Nahdlatul Ulama called for stricter enforcement of existing loudspeaker regulations and new local-level rules governing their use at places of worship.

480,000 Lebaran 2026 Train Tickets Already Sold

PT KAI's Jakarta Operations Area 1 has outlined seat availability for the 2026 Lebaran exodus period, with approximately 98,000 seats allocated for departures from Gambir and Pasar Senen stations. The state railway operator is running 16 additional services and the government has introduced a 30 per cent fare discount on commercial economy class trains to support affordable travel during the holiday period.

Home Affairs Minister: Krueng Tingkeum Bridge in Bireuen Expected to Be Completed by July 2026

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, who heads the Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Acceleration Task Force for Sumatra, has announced that the permanent Krueng Tingkeum Bridge in Bireuen, Aceh, is expected to be completed by July 2026, with construction currently at 18 per cent progress.

Mobile Driving Licence Service Available at Two Jakarta Locations on Sunday

Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Traffic Directorate is operating mobile driving licence (SIM) renewal services at two locations in East and West Jakarta on Sunday. The service handles renewals for Class A and Class C licences only, with fees set under Government Regulation No. 76/2020, whilst expired licence holders must apply for new ones at the dedicated processing centre.

House Commission I Sets Criteria for TNI Officer to Serve as ISF Deputy Commander in Gaza

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I has outlined the qualifications required for a TNI officer to fill the Deputy Commander position of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Gaza, emphasising extensive multinational operations experience, military diplomacy skills, and strong leadership capacity.

Foreign Minister Sugiono Guarantees TNI Troops Sent to Gaza Will Not Conduct Disarmament

Foreign Minister Sugiono has affirmed that Indonesian military (TNI) personnel deployed as part of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Gaza will not carry out military operations, including disarmament of armed groups. The assurance underscores Indonesia's emphasis on a peacekeeping rather than combat role in the Palestinian territory, reflecting the country's longstanding diplomatic position on the conflict.

80,000 Worshippers Pack Al-Aqsa Mosque for Friday Prayers Amid Provocation by Radical Israeli Minister

An estimated 80,000 worshippers attended Friday prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque during the first Friday of the holy month of Ramadan, despite a provocative incursion by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir into the mosque compound. The far-right minister's storming of the Al-Aqsa esplanade represents a significant escalation in tensions at the contested holy site.

Yesterday's Highlights: Samsung Galaxy S26 Features to Woody's Bald Look in "Toy Story 5"

ANTARA's weekend roundup covers a mix of technology, business, and entertainment news. The most economically significant item is the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2026, which attracted over 580,000 visitors and recorded Rp8.7 trillion in transactions during its 5–15 February run in Jakarta. Other highlights include Samsung's rumoured anti-peek screen feature for the Galaxy S26 and the latest Toy Story 5 trailer.

Gaining Momentum: Indonesian Fish Exports Break Into Chinese and Turkish Markets

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has secured new agreements to expand fishery product exports to China and Turkey, marking a significant broadening of the country's global seafood trade footprint. The deals, reached with Turkish competent authorities, underscore Jakarta's push to diversify export destinations for its marine products.

MUI: Idul Fitri Coinciding with Nyepi a Special Moment for Balinese Society

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in Bali has described the near-simultaneous occurrence of Idul Fitri and Nyepi in March 2026 as a special moment for interfaith harmony. With Nyepi falling on 19 March and Idul Fitri on 21 March — just two days apart — the council has urged Muslims to observe Nyepi restrictions during the tarawih prayer period, citing a successful precedent from 2004 when the two holidays coincided.

Agriculture Minister: KAMMI Youth Key to Farmer Regeneration and Safeguarding Food Self-Sufficiency

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has highlighted the critical role of the Indonesian Muslim Students' Action Union (KAMMI) youth organisation in farmer regeneration and strengthening regional productivity to bolster national food sovereignty.

Fallout Continues from 'I'm Enough as Indonesian Citizen, Not My Children' Remark as LPDP Investigates Husband

Indonesia's LPDP state scholarship fund is investigating the husband of a woman whose viral statement about securing British citizenship for her children sparked national controversy, over allegations he has not fulfilled his mandatory service obligation in Indonesia. The House of Representatives' Commission X has called for stricter enforcement and evaluation of LPDP scholarship contracts, emphasising accountability in the use of public education funds.

Home Affairs Minister: President Deploys Full Resources to Accelerate Post-Disaster Recovery

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, who also heads the Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force for Sumatra, confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto is mobilising all available resources to accelerate recovery efforts following the Sumatra disaster.

DKI Jakarta Weekly Roundup: Wall Collapse in South Jakarta and Reduced School Hours During Ramadan

A weekly roundup of notable events in DKI Jakarta covers several developments including a school wall collapse caused by unstable soil, the deployment of 1,900 joint security personnel for nightly Ramadan patrols, and reduced school hours during the holy month. Other highlights include high passenger volumes at Kampung Rambutan terminal during the Lunar New Year holiday and a report that goods and services disputes dominate information disputes handled by Jakarta's Information Commission.

Weekly Crime Roundup: Richard Lee's Questioning to Kemang Café Attack

A weekly crime summary from Jakarta covers several notable incidents, including the police questioning of suspect Dr Richard Lee over alleged consumer protection and beauty product violations, a luxury hotel theft in Central Jakarta, and an attack on a café in Kemang by four allegedly intoxicated individuals. The roundup also highlights immigration enforcement against foreign nationals working illegally as DJs and dancers in South Jakarta.

Prabowo Meets 12 US Investment Giants: Indonesia Is No Longer a 'Sleeping Giant'

President Prabowo Subianto held a strategic meeting in Washington DC with leaders of 12 major US investment firms collectively managing approximately US$16 trillion in assets, discussing potential cooperation in technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, real estate, and the digital economy.

Police Arrest 2 Drug Couriers Carrying 80 Kg of Methamphetamine in Asahan, 1 Controller Still at Large

Medan Metropolitan Police arrested two drug couriers transporting 80 kg of methamphetamine and 50,000 ecstasy pills in Asahan Regency, North Sumatra. The suspects were allegedly directed by a female controller, identified only as L, who remains on the run, highlighting the scale of narcotics trafficking networks operating across Sumatra.

BMKG Warns of Heavy Rainfall Across Multiple Regions Throughout the Day

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall across several provinces including West Java, Central Java, East Java, East Nusa Tenggara, Central Papua and Highland Papua. The agency urged the public to remain vigilant against extreme weather that could bring strong winds, lightning, flooding and disruption to daily activities.

Bulog chief to coordinate with associations over chilli prices reaching Rp140,000/kg

Bulog president director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani has pledged to coordinate with chilli traders and associations after a surprise inspection at Pasar Minggu in South Jakarta revealed red cayenne pepper prices surging to Rp140,000 per kilogram, up from the normal range of Rp90,000-100,000.

Bener Meriah Hopes to Build Bulog Warehouse for Disaster Mitigation

Bener Meriah's regional secretary has called for the construction of a Bulog (national logistics agency) rice warehouse in the district to improve disaster preparedness, citing lessons learnt from recent Sumatra floods that cut access routes and disrupted logistics.

Government Plans to Extend ExxonMobil's Cepu Block Contract Until 2055

Indonesia's government is planning to extend ExxonMobil's operational contract at the Cepu Block until 2055, potentially attracting an additional US$10 billion in investment. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed the plan forms part of bilateral discussions between Indonesian and US stakeholders, though final terms regarding the cost recovery sharing scheme between state revenue and contractor earnings remain under negotiation.

BGN Explains Financing Scheme and Returns for SPPG Partners

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has responded to claims circulating on social media, originating from the head of Gadjah Mada University's Student Executive Board (BEM UGM), that partners of the Nutrition Food Provider Centres (SPPG) earn net profits of up to Rp 1.8 billion per year. The statement highlights ongoing public scrutiny of the government's free nutritious meal programme's financing model and the returns granted to its private-sector partners.

Bulog Chief Strengthens MinyaKita Stock to 100,000 Tonnes During Ramadan

Bulog President Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani is ramping up subsidised cooking oil (MinyaKita) stocks to as much as 100,000 tonnes to meet surging demand during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, up from the usual 60,000 tonnes per month. The move follows a new trade ministry regulation shifting MinyaKita distribution from private distributors to state-owned enterprises, with retail prices capped at Rp15,700 per litre.

Weekly Humanities Roundup: Free Nutritious Meals During Ramadan and New BPJS Directors

Indonesia's weekly humanities news highlights include the National Nutrition Agency's call for creative local food preparation in the Free Nutritious Meals programme during Ramadan, and the inauguration of new supervisory boards and directors for BPJS Kesehatan and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan for the 2026–2031 term.

Home Affairs Ministry Commends Yahukimo Regency's Swift Action to Restore Security

Indonesia's Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk praised the Yahukimo regency government in Papua Pegunungan for rapidly stabilising security and restoring public services, including the reopening of the Dekai Regional General Hospital after healthcare workers had refused to work due to safety concerns.

Week in politics: Prabowo's US visit to Sahroni's return to House of Representatives

A weekly political roundup covers President Prabowo Subianto's working visit to the United States to court investment, particularly from General Electric in medical equipment manufacturing. Other key developments include Foreign Minister Sugiono clarifying Indonesia's Board of Peace membership contribution, Vice President Gibran inspecting the Semarang-Demak toll road, and Ahmad Sahroni's reinstatement as Deputy Chair of Commission III in the House of Representatives.

Vicious cycle: The good, the bad and the ugly of peer-to-peer loans in Indonesia

Indonesia's peer-to-peer lending market has experienced rapid growth, with outstanding P2P loans surging to nearly 90 trillion rupiah by September 2025, representing a 21% increase from 74.5 trillion rupiah in the previous year. The article examines both the opportunities and risks associated with this burgeoning fintech sector, which sits under Indonesian Financial Services Authority oversight.

Smiles of Disaster-Surviving Students in East Aceh as They Receive School Uniform Aid

Students affected by a disaster in East Aceh received school uniform packages at a temporary emergency school in Sijudo Village, Pante Bidari. The aid distribution highlights ongoing government and humanitarian efforts to ensure continuity of education for children displaced by natural disasters in the province.

Home Affairs Minister: Agriculture Ministry Support Crucial for Paddy Field Recovery in Aceh

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on the Agriculture Ministry to urgently assist in rehabilitating approximately 1,500 hectares of paddy fields buried under thick mud following floods in Pidie Jaya, Aceh. The district is a key regional food granary with around 8,800 hectares of agricultural land, and the damage threatens to reduce rice production if not swiftly addressed.

Weekly law roundup: Former Bima police chief dismissed over drugs, three students killed by train

Indonesia's weekly legal news highlights include the dishonourable discharge of former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro for narcotics-related misconduct, and the KPK's deepening investigation into a tax official's concurrent positions linked to alleged tax restitution corruption.

Mapping Noisy Padel Courts: Jakarta Provincial Government May Revoke Permits and Impose Restrictions

The Jakarta Provincial Government is conducting a comprehensive evaluation of all padel court permits across the capital following noise complaints from residents in South and East Jakarta. Governor Pramono Anung has warned that courts found to be disturbing public order, operating without proper permits, or lacking community consent could face operational restrictions or permit revocation.

Bulog Chief Says Rice Supply Secure Through Lebaran with 3.2 Million Tonne Stockpile

Bulog President Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani has confirmed that rice stocks stand at 3.2 million tonnes, with an additional 100,000 tonnes absorbed from domestic farmers in January alone, ensuring adequate supply through Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026.

Nearly Two-Hour Discussion as Global Investors Express Interest in Partnering with Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto met with 12 heads of global investment firms managing approximately USD 15 trillion in assets during his working visit to Washington DC. The meeting, originally scheduled for one hour, extended to nearly two hours due to productive discussions, with investors expressing interest in Danantara Indonesia as a strategic local partner for both domestic and international investment.

Magnitude 4.3 Earthquake Strikes Gayo Lues, Aceh

A magnitude 4.3 earthquake struck Gayo Lues regency in Aceh province at a depth of 10 kilometres early on Sunday morning. The BMKG meteorological agency reported the quake was centred 38 kilometres northeast of Gayo Lues, though no information on damage or casualties has yet been released.

Inclusive Quran Recitation: Fingers Become 'Eyes' to Spell Out God's Word

The Ministry of Religious Affairs' Quran Standardisation Institute has launched an inclusive online Quran recitation programme (TAQI) for people with disabilities during Ramadan. The initiative enables visually impaired participants to read the Quran using Braille, turning their fingers into 'eyes' to engage with scripture. The programme reflects the government's commitment to ensuring religious activities are accessible to all citizens, including those with disabilities.

New Zealand National Who Protested at Gili Trawangan Prayer Hall Found to Have Overstayed Visa

A New Zealand woman identified as ML, who vandalised a prayer hall's loudspeaker and threatened locals with a machete on Gili Trawangan during Ramadan recitations, has been found to have overstayed her visit visa and taken to the immigration office for further examination. The incident, which went viral on social media, has prompted police to provide security around both the prayer hall and the foreigner's residence on the popular tourist island in North Lombok.

Indonesia's Appointment as ISF Deputy Commander Draws Hamas Response

Hamas has responded to the planned deployment of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) to Gaza, in which Indonesia has been appointed deputy commander and pledged up to 8,000 troops.

Indonesian President ready to face all possibilities after US Supreme Court rejects Trump's global tariffs

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto declared his government ready to navigate uncertainties following the US Supreme Court's rejection of Trump's global tariffs. During his Washington visit, Prabowo secured a bilateral trade deal reducing tariff rates on Indonesian exports from 32 per cent to 19 per cent, with negotiators pushing for continued exemptions on palm oil, coffee and cocoa.

Police Arrest Acehnese Man over Alleged Blasphemy on TikTok

Aceh Regional Police have arrested a man identified as DS (Dedi Saputra) for allegedly insulting the Prophet Muhammad in a viral TikTok video viewed approximately 1.9 million times, in which he discussed his conversion from Islam to Christianity. The suspect faces charges under Indonesia's amended Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law and the new Criminal Code provisions on religious defamation and incitement of sectarian hatred.

Bapanas confirms stable prices for beef, chicken and eggs in Merauke

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has confirmed that food prices in Merauke, South Papua, remain stable ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026, with beef prices holding at Rp135,000–140,000 per kilogram within government reference levels. The agency is intensifying affordable food programmes and strengthening distribution networks to ensure adequate supply in eastern Indonesia, a region facing significant logistical challenges.

LPDP Scholarship Controversy: Former Higher Education Official Speaks on Gratitude for Studying Abroad

A female LPDP scholarship recipient sparked public outrage after boasting that her child had obtained British citizenship, declaring "it's enough that I'm Indonesian, my child shouldn't be." Former Acting Director General of Higher Education Prof. Nizam responded by citing US research showing Indonesian students have the highest rate of returning home among all foreign students, and urged gratitude for the opportunity to study abroad and contribute to national development.

Bulog Chief Seeks Swift Distribution of Rice and Cooking Oil Aid

Bulog President Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani has confirmed that government-mandated rice and cooking oil assistance will begin distribution in the fourth week of February 2026, following the release of funds from the Ministry of Finance. The programme targets 33.2 million beneficiary households, distributing 10 kilogrammes of rice and 2 litres of cooking oil per recipient for February and March, with a total budget of Rp11.

After Six Years of Surplus, Indonesia's Balance of Payments Falls into Deficit in 2025

Indonesia's Balance of Payments recorded a deficit of 7.8 billion USD in 2025, ending a six-year streak of consecutive surpluses due to capital outflows and a shrinking surplus in direct investment. The capital and financial account deficit of 4.2 billion USD, despite a narrowing current account deficit, reveals structural vulnerabilities in Indonesia's external resilience.

International Tourist Visits to Indonesia Reached 15.39 Million in 2025

Indonesia recorded 15.39 million international tourist visits in 2025, surpassing its Government Work Plan target, with average spending of US$1,267 per arrival. Domestic tourism also hit a historic high of 1.2 billion trips, and the government has set an ambitious target of 16 to 17.6 million foreign visits for 2026.

Largest Aircraft Carrier Docks in Mediterranean: Is a US Strike on Iran Drawing Closer?

The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, has entered the Mediterranean Sea en route to the Middle East as part of a massive US military build-up amid escalating tensions with Iran. President Trump stated he is "considering" limited strikes against Iran should negotiations over its nuclear programme fail, while Tehran has warned that all US bases and assets in the region would become "legitimate targets" in the event of an attack.

Magnitude 4.6 Earthquake Strikes Tigaraksa, BPBD Reports No Damage

A magnitude 4.6 earthquake struck the Tigaraksa district of Tangerang Regency, Banten, on Saturday evening, prompting an immediate response from the regional disaster management agency. Despite initial public concern, the BPBD confirmed no structural damage, casualties, or aftershocks, noting that residents at the estimated epicentre did not even feel the tremor.

BRIN Says Aceh Land Collapse Is Not a Sinkhole, Reveals Contributing Factors

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has clarified that the ground collapse in Central Aceh is a landslide phenomenon rather than a sinkhole, caused by weak tuff rock layers eroded over decades. The agency identified the 2013 earthquake, heavy rainfall, and irrigation water seepage as key accelerating factors, warning that similar conditions may exist in other regions with young volcanic rock geology.

Police Arrest Acehnese Man for Insulting Prophet Muhammad on TikTok

Indonesian police arrested Dedi Saputra in West Kalimantan for allegedly insulting Prophet Muhammad in a TikTok video that went viral. The suspect has been charged under the Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law and the Criminal Code, following a complaint filed jointly by Islamic organisations and Aceh's Sharia Islam Office.

Indonesian Ulema Council Issues Stern Warning Over US Products Entering Indonesia Without Halal Certification

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has firmly rejected any trade agreement provisions that would exempt US products from halal certification requirements, insisting that such obligations are enshrined in Indonesian law and non-negotiable. MUI's Head of Fatwa, Asrorun Ni'am Sholeh, urged Muslims to avoid products without clear halal status and framed halal certification as a fundamental human rights issue, turning America's own rhetoric on religious freedom back upon it.

Magnitude 4.0 Earthquake Strikes Southwest Maluku

A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck Southwest Maluku in Maluku Province at a depth of 179 kilometres, with its epicentre located 233 kilometres northwest of Southwest Maluku. The BMKG reported no immediate information on damage or casualties, noting that initial data processing may be subject to revision.

PLN UP3 Jayapura Conducts Integrated Maintenance to Anticipate Severe Weather

State electricity company PLN's Jayapura customer service unit is carrying out comprehensive maintenance on its power grid to mitigate disruptions from heavy rain, strong winds and lightning. The Jayapura power system currently has a generating capacity of 114.50 MW against a peak load of 99.50 MW, with 15 MW in reserve, though recent outages have been attributed to routine maintenance and weather-related incidents including trees falling on power lines.

Makassar City Government Waives Waste Fees for Tens of Thousands of Households

The Makassar city government has exempted nearly 50,000 low-income households from waste collection fees since July 2025, targeting families with 450 VA and 900 VA electricity connections across 14 sub-districts. The programme, enacted under a 2025 mayoral regulation, also introduces a tiered discount scheme for middle-income households, replacing an older zone-based tariff system in a bid to deliver equitable public services.

Residents on alert as river widens following flash flood disaster in East Aceh

Residents of Ranto Panyang Rubek hamlet in East Aceh are living in fear after the Arakundo River widened by approximately 30 metres to around 130 metres following devastating flash floods, with stronger currents continuing to erode the riverbanks. A floating bridge that previously spanned the river has been destroyed and not rebuilt, leaving locals dependent on a makeshift raft service to cross the increasingly dangerous waterway.

Three Teenage Girls Killed by Train While Taking Selfies on Tracks in Batang

Three teenage girls were struck and killed by the Argo Merbabu train while reportedly taking selfies on the railway tracks between Batang and Pekalongan stations in Central Java. PT KAI's Daop 4 Semarang expressed condolences and urged the public to refrain from activities on railway lines, citing Indonesia's Railway Law. Police called on parents to exercise greater supervision over their children.

Parents urged to play active role in preventing children from joining street brawls

The Mayor of North Jakarta, Hendra Hidayat, has called on parents to take greater responsibility in keeping their children away from street brawls, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The North Jakarta administration has coordinated with local security and government bodies down to the sub-district level to anticipate and prevent youth violence across the area.

Indonesian Government Communications Agency Urges Public to Report Any Irregularities in Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia's Government Communications Agency (Bakom RI) has called on the public to actively monitor and report any corruption or irregularities in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, emphasising the programme's transparent nature makes it easier for ordinary citizens to detect misconduct.

National Food Agency ensures food price stability at Bogor's Gembrong Market

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has confirmed that prices of key food commodities at Gembrong Market in Bogor remain within government-set reference prices ahead of Ramadan. While beef, chicken, rice and sugar prices are stable, chilli prices remain under pressure, prompting government intervention through food distribution facilitation to bring costs down for consumers.

Acting Bima City Police Chief Replaced Again After Criticism Over Previous Drug Case

The acting police chief of Bima City has been replaced for the second time after public outcry over the previous appointee's history of testing positive for methamphetamine use in 2017. AKBP Hariyanto, currently deputy commander of the NTB Mobile Brigade, has been named as the new acting chief, replacing AKBP Catur Erwin Setiawan whose appointment had drawn sharp criticism given that his predecessor was also dismissed over a narcotics case.

Temporary Shelter Construction for Isolated Hamlets in East Aceh Hampered by Poor Access

Construction of temporary shelters for flash flood survivors in isolated hamlets of East Aceh district has been delayed due to impassable roads, forcing displaced residents to remain in evacuation centres. The disaster, which struck in late November 2025, wiped out 29 villages across three provinces, killing 1,205 people and leaving 139 missing, whilst raising serious questions about village relocation and administrative reorganisation.

Indonesia Appointed ISF Deputy Commander, Foreign Minister Sugiono: This Is an Honour

Indonesia has been appointed deputy commander for operations of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Gaza, following a direct invitation from the United States as force commander. Foreign Minister Sugiono said the appointment recognises Indonesia's peacekeeping track record, with the country planning to deploy up to 8,000 personnel out of a total 20,000-strong multinational force.

Indonesian Idol Contestant Piche Kota Named Suspect in Sexual Abuse Case Involving High School Student, Two Accomplices at Large

Petrus Yohanes Debrito Armando Jaga Kota, known as Piche Kota, a contestant from Indonesian Idol 2025, has been named a suspect in the alleged sexual abuse of a high school student in Belu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Two other suspects, Roy Mali and Rivan, have fled and are now on the police wanted list, whilst authorities pursue charges under child protection and national criminal code provisions.

European Union Warns of Severe Crisis in Eastern Congo

The European Union has described the humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as "catastrophic" amid escalating conflict between the Congolese military and M23 rebels. The leader of the M23-allied coalition, Corneille Nangaa, rejected the characterisation, claiming conditions are worse in government-controlled areas, as both sides trade accusations of ceasefire violations.

House of Representatives: Import of 105,000 Indian Pickup Trucks for Village Cooperatives Contradicts Prabowo's Commitment

A House of Representatives member has criticised state-owned enterprise PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara's plan to import approximately 105,000 pickup trucks from India for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme, arguing it contradicts President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to domestically produced vehicles. The lawmaker highlighted that Indonesia's automotive industry has capacity to produce up to 2.

Basic Education Minister Proposes Additional Budget to Revitalise 60,000 Schools

Indonesia's Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has submitted a request for additional budget funding to revitalise 60,000 damaged school buildings in 2026, building on the successful completion of 16,167 school revitalisations in 2025. The programme, a national priority initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to improve educational infrastructure whilst simultaneously stimulating local economies through self-managed construction using local labour and materials.

Fate of Former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik: Already Dismissed, Now Facing Death Penalty Over Drug Case

Former Bima City police chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, who was dishonourably discharged following an ethics hearing on 19 February 2026, now faces the death penalty after being named a suspect in two separate narcotics cases. The cases involve receiving proceeds from illegal drug trafficking and personal drug possession, with evidence linked to a broader network uncovered within the Indonesian National Police.

On Its 53rd Anniversary, KSPSI Pledges to Remain Critical in Fighting for Workers' Rights

Indonesia's largest labour confederation, KSPSI, marked its 53rd anniversary with a pledge to maintain a critical yet dialogic stance towards the government in advocating for workers' rights. President Andi Gani Nena Wea announced that the confederation's cooperative assets have reached approximately Rp 1.9 trillion, underscoring its economic as well as organisational strength.

Rachmat Gobel: Importing 105,000 Indian Pick-Up Trucks for Merah Putih Village Cooperatives Contradicts National Industry Strengthening Efforts

House of Representatives Commission VI member Rachmat Gobel has criticised plans to import approximately 105,000 commercial vehicles from India worth Rp24.66 trillion for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme, arguing it undermines national industrialisation and job creation goals.