Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 February 2026

Showing 1-500 of 924 articles

Riau Police Chief Affirms Openness to Criticism: We Provide Space for Dialogue

The Chief of Police for Riau affirmed that the National Police welcomes criticism and dialogue with the public, directly addressing concerns over a viral narrative regarding the 110 emergency call centre's responsiveness. Speaking during a Ramadan event with students, he invited youth to become agents of social change and introduced the "Green Policing" concept as a framework for community-police collaboration in environmental protection.

Migrant Worker Remittances Set to Rise 14 Per Cent in 2025

Indonesia's Minister of Migrant Worker Protection announced that remittances from Indonesian migrant workers are projected to increase 14 per cent in 2025 to approximately Rp288 trillion, up from Rp253 trillion in 2024. The government is strengthening the SMK Go Global programme to enhance the quality and skill levels of migrant workers whilst improving their protections abroad.

Japan Lodges Strong Protest with China Over Export Control List

Japan has formally protested China's addition of 20 Japanese defence companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Shipbuilding, to its dual-use goods export control list. China justified the measure as responding to Japan's "remilitarisation" and nuclear ambitions, whilst Tokyo condemned the action as "completely unacceptable and deeply regrettable".

Why Bareskrim Joined Investigation into Teenage Girl Murdered by Boyfriend in Malang

A 17-year-old girl from Nganjuk was murdered by her 22-year-old boyfriend and found dead in a river in Malang on 17 February 2026; the suspect was arrested four days later following a coordinated investigation by Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim Polri) and regional authorities.

Imsak Schedule for Denpasar and Surrounding Areas Today, 25 February / 7 Ramadan

This article provides the Imsak schedule for various regions in Bali, Indonesia, for the 7th day of Ramadan, 25 February 2026. It emphasizes the importance of Sahur (pre-dawn meal) for Muslims during Ramadan and includes the prayer for fasting. The schedule is supported by Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI).

Bali's Nusa Penida Prepares To Become Beacon Of Eco-Tourism

Nusa Penida, Bali's rapidly expanding tourist destination, is being transformed into a "Green Island" through a government-led sustainable development initiative by the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Klungkung Regency. The comprehensive concept encompasses waste management, renewable energy systems, vehicle restrictions, cultural conservation, and sustainable tourism practices, funded through government budgets, tourism taxes, and private investment.

Indonesia establishes regulatory framework to safeguard halal imports

Indonesia has announced a comprehensive 2025–2029 halal industry development roadmap to strengthen oversight of imported goods and ensure compliance with halal standards across supply chains. The government's measures include stricter documentation requirements, harmonised international standards, infrastructure expansion, and transition policies to encourage domestic sourcing, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals that rely heavily on imports.

Bali Battling Unprecedented Flooding as Torrential Rains Force Mass Evacuations

Southern Bali is experiencing catastrophic flooding from unprecedented rainfall, forcing evacuations across major tourist destinations including Kuta and Seminyak whilst disrupting thousands of holiday plans. Authorities have declared 76 major disaster incidents with the Regional Disaster Management Agency coordinating emergency operations using rubber dinghies and rescue teams as water levels in some residential areas reach waist-high.

Transport Minister Ensures Eid Travel Ticket Stimulus Will Not Harm Airlines

Indonesia's government is providing a 100 per cent VAT subsidy on plane tickets during the 2026 Eid travel period, with the stimulus funded through government fiscal policy rather than placed as a burden on airlines. The policy also includes discounts on rail, maritime, road transport, and toll roads, whilst balancing affordable travel for citizens with the sustainability of the national aviation industry.

Banten Government Accelerates Cirarab River Normalisation, Riverbank Homes to be Regulated

Banten Province is accelerating normalisation of the Cirarab River, targeting completion by end-March 2026 through dredging and widening nearly five kilometres of waterway to mitigate recurring flooding. The multi-agency coordination effort involving provincial, city, and regency governments alongside the national river basin authority requires the relocation of approximately 700 riverbank homes, with resettlement to commence after Eid.

Sharing While Seeking Prizes During Ramadan: The Scheme and How to Participate

GoPay has launched the "War Trakjil" promotional programme during Ramadan, enabling users to collect puzzle pieces from GoPay-to-GoPay transfers and redeem them for prizes worth billions of rupiah, including iPhones and discount vouchers. The initiative exemplifies how Indonesian fintech companies capitalise on Ramadan's tradition of sharing to drive user engagement and transaction growth.

Thai Tourist's Luggage Thieves Arrested at Bromo, Modus Operandi Revealed

Three individuals have been arrested by Probolinggo Police for stealing suitcases worth over Rp108 million from a Thai tourist at the Bromo mountain tourist area on 15 February 2026. The suspects employed a modus operandi of damaging vehicle locks at the Wonotoro Village parking area to access items inside parked cars. The principal offender faces charges under Indonesia's Criminal Code with a maximum sentence of seven years imprisonment.

Extreme Weather Disrupts Bali's Tourism Infrastructure Across Airport and Port Operations

Severe flooding and extreme weather across Bali have disrupted critical tourism infrastructure, with multiple flights diverted and ferry services suspended as heavy rains persist. Bali Airport and Nusa Penida Harbor have implemented coordinated safety protocols with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency, with extreme conditions forecasted to continue until early April.

Police Cite Obstacles in Handling Alleged Rape Case of Content Creator Cinta Ruhama

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police are investigating an alleged rape case reported by content creator Cinta Ruhama involving an incident from 2017, but face significant obstacles due to the age of the case and deterioration of evidence. Police cite challenges including a crime scene that has changed, non-functional CCTV footage, poor witness recollection, and the complainant's failure to attend several investigative summonses.

LPS Pays Out IDR 25.65 Billion to 1,994 Customers of BPR Kamadana After Licence Revocation

The Indonesian Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has disbursed IDR 25.65 billion to 1,994 customers of BPR Kamadana, a rural bank whose operating licence was revoked. The payout represents the first phase of claims, covering approximately 79.44% of the bank's depositors. The revocation followed the discovery of fraudulent activities and violations of banking regulations by the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Indonesian think tank urges UN Charter enforcement on Ukraine

Indonesia's Habibie Center has called for strict enforcement of UN Charter principles regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, arguing that Moscow has violated foundational international law governing state sovereignty and territorial integrity. The think tank emphasised that consistent accountability mechanisms are essential to global security and warned that selective application of international law undermines the United Nations' credibility and invites further conflict.

Agrinas Claims Pick-up Truck Imports Could Save Budget of Rp 46.5 Trillion

PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara claims importing 105,000 pick-up trucks from India will generate budget savings of Rp 46.5 trillion in government procurement. The company opted to source 35,000 units from Indian manufacturer Tata Motors after domestic producers could supply only 45,000 units, citing capacity constraints and uncompetitive pricing from local manufacturers.

Purbaya Agrees to Defer Pick-up Truck Imports for Merah Putih Cooperative Following Dasco's Request

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has agreed to postpone the import of 105,000 pick-up trucks from Indian manufacturers for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme, following a request from House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad. The deferment allows President Prabowo Subianto to discuss details of the plan whilst on an international working visit. The decision reflects the government's commitment to protecting and promoting Indonesia's domestic automotive industry.

YAICI Provides Nutritious Food and Psychological Support to Flood-Affected Children in Aceh Tamiang

The Abhipraya Insan Cendekia Indonesia Foundation (YAICI) has delivered humanitarian aid to children affected by devastating flash floods on 26 November 2025 in Aceh Tamiang, combining nutritious food, clean water access, and trauma counselling. During visits to Serba Village and Pematang Durian Village, YAICI conducted psychological support sessions using play-based games to help children recover from disaster-related trauma.

Ipda Aris Denies Hitting Brigadier Nurhadi, Despite Evidence of Ring-Shaped Wound

During questioning in the murder trial of Brigadier Muhammad Nurhadi, Ipda I Gde Aris Chandra Widianto denied hitting the victim. However, prosecutors presented evidence of a ring-shaped wound on Nurhadi's face and questioned Aris about a ring he owns. Aris claimed he wasn't wearing the ring at the time of the incident and that the wound was unrelated to Nurhadi's death.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Urges Greater Saudi Visits to Indonesia

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah has called for increased visits from Saudi Arabian citizens to Indonesia, emphasising the country's strategic bilateral partnership and noting record numbers of Indonesian pilgrims undertaking Hajj and Umrah. With 2.6 million Umrah pilgrims and 221,000 Hajj pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia this year, the minister stressed the importance of reciprocal tourism between the two nations.

Sentencing Hearing for Nine Defendants in Crude Oil Corruption Case Set for Thursday, 26 February

Nine defendants, including senior officials from state oil company PT Pertamina and private sector operators, face sentencing on 26 February 2026 in a major crude oil corruption case at Jakarta's Central Corruption Court. The alleged fraud, involving crude oil management, fuel imports, and illegal diesel sales, has resulted in state losses estimated at IDR 285 trillion.

Psychologist highlights unconscious 'oversharing' behaviour on social media

A psychologist has cautioned against unconscious oversharing on social media, attributing the behaviour to intense emotional states that trigger impulsive posting without consideration of consequences. The expert identified key manifestations of oversharing, including disclosure of excessively personal content, sharing others' stories without permission, and posting whilst experiencing heightened emotional intensity.

The Spirit of Ramadan: Baznas Channels Assistance and Financial Literacy to Orphans

During Ramadan 1447 Hijri, Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has partnered with local governments and financial institutions to support vulnerable groups, with Pacitan distributing aid totalling over Rp259 million to 1,000 orphans and Malang launching financial literacy programmes.

Three Former Belawan Port Authority Heads Detained in Corruption Probe

The North Sumatra Prosecutor's Office has detained three former heads of Belawan Port Authority as suspects in a corruption case involving non-tax state revenue (PNBP) from port services during 2023–2024. Investigators allege the officials failed to properly reconcile mandatory pilotage and towing service revenues, causing alleged state financial losses totalling billions of rupiah. The suspects face charges under Indonesia's anti-corruption law and the criminal code.

Regional Council Demands Stricter Post-Study Monitoring of Overseas LPDP Scholarship Recipients

Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD) has called for tighter post-study oversight of LPDP scholarship recipients studying abroad, prompted by cases of recipients failing to fulfil mandatory service obligations.

Tragic Death of Woman in Malang Reveals Murder by Boyfriend Over Motorcycle Repairs

Police in Malang have identified a 17-year-old woman found murdered in the Kedung Winong River as having been killed by her boyfriend of three months. The crime stemmed from a dispute over the cost of repairing the victim's motorcycle during a joint trip that escalated into strangulation and the concealment of the body. The perpetrator, identified as a daily wage worker, was apprehended following the police investigation.

Distinguished Professor at IPB: Aged Water Containers Remain Safe with Proper Maintenance

Professor Ahmad Sulaeman from IPB University's food safety division has confirmed that reusable water containers of any age remain safe for public consumption when properly maintained and stored, contrary to assumptions that older containers pose greater chemical risks. The expert emphasised that safety depends not on container age but on correct storage conditions and care practices, with harmful chemical migration only occurring under extreme temperatures or pH conditions.

Astra's Vocational Education Support Programme Boosts Technical Skills and Fosters Independence Among Young People

Astra Foundation has launched a comprehensive vocational education support programme across Indonesian regions, including the remote Kupang Regency, aimed at strengthening teacher capacity and developing practical skills amongst young people. The initiative addresses significant challenges in rural vocational schools, including limited facilities and infrastructure, whilst enhancing graduates' readiness for employment or entrepreneurship.

Mount Semeru erupts with 3-kilometre pyroclastic flow as authorities warn of lahar risk

Mount Semeru in Indonesia has erupted again, ejecting a 3-kilometre pyroclastic flow towards Besuk Kobokan on Tuesday evening, captured by local residents. Though residential areas remain unaffected thus far, the Lumajang Disaster Management Agency is on high alert for potential lahars (volcanic mudflows) amid continued heavy rainfall in the region.

Kerry Riza's Legal Team Claims Prosecutors Are Forcing a Business Decision to Be Classified as a Corruption Crime

Muhammad Kerry Adrianto Riza's legal team presented a rebuttal at the Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court, arguing that prosecutors lack evidence of malicious intent, unlawful acts, or state financial losses in the Pertamina crude oil management case.

World's Largest Aircraft Carrier, USS Gerald R Ford, Moves Closer to the Middle East

The USS Gerald R Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, has docked in Souda Bay, Greece, a strategic NATO base. This deployment, ordered by President Trump, is intended to pressure Iran into reaching an agreement in nuclear negotiations and signals a readiness to consider military options. The carrier is expected to join the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Middle East, further increasing the US military presence in the region.

Banten Police Officer Charged with Five Months Prison for Assaulting Environmental Ministry Staff and Journalist

A Banten Police Mobile Brigade officer, Tegar Bintang, has been charged with five months in prison for assaulting a Ministry of Environment and Forestry employee and journalist during an environmental enforcement operation in Serang in August 2025. Four civilian defendants involved in obstructing the operation received harsher sentences of seven months, whilst the police officer's lighter sentence was attributed to a reconciliation agreement with the victim.

West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government Accelerates 15 People's Mining Permits

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Provincial Government is expediting the issuance of 15 People's Mining Permits (IPR) across Lombok and Sumbawa islands to address illegal mining and boost regional revenue. While the initiative aims to improve the fiscal situation, concerns remain regarding reclamation documents and administrative readiness of the mining cooperatives. The government is focusing on harmonizing regulations across relevant sectors to ensure a smooth and legally sound permitting process.

40 Million MSMEs Still Lack Business Identification as Government Streamlines Registration Process

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming has revealed that approximately 40 million micro, small, and medium enterprises lack formal business identification (NIB), despite 15.2 million already being issued. To address this registration gap, the government has simplified the location permit process by enabling micro-enterprises to obtain approval through self-declaration with automatic system approval.

KPK Addresses Possible Reinstatement of 57 Former Staff Following Central Information Commission Ruling

The Central Information Commission has ruled that the Indonesian anti-corruption agency (KPK) must disclose results from its 2021 national insight test that led 57 employees to fail and leave their positions. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto stated the agency will review the ruling, whilst civil society advocates argue the decision represents a victory against obstruction of Indonesia's corruption-fighting efforts.

Experts Call for Middle-Power Nations to Strengthen Cooperation in Navigating Global Dynamics

A prominent International Relations academic has urged Indonesia and other middle-power countries to coordinate more effectively in response to perceived UN ineffectiveness and major-power dominance in global affairs. The scholar warned that without such cooperation, the erosion of international law—evidenced by the normalisation of territorial conquest—poses direct strategic risks to Indonesia regarding border disputes, the South China Sea, and regional stability.

Indonesia delays plan to import 105,000 Indian trucks

The Indonesian government has delayed a planned import of 105,000 Indian trucks by state-owned PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara to allow President Prabowo to assess the proposal and evaluate domestic manufacturers' readiness. The vehicles, sourced from Indian firms Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors, reflect government priority to protect and strengthen the domestic automotive industry.

UN Secretary-General reiterates call for immediate ceasefire in Ukraine

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has renewed his appeal for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine on the fourth anniversary of the crisis, emphasising that peace must be grounded in the UN Charter, international law, and respect for Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity. Guterres warned that the prolonged conflict continues to inflict devastating humanitarian costs on civilians whilst threatening regional and international peace and security.

Bandung City Council's Special Committee 12 Finalises Draft Regional Regulation on Social Welfare, Key Points Revealed

Bandung City Council's Special Committee 12 is finalising a comprehensive new Draft Regional Regulation on Social Welfare that substantially overhauls the 2012 framework by aligning with national Ministry of Social Affairs standards. The regulation introduces stricter oversight of fundraising and donations, centralises prize draw licensing with the national government, and strengthens standards for local social welfare institutions.

BP BUMN appoints officials to speed up transformation

Indonesia's state-owned enterprises supervisory board (BP BUMN) has inaugurated new senior officials as part of a sweeping transformation agenda aimed at improving governance and competitiveness across the SOE sector. The restructuring programme will consolidate more than 1,000 SOE entities into approximately 200 to 300 through mergers, divestments and liquidations.

BKPM States US Cooperation Will Not Affect Indonesia's Independence

Indonesia's investment ministry has reaffirmed that deepening trade and investment cooperation with the United States will not compromise the nation's independence or policy autonomy. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu emphasised that whilst the government remains open to international communication and collaboration, there will be no external interference in national economic policy-making.

Sixty residents affected by land movement disaster in Semarang City

A soil creep disaster triggered by heavy rainfall has displaced 60 residents in Semarang City's Tembalang District, with approximately 15 houses severely damaged or collapsed. The incident, which began in early February 2026, was caused by rainfall saturating clay-rich soil, forcing 22 families into emergency shelters. The city's Disaster Management Agency is providing emergency assistance and support to those affected by the slow-moving landslide.

Central Java Waste Crisis: 6.3 Million Tonnes Annually, Only 60 Per Cent Managed

Central Java faces a significant waste management crisis, producing 6.3 million tonnes annually but managing only 60 per cent, leaving the province well short of Indonesia's 2029 zero-waste target. Governor Ahmad Luthfi has escalated the issue to central government, with the provincial administration implementing the Jateng ASRI movement featuring refuse-derived fuel processing and waste-to-energy facilities already operational in several regencies.

Minister of Social Affairs Encourages 84,000 PKH Beneficiaries in Serang to Join Merah Putih Village Cooperative

Indonesia's Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf, has urged 84,000 Family Hope Programme (PKH) beneficiary families in Serang Regency, Banten, to join the Merah Putih Village Cooperative to enhance their economic independence. The initiative aims to foster collaboration between cooperatives and the government's social welfare programme, moving PKH recipients towards greater self-sufficiency and economic empowerment through localised cooperative structures.

Prosecutors Claim Nadiem Allegedly Concealed Fund Flows in Chromebook Case

Prosecutors allege that former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim concealed financial flows and engaged in conflicts of interest during a government Chromebook procurement contract. The prosecution claims that after a 2020 meeting with Google executives, the company secured the ministry contract whilst its executive was appointed to a company Nadiem controlled—described as "mutualistic symbiosis.

North Barito Archives and Library Service Displays Ancient Islamic Manuscripts

The Archives and Library Service of North Barito in Central Kalimantan is exhibiting two ancient Islamic sermon manuscripts dating from the 1930s–1940s, part of a broader initiative to preserve and promote local cultural heritage to the younger generation.

Floods Hit Hotels and Homestays in Mandalika, Tourists Panic

Heavy rain and strong winds caused flooding in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone in Lombok Tengah, West Nusa Tenggara, on Tuesday, affecting hotels and homestays and prompting tourists to evacuate. The flooding was attributed to high rainfall, overflowing drainage systems, and blocked waterways. Authorities report no casualties but acknowledge property damage and traffic disruptions.

ICW Urges KPK to Scrutinise 1,179 Polri Nutritional Service Units

Indonesia Corruption Watch has formally requested the Corruption Eradication Commission to oversee the Indonesian National Police's 1,179 Nutritional Service Units, citing concerns about unequal management and potential financial irregularities. Unlike other foundations managing similar units, which face a ten-unit cap, police units operate without management restrictions and receive approximately Rp2.

European Union Highlights Four Years of Russian Invasion and Ukraine's Demonstrated Resilience

The European Union's Ambassador to Indonesia has characterised Russia as an unreliable partner whilst highlighting Ukraine's resilience and institutional reforms over four years of invasion.

Legislator deems review of pickup truck imports from India the right move

A Commission VII legislator has endorsed the government's decision to review a proposed import of 105,000 Indian pickup trucks for village cooperatives, contending that domestic automotive manufacturers should be prioritised instead. The apparent policy shift reflects support for President Prabowo's Astacita programme, which seeks to strengthen Indonesia's national automotive industry through integrated domestic supply chains rather than reliance on foreign imports for state initiatives.

House of Representatives Enlists Community to Oversee Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Serang City

Indonesia's House of Representatives is mobilising community participation to monitor implementation of the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme across Serang City, with 74 service units currently active. The initiative underscores the importance of public engagement in ensuring equitable distribution and effective impact of the national nutritional assistance scheme.

Bappenas Hopes Updated Regional Competitiveness Index Will Reflect Community Welfare

The National Development Planning Minister has urged that the updated 2025 Regional Competitiveness Index (IDSD) measure genuine community welfare improvements rather than serving as mere statistical metrics. The index, released by BRIN, assesses four competitiveness components to guide regional government development policy and supports Indonesia's goal of ranking among the world's top four economies by 2050.

Indonesian Habibie Centre Emphasises UN Charter in Resolving Ukraine Conflict

The Habibie Centre, a prominent Indonesian think tank, has emphasised the critical importance of upholding United Nations Charter principles in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, viewing the crisis through the lens of democracy and human rights.

Optical Industry Targets Muslim Women's Eyewear Segment

Indonesia's optical retailers are increasingly targeting women who wear hijabs as a distinct market niche, with companies like Optik Tunggal launching dedicated product collections featuring designs optimised for comfort and stability with headwear. This strategic market segmentation capitalises on Indonesia's large population of active Muslim women and reflects the industry's response to heightened retail competition through consumer-focused curation.

Government Prioritises Education: Scholarships for Early Childhood Education in Surabaya and Religious Leader Training in the United States

Indonesia's government is advancing a two-pronged education initiative comprising a Surabaya-based scholarship programme supporting approximately 8,000 disadvantaged early childhood education students with monthly allowances, and a national scheme dispatching 29 religious leaders for advanced study at American universities.

Modest Luxe Sarinah launches to strengthen Indonesia's modest fashion ecosystem

Scarf Media Indonesia has launched Modest Luxe, a curated pop-up store at Sarinah Jakarta (24–31 March 2026), featuring over 25 modest and Muslim fashion brands to strengthen Indonesia's fashion ecosystem and showcase locally curated products. The initiative reflects growing recognition of Indonesian modest fashion's quality and appeal in international markets including Southeast Asia, Saudi Arabia, and Europe.

Bulog ensures rice and cooking oil stocks remain stable ahead of Eid

Bulog has stepped up measures to ensure stable supplies and prices of essential commodities during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, raising cooking oil stocks to 100,000 tonnes whilst maintaining sufficient government rice reserves. Officials reported that prices are under control and coordinated with local governments and producers to prevent excessive increases and protect consumer purchasing power during peak consumption periods.

Bangka Belitung provincial government distributes Islamic alms through Ramadan outreach programme

The Bangka Belitung Islands Provincial Government distributed zakat (Islamic alms) to 37 orphans and underprivileged children as part of its Ramadan Safari programme, providing religious clothing and Rp220,000 in cash assistance to each beneficiary. The government emphasised that zakat distribution to vulnerable populations represents a mandatory Islamic obligation.

Mayor Requests Denpasar Chamber of Commerce to Develop Export-Standard Products

The Mayor of Denpasar has urged the Chamber of Commerce and Industry to develop export-standard products as part of efforts to enhance the city's global competitiveness and economic growth. The newly appointed KADIN leadership has pledged support for government initiatives strengthening MSMEs and promoting regional economic development through cross-sector collaboration.

BKPM Simplifies Business Identification Number Application Process for Micro-Enterprises

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment (BKPM) has issued a new circular to streamline the Business Identification Number (NIB) application process for micro-enterprises by replacing mandatory technical inspections with self-declarations of business location. The measure addresses a significant registration gap, with approximately 40 million of an estimated 56 million micro-enterprises still lacking formal business legality, whilst simultaneously boosting tax revenue.

Plumpang-Semper Road Improvement Prioritised in Jakarta's Development Planning Forum

The improvement of the Plumpang-Semper road in North Jakarta has been identified as a priority development project in the Kecamatan Koja Musrenbang (participatory development planning consultation), addressing congestion and traffic conflicts in a densely populated residential and logistics hub.

BKPM Assures Indonesia Will Not Face US Boycott Over Economic Cooperation

Indonesia's investment ministry has confirmed that the country will not be subjected to any trade boycott from the United States, despite recently signing a 19% reciprocal tariff agreement that was negotiated down from an initial 32% proposal. The agreement, which includes 1,819 tariff items and provides numerous zero-tariff provisions for Indonesian exports, is expected to strengthen economic cooperation whilst maintaining Indonesia's trade surplus with the US.

Inmate Rehabilitation Through Kitchen Programme: Ditjenpas Expands Nutritious Meals Initiative to 28 Additional Prisons

Indonesia's Directorate General of Corrections is expanding its Free Nutritious Meals programme from Sukamiskin Prison to 28 additional prison kitchens, with plans for further growth to 119 locations nationwide. The initiative combines inmate rehabilitation through food production with local economic development, requiring food contractors to source at least 5 per cent of supplies from prisoner-operated farms and kitchens.

China bans exports of dual-use items to 20 Japanese defence entities

China has imposed export restrictions on dual-use items to 20 Japanese defence-related entities, including subsidiaries of major manufacturers Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, escalating diplomatic tensions with Tokyo. The restrictions target products with both civilian and military applications, such as rare earth elements essential for high-tech manufacturing.

Indonesia Corruption Watch Urges KPK to Monitor 1,179 Police Nutritional Units

Indonesia Corruption Watch has called on the Corruption Eradication Commission to strengthen oversight of 1,179 police-managed nutritional service units, citing concerns about potential financial irregularities and weak transparency in their administration. The government-funded units, recently inaugurated by President Prabowo, receive substantial daily subsidies worth an estimated Rp2.2 trillion per unit annually, raising questions about accountability and regulatory controls.

Israeli Media Publishes Nine-Year-Old Iranian Protest Footage as Current Unrest

Israeli media outlets circulated decade-old footage of Iranian university protests as if they were recent events, omitting the original date and source information. Verification confirmed the video dated to approximately 2017, exposing how outdated visual content can be weaponised in heightened geopolitical tensions.

Banyuasin Regency Donates Land to Bulog for Post-Harvest Rice Infrastructure

South Sumatra's Banyuasin Regency Government has granted land to Bulog, the state grain agency, for the development of post-harvest rice infrastructure designed to maintain harvest absorption and stabilise farmers' paddy prices. Bulog will construct an integrated warehouse in 2026 equipped with drying, milling, and storage facilities to enhance the region's rice processing capacity. The infrastructure investment supports agricultural productivity and rural economic stability.

In the Run-up to Eid, Government Ensures Price and Supply Stability

The Indonesian Trade Minister has assured that essential goods prices and supplies will remain stable ahead of Eid al-Fitr, with government monitoring through the SP2KP system confirming prices are generally aligned with regulatory ceilings. Although some regions show prices above or near the Highest Retail Price ceiling, the ministry is actively coordinating supply distribution and remains committed to maintaining stability through the holiday period.

Search and Rescue Team Evacuates 12 Flood Victims in Legian, Bali; One Person Injured

A joint Search and Rescue team evacuated 12 residents from flood-affected areas in Legian, Bali, on 24 February, with the operation hindered by heavy rainfall and strong winds. One person sustained a leg injury during the evacuation, whilst water levels began receding by late afternoon. Multiple government agencies, including the Denpasar SAR Office, police units, and TNI, coordinated the operation using inflatable boats and canoes.

Multiple Charges Threaten Motorcyclists Who Damaged Casablanca Non-Toll Flyover Barrier

Eleven motorcyclists were arrested after damaging the barrier of Jakarta's Casablanca Non-Toll Flyover to create social media content, with approximately 20 members of the 'Youth Night Style' community involved in the incident. Police are preparing multiple criminal charges including driving without a licence, improper number plates, and illegal exhaust modifications.

Transport Minister ensures maximum repairs to Pantura route before Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia's Minister of Transportation, Dudy Purwagandhi, has committed to completing comprehensive repairs on the Pantura route by H-10 (10 days before) Eid al-Fitr 2026 to ensure traveller safety. The accelerated repairs follow a recent motorcycle taxi accident in Pandeglang, Banten, and aim to prevent similar incidents during the peak holiday travel period.

NTB Regional Police Task Force Prioritises Persuasive Approach to Prevent Food Hoarding

Indonesia's West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police Task Force is adopting a persuasive enforcement strategy against distributors hoarding food commodities to maintain market price stability. The approach prioritises voluntary compliance and public vigilance over criminal prosecution, with authorities seeking public participation in monitoring and reporting suspected hoarding activities.

BKPM Addresses Domestic Content Requirement Relaxation in US Trade Agreement

Indonesia's Deputy Investment Minister has affirmed that domestic content requirement (TKDN) relaxation with the United States is part of a bilateral trade agreement, asserting the policy remains intact for government procurement. However, economists at think tank CELIOS argue that public concerns centre on TKDN elimination for the general consumer market, cautioning that such relaxation could weaken Indonesia's industrial development in key sectors including electronics and automotive.

Brother of Governor and Uncle of Vice Governor Pass Administrative Selection for 13 Echelon II Positions

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional Personnel Agency (BKD) has announced the results of the administrative selection stage for the Open Selection for Filling High-Ranking Pratama or Echelon II positions in 2026. The brother of the Governor of NTB and the uncle of the Vice Governor of NTB have both passed the administrative selection stage for various positions within the provincial government.

Bank Mega Educates Customers on Coretax to Manage Finances More Effectively

Bank Mega has conducted 27 educational seminars across more than 15 Indonesian cities to help customers understand the Coretax tax administration system, collaborating with the Indonesian Association of Tax Consultants and tax professionals. The initiative supports customers during the 2026 tax reporting season and aims to help businesses and individuals comply with current regulations and improve their financial planning. As of mid-February 2026, nearly 2.

Social Compassion Marks Ramadan at Al Azhar Memorial Garden

Al Azhar Memorial Garden distributed essential supplies to families in need around its Karawang cemetery during Ramadan, with management emphasising that social responsibility is a core organisational value rather than merely ceremonial. The initiative underscores the company's commitment to strengthening community ties and providing tangible support to residents beyond symbolic charitable gestures.

Three Ministers Inspect Village Cooperative in Serang, Pledge 20% Profit for Village Revenue

Three cabinet ministers visited the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (Kopdes) project in Serang, Banten, to oversee the rollout of a national government initiative designed to generate village income through cooperative enterprises.

Minister Encourages Village Cooperatives to Partner with Modern Retailers to Strengthen MSMEs

Indonesia's Minister of Cooperatives, Ferry Juliantono, is promoting partnerships between village cooperatives (Kopdes Merah Putih) and modern retailers such as Indomaret and Alfamart to strengthen micro, small, and medium enterprises whilst meeting consumer needs. The initiative also includes plans to import 105,000 pickup trucks for the cooperative programme, which has drawn criticism from domestic automotive manufacturers concerned about protecting local industry.

Head of Islamic Boarding School Named as Suspect in Rape Case, Allegedly Intimidates Victim's Family

The head of an Islamic boarding school in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, has been named as a suspect in a rape case involving a female student. The victim's advocate claims the suspect attempted to intimidate the family to withdraw the report and is currently being investigated for this alleged intimidation. The suspect faces charges under Indonesia's law on sexual violence.

East Jakarta Petrol Station Assailant Tests Positive for Methamphetamine and Cannabis

A man arrested for assaulting petrol station staff in Cipinang, East Jakarta, tested positive for methamphetamine and cannabis following police investigation. The 31-year-old car rental employee, who falsely claimed to be a police officer, became violent when staff refused to refuel his vehicle due to Pertamina's barcode system compliance requirements. The suspect is now in custody facing legal proceedings.

Bali Prosecutor's Office Names Five Suspects in BRI Sidakarya Credit Corruption Case

The Bali Prosecutor's Office has named five suspects in a corruption case involving the distribution of People's Business Loans (KUR) and Rural General Loans (KUPRA) at the BRI Sidakarya branch between 2024 and 2025. The alleged fraud resulted in state financial losses of IDR 8.5 billion. The suspects are accused of collecting identity cards from residents to be used as formal debtors, fabricating business profiles, and misappropriating the loan funds.

E-cigarette industry players support government's move to tighten regulation

Indonesia's e-cigarette industry, represented by PT Delta Sukses Teknologi, has publicly supported government efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight, viewing stricter compliance as beneficial for sustainable industry growth. The sector experienced a 7.38 per cent increase in excise revenue in 2025 following a period of consolidation, with industry players emphasising that standardisation and transparency are essential for consumer protection and preventing illicit use.

North Sumatra Red Cross Accelerates Post-Disaster Educational Aid Distribution

Indonesia's Red Cross (PMI) North Sumatra has expedited the distribution of educational supplies and household necessities to schools and families affected by flooding in Tapanuli Tengah Regency from November 2025. The humanitarian aid includes school uniforms, bags, notebooks, stationery and other learning materials delivered to three schools in the affected region.

Government Streamlines Business Registration Bureaucracy for Micro-Enterprises Through New Circular

The Indonesian Ministry of Investment has issued a circular enabling micro-enterprises to obtain Business Identification Numbers (NIBs) using self-declarations, eliminating the need for technical inspections of location permits. This policy addresses widespread administrative delays that have prevented millions of micro-enterprises from formalising operations, with the government planning to upgrade the measure to a Ministerial Regulation.

Indonesian Government Requires Halal Certification for US Products

The Indonesian government mandates halal certification for US products through BPJPH-registered institutions, allowing certification in the US and registration in Indonesia under a Mutual Recognition Agreement mechanism without full recertification. Five US halal institutions are currently recognised, with periodic supervision required every two to four years.

Thousands of Worshippers Attend King Salman's Iftar Programme in Makassar

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince and Prime Minister Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud hosted an iftar ceremony in Makassar attracting thousands of worshippers, with participation from South Sulawesi's Governor and senior government officials. The event reflects the Kingdom's diplomatic outreach to Muslim communities across Indonesia and underscores international religious and cultural cooperation.

Streamlined Land-Based KKPR Procedures Enable Micro Enterprises to Obtain Legal Status More Quickly

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming has issued a new circular that streamlines the Land-Based KKPR procedure for micro enterprises, allowing them to obtain legal business status through simplified self-declaration via the Online Single Submission system rather than complex bureaucratic processes. The policy eliminates previous administrative complexities whilst maintaining spatial planning compliance and local government oversight.

BKPM Stresses Indonesia-US Trade Pact Upholds Independent and Active Foreign Policy

Indonesia's investment ministry has affirmed that the trade and investment agreement with the United States remains grounded in the principle of independent and active foreign policy, with no external interference in domestic economic decision-making.

Government Develops Halal Strategy for Imported Raw Materials

The Indonesian Government has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to ensure that imported raw materials—which account for approximately 70 per cent of the nation's industrial requirements—meet halal standards. The Ministry of Industry has prepared a roadmap for halal industry development (2025–2029) that includes technical regulations, infrastructure construction such as halal inspection agencies and raw material centres, and inter-ministerial cooperation.

Transport Minister Assures Lebaran Stimulus Won't Harm Airlines

Indonesia's Transport Minister has assured that government stimulus measures for the 2026 Lebaran travel period will not burden airlines, with the government absorbing costs through fiscal support including 100 per cent VAT stimulus on plane tickets and subsidies for airport handling and aviation fuel. The policy is designed to balance public demand for affordable travel during the Eid holiday with the sustainability of the national aviation industry.

Ensuring Safe Homecoming: Jasa Raharja Participates in Route Survey in West Java

Jasa Raharja, a state-owned insurance company, participated in a West Java route survey to prepare for safe Eid al-Fitr travel under the 2026 Ketupat Operation. The company will establish 25 Integrated Service Posts along homecoming routes to support vehicle inspections, driver health checks, and safety education.

Maintaining Bodily Immunity While Fasting During the Rainy Season

Indonesia's 2026 Ramadan observance overlaps with the peak rainy season, requiring fasting Muslims to maintain nutritional balance and bodily immunity amid adverse weather conditions. The article emphasises natural ingredients such as red ginger—rich in antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties—and dates as essential foods to sustain energy and health during fasting periods.

Changan Secures Two Awards at IIMS 2026 as Lumin and Deepal S07 Capture Attention

Chinese automaker Changan, operating through Indonesia's Indomobil Group, achieved significant recognition at the 2026 Indonesia International Motor Show, winning the Most Affordable EV award for its Lumin model and Best Medium EV SUV for the Deepal S07, whilst securing hundreds of pre-orders just three months after its November 2025 market entry.

Deputy Investment Minister Addresses Easing of US Product TKDN Requirements

Indonesia is relaxing its Domestic Content Requirement (TKDN) rules for US products as part of a bilateral trade agreement aimed at removing non-tariff barriers. The Deputy Minister of Investment has stated that this measure will not significantly impact Indonesia's investment climate, as TKDN requirements remain applicable only to government procurement, not to commercially sold goods.

Ministry of Cooperatives Accelerates Integration of PKH Recipients into Red and White Village Cooperatives

The Indonesian government is accelerating efforts to integrate Family Hope Programme (PKH) beneficiaries into Red and White Village Cooperatives, combining social assistance with cooperative membership to drive poverty reduction and community empowerment. The inter-ministerial initiative, led by the Ministry of Cooperatives, transforms welfare recipients into active cooperative members who gain access to affordable goods and annual profit distributions.

Suitcases Larger Than 26 Inches Will Incur Additional Fees on Trains

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has reminded passengers that luggage exceeding 26 inches or 20 kilograms will be subject to excess baggage fees. The regulation aims to ensure safety, order, and comfort for all passengers by managing cabin space effectively.

Indonesia Police set toll road checkpoints for Eid 2026 homecoming

Indonesia's police have established toll road checkpoints for the 2026 Eid homecoming, focusing on inspecting buses and travel vehicles for safety compliance. The state insurance company Jasa Raharja is deploying 25 integrated service posts along national routes to support driver health checks and provide traffic information. Infrastructure repairs on the Cipali Toll Road are targeted for completion within 7–10 days before Eid to ensure safe travel conditions.

Precision ETLE Drone Patrol Strengthens Strategic Monitoring at Cibiru-Cileunyi Toll Exit

Indonesia's National Police Traffic Corps has deployed ETLE Drone Patrol Presisi technology at the Cibiru-Cileunyi toll exit to enhance real-time traffic monitoring and law enforcement. The aerial surveillance system detects congestion and traffic violations, enabling prompt intervention to maintain safety and smooth traffic flow. This initiative reflects the police's commitment to digitalising traffic management and strengthening infrastructure security.

Brutal Debt Collectors Stab Lawyer in Tangerang While Attempting to Repossess Car

A group of individuals, suspected to be debt collectors, brutally stabbed a lawyer named Bastian Sori in Tangerang while attempting to repossess his Toyota Fortuner due to unpaid installments. The incident, captured in a viral video, shows the perpetrators fleeing the scene as the victim suffered from stab wounds. Police have launched an investigation and are pursuing the suspects.

Police Swift Action to Apprehend Petrol Station Assaulter in East Jakarta

Police have swiftly apprehended a man who assaulted petrol station attendants in East Jakarta after his vehicle was denied Pertalite fuel due to Pertamina's barcode verification system. The perpetrator falsely claimed to be a government official during the incident, but authorities confirmed he has no affiliation with law enforcement.

Agrinas Chief Says No Decision Yet on Postponing Pickup Truck Imports from India

The President Director of state-owned enterprise PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara confirmed that an import of 105,000 pickup trucks from India for Village/Urban Cooperatives remains on track, with no postponement decision yet made. Opposition has come from certain individuals and groups rather than government or the public, and the company has pledged to comply with any future decision by the government or House of Representatives.

Indonesia upholds free active policy in US trade and investment ties

Indonesia's Deputy Investment Minister reaffirmed the country's commitment to maintaining a "free and active" foreign policy whilst deepening trade and investment cooperation with the United States, emphasising that such engagement preserves full national sovereignty.

Indonesia targets deployment of 300,000-500,000 skilled migrant workers from April 2026

Indonesia has announced ambitious plans to deploy between 300,000 and 500,000 skilled migrant workers from April 2026 to destinations including Japan, South Korea, Europe, and the United States, with placements in sectors such as welding, hospitality, and healthcare. The government is mobilising Indonesian ambassadors to facilitate placement arrangements and implementing the SMK Go Global program to prepare vocational school graduates for overseas employment.

How BKPM Is Expediting Permits for 40 Million MSMEs

Indonesia's Investment Coordinating Board has launched a streamlined permit process to accelerate Business Identification Number registration for 40 million unregistered MSMEs. The new circular letter allows micro-enterprises to self-declare their business location through an online system with automatic approval, removing technical verification bottlenecks. This initiative addresses a critical formalization gap, with only 15.

Social Assistance Beneficiary Families Encouraged to Join Merah Putih Village Cooperative

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs and Ministry of Cooperatives have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to empower approximately 18 million social assistance recipients by encouraging them to join the Merah Putih Village Cooperative. The initiative aims to transition beneficiary families from passive assistance recipients to productive entrepreneurs within a cooperative ecosystem, with the scheme including livelihood support such as chicken coops and supplies.

Counter-Protesters Disperse Student Demonstration at Yogyakarta Police Headquarters

A student demonstration in Yogyakarta protesting the death of a 14-year-old killed by a Brimob officer in Maluku was dispersed by counter-protesters claiming to represent local citizens. The protest reflected broader public anger at the Indonesian National Police's failed institutional reforms and systemic violence, with demonstrators characterising their action as expressing anger at the institution itself rather than individual officers.

South Jakarta Residents Shocked to Find Floating Body in Ciliwung River

An unidentified man's body was discovered floating in the Ciliwung River in South Jakarta on 24 February, initially spotted by residents who were fishing in the area. The Jagakarsa Police Chief confirmed the discovery and coordinated the evacuation of the body to Fatmawati Hospital using the local fire department. The incident remains under police investigation.

Bali flooding prompts tourist evacuation and airport disruptions

Intense rainfall across Bali triggered flooding on Monday evening, prompting the evacuation of approximately 350 people, including 30 foreign tourists, with no reported fatalities. The disaster disrupted airport operations, forcing two flight diversions and three departure delays on Tuesday. The incident follows a more severe September flood that killed at least 18 people, described as the island's worst flooding in a decade.

Cartenz Task Force Apprehends Armed Criminal Group Member Responsible for Soldier Shooting in Yahukimo

The Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force arrested Meno Heluka, a member of an armed criminal group (KKB), in Yahukimo, Papua, who was implicated in the June 2025 shooting of an Indonesian Army sergeant. Heluka, identified as a core member of a violent KKB faction, was apprehended whilst attempting to travel to the Korowai region.

Following El Mencho's Death, DPR Member Urges Government to Ensure Safety of Indonesian Citizens in Mexico

Following the killing of Mexican drug cartel leader El Mencho by military forces, which triggered violent retaliatory attacks across Jalisco state, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the government to ensure the safety of 45 Indonesian citizens residing there. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed all Indonesian nationals are currently safe and complying with local restrictions to remain indoors.

The Story of Ipda Aris: From the Beginning of the Trip to Gili Trawangan to the Death of Brigadier Nurhadi

During the trial of Brigadier Muhammad Nurhadi's murder case, Ipda I Gde Aris Chandra Widianto testified that he went to Gili Trawangan with Kompol I Made Yogi Purusa Utama. Aris recounted the events leading up to Nurhadi's death, including drug use and a subsequent incident where Nurhadi drowned. The testimony sheds light on the circumstances surrounding the death and the alleged involvement of the other individuals present.

Residents and Traders Respond to Emergence of 'Padel Village' in Tangerang

A padel court boom in Tangerang's Pagedangan sub-district has transformed the area into what locals call 'Padel Village', with approximately seven facilities now operating across two villages. Local residents largely welcome the development, noting increased community vibrancy and employment opportunities for previously jobless neighbours in roles such as cleaners, parking attendants, and groundskeepers.

Riau Police Support Elephant Conservation with Delivery of 500 Pineapples to Sebanga Training Centre

The Riau Regional Police have delivered 500 pineapples to the Sebanga Elephant Training Centre as part of a Sumatran elephant conservation programme, with food deliveries provided every 10 days to support five resident elephants. Beyond immediate nutritional aid, the Pinggir Police Precinct and centre management are implementing sustainable measures, including cultivating sugarcane as a natural feed reserve.

Regional innovation critical to Indonesia's economic transformation, BRIN chief urges

BRIN Chief Arif Satria has called for regional leaders to intensify innovation efforts to support Indonesia's "Golden Indonesia 2045" vision of becoming a developed and competitive economy by the nation's centenary. The National Development Planning Minister emphasised that regional competitiveness depends on productivity, infrastructure, and innovation capacity, with equitable technology access essential for narrowing regional disparities.

Ministry of Religious Affairs to Disburse Rp 4.5 Trillion in Operational Assistance for Islamic Schools Before Eid

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs plans to disburse Rp 4.5 trillion in operational assistance to over 83,000 Islamic educational institutions (madrasahs and early childhood centres) before Eid al-Fitr 2026. The disbursement comprises Rp 428 billion for early childhood centres and Rp 4.1 trillion for madrasahs, whilst the government shifts its funding distribution mechanism from quarterly to semi-annual cycles starting in 2026.

Banten Provincial Government Distributes IDR 233 Million Assistance to Religious Teachers and Quran Instructors

The Banten Provincial Government has distributed IDR 233 million in social assistance to religious teachers, mosque caretakers, Quran instructors, and Islamic educational institutions as part of its Ramadan Safari programme. The aid, distributed in collaboration with the Indonesian Mosque Council and the National Zakat Amil Agency, also included support for housing, education, and clean water infrastructure in Serang City.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Reveals Economic Factors and Early Marriage as Causes of Neglected Children in Indonesia

The Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has identified economic hardship and early marriage as key factors contributing to the issue of neglected children in Indonesia. He emphasized the complexity of the problem, highlighting that many children from early marriages lack proper documentation, hindering their access to education and other essential services.

Bulog Surakarta Distributes 9,000 Litres of Cooking Oil

The Surakarta branch of Bulog, the Indonesian logistics agency, conducted a surprise inspection at Legi Market in Solo, Central Java, to ensure the availability and price stability of essential food supplies during Ramadan and the upcoming Eid al-Fitr. As part of the effort, Bulog distributed 9,000 litres of cooking oil to traders in the market to maintain prices at the highest retail price (HET).

Qur'anic reading and memorisation education for visually impaired students at Raudlatul Makfufin Islamic boarding school

Raudlatul Makfufin Islamic boarding school in South Tangerang, Banten, provides specialised Qur'anic education to 28 visually impaired students through Braille-based reading and memorisation programmes. The initiative demonstrates Indonesia's commitment to enhancing religious literacy and educational accessibility for people with visual disabilities through adapted learning methods.

Islamic Banking Increasingly Competitive Despite 7 Per Cent Market Share

Indonesia's Deposit Insurance Corporation chairman has highlighted significant improvements in the competitiveness of Islamic banks relative to conventional banks, citing Bank Syariah Indonesia as a successful example despite the sector's modest 7 per cent market share.

Commission X of House of Representatives: 2026 Economic Census must be accurate, not tailored data

The Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's House Commission X has pressed the Central Bureau of Statistics to ensure the 2026 Economic Census produces accurate data through intensive regional coordination, warning against politically influenced figures. Reliable census data is crucial for properly targeting government policies and social assistance programmes, as flawed statistics result in aid reaching unqualified recipients.

AI adoption must drive national productivity, says communications minister

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, has stated that while AI adoption has reached 92 per cent, its translation into increased national productivity and economic value remains limited. The government aims to transform Indonesia from a digital market into an ASEAN AI innovation hub through initiatives including the Garuda Spark Innovation Hub and the Google for Startups Accelerator programme, which has already supported 63 domestic start-ups.

China adds 20 Japanese entities to export control list

China's Ministry of Commerce has added 20 Japanese entities, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Shipbuilding, to an export control list, prohibiting all exports of dual-use items to these companies in pursuit of national security and non-proliferation obligations. Additionally, 20 further Japanese entities have been placed on a monitoring list due to verification concerns over their end-users and end-use of dual-use imports.

Finance Minister Heeds Parliament's Call to Postpone Indian Pick-up Truck Imports

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has agreed to postpone the import of 105,000 pick-up trucks from Indian manufacturers Mahindra and Mahindra and Tata Motors, following direction from the House of Representatives. The decision reflects President Prabowo Subianto's stated policy priority to support domestic automotive industry capacity.

Commission III of House of Representatives Regrets Detention of Contract Teacher Over Part-Time Work

Commission III of Indonesia's House of Representatives has criticised the prosecution and detention of a contract teacher for corruption charges related to holding a simultaneous part-time position as a Local Village Assistant funded by state budgets. The Parliament's Commission III chief argues that prosecutors should follow the new Criminal Code's requirement to prove criminal intent and suggests the case should have been resolved administratively rather than through criminal prosecution.

Protesters Conduct Absentee Prayers Before DIY Regional Police Headquarters

Protesters gathered at Yogyakarta's DIY Regional Police Headquarters to hold absentee prayers for victims of alleged police violence and detainees from previous demonstrations, following the breach of the facility's eastern gate. The demonstration, described as a grassroots collective movement, reflected mounting civil society grievances regarding police conduct and detention practices, with participants calling for institutional reform.

South Sumatra Police Chief Leads Mass Drug Destruction, Commits to Eradication Campaign

South Sumatra's Police Chief personally supervised the destruction of eight kilograms of methamphetamine and hundreds of ecstasy pills seized during recent operations, signalling an intensified campaign against drug trafficking. The investigation has expanded to include arrests of foreign nationals suspected of involvement in cross-border distribution networks and discovery of new narcotics delivery methods using cartridges.

Minister of Trade Discusses Regulation of Modern Retail Expansion with Villages and Disadvantaged Regions Minister

Indonesia's Trade Minister plans discussions with the Villages and Disadvantaged Regions Minister to regulate modern retail expansion following village cooperatives' establishment. Major retail chains such as Alfamart and Indomaret currently operate predominantly in urban areas, whilst village cooperatives maintain broader reach to remote communities. The policy initiative seeks to support rural commerce development by potentially regulating large retail chain expansion in underserved regions.

National Land Agency Partners with ANTARA to Publicise Land Programmes in Central Papua

Indonesia's National Land Agency (BPN) has established a partnership with the state news agency ANTARA to disseminate land programme information across West and Central Papua. The cooperation aims to increase public awareness of land rights, procedures, and services to prevent disputes and ensure legal certainty regarding land ownership. The initiative represents a strategic effort to strengthen public trust in land services and support regional development through credible, factual reporting.

Traffic Police Chief Inspects West Java Toll Roads to Ensure Operation Ketupat 2026 Readiness

The Head of Indonesia's National Traffic Corps inspected West Java toll roads on 24th February to prepare for Operation Ketupat 2026, a major traffic management initiative for Lebaran homecoming travel. The inspection covered key toll routes including Cipali and Cisumdawu, focusing on checkpoint readiness and vehicle safety procedures.

Protesters in Front of the DIY Police Headquarters Repelled, Ring Road Reopens

Protesters demonstrating in front of the DIY Police Headquarters were dispersed by a group of people, leading to the reopening of the Ring Road Utara. The demonstration was held in response to a case involving a police officer allegedly assaulting and killing a child in Maluku, reflecting public anger and a perceived lack of reform within the police force.

Police investigate discovery of male body in Ciliwung River

Police are investigating the discovery of an unidentified male body found floating in Jakarta's Ciliwung River in South Jakarta on Tuesday evening. Fishermen spotted the body and reported it to local authorities, who evacuated it with assistance from the Jagakarsa Fire Department. The victim's identity and the circumstances of death remain under investigation.

Chronology of Debt Collectors' Stabbing of Lawyer in Tangerang, Including Raid on Victim's Home

A 40-year-old lawyer in Tangerang was stabbed three times by a group of debt collectors during an altercation over unpaid car instalments totalling two months' arrears. The incident escalated at a housing complex gate after the perpetrators allegedly visited the victim's residence to reclaim the vehicle, resulting in hospitalisation with serious injuries. Police have opened an investigation into the assault.

Culture Minister Meets Papua Museum Founder in Germany, Expands Indonesia's Cultural Diplomacy

Indonesia's Minister of Culture met with German curator Werner Weiglein, founder of the Papua Museum in Gelnhausen, to strengthen bilateral cultural ties and diplomatic networks. Weiglein has spent over five decades documenting and promoting Indonesian cultural heritage in Europe through museum curation, scholarly publications, and extensive expeditions across the archipelago.

Two-Metre Floodwaters Submerge Kolaka, Southeast Sulawesi, Affecting Hundreds of Households

Heavy rainfall caused the Polenga and Tondowolio rivers in Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, to overflow on 22 February, submerging 134 households under floodwaters reaching 2 metres in depth. Over 100 homes, public facilities including schools, and 30 hectares of rice fields were damaged by the disaster, with the Regional Disaster Management Agency coordinating response efforts. Water levels have begun to recede as residents commence clean-up operations.

Market Observer Warns of Market Absorption Readiness as Free Float Requirement Increases

The Indonesian Stock Exchange is implementing a new regulatory requirement increasing the minimum free float for listed companies from 7.5 per cent to 15 per cent, effective March 2026, requiring market absorption of approximately Rp187 trillion. Market observers caution that whilst the policy could enhance market liquidity and attract institutional investors, careful implementation is essential to avoid temporary price pressures and oversupply.

Timeline: East Jakarta Petrol Station Attendant Assaulted by Motorist with Fraudulent Registration Claiming Official Status

A man claiming to be a government official assaulted petrol station staff in East Jakarta on 22 February after being refused subsidised fuel due to vehicle registration inconsistencies within the fuel subsidy system. Police arrested the perpetrator on 24 February, identifying him as a private entrepreneur rather than an official, with investigation revealing fraudulent vehicle registration documentation.

Student Dies in Maluku; Crowd Says Police Reform Has Yielded No Results

A 14-year-old student was fatally assaulted by a Brimob (Mobile Brigade) officer in Tual, Maluku, prompting a mass protest at the Yogyakarta Regional Police Headquarters on 24 February 2026. The crowd of students and citizens expressed deep frustration with the Polri's failed institutional reforms, viewing the death not as an isolated incident but as symptomatic of systemic institutional failure.

Indonesia Removes Non-Tariff Barriers for the US as TKDN Requirements Relaxed

Indonesia is relaxing Domestic Content Level (TKDN) requirements and removing other non-tariff barriers for the United States as part of a bilateral trade agreement. The relaxation will include import licensing, recognition of US standards, and halal certification, though TKDN requirements will continue to apply to government procurement to protect domestic manufacturers.

Danantara Positioned as Strategic Partner for Global and Local Investment, Strengthening Indonesia's Economic Climate

Danantara has confirmed its readiness to serve as a strategic partner for both global and domestic investors following President Prabowo Subianto's meeting with international investment firm leaders in Washington DC. Investment company executives managing $15 trillion in combined assets expressed strong confidence in Indonesia's investment potential and Danantara's capacity as a local facilitator.

Understanding Boomerang Employees: The Growing Trend of Re-Hiring Former Staff Members

The article examines the emerging phenomenon of "boomerang employees" — former workers who return to their previous employers — and its growing popularity as a recruitment strategy in Indonesia. Companies are increasingly re-hiring ex-staff to reduce hiring costs and training time, since returning employees already understand company systems and culture.

Motorcycle Theft Cases on the Rise in Bali

The Bali Police have revealed that 166 criminal cases were uncovered during the 16-day Operation Sikat Agung 2026, with a notable increase in motorcycle theft. Authorities have apprehended 181 suspects and seized various pieces of evidence, urging the public to be more vigilant and cooperate with the police regarding lost property.

Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Unveils Regional Innovation as Route Out of Middle-Income Trap

Indonesia's Deputy Minister for Home Affairs has emphasised that establishing institutional innovation ecosystems at the regional level is essential for the nation to escape the middle-income trap and attain developed nation status by 2045, targeting sustainable 8 per cent economic growth.

Koster on Today's Floods in Bali: No Evacuations Necessary

The Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, responded to the floods that hit several areas in Bali, including Denpasar and Badung, stating that the cause was heavy rainfall over the past three days. He confirmed that the BPBD (Regional Disaster Management Agency) has addressed the flood issues and that early flood detection tools are in place along the Badung River.

Cimahi Residents Flock to Ramadan Affordable Food Sales

The Cimahi City Government has launched an Affordable Food Movement (GPM) in collaboration with local police, offering essential goods including rice, cooking oil, eggs and onions at below-market prices during Ramadan. The initiative targets price and supply stability for staple foods, with residents crowding the distribution point at Cimahi Police Station on 24 February 2026.

Minister Agus Andrianto Conducts First Ministerial Inspection at Ciangir Open Prison

Indonesia's Minister of Correctional Services, Agus Andrianto, conducted a historic first-ever ministerial surprise inspection of Ciangir Open Prison in Tangerang, underscoring the government's focus on inmate rehabilitation and food security. The facility, accommodating 19 inmates in the assimilation phase, operates agricultural and livestock enterprises across its 23-hectare grounds with state capital assistance, though recent flooding damaged rice crops.

Student Death in Maluku Triggers Siege of Yogyakarta Police Headquarters

A 14-year-old student's death following alleged mistreatment by a Mobile Brigade officer in Maluku prompted the dismissal of the officer and widespread public outrage. Hundreds of protesters descended on Yogyakarta Police Headquarters on 24 February 2026, vandalising facilities and breaching security fences in demands for justice. The incident underscores persistent concerns about police accountability and conduct within Indonesia's law enforcement system.

Petrol Station Assault Perpetrator in Cipinang Confirmed Not Police Officer, Says Metropolitan Police

A man arrested for assaulting employees at a Pertamina petrol station in Cipinang, East Jakarta, has been confirmed by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police to be a private entrepreneur rather than a police officer. The incident occurred on 22 February when the suspect's vehicle was refused service after a barcode scan mismatch, prompting him to attack staff members.

UN Envoy Retno Marsudi urges integrated approach to water management

UN Envoy Retno Marsudi has emphasised that water management must be approached comprehensively across all economic sectors—from agriculture (which uses 72 per cent of global freshwater) to data centres—given water's criticality to food security, energy production, and industrial growth. At a Jakarta town hall meeting, she highlighted that 2.2 billion people globally lack access to safe drinking water whilst the expanding digital economy is dramatically increasing demand.

NTB Rising from Mining Dependence to a More Equitable Economy

West Nusa Tenggara's economy is undergoing a structural transformation from mining extraction to value-added processing, evidenced by volatile 2025 growth figures that mask underlying sectoral shifts. Despite an overall growth rate of 3.22% in 2025—down from 5.30% the previous year—the fourth quarter surged 12.49% as the copper smelter began full operations, demonstrating the potential of downstream processing over raw commodity exports.

Oversharing on Social Media Can Be Prevented with Empathy and Self-Control

Professor Rose Mini Agoes Salim from the University of Indonesia warns that oversharing on social media can be mitigated through empathy and self-control, emphasising the need to distinguish between information of public value and personal matters best kept private. She advocates for users to develop moral awareness and conscience-driven decision-making when posting online, noting that individuals often fail to recognise their own oversharing behaviour due to positive social media feedback.

BP BUMN Inaugurates Echelon I and II Officials to Accelerate Transformation

Indonesia's State-Owned Enterprises Supervisory Board (BP BUMN) has inaugurated new senior officials to spearhead the transformation and professionalisation of state-owned enterprise management. Head of BP BUMN Dony Oskaria outlined ambitious plans to streamline more than 1,000 BUMN entities to between 200 and 300 through mergers, divestments, and restructurings—described as the largest corporate restructuring ever undertaken.

Acceleration of MSME Legalization: Government Simplifies Business Identification Number Issuance Through Self-Declaration

The Indonesian government has streamlined the business legalization process for micro-enterprises by introducing a self-declaration mechanism for location permits, replacing time-consuming technical verification. The policy targets closing a significant legality gap affecting approximately 40 million micro-enterprises and is expected to accelerate Business Identification Number (NIB) issuance whilst unlocking access to government support programmes.

Bulog secures food stocks and prices through Eid period

Indonesia's state food logistics agency Bulog has assured the public of adequate food supplies and stable prices leading up to the Eid holiday, with inspections showing recent price decreases for staple items such as chilli. The agency confirmed sufficient government rice reserves and signalled readiness to deploy additional supplies through its food price stabilisation programme if required.

Police Say Perpetrator of Assault on Petrol Station Staff in East Jakarta Was Not an Official

Jakarta police confirmed that a man who assaulted three petrol station employees on 22 February was a civilian entrepreneur, not a police officer as initially reported. The incident occurred when staff correctly refused fuel service due to a vehicle registration system mismatch and fake licence plate, prompting the customer's violent response. The perpetrator was arrested in East Bekasi and is now under investigation for assault and operating a vehicle with falsified documentation.

National Research Agency Partners with Planning and Statistics Agencies to Release 2025 Regional Competitiveness Index

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has released the 2025 Regional Competitiveness Index, measuring regional development across four components: supporting environment, human resources, market conditions, and innovation ecosystem.

KPK Investigates Communications Between Sudewo and Pati DPRD During Impeachment Proceedings

The KPK is investigating extortion allegations against Pati Regent Sudewo, who allegedly charged prospective village officials between Rp 125–150 million, with subordinates inflating the fees to Rp 165–225 million per official. Four suspects have been named and Rp 2.6 billion confiscated, whilst investigators examine communications between Sudewo and DPRD members concerning impeachment proceedings.

West Jakarta Police Report All Personnel Clear in Drug Testing Programme

The West Jakarta Metropolitan Police conducted urine tests on 77 personnel, with all results testing negative for drug use. The police chief characterised the initiative as a preventive measure to safeguard institutional integrity and public confidence, with plans for continued periodic testing conducted without prior notice. The programme reflects the department's commitment to maintaining a clean and professional working environment.

Minister of PPPA Urges Police to Investigate Stepmother Allegedly Involved in Child Abuse Case in Sukabumi

The Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) has urged the police to promptly investigate a stepmother suspected of abusing a child in Sukabumi, leading to the child's death. While further investigation and supporting evidence are needed to determine if charges will be filed, the Minister has expressed confidence in the police's commitment to the case, which is currently being handled at the district level by the Social Services Department.

Government Ensures US Products Must Be Halal, Certification in Country of Origin

The Indonesian government has confirmed that US products must remain halal-certified to enter the domestic market, with certification permissible in the country of origin through a mutual recognition agreement. Five US halal certification bodies are currently recognised by Indonesia's Halal Product Guarantee Organising Agency, allowing certified products to proceed to registration rather than repeating the full certification process.

Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs Enforces Compliance on Unlicensed Online Travel Agents to Protect Regional Revenue

The Indonesian government is cracking down on unlicensed online travel agents (OTAs) that evade tax obligations and undermine regional revenue. Monitoring across five key provinces revealed that 72.8 per cent of monitored accommodations lack proper business registration, enabling tax evasion whilst undercutting compliant hospitality businesses.

Man Assaults Petrol Station Attendant in East Jakarta After Refusal of Service for Fake Number Plate

A man assaulted petrol station workers in East Jakarta after being refused fuel service due to vehicle registration irregularities and use of a fake license plate. The incident, captured on CCTV on 22 February, was investigated by Jakarta Metropolitan Police who arrested the perpetrator, identified as JMH, a private businessman, on 24 February. The assault stemmed from regulatory enforcement requiring verification of vehicle registration against fuel type requests.

Land Acquisition Restrictions for Gilimanuk-Mengwi Toll Road to End Tomorrow

The land acquisition restrictions for the Gilimanuk-Mengwi toll road project will end tomorrow, allowing landowners to resume administrative processes and land transactions. The restrictions were put in place to prevent land from being sold to other parties during the land acquisition process for the national strategic project. While the land acquisition process has not yet been completed, the land restrictions will automatically expire, and the land office will be able to process transactions.

Private entrepreneur falsely claiming police status arrested for assaulting petrol station workers in East Jakarta

Police in East Jakarta have arrested a private entrepreneur who assaulted petrol station employees whilst falsely claiming to be a police officer. The incident occurred on 22 February when the perpetrator became aggressive after staff refused to dispense Pertalite fuel to his vehicle at a Pertamina station in Cipinang. Investigation confirmed the suspect, identified as JMH, is not a member of the National Police and has been taken in for further examination.

Nutritious Food Package Distribution in Palembang During Ramadhan Subject to School Agreement

Palembang's nutritional services have adjusted the distribution schedule for nutritious food packages (MBG) during Ramadhan 1447H/2026, shifting from daily provision to every three days in accordance with BGN Circular No. 3 of 2026. The new policy allows schools and the school nutrition improvement programme (SPPG) to coordinate distribution schedules and may include dry food menu options.

Protest in Front of the Yogyakarta Regional Police Headquarters, Demonstrators Protest the Death of a Student in Maluku

Hundreds of protesters, consisting of students and the general public, demonstrated in front of the Yogyakarta Regional Police Headquarters. The protest was in response to the incident where a member of the Mobile Brigade (Brimob) assaulted a teenager, resulting in his death in Maluku. The protesters expressed their anger and disappointment with the police force, stating that the incident highlighted a systemic problem within the institution.

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Praises Bali for Fulfilling Administrative Rights of Neglected Children

Indonesia's Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has praised Bali's collaboration between the prosecutor's office and provincial government in providing National Identity Numbers (NIK) to approximately 3,000 neglected children. NIK provision is critical for these vulnerable children to access education, healthcare, social security, and legal protections against violence and exploitation.

Operational Assistance for Islamic Schools Targeted for Disbursement Before Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that operational assistance funds for Islamic educational institutions will be disbursed before Eid al-Fitr, introducing a new semi-annual distribution cycle replacing the previous quarterly payments. The fully digitalised process aims to accelerate verification and reduce administrative delays, requiring institutions to submit documentation by early March 2026.

Under the Dome, a Pulse Beats: Tourism and Islamic Economics in West Nusa Tenggara

West Nusa Tenggara is integrating Islamic finance with sustainable tourism to position itself as a national centre for the Islamic economy. Following its regional bank's 2018 transition to Islamic banking, the province is channelling tourism revenue through local Islamic financial systems to directly empower communities. This represents an evolution of halal tourism from regulatory compliance to a holistic ecosystem prioritising local economic empowerment and long-term sustainability.

China's Consumer Market Records Strong Start in Year of the Horse

China's consumer market achieved robust growth during the nine-day Spring Festival holiday concluded on 23 February, with significant spending increases across catering, accommodation, transport, tourism, shopping, and entertainment sectors. The Chinese government supported this consumer activity through direct policy measures including 2.05 billion yuan in subsidies, shopping vouchers, and cash assistance to households.

Train Luggage Limits: KAI Sets Size and Weight Restrictions for Cabin Baggage

Indonesia's state railway operator KAI has announced strict regulations governing cabin luggage on trains, limiting passengers to 26-inch bags weighing no more than 20 kg with maximum dimensions of 70cm × 48cm × 30cm. Larger baggage incurs excess charges based on train class (ranging from Rp 2,000 to Rp 10,000 per kilogramme), whilst items exceeding 200 dm³ are banned entirely and must be sent via courier services.

Indonesia's Trade Balance Won't Narrow Due to US Tariffs – Trade Minister

The Indonesian Trade Minister has dismissed concerns that reciprocal US tariffs will narrow Indonesia's trade balance, citing near-zero existing tariff rates and a substantial US$21.12 billion trade surplus with America as of end-2025. Under the bilateral tariff agreement, Indonesia has secured zero per cent duties for key exports including palm oil, coffee, cocoa, textiles and electronics, which the Minister argues will strengthen product competitiveness.

KPK Rejects Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut's Justification Regarding Additional Hajj Quota Allocation

The KPK has dismissed former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas's defence of his controversial hajj quota allocation, arguing that the distribution contradicts the original purpose of reducing pilgrim waiting lists despite adequate facilities in Saudi Arabia. Yaqut's ministerial regulation increased special hajj quotas from 8 per cent to 50 per cent—far exceeding the legal maximum—and is suspected of causing over Rp1 trillion in state losses.

East Jakarta petrol station employee assaulted by driver demanding subsidised fuel for luxury vehicle

A man arrested in East Jakarta assaulted a petrol station employee after being refused subsidised Pertalite fuel due to a mismatched vehicle registration plate on his Toyota Vellfire, which carried a fake licence plate. The perpetrator falsely claimed to be a police officer but was later confirmed to be a private entrepreneur.

BKPM Stresses Indonesia-US Trade Agreement Remains Grounded in Independent Foreign Policy

Indonesia's investment ministry has emphasised that trade and investment cooperation with the United States adheres strictly to principles of independent and active foreign policy, with no compromise to national sovereignty. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu confirmed that whilst Indonesia is easing certain domestic content requirements for US companies, the government maintains full independence in determining national policy and safeguarding economic interests.

Operational Area 7 Streamlines Railway Level Crossings in Sanankulon-Blitar

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Operational Area 7 has permanently closed a high-risk level crossing in Blitar Regency to enhance public safety and reduce accident incidents. The action follows 24 recorded accidents at level crossings throughout 2025, most caused by public negligence, and reflects the state railway operator's commitment to normalising dangerous crossing points across East Java.

Caliph Umar's Renewal of Ramadan

The article examines Caliph Umar bin Khattab's pivotal role in renewing Ramadan practices, particularly through establishing congregational Taraweeh prayers as a means of fostering community unity and brotherhood. Highlighting Umar's reputation for intellectual courage and creative jurisprudence, the piece illustrates how he balanced strict adherence to Islamic law with compassionate social consideration.

Lawyer's Condition Following Stabbing by Debt Collectors in Tangerang

A 40-year-old lawyer in Tangerang was stabbed three times by debt collectors attempting to illegally seize his vehicle in violation of applicable regulations. The victim is hospitalised and recovering whilst police investigate the perpetrators and pledge firm action against violent debt collection practices. The incident, which occurred in front of the victim's family, highlights growing concerns over aggressive debt collector violence in the South Tangerang region.

Bali to host opening round of Red Bull Cliff Diving 2026

Indonesia will host the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series for the first time, with the opening round taking place in Bali from 20–23 May 2026, featuring 24 elite athletes from six countries. Two venues have been prepared—Kroya Waterfall in Buleleng and T-Rex Cliff in Nusa Penida—as competition sites. The event marks a significant opportunity for developing nature sports tourism in Bali, with the local government and Indonesian Navy providing strategic support.

Retno Marsudi: Water Sector Investment Crucial to Support Development

Retno Marsudi, UN Special Envoy for Water Issues, emphasises that investment in water and sanitation is essential for sustainable development, with global funding needs reaching approximately US$600 billion annually against a current funding gap of US$131–140 billion. She highlights that water sector investment generates significant economic returns of approximately US$6.

Pertagas Pledges Continued Energy Supply for MSMEs and National Power Generation

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing reliable energy to households, MSMEs, power plants, and strategic industries as the company marks its 19th year of operations. Operating 2,730 km of gas transmission pipelines and 605 km of oil pipelines, Pertagas transported over 1,590 MMSCFD of natural gas and 174,000 BOPD of oil in 2025, achieving growth of 4–8 per cent respectively.

Landslide at The Yoga Barn Cuts Off Access to SDN 2 Peliatan, Gianyar

A landslide at The Yoga Barn spa in Gianyar, Bali, has cut off road access to SDN 2 Peliatan elementary school. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026, caused an estimated Rp 50 million in material losses but no casualties. Access to the school has been temporarily diverted through The Yoga Barn's parking area.

Magnitude 3.2 Earthquake Shakes Sukabumi Regency, Vibrations Likened to Passing Truck

A 3.2-magnitude earthquake struck Sukabumi Regency, West Java, on 24 February 2026, with its epicentre located 26 kilometres north-east at a depth of 6 kilometres. The Indonesia Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) attributed the shallow quake to active fault activity, with no significant building damage reported and no aftershocks detected as of 10:26 WIB.

West Nusa Tenggara's Economic Momentum and Ramadan Outreach: From the Lantern Festival to Food Supply Stability

West Nusa Tenggara's provincial government has launched the Ramadan 2026 festival programme with a strategic focus on distributing economic activity and MSME empowerment across multiple regencies through touring events, representing a shift from previous centralised celebrations. The initiative aims to ensure equitable regional development whilst integrating spiritual values with community welfare, in collaboration with BUMD Bank NTB Syariah.

Claimed 'General's Car' and Named Police Chief: East Jakarta Petrol Station Assault Perpetrator Revealed as Mere Private Entrepreneur

A man claiming to be an official assaulted three petrol station employees in Cipinang, East Jakarta, after staff refused to process fuel due to mismatched vehicle identification. The perpetrator falsely claimed to be driving a general's car and repeatedly referenced the Regional Police Chief. Police investigations confirmed he was a civilian private entrepreneur with no official status, who has been arrested and is undergoing prosecution for assault charges.

Protesters Hold Demonstration Outside Yogyakarta Regional Police Headquarters

Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Yogyakarta Regional Police Headquarters in Sleman on the evening of 24 February, expressing public outrage over alleged police violence, including a recent incident involving Mobile Brigade officers assaulting students in North Maluku. The crowd breached the headquarters' eastern gate, left graffiti with critical messages, and forced the closure of the Ring Road to traffic.

Those Willing to Forgo Holiday to Ensure Smooth Homecoming

Several professions must sacrifice their holidays, including during the Eid al-Fitr celebration, to ensure the safety and comfort of travellers. This includes railway track inspectors who walk long distances, even while fasting. Rahmat Haryanto, a railway track inspector, shares his experiences of ensuring the safety of railway tracks, highlighting the challenges of the job, especially during the fasting month and inclement weather.

Ramadan amid Sumatra's Ecological Catastrophe

Months after devastating floods struck Aceh province, residents remain displaced in evacuation tents with damaged homes and inadequate living conditions as the monsoon season persists. The Indonesian government's promises of temporary housing, relief assistance, and infrastructure repairs remain largely unfulfilled, with slow damage assessments and limited aid reaching affected communities.

Converting harvest waste to electricity in Rejang Lebong vegetable production centre

Rejang Lebong Regency in Bengkulu Province, a major vegetable-producing hub for Southern Sumatra, faces significant agricultural waste problems when harvest seasons coincide with price collapses, forcing farmers to abandon rotting produce. The region is converting vegetable waste into electricity, offering a dual solution to waste management and renewable energy generation.

LPDP Reveals Reasons Why Scholarship Recipients Have Not Fulfilled Post-Study Service Obligations

The Education Fund Management Agency (LPDP) has identified 44 scholarship recipients failing to meet mandatory post-study service obligations, citing reasons including graduation delays, doctoral studies pursuits, and work at international institutions. The agency is conducting individual verification and will impose sanctions including tuition fee reimbursement on non-compliant recipients.

Investment Board accelerates business registration for micro-enterprises through self-declared spatial compliance

Indonesia's Investment Board has introduced a simplified self-declaration mechanism for issuing Business Identification Numbers to micro-enterprises, eliminating lengthy spatial compliance verification requirements. The new circular letter, to be upgraded to ministerial regulation within three months, automatically approves NIB applications for micro-enterprises across all risk categories, addressing a critical bottleneck in business registration.

KrediOne and Bank Ganesha Launch Inclusive Financing for Individuals and SMEs

PT Inovasi Terdepan Nusantara (KrediOne) has formed a strategic partnership with Bank Ganesha through a loan channelling scheme to expand access to financing for unbanked and underserved populations and SMEs across Indonesia. The collaboration aligns with the financial regulator's policy of strengthening partnerships between traditional banking institutions and Technology-Based Peer-to-Peer Lending Service providers to enhance the national financing ecosystem.

East Jakarta Police Confirm Petrol Station Assailant is Not a Law Enforcement Officer

The East Jakarta Metropolitan Police have arrested civilian JMH for assaulting a petrol station attendant in Cipinang, with authorities explicitly refuting rumours that the perpetrator was a law enforcement officer. The assault occurred when the attendant refused to refuel the man's vehicle due to improper vehicle registration documentation. The incident, recorded on CCTV and widely shared on social media, led to the suspect's apprehension in Bekasi, West Java.

Governor Khofifah Backs Dr Soetomo Hospital's ACGME 2026 Conference Participation

The East Java Provincial Government is supporting Dr. Soetomo Hospital's participation in the ACGME Annual Educational Conference 2026 in San Diego, aimed at strengthening international-standard medical education and professional competence. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa emphasised the strategic importance of aligning healthcare education with global standards whilst improving service quality and patient outcomes. The initiative positions Dr.

Bureaucratic Reform Ministry and National Anti-Corruption Team Align Prevention Efforts

Indonesia's corruption prevention efforts are gaining momentum, with 66 ministries and agencies achieving 46 per cent progress on their 2025 action plan, including securing Rp12 trillion in state assets and designating 2.3 million hectares of agricultural land. While downstream prevention through digital public services has improved significantly at 72.5 per cent, the government acknowledges that systemic structural corruption upstream remains a persistent challenge.

Canadian Woman Found Dead in Denpasar Guesthouse

A 62-year-old Canadian woman, Leclaire Suzanne, was found dead in her room at the Cozy Home guesthouse in Denpasar. Police have stated that initial examinations revealed no signs of violence, and the cause of death is currently under investigation. The woman had been staying at the guesthouse since February 17th and had previously received medical treatment at two hospitals in the area.

Honda Launches Certified Used Vehicle Sales Marketplace

PT Honda Prospect Motor has partnered with Orient Corporation to launch LIVA, a digital marketplace consolidating certified used Honda vehicles from official dealers across Indonesia. The platform enables consumers to browse transparent vehicle information, compare options, schedule dealership visits, and request buyback services through a single integrated portal.

FPTI Secretary-General: National Training Camp Unaffected by Hendra Basir's Suspension

The Indonesian Rock Climbing Federation (FPTI) has suspended head coach Hendra Basir following sexual harassment and physical violence allegations from eight athletes, but assures the national training camp will continue uninterrupted. The federation has established a fact-finding team to investigate whilst a new coaching team takes over on 3 March 2026 to prepare for the Asian Games Qualifiers.

Trade Minister to Meet Village Minister to Discuss Proposed Regulation of Modern Retail Expansion

Indonesia's Minister of Trade plans to meet with the Minister of Villages to discuss a proposal regulating the expansion of modern retail chains following village cooperative establishment. Modern retail stores such as Alfamart and Indomaret currently operate primarily in urban areas with demographic-based site selection, whilst village cooperatives serve remote regions more extensively.

Lawmaker backs TNI role in Gaza stabilisation force

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has endorsed the government's proposal to deploy 8,000 TNI (military) personnel to Gaza as part of an International Stabilisation Force, emphasising that the mission would focus on civilian protection and humanitarian operations rather than combat.

Purbaya to Resolve Licensing Obstacles Behind Stalled Masela Block Project

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is addressing long-standing licensing barriers delaying INPEX's Masela Block project, Indonesia's largest upstream oil and gas development with projected capital expenditure exceeding $20 billion. The project has recently secured environmental approvals and will produce approximately 9.5 million tonnes of LNG annually with integrated carbon capture technology.

Is it Permissible to Shorten the Final Tahiyat Recitation in Tarawih Prayers?

The article discusses the permissibility of shortening the final Tahiyat recitation during Tarawih prayers, particularly in situations where prayers are performed at a fast pace. While adhering to the essential elements of the prayer is crucial, it is permissible to recite only the obligatory phrases of the Tahiyat to maintain the prayer's validity. The article also outlines the proper way to perform Tarawih prayers, including the options of performing them in sets of two or four rak'ahs.

Ciangir Community Corrections Centre Trains 16 Officers and Partners with 11 Government Bodies for Community Service Implementation

The Ciangir Community Corrections Centre has trained 16 community guidance officers and enlisted 11 local government organisations to establish alternative facilities for community service sentences under Indonesia's revised Criminal Code. During a ministerial inspection, the centre confirmed its readiness to implement the scheme, which permits community service as a sentencing option for offences carrying sentences of less than five years.

Bappenas: Financial access expansion must guarantee public security

Indonesia's National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) has stressed that expanding financial access must be coupled with strong security measures and financial literacy to ensure genuine public welfare improvements. The government is implementing a Regional Financial Access Acceleration Team requiring cross-sectoral coordination to deliver safe, productive financial services to vulnerable populations.

'Sahur on the Road' Event with Raucous Music and Provocative Dancing Goes Viral in Jombang

A 'sahur on the road' parade featuring loud music and provocative dancing in Jombang, East Java, sparked controversy and police intervention after going viral on social media, revealing regulatory lapses in event oversight. The unauthorised gathering, which drew thousands of motorcyclists, prompted local authorities to condemn the event's inappropriateness during Ramadan and announce stricter enforcement measures and joint patrols for future celebrations.

Surprise Urine Tests for 77 West Jakarta Police Officers All Come Back Negative

The West Jakarta Metropolitan Police conducted unannounced urine tests on 77 personnel, with all results returning negative for drug use. Police Chief Commissioner Twedy Aditya Bennyahdi led the testing initiative as part of efforts to maintain workplace integrity and ensure officers remain free from drug abuse. The department intends to continue conducting periodic, unannounced tests as an ongoing internal supervision programme to maintain professional standards.

Banten Provincial Government Faces Civil Lawsuit Over Damaged Road in Pandeglang

A motorcycle taxi driver has filed a civil lawsuit against the Banten Provincial Government and Pandeglang Regency Government following a traffic accident on 27 January 2026 in which a child died after falling from a motorcycle that struck a pothole on the Labuan highway. The plaintiff's lawyer argues that the Governor of Banten and Regent of Pandeglang must be held legally responsible for road maintenance under Law No.

When to Begin I'tikaf in the Mosque: Timing for Ramadan 2026

I'tikaf is an Islamic spiritual retreat in a mosque traditionally undertaken during Ramadan's final ten nights—in 2026 falling between 10 and 19 March according to the Indonesian government's Ministry of Religious Affairs. The article explains the religious significance and proper procedures for this devotional practice, noting that whilst I'tikaf can be performed at any time of year, it holds particular spiritual importance during the final phase of Ramadan.

Bali Airport Operates Normally Despite Bad Weather, Some Flights Diverted

Despite heavy rain, operations at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport remained largely normal on Tuesday. While some international flights from Manila and Phuket were temporarily diverted for safety reasons, they later landed in Denpasar. Airport authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions in coordination with BMKG and AirNav Indonesia to ensure passenger safety and service quality.

Luhur Budi Djatmiko Convicted to 1.5 Years Imprisonment in Rp 348 Billion Land Corruption Case

Former PT Pertamina Director General Luhur Budi Djatmiko has been sentenced to 1.5 years in prison by the Jakarta Central Corruption Court for orchestrating a Rp 348.6 billion land corruption scheme in South Jakarta. The scheme involved fraudulent property valuations, falsified assessment reports, and directing procurement to benefit specific companies whilst inflating land costs.

Viral: Scandalous 23-Second Sex Video Involving High School Students in Karangasem

A 23-second sex video allegedly featuring high school students in Karangasem, Bali, has gone viral on social media, prompting a police investigation. Authorities are trying to identify the students and determine the source of the video's dissemination, with initial reports suggesting a scorned ex-partner may be responsible.

Pramono: All Monorail Pillars Dismantled, June Completion Target for Urban Redevelopment

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung announced that all 109 abandoned monorail pillars on Jalan Rasuna Said have been completely dismantled, with the provincial government commencing reconstruction of pedestrian areas, drainage systems, and parks. The redevelopment project aims to be completed by June 2026, whilst authorities will also enforce regulations on street vendors and motorcycle taxi operators in the affected zones to maintain order during construction.

Malaysia halts non-AI data centres as regional tech hub faces power and water constraints

Malaysia has frozen development of new data centres not designated for artificial intelligence, citing growing power and water supply constraints as the country positions itself as Southeast Asia's primary data centre hub. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the two-year-old moratorium while pledging sufficient energy capacity through the ASEAN Power Grid and Sarawak's hydro resources.

Protesters Block Road in Front of the DIY Regional Police Headquarters This Evening

A demonstration took place at the DIY Regional Police Headquarters on Tuesday evening, with hundreds of protesters blocking access roads and breaching the police headquarters' fence. The protest was reportedly in response to an assault incident involving a member of the Maluku Police's Mobile Brigade, who assaulted a Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs) student to death in Tual City and was subsequently dismissed from the police force.

National Nutrition Agency Signs Partnership with Persatuan Islam at SPPG Inauguration

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has signed a memorandum of understanding with Persatuan Islam, a major Islamic social organisation, to expand the Free Nutritious Meal Programme, a centrepiece of President Prabowo's social welfare agenda. The partnership was formalised at the inauguration of a service unit in Bandung, underscoring the government's strategy of enlisting community organisations to rapidly scale the programme to 24,000 facilities nationwide.

Dilapidated Building Condition: Roof Collapse at Jomin Barat III State Primary School, Karawang

The roof of a state-run primary school in Karawang, West Java, collapsed on 20 February 2026 due to severe structural deterioration, disrupting education for 132 students. The structural failure of SD Negeri Jomin Barat III highlights critical gaps in public school infrastructure maintenance and government facility management across Indonesia. The incident underscores urgent demand for increased public investment in school building rehabilitation and comprehensive infrastructure assessments.

Distribution of Free Nutritious Meals during Ramadan in Aceh

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) have launched a reformatted free nutritious meals programme in Aceh Province for Ramadan 2026, introducing dry menu packages adapted to local customs and Islamic observances. The initiative, coordinated with provincial authorities, ensures continued nutrition support for students during the fasting month whilst respecting regional traditions and regulations.

North Jakarta City Government aims to preserve bedug drum-playing tradition

The North Jakarta City Government is preserving the centuries-old bedug drum-playing tradition through a 1447 Hijri Ramadan Festival, aimed at strengthening community spirit and fostering local cultural values. Representatives from 31 villages are participating in the initiative, which serves as an educational and cultural development platform for the community. Top performers will advance to the provincial festival scheduled for March 2026 at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta.

Jakarta Police Bomb Disposal Unit Responds Swiftly to School Threat, All-Clear Confirmed

A senior high school in East Jakarta received a bomb threat via Instagram, prompting an immediate response from the Jakarta Metropolitan Police's bomb disposal unit (Gegana). Following a comprehensive search of the school premises, authorities found no explosives or suspicious objects and declared the facility safe. Police officials urged the public to report security threats through official channels whilst warning against spreading unverified threats that could cause public panic.

Legal Expert Highlights Weak Coordination Between BPN and KLHK Regarding 106 Land Titles in Ngurah Rai Nature Reserve Area

A legal expert has criticised the weak coordination between the National Land Agency (BPN) and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) following the issuance of 106 land titles within the Ngurah Rai Nature Reserve in Bali. The expert argues that better data synchronisation and coordination between the two institutions could have prevented the issuance of these titles in a conservation area.

Samarinda Primary School Students and Teachers Welcome Ramadan Nutrition Programme Adjustments

The Indonesian government's Free Nutritious Meal Programme has been adjusted during Ramadan to provide breaking-fast snacks such as milk, dates, eggs, and bread instead of regular meals, which students and staff at a Samarinda primary school have warmly welcomed. Teachers and pupils report satisfaction with the programme's nutritional content and smooth implementation, though they have suggested improvements including greater fruit variety and larger milk portions.

Indonesia targets 24 million household water connections by 2029

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development has announced an ambitious programme to expand household water connections to 24 million by 2029, more than doubling the current 14 million connections serving approximately 56 million residents. The government aims ultimately to reach 56 million connections by 2045 to provide clean water access to all 211 million citizens under the National Long-Term Development Plan.

South Sumatra Regional Police Chief Leads Narcotics Destruction, Reaffirms Anti-Trafficking Commitment

South Sumatra's Regional Police Chief personally oversaw the destruction of 8,282 grams of methamphetamine and 770 ecstasy pills seized in recent operations, reaffirming the force's commitment to combating narcotics trafficking. The investigation has expanded significantly to include two Malaysian nationals suspected in cross-border distribution networks and a newly identified trafficking method involving THC-filled cartridges.

Water Truck Overturns Following Tyre Blowout in Bogor

A truck carrying gallons of water overturned in Sentul, Bogor, West Java, after suffering a rear tyre blowout whilst in motion, temporarily blocking a main road. The incident caused no casualties, with the Bogor Regency Fire Department responding swiftly to evacuate the vehicle within one hour. Traffic authorities have since restored normal operations on Jalan MH Thamrin.

Convicted of Land Corruption: Former Pertamina Chief Luhur Budi Djatmiko Sentenced to 18 Months

A court has convicted former Pertamina Director General Luhur Budi Djatmiko of land acquisition corruption and sentenced him to 18 months imprisonment. The case involved unlawful submission of budget allocations for land procurement in Jakarta's Kuningan area without supporting investment studies, causing a state financial loss of Rp348.69 billion.

Military Academy Governor: Plataran Battle Forms Foundation for Professionalism

The Governor of the Military Academy, Major General Rano Tilaar, declared that the values embodied in the 1949 Plataran Battle should serve as the foundation for cadets' professionalism, loyalty, and integrity based on military codes and oath. Speaking at the 77th commemoration ceremony in Yogyakarta, he emphasised that future military leaders must achieve not only physical and tactical excellence but also intellectual maturity and moral strength.

Singer King Nassar Shares Cost-Saving Strategies for Online Shopping During Ramadan

Singer King Nassar promoted financial strategies to reduce transaction costs during Ramadan online shopping using a no-fee digital wallet application, highlighting automated bill-splitting features that enhance cost transparency. The endorsement reflects growing fintech adoption in Indonesia's digital payment ecosystem during the fasting month, demonstrating how digital financial tools are reshaping consumer behaviour and operational efficiency.

40 Million MSMEs Without Business Identification Numbers; Government to Streamline Licensing Process

Indonesia is fast-tracking business licensing for approximately 40 million micro, small and medium enterprises currently lacking Business Identification Numbers. The Ministry of Investment has introduced a simplified self-declaration mechanism for location permits—eliminating lengthy technical verification—intended to accelerate MSME legalisation and boost the sector's fiscal contribution. The interim circular letter will be formalised as ministerial regulation within three months.

FPTI Establishes Fact-Finding Team Regarding Suspension of Hendra Basir as Coach

The Indonesian Rock Climbing Federation has established a fact-finding team to investigate the suspension of head coach Hendra Basir following allegations of sexual harassment from eight athletes. The federation is coordinating with the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection whilst maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment and violence.

Coordinating Minister Instructs Ambassadors to Prepare Overseas Placement Schemes for Migrant Workers

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister has directed ambassadors in various countries to establish placement frameworks for Indonesian migrant workers under the SMK Go Global skills initiative. The government aims to deploy 300,000 to 500,000 skilled workers beginning April 2026 to Japan, South Korea, Europe, and the Americas across sectors including welding, hospitality, and healthcare.

Tangerang Residents Resume Fishing in the Cisadane River Despite Chemical Contamination

Residents of Tangerang City have resumed fishing activities in the Cisadane River following its temporary closure due to pesticide contamination from a warehouse fire, with locals reporting improved water quality after recent flooding and dam releases. The Tangerang City Environmental Agency continues to await laboratory test results from the Ministry of Environment to verify that water conditions have fully recovered and are safe for consumption.

Coordinating Minister Cak Imin Encourages Senior and Vocational High School Graduates to Work Abroad: Salaries are High

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Cak Imin has announced the government's strategy to encourage secondary and vocational school graduates to seek employment abroad, citing high salaries and comprehensive social security benefits. Countries including Japan, South Korea, Europe and the United States are identified as offering promising opportunities for skilled workers.

Indian Pickup Truck Imports Threaten Indonesia's Domestic Automotive Industry

Government procurement of 105,000 pickup trucks from India threatens to undermine Indonesia's domestic automotive manufacturing sector and jeopardise 6,000 manufacturing jobs, according to industry experts. Automotive engineers warn the import volume nearly equals Indonesia's entire national pickup truck market, forcing early deindustrialisation and hampering component suppliers' development.

Ministry of Law Strengthens Community Legal Aid Posts to Improve Access to Justice

Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights is strengthening its Legal Aid Post (Posbankum) programme through training initiatives in North Jakarta, deploying locally-recruited paralegals to provide legal services directly within communities. The initiative prioritises out-of-court dispute resolution and targets common community issues including gang violence, domestic violence, and inheritance disputes.

School Children's 2026 Eid Holiday: Official Dates Announced

Indonesia's three-ministry joint decree has officially set school children's 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday dates as 16–20 March and 23–27 March, with classes resuming on 30 March. The announcement comes through coordinated circulars from the ministries of education, religious affairs, and home affairs, ensuring standardised holiday schedules across all schools nationwide.

Cimahi Police Uncover 54 Drug Cases

The Cimahi Police have uncovered 54 drug trafficking and abuse cases in the Greater Bandung area during February 2026, resulting in the apprehension of 70 suspects and seizure of evidence valued at IDR 1.5 billion. The operation demonstrates ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat narcotics crimes in West Java, with amongst the suspects including repeat offenders and two female suspects.

The Transactional Value of Trump's 'Board of Peace'

Trump's Board of Peace initiative has become a strategic vehicle for Asian nations, including Indonesia and Vietnam, to secure trade advantages and access with the US administration, with both countries using participation to negotiate reduced tariffs and avoid potential trade barriers.

Police Chief: Residents flee as 5.4 magnitude earthquake strikes Sarmi

A 5.4 magnitude earthquake struck Sarmi Regency in Papua Province on Tuesday afternoon, causing residents to briefly evacuate their homes before calm was restored. The shallow earthquake, caused by activity on the Mamberamo Thrust Fault, resulted in no reported damage and posed no tsunami risk according to authorities and the Indonesian meteorological agency.

What are the Obligations of LPDP Scholarship Recipients After Graduation?

LPDP scholarship recipients are required to contribute to Indonesia for a period determined by the formula 2N+1, where N is the duration of their studies. While recipients are expected to return to Indonesia after their studies, there are exceptions for pursuing further education or working abroad under specific conditions, provided they obtain proper authorization and adhere to reporting procedures.

Food Price Increases During Ramadan 2026 Considered Reasonable

An economic observer from Muhammadiyah University of Bengkulu has assessed that food price increases during Ramadan 2026 are within reasonable limits, driven primarily by increased consumer demand during the holy month rather than supply shortages. Whilst the price rises reflect normal market dynamics aligned with purchasing power, the observer warns of potential price manipulation by traders and calls for firm government enforcement against such practices.

Ramadan 'Sahur on the Road' Event in Jombang Sparks Controversy

A 'Sahur on the Road' event in Jombang, East Java, has caused public outrage due to the inclusion of loud music and provocative dancing. Local authorities have stated that the event was not officially sanctioned and that similar events will not be permitted without proper authorisation during Ramadan.

TRANS7's Ramadan Charity Initiative Distributes Food and Meals to Orphans and the Underprivileged

TRANS7 has distributed 150 food packages and breaking-fast meals to orphans and underprivileged residents near its transmission office in West Jakarta as part of its annual Ramadan Sharing initiative. The assistance includes essential staples such as rice and cooking oil, aimed at supporting financially struggling families during the holy month. Local community leaders praised TRANS7's consistent commitment to corporate social responsibility and community welfare in the area.

Komnas HAM to Investigate Mobile Brigade Officer's Fatal Assault of Student in Tual

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) is launching a comprehensive on-site investigation into a Mobile Brigade officer's alleged fatal assault on a junior high school student in Tual, Maluku. Komnas HAM Chairman Anis Hidayah emphasised that whilst the officer has been dismissed from the force following a police ethics hearing, a full criminal legal process is essential to prevent impunity.

Yogyakarta Hotel Occupancy Collapses to Just 5 Per Cent During Early Ramadan, PHRI Prepares Effective Strategies

Hotel occupancy in Yogyakarta has collapsed to just 5–10 per cent at the start of Ramadan, with the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association attributing the crisis to declining consumer purchasing power and the absence of foreign tourists, affecting 479 establishments. PHRI is implementing price promotions and cost reductions whilst urging the government to introduce stimulus measures to revive tourism ahead of the Eid holiday season.

Indonesia to send 500,000 skilled workers abroad in 2026

Indonesia plans to deploy 300,000 to 500,000 skilled migrant workers abroad starting April 2026 through the SMA/SMK Go Global programme, targeting high school and vocational graduates for positions in Japan, South Korea, Europe, and the United States. The initiative, coordinated by the Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection and the Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment, enforces minimum education requirements to ensure quality employment and worker safety rather than domestic roles.

Israeli Official Says US Strike Against Iran Is Increasingly Likely

An Israeli official has stated that a United States military strike against Iran is "increasingly likely", with sources indicating President Trump is considering military action. This escalation occurs even as US and Iranian negotiators prepare to resume indirect nuclear talks in Geneva on 26 February, with Iranian officials warning that any attack would trigger broader regional consequences.

West Jakarta Vendor Appeals for Arrest of Serial Food-Dodger

A woman in West Jakarta has become notorious for repeatedly eating at street stalls and using online motorcycle taxi services without payment, leaving small vendors and gig workers to absorb significant losses. Following an incident on 22 February at a stall in Srengseng where she consumed food without paying, vendor Zahra appealed for authorities to apprehend the woman, though the stall owner opted against filing a police report.

Multiple Bali Regions Engulfed by Flooding, Here's What It Looks Like

Heavy rainfall beginning 22 February caused severe flooding across 26 locations in Badung Regency and Denpasar City in Bali, submerging major tourist zones including Kuta. The Indonesian Navy and emergency services mounted evacuation operations to rescue residents, whilst businesses and infrastructure sustained significant damage from the inundation.

University of Indonesia Introduces Gamelan and Balinese Dance to Japanese Students

Japanese students from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology participated in a cultural workshop at the University of Indonesia's Makara Art Center, learning traditional gamelan instruments and Balinese dances from UI faculty and professional artists. The initiative, framed as cultural diplomacy, aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and position participants as cultural ambassadors for Indonesian heritage.

Bappenas Optimises Demographic Dividend Potential in South Kalimantan

Indonesia's National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) is prioritising South Kalimantan's demographic dividend—with 68 per cent of the population in productive age—by strengthening financial literacy and education quality to boost community welfare. Although the region's average schooling length has improved from 8.69 years in 2020 to 9.02 years in 2024, it remains below the national average of 9.22 years, presenting a regional competitiveness challenge.

Rental of Mattresses on Lembar-Padangbai Ferry: NTB Transportation Department Requests Evaluation

The Head of the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Transportation Department has responded to a viral video showing passengers being asked to pay for mattress rentals on the KMP Gemilang VIII ferry. He stated that the issue will be reported to the relevant authorities for further investigation and coordination with stakeholders to strengthen oversight. The General Manager of ASDP Lembar confirmed that all ASDP-owned ferries prohibit renting out any facilities, and that passengers can use them for free.

Rising Journalist Violence Prompts Professional Press Organisations to Establish Safety Committee in Central Java and Yogyakarta

Professional journalism organisations in Central Java and Yogyakarta have formed a Journalist Safety Committee in response to escalating violence against journalists, with 21 documented cases in 2025. The violence is predominantly perpetrated by police and military personnel, affecting approximately 23 journalists in the region, including numerous student journalists.

The Golden Mosque: Islam's Voice in the Philippines

The Golden Mosque in Manila stands as the spiritual centre for the Philippines' Muslim minority, built in 1976 during Ferdinand Marcos's presidency as a symbol of Islamic identity in a predominantly Catholic nation. The mosque bears witness to over a century of Islamic presence in the archipelago, tracing its roots to 14th-century merchants and preachers from the Nusantara region who established the faith long before Western colonialism.

Pramono Anung Ranks Among Top Three Governors by Public Engagement, DIR Report Shows

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has been ranked in the top three regional leaders for public engagement during his first year in office, according to a report by Deep Intelligence Research (DIR). The analysis recorded 959.1 million engagements and a reach of 5.76 billion across media and social platforms, with predominantly positive sentiment centred on public transport, flood management, and infrastructure projects.

National Police Commission urges collaborative approach to resolve child abuse case in Tual

The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) is advocating for multi-stakeholder collaboration between police and government authorities to resolve a fatal child abuse case in Tual, Maluku, involving a Mobile Brigade officer who allegedly struck a 14-year-old student with a tactical helmet. Kompolnas emphasises that addressing such cases requires comprehensive social, economic, and conflict-resolution approaches extending beyond police action alone.

Cannabis Shipment Worth IDR 600 Million Intercepted in Greater Bandung Drug Bust

The Cimahi Police Department has successfully intercepted a 100-kilogramme cannabis shipment valued at IDR 600 million destined for distribution across the Greater Bandung region, arresting three suspects involved in inter-provincial trafficking.

Religious Songs Resound in Malls and Restaurants During Ramadan; Ministry of Law Urges Royalty Compliance

Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights has reminded businesses that playing religious songs in commercial spaces during Ramadan constitutes a public performance requiring royalty payments to musicians. The reminder applies to shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, and digital platforms, which must pay royalties through the National Collective Management Agency (LMKN) in compliance with Indonesia's 2014 Copyright Law.

Suspect Arrested for Assaulting Petrol Station Attendants in East Jakarta

Police have arrested a suspect for assaulting three employees at a Pertamina petrol station in Cipinang, East Jakarta, after a dispute escalated over vehicle registration verification procedures. The incident, which lasted nearly an hour, resulted in significant injuries to the attendants including a lost tooth. The arrest followed the incident gaining widespread public attention.

Purbaya Awaits Prabowo's Direction on Tax Exemption for Workers' Eid Bonuses

Indonesia's labour movement has called for exemption of Eid bonuses (THR) from Article 21 income tax, arguing the levy places an undue burden on ordinary workers during the religious holiday. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated he has not yet received formal guidance on the proposal but pledged to seek President Prabowo Subianto's direction before proceeding.

Excessive Screen Exposure Can Have Long-Term Impact on Children

A paediatrician from the Indonesian Paediatric Association has warned that prolonged screen time in children can cause significant short and long-term health consequences, including sleep disturbances, behavioural disorders resembling autism, reduced academic performance, and increased vulnerability to obesity and bullying.

'Alpha-male' influencer Nick Adams dropped as US ambassador to Malaysia, claims he has been promoted

The Trump administration has withdrawn right-wing influencer Nick Adams' nomination as US ambassador to Malaysia after it failed Senate confirmation. Adams' controversial nomination sparked backlash from Malaysian officials and advocates who questioned his diplomatic credentials and objected to his misogynistic remarks and polarising positions. The withdrawal reflects ongoing challenges the Trump administration faces in securing approval for contentious diplomatic appointees.

How ChatGPT Detectors Help Preserve the Authenticity of Automotive Content

The rapid expansion of AI-generated automotive content raises critical questions about authenticity and consumer trust, making ChatGPT detection tools increasingly vital for digital platforms. These tools help identify artificially generated reviews and guides in a sector where readers depend on genuine insights for substantial purchasing decisions.

West Jakarta Stall Owner Recounts Incident with Woman Viral for Repeated Non-Payment

A woman in West Jakarta has gone viral on social media for repeatedly consuming food, drinks, and transport services without payment. After receiving multiple reports, the West Jakarta Social Service has launched an active search, suspecting the woman may be a person requiring social welfare assistance, with instructions for officers and ride-hailing drivers to offer her shelter and further support if located.

Sunyaragi Cave Attracts International Tourists During Chinese New Year Holiday

The Sunyaragi Cave Water Park in Cirebon is sustaining visitor numbers during Ramadan 2026, driven by international tourists from Australia, Japan and Singapore capitalising on the proximity of the Chinese New Year holiday. Management has adjusted operating hours out of respect for the Islamic fasting period, though local participation in evening "ngabuburit" leisure activities remains negligible.

Bank bjb Launches 'Giro Surplus' Programme to Optimise Idle Funds

Bank bjb has introduced the 'Giro Surplus' programme, a financial solution designed for corporate clients to optimise idle funds held in their giro accounts. The programme offers flexible deposit terms and competitive rewards, allowing businesses to manage their liquidity effectively while also generating returns on their surplus funds.

Streamlined Licensing Drives South Lampung to Record Over Rp3 Trillion in Investment in 2025

South Lampung Regency surpassed its 2025 investment target by achieving Rp3.04 trillion in realised investment against a goal of Rp2.64 trillion, exceeding expectations by 15 per cent. The regional government attributes this success to simplified business licensing procedures and proactive investment promotion efforts led by Regent Radityo Egi Pratama.

Bogor Starts Building Replacement Road for Collapsed Batu Tulis Station Access

The Bogor City Government has commenced land preparation and levelling for a replacement road to replace Jalan Saleh Danasasmita, which provides access to Batu Tulis Station and collapsed in March 2025 due to repeated landslides. Physical construction by the West Java Provincial Government is expected to begin within two to three months, pending completion of the tender process. The IDR 26 billion project aims to restore safe access to the city centre and the railway station.

Corruption Commission Investigates Hajj Hostel Staff in Quota Fraud Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is pursuing an investigation into alleged fraud in the distribution of Hajj quotas at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, with estimated state losses exceeding IDR 1 trillion. The KPK has named two suspects and continues questioning witnesses, including hostel staff, as the investigation progresses. One suspect has filed a pre-trial motion challenging the designation, with legal proceedings scheduled to resume on 3 March 2026.

The Success Story of a Bandung Man's Career in a Qatari Oil and Gas Company

An Indonesian professional from Bandung has risen to head the internal audit department at Oryx GTL, a major Qatari oil and gas company, demonstrating the potential for Indonesian career advancement in the Gulf's energy sector. Whilst approximately 27,647 Indonesians work in Qatar, most concentrate in technical and operational roles; Kusmedi's senior position highlights the value of international certifications and audit expertise.

Ministry of Industry Ensures Basic Goods from the US Must Still Have Halal Certification

The Indonesian Ministry of Industry confirms that basic goods imported from the United States must still possess halal certification. This certification can be conducted by authorized institutions in the US, provided a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) is in place, as stipulated in the trade agreement between the two countries.

Komnas HAM urges human rights mainstreaming in police

Indonesia's National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has called for systematic human rights mainstreaming within the police institution, citing widespread concerns about a culture of abuse and violence in the force. The statement follows the death of a police officer allegedly beaten by a senior officer in South Sulawesi, prompting calls for the Police Reform Acceleration Commission to implement human rights-based institutional reforms.

KPK Responds to Yaqut: No Need to Divide Hajj Quota 50:50 After Saudi Arabia Inspection

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disputed former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas's decision to divide Saudi Arabia's additional 20,000 Hajj quotas equally between regular and special pilgrims, having confirmed through an on-site inspection that facilities are adequate and arguing the split contradicts the quota's original purpose of reducing Indonesia's extensive waiting lists.

Indonesia and tech platforms launch joint child safety monitoring system

Indonesia has formalised a joint child safety monitoring system with major digital platforms under Government Regulation No. 17/2025 (PP Tunas), featuring a shared dashboard for real-time content reporting and enforcement coordination. The framework mandates technological safeguards including "age inferential" technology to identify underage users and automatically restrict access to harmful content.

Indonesia Requires Water Storage Capacity of 150 Cubic Metres Per Capita, Says AHY

Infrastructure Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has stated that Indonesia requires water storage capacity of 100-150 cubic metres per capita—nearly double the current 71 cubic metres per capita—to ensure national water security.

Brimob Officer Apologises for Fatal Student Assault: "I Was Negligent and Reckless"

A member of Indonesia's Brimob (Mobile Brigade) police force has apologised for the death of a student from an Islamic junior high school in Tual City whilst appearing before the Polri Code of Ethics Commission. Bripda MS admitted to negligence in the incident but denied any intention to cause harm, expressing remorse to the victim's family, public, and police institutions. The case highlights accountability and discipline concerns within Indonesia's law enforcement agencies.

Ramadan at the Edge: Residents Gather at Bukit Cinta Cliff to Break Their Fast

Residents in Batang Regency, Central Java gathered at the scenic Bukit Cinta cliff overlooking Jodo Beach to watch the sunset whilst waiting to break their fast during Ramadan, a traditional practice known as ngabuburit. Despite the dangerous terrain and need to cross railway tracks guarded by PT KAI officers, the site remains accessible to the public, offering views of the sunset, sea, and passing trains.

Surabaya Wins Bloomberg Mayors Challenge, Secures USD 1 Million Funding

Surabaya has won the Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge with an innovative programme promoting locally produced, reusable diapers and sanitary pads, securing $1 million in funding to expand the initiative. The project aims to reduce plastic waste in the Brantas River, strengthen the circular economy, and create jobs whilst empowering women and families at the community level.

Mandalika Circuit Safe from Flooding Despite Extreme Weather

The Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Lombok remained unaffected by flooding despite extreme weather conditions including heavy rain and strong winds in West Nusa Tenggara on 23–24 February 2026. The circuit's drainage system performed optimally, with the operational team conducting rapid response measures including debris clearing and maintenance to ensure track safety.

Indonesian Embassy in Tehran Raised to Alert Level 1, Evacuation Plans for Citizens Prepared

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has elevated the Iranian capital's security status to Alert Level 1 amid escalating Iran-United States tensions, with evacuation contingencies activated for Indonesian nationals. Although no direct threats have been reported to Indonesian citizens currently in Iran, the embassy has urged vigilance and maintained regular communication to monitor safety.

West Java Police Target 30 Uninhabitable Home Renovations During Ramadan

The West Java Regional Police is launching a programme to renovate 30 uninhabitable homes across the region during Ramadan 2026, targeting underprivileged communities to improve living standards and welfare. The initiative, led by Bandung Police Chief Commissioner Aldi Subartono, aligns with the President's Asta Cita and the National Police Chief's policy of strengthening the Police's role as community protectors and servants.

Agrinas Boss Ready to Accept Consequences of Pick-up Import

The CEO of PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara, Joao Angelo De Sousa, stated he is prepared to take responsibility for the decision to import vehicles from India, even if it faces opposition. This follows a request from the Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, to postpone the planned import of 105,000 pick-up trucks for the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih.

Papua regions receive first-quarter 2026 special autonomy funds

Papua's 16 local governments have received first-quarter 2026 special autonomy funds in February, marking the earliest disbursement since the Special Autonomy Law's implementation. Improved integration of regional financial systems enabled the acceleration, signalling enhanced administrative capacity and efficiency gains. The funds, totalling hundreds of billions of rupiah across regions, support education, health, and infrastructure development.

Root Causes of Flooding in Bali's Legian and Seminyak Areas

Flooding in Bali's Legian and Seminyak districts has been attributed to high water levels in the Tukad Mati River combined with the low elevation of the affected areas. Deputy Regent Bagus Alit Sucipta announced that the Badung Regency Government will implement major drainage infrastructure projects, including 2-metre box culverts in critical areas, to mitigate future flooding. Current evacuations of residents and tourists are proceeding smoothly with water levels gradually receding.

Drug Smuggling Methods Grow Ever More Ingenious: Methamphetamine Concealed in Snail Shells in Lembang

Police in West Bandung have arrested a 27-year-old man for smuggling methamphetamine concealed within hollowed-out snail shells—a creative tactic he employed for three months whilst earning approximately Rp 6 million per transaction. Officers seized 2.08 grams of methamphetamine and several snail shells from the suspect, who would collect snails from local rice fields, empty them, insert plastic-wrapped drugs, and leave the packets for customers to retrieve.

Retno Marsudi: Water Management Must Be Cross-Sectoral

Retno Marsudi, the UN Special Envoy for Water Issues, has emphasised that Indonesia must adopt integrated, cross-sectoral approaches to water management, as water is essential for agriculture, health, energy, and industry. With 2.2 billion people globally lacking safe drinking water and 3.5 billion without adequate sanitation, the Indonesian government is strengthening coordination as part of its Asta Cita programme, moving beyond fragmented, single-ministry approaches.

Immigration Minister Meets Interns, Receives Suggestions for Ciangir Probation Office Improvements

The Indonesian Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services visited Ciangir Probation Office in Banten to consult with interns on improving administrative operations and services. The visit highlighted Sinurat, a technology-based letter numbering innovation, and counselling services provided by interns to correctional clients.

Saan Mustopa Drives Nasdem Support Boost in Central Java Electoral Districts 2-3

Nasdem Party Deputy Chairman Saan Mustopa convened a consolidation meeting in Kudus, Central Java, to strategically increase the party's electoral support in districts 2-3 as part of the 2026 election campaign. The meeting addressed uneven voter distribution across Java and aimed to strengthen Nasdem's position to increase parliamentary representation from the 2024 results. Party leaders expressed optimism about regaining electoral ground in key districts through intensified campaign efforts.

Parliament Highlights Case of Contract Teacher Facing Charges for Dual Employment in East Java

A contract teacher in East Java is facing criminal charges for simultaneously holding two state-funded positions—as an educator and Village Local Facilitator—allegedly causing Rp118 million in state losses. Parliament's Commission III chairman criticises the prosecution for failing to apply the new Criminal Code's emphasis on rehabilitative and restorative justice, arguing the teacher should have been required merely to repay the disputed salary rather than face criminal prosecution.

Deputy Speaker of MPR Urges Government to Simplify Medical Examination Services for Violence Victims

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly Lestari Moerdijat has called on the government to streamline access to medical examination services for victims of violence, following a presidential regulation that terminated BPJS health insurance coverage for domestic and sexual violence cases.

Terrifying Moments as Debt Collector Stabs Lawyer in Tangerang During Vehicle Seizure

A 40-year-old lawyer in Tangerang was stabbed by suspected debt collectors attempting to seize his vehicle over unpaid car instalments after he refused the seizure citing improper procedures. The violent incident, captured on video and shared on social media, prompted police investigation and commitments to take firm action. The case highlights serious concerns over unregulated and aggressive debt collection practices in the region.

Indecent video of high school couple in Karangasem goes viral, allegedly spread by ex-boyfriend

An indecent video, allegedly featuring a high school couple in Karangasem, Bali, has gone viral on social media. Police are investigating the matter, with suspicion falling on the girl's ex-boyfriend as the person who spread the video.

Banten Province Installs Automatic Flood Gates at Sarakan Dam to Combat Flooding

The Banten Provincial Government has installed seven automatic gates at the Sarakan Dam on the Cirarab River in Tangerang, funded by IDR 5 billion from the province's 2025 budget, to prevent recurring flooding in upstream residential areas. Governor Andra Soni reported immediate effectiveness, with water levels dropping within minutes of gate operation, whilst noting that manual wooden barriers previously used by farmers had caused 2024's severe flooding when not removed during the rainy season.

Coordinating Minister Urges Village Cooperative to Become Community Food Distribution Hub

Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan has called on the Candirenggo Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KKMP) in East Java to function as an active food distribution centre at the grassroots level, ensuring stable supply and affordable prices for residents. The government is prioritising the operationalisation of village cooperatives as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the national food distribution system through community-based economic institutions.

Resbob Attends Hate Speech Trial at Bandung District Court; Prosecutor Details Indictment

A YouTube content creator known as Resbob (Muhammad Adimas Firdaus) appeared for his first court hearing at Bandung District Court on hate speech charges related to ethnic remarks against the Sundanese people, which he livestreamed to approximately 200 viewers while driving under the influence of alcohol.

160,000 Civil Servants to Retire in 2025; State Apparatus Minister Signals CPNS Test in 2026

Indonesia will open Civil Servant Candidate (CPNS) examinations in 2026 to fill an estimated 160,000 positions vacated by retiring civil servants, according to the Minister of State Apparatus Utilisation and Bureaucratic Reform. The government is coordinating with regional authorities and the Finance Ministry to assess competency requirements and secure budget approval. This recruitment initiative aims to maintain adequate public sector staffing nationwide.

Is it permissible to perform the obligatory ritual bath at 7 am during Ramadan fasting? Here's the ruling.

This article discusses the Islamic ruling on performing the obligatory ritual bath (ghusl) during Ramadan, specifically at 7 am. It clarifies that fasting remains valid even if one is in a state of ritual impurity (junub) but emphasizes the importance of performing the ritual bath before the obligatory prayers. The article also addresses scenarios such as waking up late or women who are ritually impure before dawn but perform the ritual bath after the Fajr prayer.

Flooding Affects Dozens of Households in Tabanan

Heavy rainfall in Tabanan Regency has caused flooding in several areas, including Banjar Jagasatru, Kediri District, where 26 households have been affected. The local government is coordinating with the Public Works Department to construct drainage systems to prevent future flooding.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights Reminds Parties of Royalty Payment Obligations for Ramadan Religious Music

The Indonesian Ministry of Law and Human Rights has reminded business operators—including shopping centres, hotels, and digital platforms—that commercial use of religious music must include royalty payments to creators under Law Number 28 of 2014 on Copyright.

American Businesses Face Losses Without Indonesian Halal Certification, Says MUI

In response to speculation about reduced halal certification requirements under the new US-Indonesia trade agreement, Indonesia's halal authority has confirmed that American products will still require halal certification to sell effectively in the predominantly Muslim market. The countries have established a Mutual Recognition Agreement to streamline the certification process for US imports whilst some categories remain exempt from halal requirements.

Indonesia Extends ExxonMobil's Cepu Block Contract to 2055 with $10 Billion Investment Commitment

Indonesia has agreed to extend ExxonMobil's operating licence for the Cepu Block in Central Java until 2055, securing a $10 billion investment commitment as part of the bilateral reciprocal trade agreement with the United States. The contract extension grants an additional 20 years of operations beyond the original 2035 expiry date, ensuring continued supply of approximately 30 per cent of Indonesia's national oil production.

Indonesian Council of Islamic Scholars Confirms Trade Deal Breaches Law Over Halal Certification Exemptions

The Indonesian Council of Islamic Scholars (MUI) has challenged the Indonesia-US reciprocal trade agreement, arguing that exemptions from halal certification for certain American products—including cosmetics, medical devices, used clothing, and packaging services—violate Indonesian law. Deputy Secretary-General KH Aminudin Yakub specifically cited Articles 2.22, 2.8, and 2.9 of the agreement as contradicting Law No.

Papua Regional Police Strengthens Synergy to Address Security in Papua Mountains

Papua Regional Police, in coordination with the Indonesian military and regional government, is strengthening security operations in Yahukimo Regency to address disturbances caused by armed criminal groups. The Damai Cartenz Operation Task Force has deployed 250 personnel to the region to minimise incidents and restore community confidence. The initiative demonstrates the state's commitment to restoring stability and enabling normal activities in the Papua Mountains.

Jember University Bondowoso Campus Opens Three Degree Programmes via SNBP and SNBT Pathways

Jember University's Bondowoso campus is launching three degree programmes—Agribusiness, Accounting, and Mathematics Education—through national selection pathways (SNBP and SNBT) in 2026. This strategic initiative aims to expand access to quality higher education for students in the Bondowoso region and strengthen the campus's academic ecosystem.

East Java Personnel Agency Chief Questioned by KPK as Witness in Ponorogo Job-Selling Case

The Head of East Java's Regional Personnel Agency (BKD), Indah Wahyuni, was questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as an expert witness in an alleged job-selling scheme at a Ponorogo Regional Hospital. Four officials, including Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko, have been named suspects in the investigation concerning irregular appointments and procedures.

Brimob Officer Apologises to Victim's Family and Public Following Alleged Assault

A member of Indonesia's Brimob (Mobile Brigade) apologised to the victim's family and public following an ethics hearing into his alleged assault of a student at an Islamic junior high school in Tual, which resulted in the student's death. The officer admitted negligence and expressed remorse while affirming his readiness to accept legal and ethical consequences for his actions.

Anti-Corruption Commission Absent from Pre-trial Hearing, Assures Return Next Week

The pre-trial hearing for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas regarding a 2024 hajj quota corruption case was postponed due to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) deploying teams to multiple concurrent hearings, with proceedings now scheduled for 3 March.

Regional Council: Green Turtle Conservation in Sukabumi Threatened by Electricity Infrastructure Crisis

West Java's Regional People's Representative Council has raised critical concern that the continued preservation of endangered green turtles at Pangumbahan Beach in Sukabumi is jeopardised by an acute electricity infrastructure crisis. The conservation laboratory, located two kilometres from the nearest power source, faces operational instability and technical constraints that impede its conservation and educational functions.

Commission III: Dismissal of Bripda MS demonstrates police commitment to maintaining integrity

The Indonesian National Police's dismissal of a member suspected of child abuse exemplifies the force's commitment to institutional integrity, according to Commission III of parliament. The article emphasises that whilst administrative dismissal is essential for police credibility, criminal prosecution must proceed through courts to ensure full accountability and justice for the victim.

Japan Demands Fair Treatment in New US Tariff Policy

Japan has urged the United States to ensure fair treatment under Trump's newly announced global tariff policy, warning that the 10–15 per cent tariffs could impose additional burdens on Tokyo beyond the 15 per cent reciprocal rate agreed in July. Japanese Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa raised the concerns directly with US Trade Representative Howard Lutnick, emphasising that unilateral tariff increases could jeopardise Japan's commitment to invest $550 billion in America.

Jakarta to Clamp Down on Street Vendors and Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Parking on Pavements

Jakarta's Provincial Government has announced an enforcement operation to clear street vendors and online motorcycle taxi drivers from pavements, with the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) instructed to remove all unauthorised occupants. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised that the crackdown aims to restore pavements as functional pedestrian walkways, particularly in areas undergoing improvement such as the Rasuna Said district.

IHSG Weakens 1.37 Per Cent to 8,280 Level, Pressured by US Tariff Uncertainty

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) fell 1.37 per cent to 8,280.83 on Tuesday, driven by uncertainty surrounding US tariff policies and a strengthening US dollar index. The decline reflects broader global market concerns over US interest rate expectations and upcoming policy announcements from President Trump. Analysts cite profit-taking and gold price corrections, alongside regional pressures from China's unchanged lending rates and European economic indicators.

Thirty-one Teams Celebrate Ramadan at North Jakarta Bedug Festival

A total of 31 teams from various sub-districts in North Jakarta participated in the 1447 Hijri Ramadan Bedug Festival at City Hall, an event aimed at preserving Islamic cultural traditions whilst celebrating Ramadan with community creativity and togetherness. The festival featured traditional bedug drumming accompanied by Islamic chanting and Betawi musical instruments, judged on proper Quranic pronunciation and artistic merit.

West Pasaman seeks central government support for infrastructure repairs following November disaster

Pasaman Barat Regency in West Sumatra has submitted a proposal to Indonesia's central government for infrastructure repairs following devastating natural disasters in late November 2025. The regency has documented total infrastructure losses of IDR 197.12 billion across roads, bridges, irrigation systems, coastal protection, and drinking water facilities, requesting an estimated IDR 571.31 billion for comprehensive repairs.

Cilegon allocates IDR 2 billion for road and bridge maintenance on homecoming route

The Cilegon City Government has allocated IDR 2 billion for temporary maintenance and repair of roads and bridges ahead of the Eid holiday period, as the Southern Ring Road (JLS) prepares to accommodate homecoming traffic beginning 10 days before Eid. Mayor Robinsar confirmed the infrastructure readiness to ensure safe and comfortable travel conditions for holiday-goers utilising the city's key transport routes.

Parliamentary Commission III Regrets Prosecution of Contract Teacher for Holding Dual Positions

Commission III of the House of Representatives has expressed regret over prosecutors naming contract teacher Muhammad Misbahul Huda as a suspect for simultaneously holding positions as both a classroom teacher and Village Assistant, with state losses alleged at Rp 118 million. The commission chairman argued that prosecutors should have adhered to the new Criminal Code's requirement for criminal intent and advocated for administrative rather than criminal remedies.

Government aims to send 500,000 skilled migrant workers abroad starting April 2026

The Indonesian government targets sending 300,000 to 500,000 skilled migrant workers abroad starting April 2026 through its Vocational High School/Senior High School Go Global programme.

National Nutrition Agency Provides Daily IDR 6 Million Incentives for 24,000 MBG Nutrition Service Units

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has established 24,000 Nutrition Service Units nationwide through strategic partnerships for its Free Nutritious Meal Programme, providing IDR 6 million in daily incentives per unit. This collaborative model is substantially more cost-efficient than direct government operation and accelerates programme implementation across the country.

Purbaya to Align IDR 200 Trillion Fund Placement Strategy with Bank Indonesia's Policies

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the government will align its strategy for placing IDR 200 trillion in state funds within the banking system with Bank Indonesia's policies. The IDR 200 trillion surplus budget will remain in the banking system for the next six months, and the government will monitor the funds to ensure sufficient liquidity in the banking system to support economic growth.

KPK Launches Corruption Risk Assessments for Free Meal and Cooperative Programmes

Indonesia's anti-corruption commission (KPK) is conducting risk assessments for the government's free meal programme (MBG) and Red and White Cooperatives to identify implementation vulnerabilities and strengthen control systems. The five-agency initiative will periodically share findings with the public to enable citizen oversight and improve programme transparency. The focus is on strengthening regulatory controls and identifying gaps in execution rather than challenging existing policies.

Bali Airport returns to normal operations after extreme weather disruptions

Bali Airport restored normal operations after severe weather on Tuesday caused five flights to be diverted or significantly delayed. Airport authorities coordinated with meteorological and aviation agencies to monitor conditions and ensure infrastructure remained optimal for passenger services. The airport advised travellers to arrive early and monitor real-time flight information as rainfall continued across the region.

Finance Minister Purbaya Designates Inpex as Special Investor to Accelerate Masela Block LNG Production by 2029

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has pledged accelerated government support for the Masela Block LNG project, urging operator Inpex Corporation to commence production by 2029 and committing to remove all bureaucratic obstacles that have delayed the decades-long initiative.

Government targets 24 million clean water pipeline connections by 2029

Indonesia's government aims to establish 24 million clean water pipeline connections to homes by 2029, serving approximately 93 million people and achieving 40 per cent urban coverage, up from the current 14 million connections. Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono acknowledged the challenge of meeting this three-year target whilst emphasising the need for inter-sectoral collaboration and integrated water management.

Police Arrest Suspect for Assault on Petrol Station Staff in East Jakarta

Police have arrested a man for allegedly assaulting three petrol station employees in East Jakarta following a dispute over fuel dispensing procedures. The incident occurred on 22 February when workers refused to dispense subsidised Pertalite fuel due to a discrepancy between the vehicle's registration and vehicle type data. The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, may be a law enforcement officer, raising concerns about potential abuse of authority.

Wahai Penitentiary in Central Maluku Accelerates Kitchen Construction for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Class III Wahai Penitentiary in Central Maluku is expediting construction of a nutritional service unit kitchen to support Indonesia's national Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, targeting operations by mid-2026. As one of 27 designated facilities participating in this initiative—forming part of the Directorate General of Penitentiary's 15 action programmes for 2026—the facility aims to promote inmate rehabilitation whilst delivering social benefits to surrounding communities.

Ministry of Creative Economy Partners with Local IP Company for Free Health Check Service at Chinese New Year Festival

The Ministry of Creative Economy is collaborating with local intellectual property company halomiyu to provide free health check services at the 2026 National Chinese New Year Festival in Jakarta, part of the government's commitment to accessible healthcare for all citizens. The initiative offers comprehensive health screenings including blood pressure, blood sugar, hepatitis, dental, tuberculosis, and breast cancer assessments to encourage early disease detection and public health awareness.

BNI Warns Customers to be Vigilant Against Cybercrime Scams Ahead of Eid

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) is urging customers to be more vigilant against cybercrime, particularly phishing scams, as transaction activity increases during Ramadan and leading up to Eid. The bank warns that criminals often target customers during the Eid bonus (THR) payout period. BNI advises customers to be cautious of suspicious emails, links, and requests for personal information, and to enable two-factor authentication for added security.

How to Pay Zakat Fitrah in 2026: Amounts, Deadlines, and Prayer Recitations

Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has established the 2026 Zakat al-Fitr obligation at IDR 50,000 per person, with payment available online or offline through local collection units. Payment must be completed before the Eid al-Fitr prayer to be considered valid zakat, with the guide providing step-by-step instructions and the traditional niyyah prayer for Indonesian Muslims fulfilling this annual social welfare obligation.

Trade Union Urges Halt to Car Imports for Village Cooperatives

Indonesian trade unions are protesting the planned import of 105,000 vehicles from India, arguing that it threatens jobs in the domestic automotive industry. They claim the imports will reduce production at local factories and potentially lead to layoffs. The government has reportedly agreed to postpone the imports pending a decision from President Prabowo.

Riau Police Deny Rejecting Accident Report: Call Centre Log Shows No Incoming Calls

The Riau Regional Police have clarified viral social media allegations that they rejected an accident victim's report and failed to respond to emergency calls. The police confirmed the report was not rejected but delayed due to incomplete administrative requirements, and stated that call logs showed no incoming calls to their 110 emergency hotline, contradicting public claims circulating online.

Bappenas Harnesses South Kalimantan's IDR 2.7 Trillion Zakat Potential to Alleviate Poverty

Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) is targeting the province of South Kalimantan's zakat (Islamic alms) potential valued at IDR 2.7 trillion to reduce the region's poverty rate of 3.84 per cent by integrating religious social funds with formal financial services. The strategy capitalises on the province's predominantly Muslim population (97 per cent) and aims to enhance economic independence among poor communities.

Indonesia Reports No Confirmed Nipah Cases After Testing 16 Suspected Infections

Indonesia's Health Ministry has found no confirmed cases of Nipah virus after laboratory testing of 16 suspected cases identified between 2024 and 2026, though the country remains at risk due to its endemic fruit bat population and geographic proximity to affected nations.

Indonesian Stock Index Declines Amid Uncertainty Over US Tariff Policies

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index fell 1.37 per cent to 8,280.83 on Tuesday as market participants reacted to uncertainty surrounding United States tariff policies and their potential economic repercussions. The broader Indonesian market weakened across nearly all sectors, with the energy sector suffering the steepest decline of 3.29 per cent amid concerns over global monetary policy and trade tensions.

Caution: Heavy to Very Heavy Rainfall Expected in Jakarta Until 28 February

The Jakarta Disaster Management Agency has issued an early weather warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Jakarta and the Thousand Islands from 24–28 February 2026, advising the public to prepare emergency kits and monitor water levels. The provincial government has issued comprehensive public safety guidance, including tips for safe driving in rainy and flood-prone conditions, emphasizing reduced speeds, vehicle maintenance, and awareness of hazardous road conditions.

Fearful Thieves Dump Thai Tourists' Luggage into Bromo River

Three Indonesian thieves stole seven suitcases from Thai tourists in Bromo and disposed of the evidence by dumping the luggage into Pilang River after police began tracking them via GPS. Police arrested the perpetrators, including a married couple, following electronic device signal tracking to their Probolinggo residence. The suspects abandoned plans to sell the stolen goods due to fear of apprehension, with some items later recovered from the river.

Ma'ruf Amin: Indonesia Has All Requirements to Become Global Islamic Economics Centre

Vice President Ma'ruf Amin has outlined Indonesia's strategic potential to emerge as the world's leading centre for Islamic economics, citing the country's largest Muslim population, robust SME sector, and substantial philanthropic resources through zakat and waqf.

Trump Responds to Reports of General Opposing War with Iran

Former US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports that one of his generals opposes war with Iran, labelling them as "fake news". The reports, which originated from US and Israeli media, claimed that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, had cautioned against a hasty attack on Iran. Trump insists that Caine supports military action if necessary and oversaw previous attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Rain Triggers Landslide in North Denpasar, Sathya Sai Elementary School Library Buried

A landslide occurred on Jalan Kemuda, Peguyangan Kangin Village, North Denpasar, on Tuesday morning, damaging the library of Sathya Sai Elementary School. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the building suffered significant damage and requires further assessment. Authorities have secured the area and are advising residents in landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant due to ongoing heavy rainfall.

Head of National Traffic Corps Inspects Homecoming Checkpoint at Cipali, Traveller Safety Prioritised

Indonesia's National Traffic Corps Head Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho inspected readiness of a newly established vehicle inspection checkpoint at the Cipali toll road on 24 February 2026 in preparation for Operation Ketupat 2026, the annual mass exodus for Eid celebrations.

Economist: Debt Switching Remains Credible if Fiscal-Monetary Boundaries Are Maintained

A Centre for Reform on Economics economist contends that debt switching can serve as a credible stabilisation mechanism only if Indonesia maintains clear boundaries between fiscal and monetary policy authority. The central bank and finance ministry have agreed to continue the practice in 2026 for Rp173.4 trillion in government bonds, with market reception characterised as pragmatically positive rather than enthusiastic.

Police Arrest Young Man for Distributing Methamphetamine Using Snail Shells in Lembang

A young man from Lembang, West Java has been arrested by Cimahi Police for distributing methamphetamine disguised inside snail shells, a traditional local snack. Operating the scheme for three months, the suspect generated approximately Rp6 million per transaction and now faces charges under Indonesian narcotics law with a potential sentence of 5 to 20 years imprisonment.

Vice President Ma'ruf Urges Government to Anticipate Impact of Indonesia-US Trade Deal on Halal Products

Vice President Ma'ruf Amin has called on the government to anticipate the impact of the Indonesia-US reciprocal trade agreement on domestic halal products, urging diversification of exports beyond traditional markets to mitigate potential negative effects.

Expert: Advanced Research on Bats Essential for Zoonosis Prevention

A senior virologist from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has emphasised the urgent need for comprehensive research on bat species to prevent pandemics caused by zoonotic viruses such as Nipah, which carries a mortality rate of 40-75%. With bats harbouring at least 70 virus families including those responsible for Ebola, SARS-CoV-2, and rabies, upstream research is critical for improving diagnosis, treatment, and epidemic control strategies.

Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Convenes Stakeholders to Design Blue Coast Programme in Sorong

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries convened a Focus Group Discussion with international partners to design implementation of the Blue Coast programme in Sorong Regency, aimed at enhancing marine spatial planning and supporting coastal fishing communities. The initiative addresses critical challenges including market connectivity for fishing products, sustainable resource management, and poverty reduction in strategically significant coastal zones.

Operation Pekat Mahakam 2026 secures 9,880 kilograms of traditional alcoholic beverages

The Samarinda Police and City Public Order Agency in East Kalimantan have seized approximately 9,880 kilograms of traditional alcoholic beverages from two trucks originating from Manado, North Sulawesi, in a major law enforcement operation. The confiscated contraband, transported across approximately 247 sacks, was destined for illegal distribution across several regions in East Kalimantan, disrupting a significant trafficking network.

Khofifah Backs Dr Soetomo Hospital's Participation in ACGME Conference in United States

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has endorsed Dr Soetomo Hospital's participation in the 2026 Annual Educational Conference organised by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in San Diego, United States. The move is positioned as a strategic initiative to enhance medical education quality in East Java and align healthcare professional standards with international benchmarks.

KPK Investigates Flag-Borrowing Scheme in Bank BJB Advertising Procurement Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered an alleged "flag-borrowing" scheme — where companies use other firms' credentials to win contracts — in the advertising procurement case involving regional bank BJB. Five suspects, including the bank's former president director, have been named in connection with alleged unlawful procurement of media advertising placements that reportedly caused state losses of Rp222 billion.

Latumenten Flyover Project Causes Traffic Congestion, Transport Agency Urged to Find Solutions

The construction of the Latumenten Flyover in West Jakarta has caused severe traffic congestion due to road narrowing from three lanes to one, prompting Jakarta legislators to demand immediate solutions from the Transport Agency.

National Nutrition Agency Provides Incentives of IDR 6 Million Per Day to 24,000 Free Nutritious Kitchens

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has established 24,000 nutritious meal service units (SPPG) across Indonesia through a partnership scheme. BGN provides incentives of IDR 6 million per day to each of these kitchens, totaling IDR 144 million per month, to accelerate the implementation of the Nutritious Meal Programme and reduce reliance on state funding for physical infrastructure development.

Can ASEAN's 50-year-old treaty hold against geopolitical pressures?

ASEAN marked the 50th anniversary of its foundational Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, which has prevented interstate wars but now faces challenges from global geopolitical volatility and "grey zone" tactics that fall short of outright conflict. Whilst experts acknowledge the treaty remains relevant as the region's only code of conduct for interstate relations, they note it lacks enforcement mechanisms and may require improved dispute resolution procedures.

Singkawang Airport passenger numbers double ahead of Cap Go Meh

Singkawang Airport in West Kalimantan has seen passenger numbers double from 350 to 700 per day ahead of the Cap Go Meh 2026 celebrations. Two additional airlines, Super Air Jet and TransNusa, have been brought in to operate extra Jakarta–Singkawang flights, bringing the total to four daily services to support the surge in tourism and regional economic activity.

Police Arrest Man Who Assaulted Petrol Station Attendant in East Jakarta

East Jakarta police have arrested a man captured on CCTV assaulting a petrol station worker in Cipinang after being refused subsidised fuel. The incident, which went viral on social media, began when the attendant declined to fill the suspect's vehicle with Pertalite because the licence plate did not match the fuel subsidy eligibility requirements. The case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Indonesia's subsidised fuel distribution controls.

BPK records positive trend in recommendation follow-up by Judicial Commission and Constitutional Court

Indonesia's Supreme Audit Board (BPK) reported that both the Judicial Commission (KY) and the Constitutional Court (MK) have followed up on over 85 per cent of its recommendations as of the second semester of 2025. The Constitutional Court achieved a 98.16 per cent compliance rate, reinforcing its record of 19 consecutive unqualified audit opinions since 2007, as BPK commenced its examination of both institutions' 2025 financial statements.

Complete Guide to the Bizhare Secondary Market March 2026

Indonesian securities crowdfunding platform Bizhare has announced its March 2026 secondary market trading window, running from 2–13 March with 74 eligible issuers, in compliance with OJK Regulation No. 17 of 2025 which mandates quarterly trading periods. The guide details transaction mechanisms including price limits, cum date provisions, and a 5 per cent service fee on matched trades, with all shareholdings recorded scriplessly at the Indonesian Central Securities Depository (KSEI).

China's 2026 Lunar New Year box office revenue reaches 5.75 billion yuan

China's box office takings during the nine-day Spring Festival holiday reached 5.75 billion yuan, with over 120 million cinema-goers. The racing-comedy "Pegasus 3" topped the charts with 2.93 billion yuan in ticket sales, underscoring the Spring Festival period's critical importance to the world's second-largest film market.

Parents in Batam Complain Ramadan Free Nutritious Meal Consisted of One Biscuit and Half a Corn Cob; Nutrition Service Unit Reprimanded

Parents in Batam's Lubuk Baja district have criticised the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme's Ramadan menu, describing portions comprising three dates, one biscuit, one bread roll, and half a boiled corn cob as mere "snacks" worth only around Rp 6,000 rather than the allocated Rp 15,000.

Rupiah weakens amid expectations of prolonged high US interest rates

The Indonesian rupiah fell 27 points (0.16 per cent) to Rp16,829 per US dollar on Tuesday, driven by growing expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates elevated for longer. The CME FedWatch Tool now shows a 94 per cent probability of the Fed holding rates steady at its March 2026 FOMC meeting, up from around 80 per cent, prompting capital flows towards dollar-denominated assets and away from emerging market currencies including the rupiah.

JCI Plunges More Than 1 Per Cent to 8,290 Level; Three Top-Gaining LQ45 Stocks Shine

Indonesia's Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell sharply by 1.37 per cent to close at 8,280.83 on Tuesday, dragged down by US tariff policy uncertainty and a strengthening dollar. Nearly all sectors declined, with energy suffering the steepest drop at 3.50 per cent, whilst the financial sector was the sole gainer; Bank Mandiri and Merdeka Copper Gold emerged as top performers among LQ45 blue-chip stocks.

If Attack on Iran Occurs, US Boasts of Targeting Khamenei and Three Key Military Objectives

The New York Times reports that US President Donald Trump has informed his advisers he is considering military strikes against Iran, including targeting Revolutionary Guard headquarters, nuclear facilities, and ballistic missile programmes, with the ultimate aim of toppling Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Indonesia maintains meal nutrition standards in free school feeding programme shift to dry food

The Indonesian government is maintaining nutritional standards in its free meals programme (MBG - Makan Bergizi Gratis) despite shifting to dry food distribution, with nutritionists stationed in all kitchens to ensure adequate protein, carbohydrates and fibre content. Minister Hasan announced Ramadan adjustments and confirmed the programme has already served over 60 million beneficiaries since January 2025, whilst working to extend coverage to schools currently outside the initiative.

Village Funds Heavily Cut for Koperasi Merah Putih, Village Heads Urged to Tap Local Revenue Sources

Central Java's Village Fund allocation for 2026 has been drastically reduced from an average of Rp 1 billion to just Rp 300-400 million per village, as Rp 4 trillion of the province's Rp 6.8 trillion total has been earmarked for the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih programme. Provincial authorities are urging village heads to develop indigenous revenue sources rather than relying on central and provincial government transfers.

Indonesia targets 15,000 engineers to master chip design technology

Indonesia aims to train 15,000 engineers in chip design technology through a partnership between state investment agency Danantara and British semiconductor firm Arm Limited, backed by an initial allocation of US$150 million. The strategic cooperation, signed in London, covers six national chip designs spanning automotive, IoT, data centres, and home appliances, with leading Indonesian universities preparing talent for the programme.

Saporkren Villagers Develop Ecotourism While Remaining Vigilant Against Nickel Mining

Residents of Saporkren village in Raja Ampat have transformed from hunters and illegal loggers into ecotourism operators running homestays and birdwatching tours, with tourist visits rising to 42,150 in 2025. The community remains concerned about the environmental impact of nickel mining concessions in the region, warning that sedimentation from mining operations threatens coral reefs, fish populations, and the tourism sector that now sustains their livelihoods.

Pandeglang Regency and Banten Provincial Governments Sued Over Damaged Roads

Residents have filed a civil lawsuit against the Pandeglang Regency and Banten Provincial governments over poorly maintained roads that allegedly caused a fatal motorcycle accident in January. The plaintiffs are seeking approximately Rp 1 billion in immaterial damages and Rp 20 million in material damages, arguing that the Governor of Banten and the Regent of Pandeglang bear legal responsibility for road safety under Indonesia's traffic and road transport law.

Coordinating Minister Zulhas guarantees nutrition service units will fully absorb smallholder poultry production

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has assured smallholder poultry farmers that the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) will absorb their entire egg and chicken production to supply the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The government requires 82.9 million eggs and 82.9 million portions of chicken daily to serve the programme's 2026 beneficiary target, and is developing six integrated poultry downstream processing hubs across the archipelago to boost production capacity.

Halal Clause Controversy in Indonesia-US Agreement: Threat or Misinterpretation?

The Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged Indonesians to boycott American products entering the country without halal certification. The call highlights growing tensions over halal labelling requirements amid Indonesia-US trade relations and underscores the role of the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) in safeguarding consumer protection and domestic economic interests.

Nickel Industries integrates climate risks into long-term strategy

Nickel Industries has formally integrated climate risks into its business strategy, reporting climate disclosures for the first time and committing to reduce carbon intensity by 50 per cent by 2035 as part of a transition towards sustainable production for the global electric vehicle supply chain.

Ferry Crossings Between Nusa Penida-Sanur and Pemenang Temporarily Closed Due to Stormy Weather

Ferry services between Nusa Penida and Sanur, as well as Pemenang, were temporarily suspended on Tuesday due to extreme weather conditions affecting Bali. The decision to implement an intermittent opening and closing system was made to ensure passenger safety, with services resuming when the weather improved. Similar disruptions occurred at the Padangbai port, but services have since returned to normal.

Man Who Claimed to Be Security Official While Shouting 'General's Car' and 'Police Chief' Arrested After Assaulting Three Petrol Station Workers in East Jakarta

Police have arrested a man who impersonated a security official and assaulted three petrol station employees in Cipinang, East Jakarta, after a dispute over fuel. The altercation began when the suspect attempted to purchase subsidised Pertalite fuel using a barcode that did not match his vehicle's registration, raising questions about the misuse of official credentials to access subsidised commodities.

Jakarta bans new padel courts in residential areas, limits operating hours to 8 p.m.

Jakarta's governor has implemented new regulations restricting padel court development to commercial zones only and capping operating hours at 8 p.m. for existing residential facilities. The policy aims to address escalating noise complaints from residents, including families with young children, whilst accommodating the sport's growing popularity in the capital.

Removing Tattoos, Weaving New Hope in the Month of Ramadan

Baznas Bazis DKI Jakarta has launched a free tattoo removal roadshow across the capital during Ramadan, targeting around 1,000 participants seeking spiritual renewal. The laser-based programme, held at Sunda Kelapa Mosque, is open for registration from 23 February to 4 March 2026 via an online portal, reflecting the government zakat agency's broader social rehabilitation efforts.

Severe penalties urged for Indonesian police involved in drug offences

A former Indonesian police commissioner has called for severe penalties, including the death penalty, for officers involved in drug offences, alongside strengthened evidence controls and media coverage to deter corruption and misconduct. The recommendations include multiple charges under narcotics and money-laundering laws, enhanced surveillance of evidence storage, and rigorous destruction procedures to prevent rogue personnel from evidence tampering.

Israeli Company Set to Manage Geothermal Energy in North Luwu with Rp1.5 Trillion Investment

PT Ormat Geothermal Indonesia, a subsidiary of Israeli energy firm Ormat Technologies founded in 1965, is preparing to explore geothermal potential in Rongkong, North Luwu Regency, South Sulawesi, targeting 30 megawatts of capacity with an investment of Rp1.5 trillion. South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman confirmed the project is driving plans to improve road access to the remote Seko area, with initial drilling of three small wells based on a 2024 feasibility study.

BRIN launches 2025 Regional Competitiveness Index to guide regional economic development strategy

Indonesia's BRIN launches the 2025 Regional Competitiveness Index as a measurable policy tool to strengthen regional economies and contribute to national competitiveness. BRIN Head Arif Satria emphasised the index's role in helping regional governments prioritise research, innovation, and human capital development ahead of the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Securing Rp 20 Billion Investment, Listed Firm Prepares Dividend Distribution

PT Bhakti Agung Propertindo Tbk (BAPI), a property and health investment company, has received a Rp 20 billion investment from a health university education foundation for the purchase of unit blocks to be converted into a campus and healthcare facility. The company confirmed it will distribute dividends to shareholders in the near term and is accelerating its expansion into the health sector, including plans for a healthcare data centre spanning approximately 70 hectares in Rangkasbitung.

Deployed Amid Hamas Combat Infrastructure: What Risks Does the TNI Face in Gaza?

Indonesia's planned deployment of troops to the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Gaza has sparked controversy, with defence experts warning that demilitarising Hamas tunnel networks — particularly around Rafah — could draw TNI soldiers into urban combat and compromise Indonesia's longstanding non-aligned foreign policy stance.

MP Urges Police to Conduct Consistent Urine Tests for Officers, Not Mere Gimmicks

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission III has called on the Indonesian National Police to ensure that urine testing for drug abuse among officers is conducted consistently and transparently, rather than as a publicity stunt. The demand follows the Police's Professional and Security Division launching simultaneous urine tests across the force, which have already identified three officers in Riau testing positive for narcotics.

Sukamta Responds to Huckabee's Claim That Israel Has Rights Over the Middle East

Indonesian Deputy Chairman of House Commission I Sukamta has criticised US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee's claim that Israel holds historical and theological rights over a vast swathe of the Middle East, warning it sets a dangerous normative precedent.

Medan Drug Syndicate Hid 680 Grams of Methamphetamine Inside Books

North Sumatra Police foiled an inter-provincial drug smuggling operation that concealed 680 grams of methamphetamine inside hollowed-out books destined for Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara. Three suspects were arrested following an undercover sting operation, with investigators revealing the syndicate had repeatedly used the same book-concealment method to traffic drugs across provinces.

Ministry of Forestry: Presidential Regulation 110/2025 Strengthens National Carbon Governance

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has affirmed that Presidential Regulation No. 110/2025 on Carbon Economic Value and Greenhouse Gas Emission Control represents a significant step in strengthening national carbon governance.

Students Protest Again as Iran Warns of 'Red Lines' That Must Not Be Crossed

The Iranian government has acknowledged students' right to protest but warned that certain "red lines," including sacred values and the national flag, must not be violated. The demonstrations, which mark the first major student protests since a deadly crackdown on anti-government unrest months earlier, come amid renewed US-Iran tensions over nuclear negotiations and increased American military deployment in the Middle East.

BPK Stresses Urgency of Technology Utilisation in Preparing Regional Financial Reports

Indonesia's Supreme Audit Board (BPK) has emphasised the critical importance of leveraging information technology, particularly the Regional Government Information System (SIPD), in preparing Local Government Financial Reports (LKPD) for 2025. The audit body is adopting a risk-based approach focusing on regional expenditure, asset management, and revenue, whilst noting that approximately 75 per cent of its prior audit recommendations have now been addressed nationwide.

Papua Police Ready to Assist Air Force in Securing 11 Airstrips

Papua Regional Police have declared readiness to assist the Indonesian Air Force in securing 11 airstrips in Papua that were shut down following the fatal shooting of a Smart Air aircraft that killed its pilot and co-pilot in Korowai Batu. The Air Force's Kopasgat Task Force will lead airstrip security operations, with police providing public order support, as authorities seek to restore vital air transport links to remote communities.

Pramono Cites Three Issues with Padel Courts Raised by Residents

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has identified three key complaints from residents regarding padel courts located in residential areas, including illegal parking, noise pollution, and lack of sound insulation. The provincial government plans to crack down on non-compliant facilities and has instructed the Youth and Sports Agency to impose stricter requirements for new padel court construction permits.

Ride-Hailing Motorcycle Driver Rushed to Hospital After Being Struck by TransJakarta Bus in Central Jakarta

A ride-hailing motorcycle driver named Suherman was seriously injured after colliding with a TransJakarta bus on Jalan Gunung Sahari in Central Jakarta on Tuesday morning. TransJakarta stated the bus was proceeding on a green light when the motorcyclist allegedly turned suddenly in a yellow box area, and has handed over CCTV footage to police for investigation.

Nezar: Biometric Mobile Number Registration Data Not Stored by Operators

Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Nezar Patria has confirmed that biometric data used for mobile number registration will not be stored by mobile operators but will remain with the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The biometric registration policy is designed to curb cybercrime, particularly spam calls and online fraud, which could cost the public up to Rp9 trillion in losses.

Gold Prices Surge as US Tariff Uncertainty Takes the Blame

Gold prices have continued their upward trajectory, with spot gold rising to US$5,182 per ounce amid a weakening US dollar and mounting uncertainty over American trade tariff policies. The rally has been fuelled by a combination of factors including a US Supreme Court ruling that President Trump exceeded his authority on tariffs, disappointing US GDP figures, and higher-than-expected inflation data, all of which have bolstered demand for the safe-haven asset.

KPK Suspects Pati Regent Sudewo Also Rigged Projects via 'Team 8'

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned 12 witnesses in the extortion case against suspended Pati Regent Sudewo, uncovering suspected project rigging in the regency orchestrated through a group known as 'Team 8'. Beyond the initial charges of extorting village official candidates for fees ranging from Rp 125 million to Rp 225 million, investigators are now probing public works projects allegedly manipulated on Sudewo's orders, with Rp 2.

Satgas PASTI Halts Operations of AMG Pantheon and Mbastack Over Suspected Fraud Scheme

Indonesia's financial regulator Satgas PASTI has shut down AMG Pantheon and Mbastack Creative Advertising Limited, both fraudulent schemes impersonating licensed foreign companies to solicit deposits from unsuspecting members. AMG Pantheon falsely offers cryptocurrency trading whilst Mbastack operates an illegal multi-level marketing scam, with neither holding proper regulatory permits or digital registration.

DPR Member Demands Government Transparency on 1,000-Tonne Rice Import from the US

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission IV has called on the government to openly explain its commitment to import 1,000 tonnes of rice from the United States under a bilateral trade agreement. While acknowledging the volume is small relative to national production, the lawmaker stressed the need for strict oversight to protect farmers' incomes and national food sovereignty.

UAE and Iranian Foreign Ministers Discuss Iran-US Negotiations and Regional Situation

The UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi to discuss the latest regional developments and their implications for security and stability.

China Targets Japanese Firms to Prevent 'Remilitarisation'

China has imposed export restrictions on 40 Japanese companies and entities, accusing them of bolstering Japan's military capabilities, in a significant escalation of bilateral tensions rooted in Tokyo's stance on Taiwan. The move, which targets major conglomerates including Mitsubishi Group and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, sent Japanese equities and the yen lower, marking a shift from soft diplomacy to trade as a tool of political pressure.

Ramadan Bazaar Festivities Boost Village Economy in Bilebante, West Nusa Tenggara

The Sampoerna Entrepreneurship Training Centre (SETC) and Inotek organised a Ramadan bazaar in the tourism village of Bilebante, Central Lombok, involving 40 micro, small and medium enterprises selling traditional Sasak cuisine and handicrafts. Provincial officials highlighted the event's potential to strengthen grassroots economies across West Nusa Tenggara's 1,166 villages through MSME empowerment, digital marketing training, and the reactivation of idle village land.

Crypto Asset Scam: PASTI Task Force Shuts Down AMG Pantheon Operations

Indonesia's Illegal Financial Activities Eradication Task Force (Satgas PASTI) has halted the operations of AMG Pantheon and Mbastack Periklanan Kreatif Terbatas (MBA) for allegedly running fraudulent schemes by impersonating licensed foreign companies. AMG Pantheon is accused of operating a fictitious daily crypto trading scheme, whilst MBA ran a tiered recruitment deposit scam disguised as hotel and tourism review activities.

UAE Gifts 30 Tonnes of Premium Dates to Indonesia

The United Arab Emirates has donated 30 tonnes of premium dates to Indonesia for Ramadan 2026, delivered through the Emirates International Aid Agency as a gesture of bilateral friendship. Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar confirmed the dates, which arrived at Soekarno-Hatta Cargo Airport on 23 February, will be distributed to those in need through the ministry's networks.

US War Secretary reaffirms plans to deploy weapons in space

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has reaffirmed plans to place weapons in space through the Golden Dome missile project, a multi-layered defence initiative integrating ground, sea and space systems. Whilst President Trump's announced budget stands at nearly US$175 billion, experts cited by Bloomberg estimate the true cost could reach US$1.1 trillion, with the first major trial scheduled for late 2028.

Manpower Minister: 13 National Apprenticeship Hub participants recruited by company in Batam

Indonesia's Manpower Minister Yassierli revealed that 13 out of 44 apprentices participating in the National Apprenticeship Hub programme have been hired as permanent employees by a palm kernel oil processing company in Batam. The minister highlighted the programme's evolution from a mere formality into a genuine transition pathway to employment, whilst emphasising efforts to expand apprenticeship placements beyond Java to all provinces nationwide.

Transjakarta Bus Strikes Ride-Hailing Motorcyclist on Gunung Sahari, Motorcycle Lodged in Bumper

A Transjakarta bus collided with an online ride-hailing motorcycle driver on Jalan Gunung Sahari in Central Jakarta, leaving the rider injured and the motorcycle wedged in the bus's front bumper. Transjakarta claimed the bus was proceeding on a green light when the motorcyclist allegedly made a sudden turn in a yellow box area, and said CCTV footage had been handed to police for investigation.

Macron Says Ukraine War Represents Triple Failure for Russia

French President Emmanuel Macron marked the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine by declaring the war a threefold failure for Moscow — militarily, economically, and strategically. Macron pledged continued support for Kyiv and further sanctions against Russia, whilst preparing to chair a meeting of Ukraine's allied nations.

Ministry of Public Works Moves Swiftly to Provide Modular Temporary Housing for Landslide Victims in Tegal Regency

The Ministry of Public Works, through state-owned contractor PT Wijaya Karya, is constructing modular temporary housing for 456 families displaced by a landslide in Tegal Regency, Central Java, with completion targeted before Eid al-Fitr. The 47,000 m² site in Capar Village will feature 38 building blocks across 11 zones using lightweight modular steel structures, complete with sanitation facilities, clean water systems, and electricity from PLN.

GAC Indonesia Records 2,095 Booking Orders at IIMS 2026, Aion UT Leads the Pack

Chinese automaker GAC Indonesia secured 2,095 vehicle booking orders during the Indonesia International Motor Show 2026, with the Aion UT electric hatchback accounting for nearly half of all orders. The strong results signal growing Indonesian consumer appetite for electric vehicles, as GAC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the development of the national EV ecosystem through dealer network expansion and after-sales service improvements.

KPK Warns Government to Exercise Caution in Interactive Digital Panel Procurement

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has urged the government to ensure proper oversight in the procurement of interactive flat panels (IFPs) for the national education digitalisation programme, warning that goods and services procurement remains highly vulnerable to corruption.

2026 Zodiac Forecast: Predictions for the Year of the Fire Horse

According to Chinese zodiac tradition, 2026 will be the Year of the Fire Horse, with each of the twelve zodiac animals facing different fortunes. The article provides detailed predictions for each animal sign, covering aspects of love, career, and health, offering guidance for navigating the year ahead.

Electric Vehicle Battery Industry Enters Capital Markets

Hong Kong-based Dragonmine Mining, a subsidiary of Chinese lithium-ion battery materials giant Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, is set to acquire 80% of Indonesian-listed PT Berkah Prima Perkasa Tbk (BLUE) through a conditional share purchase agreement, signalling a growing trend of backdoor listings by global EV battery players on the Indonesia Stock Exchange.

Andrew White Helps Evacuate Fallen Trees During Extreme Weather in Bali

Heavy rain and strong winds have caused widespread flooding and fallen trees in Bali, including in the Tagtag area of Denpasar. Actor Andrew White was seen assisting with the evacuation of a large fallen tree, helping to cut branches with a handsaw. The local disaster management agency is focused on evacuation efforts, with 26 flood points reported in Denpasar and Badung.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Enlivens Ramadan with Free Takjil and Religious-Themed Petrol Station Services

Pertamina Patra Niaga, the fuel distribution subsidiary of state-owned oil company Pertamina, has launched a Ramadan programme offering free takjil (breaking-fast snacks) at strategically located petrol stations and dressing attendants in traditional Islamic attire. The initiative targets motorists, ride-hailing drivers, and public transport operators, positioning petrol stations as community rest stops during the fasting month whilst maintaining operational and safety standards.

BPJPH: United States Has Strict Halal Certification Standards

The head of Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has sought to reassure consumers that US imports still require halal labelling, dismissing rumours that the recent trade deal between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump exempted American products from halal requirements.

Cooperatives Minister Says Import of 105,000 Pickup Trucks from India Postponed Pending President's Return

Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono confirmed that the planned import of 105,000 pickup trucks from India has been postponed until President Prabowo Subianto returns from his overseas trip. The controversial plan, intended to support Koperasi Merah Putih operations, has drawn scrutiny from parliament, with Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad urging the government to defer the decision and allow the President to review the details and assess domestic manufacturers' readiness.

House Commission XIII: Death Penalty for 'Small Fry' Will Never Eradicate Drug Crime

The chairman of House of Representatives Commission XIII has criticised the pursuit of death sentences against low-level suspects in the Sea Dragon narcotics smuggling case, arguing that courts must distinguish individual roles and pursue the masterminds behind the operation.

Attorney General: No State Assets Must Go Unaccounted For (Part 2)

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has emphasised that no state assets should remain unaccounted for following the enactment of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. Through the strengthened role of the Asset Recovery Agency, the Attorney General's Office is targeting more orderly and accountable case handling focused on recovering state losses, including addressing the misuse of seized assets by individuals within the institution.

East Jakarta Mayor Drops Appeal, Upholds Ruling to Revoke Padel Court Building Permit in Pulomas

East Jakarta Mayor Munjirin has withdrawn the appeal against an administrative court ruling that ordered the revocation of a building permit for a padel court in the Pulomas residential area. The decision follows an internal review and effectively upholds the December 2025 ruling in favour of local residents who filed complaints about noise and traffic caused by the commercial sports facility built in their neighbourhood.

AstraZeneca and Prudential Seek to Improve Cancer Patient Education

AstraZeneca Indonesia and Prudential Indonesia have partnered to enhance cancer patient understanding and public awareness of appropriate treatment and sustainable health planning. The collaboration will focus on educational initiatives covering cancer awareness, non-promotional medical guidance, and financial literacy related to health insurance, amid data showing Indonesia recorded over 400,000 new cancer cases in 2022 with cases projected to surge by more than 70 per cent by 2050.

Snowstorm on US east coast causes cancellation of thousands of flights

A severe snowstorm blanketing the US East Coast has led to nearly 6,500 flight cancellations and delays, with major New York area airports cancelling almost 90 per cent of flights. States of emergency have been declared in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, with travel bans imposed and over 550,000 customers experiencing power outages.

Size and Weight Restrictions for Luggage Permitted on KAI Yogyakarta Trains

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Yogyakarta has issued a notice to passengers regarding luggage size and weight restrictions on its trains, aiming to ensure passenger comfort, safety, and order. Luggage exceeding the specified dimensions will be subject to excess baggage fees or may not be allowed on board, with varying charges depending on the class of service.

Police Arrest Two Drug Dealers in Mataram

Police in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, have arrested two individuals, including a repeat offender, for allegedly distributing methamphetamine. The arrests resulted in the seizure of a significant amount of the drug, along with cash and mobile phones. A third individual from Banten was also arrested with a larger quantity of methamphetamine.

Industry Players Call for Protection of Law-Abiding Legal Businesses

The chairman of the Indonesian Vape Consumer Alliance (Akvindo) has urged government agencies not to generalise the entire e-cigarette sector as a gateway for narcotics abuse, following statements by the National Narcotics Agency (BNN). He called for proportional, evidence-based policy that distinguishes between legal and illegal operators, warning that overly restrictive regulations could kill the legal market and drive consumers towards unregulated illicit products.

Biological Mother of Boy Who Died from Abuse in Sukabumi Was Told to Be Dead

The biological mother of a 13-year-old boy allegedly killed through abuse in Sukabumi has formally reported her ex-husband to police, with her lawyer revealing the father had told the child his mother was dead. The case highlights alleged domestic violence, parental alienation, and suspected negligence leading to the child's death.

'God Tests You Because He Loves You': Moroccan Girl's Touching Message to Palestine

A young Moroccan girl went viral on social media after delivering an emotional message of solidarity to Palestinians in Gaza and prisoners in Israeli jails during a protest in Tangier. The demonstration was held to condemn statements made by US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, with the girl's heartfelt words drawing widespread praise from activists online.

What Is the Connection Between the Assailant of Three Pulogadung Petrol Station Workers and High-Ranking Officials?

Three employees at a petrol station in Cipinang, Pulogadung, East Jakarta, were reportedly assaulted on Sunday 22 February 2026 by a motorist who claimed connections to a general and a regional police chief. The altercation arose after staff discovered the assailant's subsidised fuel barcode was registered to a different vehicle — a Kijang — while he was driving a Toyota Alphard, raising questions about subsidised fuel fraud and the misuse of official authority claims.

Analyst: 15 Per Cent Free Float Requirement to Drive Fair Share Price Formation

A senior analyst from Korea Investment and Sekuritas Indonesia argues that the new 15 per cent minimum free float requirement will promote fairer share pricing in the medium to long term by dispersing ownership and making price manipulation more difficult. The Indonesia Stock Exchange estimates the market will need to absorb approximately Rp187 trillion in liquidity for 267 listed companies to meet the new threshold, with implementation planned for March 2026.

Badung Deputy Regent Reveals Cause of Frequent Flooding in Dewi Sri Area

The Deputy Regent of Badung inspected flood-affected areas in Legian and Seminyak, attributing the flooding to low-lying terrain, high water levels in the Tukad Mati River, and heavy rainfall. The local government plans to normalize the river, install drainage systems, and provide additional equipment to facilitate evacuation and improve water flow, aiming to mitigate future flooding incidents.

Coordinating Minister Zulhas Guarantees Dry Food MBG Packages During Ramadan Remain Nutritious

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has assured that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme's dry food packages distributed during Ramadan will maintain proper nutritional standards, with each package required to contain protein, carbohydrates and fibre. The government is also working to expand coverage, noting that approximately 40 per cent of Islamic boarding schools have yet to receive MBG distribution, whilst adjusting delivery times to accommodate fasting schedules.

Indonesia Strengthens Measles Surveillance Following Detection of Imported Cases

Indonesia is intensifying measles surveillance and immunisation programmes following the detection of two imported cases—one involving a fully vaccinated traveller and another an unvaccinated child returning from Australia. The ministry recorded 11,094 confirmed measles cases in 2025 and 550 cases as of February 2026, prompting expanded public outreach on prevention measures.

US Economist Urges Trump to Provide Relief to American Families Affected by Tariffs

Prominent US economist Jeffrey Sachs has called on President Trump to compensate American families bearing the brunt of his sweeping tariffs, following a Supreme Court ruling that declared them unlawful. Despite the court's 6-3 decision striking down tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, Trump signed executive orders imposing new global tariffs of up to 15 per cent and threatened countries with even higher levies if they attempt to exploit the ruling.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Says First Quarter Papua Special Autonomy Funds Disbursed to 16 Regions

The Indonesian government has disbursed first-quarter Special Autonomy funds for the 2026 fiscal year to 16 regions across Papua, marking the fastest disbursement since the Special Autonomy Law was implemented. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk attributed the acceleration to improved interoperability of regional financial systems, with funds directed towards priority sectors including education, health, and infrastructure.

Government Receives 30 Tonnes of Dates from UAE

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has received a donation of 30 tonnes of premium dates from the United Arab Emirates government ahead of Ramadan 2026. The symbolic handover from the UAE Ambassador to Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar underscores the deepening humanitarian and diplomatic ties between the two nations, with the dates to be distributed to those in need through the ministry's networks.

Roblox is Increasingly Popular in Indonesia: Here's a Guide to Cheap Robux Top-Ups on Golrox

Roblox has become a massive gaming phenomenon in Indonesia, consistently ranking among the countries with the highest number of Roblox players in Southeast Asia. The increasing popularity has led to a growing demand for Robux top-ups, with local platforms emerging to provide accessible and affordable solutions for Indonesian players.

Many Graduates Unemployed: Vocational Pathway Now Gen Z's Preferred Route to Employment

China is experiencing a significant shift in higher education as vocational bachelor's programmes gain popularity amid high youth unemployment, with their graduates achieving employment rates 4.5 percentage points above the national average for traditional degree holders. The number of vocational institutions has expanded from 15 pilot campuses in 2019 to over 100, though experts warn against over-specialisation and the persistent stigma attached to vocational qualifications.

Procurement of Cooperative Vehicles Could Absorb 10,000 Workers

The Indonesian Labour Confederation (KSPI) believes that producing 105,000 pickup trucks domestically could create jobs. KSPI estimates that at least 10,000 new workers could be employed within a 6-month to 1-year period. The confederation has urged the government to cancel plans to import vehicles and instead support domestic manufacturers, citing concerns about potential job losses in the national automotive industry.

Extreme Weather: Landslides and Fallen Trees Hit Karangasem

Heavy rain and strong winds have caused at least 19 disasters in Karangasem Regency, including landslides and fallen trees. While there have been no reports of casualties, significant damage has been reported to roads, homes, and public facilities. The local disaster management agency is working to address the incidents, prioritising those affecting public infrastructure.

South Kalimantan Police Uncover Drug Network Linked to Fredy Pratama, Seize 30 Kg of Methamphetamine and 15,000 Ecstasy Pills

South Kalimantan Regional Police have dismantled a drug smuggling operation affiliated with international narcotics kingpin Fredy Pratama, seizing nearly 30 kilogrammes of methamphetamine and over 15,000 ecstasy pills with an estimated street value of Rp69 billion. The suspect, identified by the initials IW from Banten, was arrested at a hotel in Banjarmasin after transporting the drugs from Palangka Raya in two large rucksacks.

KPK Examines Acting Pati Regent, Probes 'Team 8' Formed by Sudewo

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Acting Pati Regent Risma Ardhi Chandra and 11 other witnesses regarding the activities of 'Team 8', established by suspended Pati Regent Sudewo to allegedly extort village official candidates. The investigation, stemming from a sting operation that seized Rp2.

Limited Home Renovation Quotas Prompt Jakarta Council to Propose Social Savings Boxes

Jakarta's Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) has highlighted the inadequacy of the government's Home Renovation Programme, which permits a maximum of only two houses per sub-district annually despite far greater demand. A council member has proposed establishing social savings boxes at every government office to enable faster, community-funded repairs, whilst also urging stronger budget allocations through the regional budget (APBD) to ensure the programme reaches those most in need.

Zulhas Says Catering for Indonesian Pilgrims Will Use Indonesian Rice

The Indonesian government plans to export Indonesian rice to Saudi Arabia for consumption by Indonesian pilgrims starting on 28th February 2026. The move aims to improve the quality of services for pilgrims and strengthen Indonesia's role in providing food that meets international quality standards.

Yogyakarta Bans Ramadan Markets from Using Main Roads

The Yogyakarta City Transportation Department has issued a warning regarding the use of public spaces during Ramadan, particularly concerning the increasing number of Ramadan evening markets. While acknowledging the tradition, the department emphasizes that roads must primarily serve as traffic arteries and that the safety of road users should not be compromised.

Government Opens Collaboration to Nominate Dangdut as UNESCO Heritage

Indonesia's Culture Ministry is collaborating with the dangdut music community to nominate the genre as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, building on its domestic recognition. The PAMDI artists' association and government will jointly prepare required academic documentation and diplomatic support, with prominent dangdut figure Rhoma Irama affirming the music's authentic Indonesian origins rooted in Malay orchestral tradition.

Purbaya Says No Members of Parliament Have Registered for OJK Selection

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that no members of the House of Representatives (DPR) have yet registered as candidates for the Financial Services Authority (OJK) Board of Commissioners selection process. The registration period, which opened on 11 February 2026, remains open until 2 March, with Purbaya noting that while some qualified candidates have come forward, the number remains insufficient, and even acting OJK chairwoman Friderica Widyasari Dewi has not yet registered.

Semarang City Government Stages Mass River Clean-Up at Kali Tawang

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng led a coordinated river clean-up at Kali Tawang Mas as part of a Central Java-wide simultaneous action, collecting 1.1 tonnes of waste with some 450 participants. The city has established neighbourhood-level task forces and over 1,000 waste banks to tackle river blockages that contribute to flooding, and has entered a National Strategic Project scheme for waste-to-energy processing.

Tjokroaminoto: The Boarding House Landlord Who Led Sarekat Islam and Mentored National Heroes

This historical profile examines HOS Tjokroaminoto, dubbed the 'Uncrowned King of Java' by the Dutch, who transformed Sarekat Dagang Islam into the politically influential Sarekat Islam and mentored future national leaders including Sukarno at his Surabaya boarding house. Declared a National Hero in 1961, Tjokroaminoto's legacy spans political organising, Islamic unity movements, and the ideological foundations of Indonesian nationalism during the colonial era.

Traders Hope to Benefit from Bustling 'Padel Village' in Tangerang

The proliferation of padel courts along Jalan Raya Pagedangan in Tangerang has brought increased foot traffic to the area, though local street vendors report only marginal gains in sales so far. While traders remain hopeful of economic spillover, residents note the positive impact on local employment as formerly unemployed community members find work at the new facilities.

KAI Deploys 31 Locomotives and 73 Carriages to Ensure Safe Lebaran Homecoming

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's North Sumatra regional division has prepared 31 locomotives and 73 carriages, all certified operationally fit, ahead of the 2026 Lebaran transport period. The state-owned rail operator conducted intensive maintenance programmes and joint safety inspections with the Railway Technical Agency, confirming all rolling stock meets safety standards for the peak homecoming season.

South Kalimantan Police Uncover Smuggling of 30 kg of Methamphetamine and 15,056 Ecstasy Pills

South Kalimantan Regional Police have seized nearly 30 kilogrammes of methamphetamine and over 15,000 ecstasy pills with an estimated black market value of Rp69 billion, linked to the network of international drug lord Fredy Pratama. The suspect, identified by initials IW from Banten, was arrested at a Banjarmasin hotel after transporting the drugs from Palangka Raya in two large backpacks.

10 South Jakarta Teams Showcase Cultural Traditions at Bedug Festival 2026

South Jakarta hosted the 2026 Bedug Festival, featuring 10 teams from each sub-district competing in traditional drum-playing performances as part of Ramadan celebrations. The event, aligned with DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung's directive to boost Ramadan tourism, aims to preserve Betawi cultural heritage and provide positive activities for youth, with top winners advancing to the provincial competition in March 2026.

Indonesia's Sovereignty Amid the "America First" Storm

President Prabowo Subianto's signing of a Joint Statement with President Donald Trump on a "New Golden Age" for the US-Indonesia alliance has drawn both praise and criticism domestically.

Bangli Regency in Bali Monitors Food Safety Through Public Health Laboratory

The Bangli regency government in Bali is strengthening food safety oversight by optimising its accredited public health laboratory (labkesmas), which serves as the primary reference for issuing Hygiene Sanitation Feasibility Certificates to risk-based food and accommodation businesses. Officials emphasised that the laboratory's preventive role is critical for maintaining health standards at tourist destinations, with 68 risk-based businesses currently registered in the regency.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Ensures Students' Dietary Needs Met During Ramadan

The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme coordinator in Singkawang has confirmed that dry meal packages distributed to Muslim students during Ramadan — comprising bread, fruit, eggs, nuts and dates — meet established nutritional standards. The clarification follows social media scrutiny over the dry menu format, with authorities pledging ongoing evaluation and adjustments throughout the fasting month.

Police Officer in Tangerang Detained After Being Named Suspect in Rental Car Fraud

A Tangerang police officer, First Brigadier Ade Irfan, has been detained after being named a suspect for allegedly pawning a rented vehicle worth approximately Rp25 million, defrauding two victims. The officer faces up to four years' imprisonment under Article 492 of the Criminal Code while an internal ethics hearing is still underway to determine his standing within the police force.

Employer Who Abused Domestic Worker in Bogor Identified as Civil Servant; Case Update

A 37-year-old civil servant employed by Indonesia's Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) has been detained for physically abusing a 21-year-old domestic worker in Gunung Putri, Bogor, West Java. Medical examination confirmed injuries to the victim's head, ears, back and hands, and police are preparing to transfer the case file to prosecutors.

Ngurah Rai Airport Returns to Normal Operations After Extreme Weather

Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport has resumed normal operations after extreme weather disrupted five flights, causing diversions to Makassar and Jakarta and significant delays on routes to Manila and Lombok. Airport authorities are coordinating with Indonesia's meteorological agency BMKG and AirNav Indonesia to monitor ongoing heavy rainfall across Bali, urging passengers to arrive early and check with airlines for the latest flight information.

Traffic Police Prepare Vehicle Inspection Checkpoints for Eid Homecoming Season

Indonesia's National Traffic Police Corps (Korlantas) is establishing vehicle inspection checkpoints along major toll roads ahead of the 2026 Eid homecoming season, focusing on roadworthiness of buses and travel vehicles, driver health, and administrative compliance.

Minister of Women and Child Protection Visits SRMP 17 Tabanan, Student Expresses Ambition to Become Foreign Minister

The Minister of Women and Child Protection, Arifatul Choiri Fauzi, visited SRMP 17 Tabanan, where she was impressed by a student who aspires to become the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Minister emphasised the importance of discipline in achieving ambitions and contributing to Indonesia's future, highlighting the government's commitment to equal access to education for all Indonesian children.

Biological Mother of Boy Allegedly Killed by Abuse in Sukabumi Reports Ex-Husband to Police

The biological mother of a 13-year-old boy who died under suspicious circumstances in Sukabumi has formally reported her ex-husband to police on allegations of negligence and child neglect. The report, filed at Sukabumi Police Station, centres on claims that the father failed to act as the child's health deteriorated before his death. The case adds a new chapter to the tragic death of the boy known as Nizam in Jampangkulon.

Peak Passenger Times for Jabodetabek Commuter Rail During Ramadan

KAI Commuter has observed a shift in passenger travel patterns on the Jabodetabek commuter rail during Ramadan, with passengers travelling earlier in the morning and returning home earlier in the afternoon. The company recorded a daily passenger volume of over one million, with peak congestion occurring during specific times, including around the iftar (breaking of the fast) period.

Import of 105,000 Pickup Trucks from India for Village Cooperatives Could Eliminate 10,000 New Jobs and Trigger Redundancies

Indonesia's Confederation of Trade Unions (KSPI) has warned that the planned import of 105,000 pickup trucks from India for the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives programme could cost at least 10,000 potential new jobs and trigger redundancies in the domestic automotive industry.

North Sumatra Police and Malaysia Strengthen Communication to Curb Drug Trafficking

North Sumatra Regional Police and the Malaysian Government are intensifying cross-border communication to combat narcotics trafficking through Indonesian maritime routes. A focus group discussion with the Malaysian Consulate sought cooperation in identifying drug controllers operating from Malaysia, with significant seizures already recorded in early 2026 including nearly 180 kilogrammes of methamphetamine.

Trump explores new tariff mechanism following US Supreme Court ruling

The Trump administration is exploring alternative legal mechanisms to impose import tariffs after the US Supreme Court blocked most tariffs enacted under emergency economic powers. New tariffs targeting industries including batteries, cast iron, industrial chemicals, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals may be imposed under Section 232 of the 1962 Trade Expansion Act, which grants broader presidential authority on national security grounds.

PRIMA: Strengthening Merah Putih Cooperatives Must Also Bolster National Industry

The PRIMA party has urged the government to reconsider plans to import 105,000 pickup trucks from India for the Village Cooperative programme, arguing that Indonesia's domestic automotive industry has sufficient capacity to fulfil the order. The party warns that fully built-up imports would divert an estimated Rp27 trillion in economic multiplier effects overseas and create after-sales service risks for cooperatives operating in remote areas.

Culture Minister and PAMDI Discuss Plans to Nominate Dangdut as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

Culture Minister Fadli Zon met with the Indonesian Dangdut Musicians Association (PAMDI), chaired by Rhoma Irama, to advance plans for nominating dangdut music as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The two parties agreed to begin preparing the academic manuscript and nomination dossier, with Rhoma Irama affirming dangdut's origins as an indigenous Indonesian evolution of Malay orchestral music.

Angel Yeast Launches Indonesia Manufacturing Expansion in South Lampung

Chinese yeast manufacturer Angel Yeast is establishing a 20,000-tonne annual yeast production facility in South Lampung Province, Indonesia, scheduled for completion in 2027, integrated with wastewater treatment and organic fertiliser operations. The company is conducting technical training at China Three Gorges University to develop local Indonesian staff as the facility's core operational team.

Cooperative Minister Says Pickup Truck Import Not Under Ministry's Authority

The Minister of Cooperatives stated that the import of 105,000 pickup trucks from India is not under the authority of the Ministry of Cooperatives, but he confirmed that the procurement for the Merah Putih Cooperative has been postponed. The plan to import the vehicles, initially ordered by PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara, has drawn criticism, prompting calls for a comprehensive review with President Prabowo Subianto.

Indonesia ready to step up role in Palestine peace: FM Sugiono

Foreign Minister Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to Palestinian peace during a bilateral meeting with Palestinian counterpart at the UN Human Rights Council, emphasizing civilian protection and humanitarian assistance in the International Stabilization Force.

Heavy Rain Damages Temple Building and Fells Four Trees in Ubud

Heavy rainfall in the Gianyar region has caused damage to a temple building and the collapse of four trees in Ubud. The main gate of the Kahyangan Dalem Kauh temple was damaged due to erosion, while several trees fell in different villages. Authorities have assessed the damage, which is estimated at Rp 100 million for the temple and Rp 600 million for a previous incident at Pura Kelembu, and are coordinating with local communities for cleanup efforts.

Dismissed, Brimob Officer Who Assaulted Student to Death in Tual Apologises

A Brimob officer in Maluku, Bripda Mesias Siahaya, has been dismissed after assaulting a 14-year-old student, AT, to death in Tual. During an ethics hearing, Bripda Mesias apologised for his negligence and stated he did not intend to kill the victim. He also apologised to the Indonesian National Police and the Brimob Corps for tarnishing their reputation.

House of Representatives Urges Employers to Pay Holiday Allowance Two Weeks Before Lebaran

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission IX has proposed that religious holiday allowance (THR) payments be made no later than 14 days before Eid al-Fitr 2026, doubling the current seven-day requirement. The proposal aims to support the annual homecoming exodus, stimulate economic activity, and provide adequate time for labour law enforcement should employers fail to comply.

Indonesian Advocates' Congress Urges Police to Investigate Debt Collectors Who Stabbed Lawyer in Tangerang

The Indonesian Advocates' Congress (KAI) has strongly condemned the stabbing of one of its members, lawyer Bastian Sori, by a group of suspected debt collectors during a forced vehicle repossession in Tangerang. The organisation is calling for a thorough criminal investigation, including potential corporate liability for the financing company involved, whilst South Tangerang police have confirmed they are examining witnesses and pursuing the perpetrators.

Police Investigate Viral Video of Lawyer Stabbed by Debt Collector in Tangerang

Police in South Tangerang are hunting for suspects after a viral video showed a lawyer allegedly being stabbed by debt collectors during a vehicle repossession attempt in Kelapa Dua, Tangerang Regency. The police chief has vowed firm action, stating there is no tolerance for violence that threatens public safety.

National Nutrition Agency Clarifies Budget for Nutritious Meal Programme for Toddlers and Primary School Children

The Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has clarified that the budget for ingredients in the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) is set at IDR 8,000-10,000 per serving, not IDR 15,000. This clarification comes in response to concerns about the menu of the MBG programme during Ramadan, which was perceived as deviating from the allocated budget. The budget covers not only ingredients but also operational costs and incentives for implementing partners.

Four Years of Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says Putin Has Failed to Achieve His Objectives

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky marked the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion by declaring that President Vladimir Putin has failed to achieve his war aims and that Ukraine is prepared to do "everything" to secure peace. Allied leaders, including the heads of Finland, Sweden, and the European Commission, gathered in Ukraine to reaffirm their unwavering support, with Ursula von der Leyen emphasising that Europe would not relent until peace is restored on Ukraine's terms.

Fasting Schedule for Kupang and the NTT Region Today, February 24, 2026

This article provides the fasting schedule for various regions in the NTT province, including Kupang, for February 24, 2026. It details the Maghrib and Isha prayer times for each region. The article also includes recommended prayers to recite when breaking the fast, emphasizing the importance of prayer during this time.

The Digital Transformation Trail in Universal Telecommunication Service Areas

Indonesia is pursuing an ambitious digital connectivity programme targeting remote Universal Telecommunication and Information Service Areas (WPUTI) through infrastructure such as base transceiver stations, the Palapa Ring network, and the SATRIA satellite. The initiative aims to close the digital divide, bringing tangible improvements to education, healthcare, village governance, and local economies across the archipelago's most underserved regions.

Heavy Rain and Wind Cause Flight Delays and Diversions at Bali Airport

Heavy rain and strong winds in Bali disrupted operations at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport on Tuesday, causing five flights to be delayed, rescheduled or diverted to other airports. State airport operator PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia said it was coordinating with the meteorological agency BMKG and AirNav Indonesia to monitor conditions, while urging passengers to arrive early and check with airlines for updated flight information.

BNPB Denies Sumatran Disaster Refugees Were Evicted from Temporary Housing

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has denied claims circulating on social media that disaster-affected residents in Aceh Tamiang were forced to return to evacuation tents after receiving keys to temporary housing units. As of early February, only 4,263 of the planned 17,499 temporary housing units across three Sumatran provinces have been completed, representing just 24 per cent of the total target.

Indonesia and US Finalise Reciprocal Trade Agreement, Focusing on Exports, Investment and Economic Resilience

Indonesia and the United States have signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), granting preferential tariffs on 1,819 Indonesian products and reducing US reciprocal tariffs from 32 per cent to 19 per cent. The deal, finalised on 19 February 2026, also opens Indonesian markets to 99 per cent of US goods at zero tariffs whilst easing foreign ownership restrictions in select sectors.

Profile of Dana Indonesia Under Sinarmas Group (DSSA) Control as It Prepares for IPO

Indonesian digital wallet operator DANA, now controlled by Sinar Mas Group subsidiary PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa Tbk (DSSA), has confirmed that an initial public offering remains part of its long-term strategy, though no immediate timeline has been set. The company's ownership shifted in 2022 when Emtek Group sold a significant stake to LazadaPay Holdings and Sinar Mas Group in transactions worth hundreds of millions of dollars, reshaping the digital payments landscape in Indonesia.

Government strengthens coordination of post-disaster response in Sumatra

Indonesia's government has intensified coordination across multiple ministries to manage post-disaster rehabilitation in Sumatra following recent flooding, with a task force meeting convened on 23 February at the Ministry of Home Affairs. The government is providing tiered financial assistance ranging from IDR 15 million to IDR 60 million based on damage severity, alongside temporary shelter provisions that include public kitchens and meal coverage.

Viral Video of Ride-Hailing Driver Struck by Bus in Central Jakarta: TransJakarta Responds

A TransJakarta bus collided with an online ride-hailing motorcycle driver at a Central Jakarta intersection, with footage of the incident going viral on social media. TransJakarta stated the bus had a green light and the motorcyclist allegedly turned suddenly in a yellow box area, while confirming the injured rider was evacuated to hospital and CCTV footage has been handed to police for investigation.

The Story of Punch the Monkey: A Reflection on Human Reality

An opinion piece uses the viral story of Punch, a rejected baby macaque at Japan's Ichikawa Zoo, as an allegory for human social hierarchies, discrimination, and power dynamics. The author draws parallels between the monkey's ostracism and the experiences of marginalised individuals in human society, invoking Hobbes's concept of "homo homini lupus" to argue that humans, despite their capacity for reason, often revert to primal instincts in pursuit of acceptance and power.

Heavy Rain Causes Flooding in Two Villages in East Lombok

Heavy rainfall in the Jerowaru sub-district of East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, has caused flooding in two villages, impacting dozens of homes. The floodwaters, caused by overflowing rivers and dams, have inundated residential areas, roads, public facilities, and places of worship. Local officials report that the flooding is more severe than a similar incident two months ago.

11 Examples of Ramadan Sermon Summaries for 2026, Including Speaker Names and Titles

This article provides 11 examples of Ramadan sermon summaries for the year 2026, intended as a reference for students who are assigned to listen to sermons and summarize them during Ramadan. The sermons cover various topics related to Islamic teachings, spiritual growth, and the significance of Ramadan.

One Year in Office: Semarang Mayor Agustina and Deputy Iswar Strengthen Public Health Services

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng and Deputy Mayor Iswar Aminuddin have marked their first year in office with significant advances in public healthcare, including a 133 per cent increase in Universal Health Coverage enrolment and a consistent decline in the city's poverty rate from 11.84 per cent in 2020 to 9.36 per cent in 2025.

Forestry Ministry ready to spare land for post-disaster recovery

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has pledged to facilitate forest land access for post-disaster housing and infrastructure reconstruction in flood-affected Sumatra regions. The ministry is managing extensive timber clearance operations and housing construction, with approximately 1 million cubic metres of debris already processed and numerous temporary housing units completed.

Deputy Minister urges fair copyright deals between tech platforms and media publishers

Indonesia's Deputy Minister has called for fair copyright and licensing agreements between tech platforms and news publishers, as AI-generated summaries in search engines are causing 40–70 per cent traffic declines for digital media. The government is encouraging business partnerships and payment schemes to compensate publishers for content used by AI algorithms.

FedEx Indonesia Obtains Halal Logistics Certification, Strengthening Customer Confidence Across the Supply Chain

FedEx has secured Halal Logistics Certification for its Indonesian operations as of February 2026, aligning its entire logistics process with Indonesia's halal regulatory framework including Law No. 33 of 2014 on Halal Product Assurance. The certification positions FedEx to support Indonesia's rapidly growing halal economy by guaranteeing the halal integrity of shipments throughout the supply chain, from pickup through international delivery.

A String of Violence Cases: From Aipda Robig in Semarang to Bripda MS in Tual

A review of multiple cases over the past year in which Indonesian National Police officers were involved in acts of violence resulting in civilian deaths, highlighting systemic accountability concerns within the force.

Dutch Man Charged with Growing Cannabis in Rented House in Denpasar

A Dutch man, Nirul Rashim Abdoelrazak, has been charged in Denpasar for cultivating cannabis plants in his rented home. The prosecution alleges that he grew the plants without permission and not for research or medicinal purposes. Police discovered 14 cannabis plants, seedlings, and dried leaves during a raid.

Lawmakers Push Faster Immunisation Amid Measles Surge

Indonesian lawmakers are intensifying calls for accelerated measles immunisation following a significant outbreak that has spread across 42 districts in 14 provinces, with over 23,000 suspected cases recorded as of mid-2025. The surge highlights uneven vaccination coverage nationwide, falling short of the critical 95 per cent herd immunity threshold needed to prevent transmission.

Son of Mamuju Official Named Suspect After Crashing Government Fortuner into Residents

A 16-year-old high school student, the son of a senior asset management official in Mamuju, West Sulawesi, has been named a suspect after driving a government-issued Toyota Fortuner into two residents. As a minor, the case will be handled through diversion under Indonesia's Juvenile Criminal Justice System Act, and the suspect will not be detained. Mediation has stalled with one seriously injured victim whose compensation demands of Rp 100 million exceed the family's offered Rp 30 million.

Two Ways US Companies Can Enter and Develop Indonesia's Mineral Mines

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has outlined two investment schemes for American companies seeking to develop Indonesia's critical minerals following the trade agreement signed between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump.

Transport Minister and Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Anticipate Vulnerable Points for Lebaran 2026 Transport

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi and Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago met to coordinate security and smooth operations for the 2026 Lebaran holiday transport period, with over 143 million people expected to travel. The government is strengthening security at critical transport corridors including the Trans-Java Toll Road and key ferry crossings, whilst preparing integrated deployments of police, military, and emergency services at vulnerable points.

Couple in Sikka Named as Suspects in Human Trafficking Case Involving 13 Women from West Java

The Sikka Police have named a husband and wife, YCG and MAR, as suspects in a human trafficking case involving 13 women from West Java. The investigation focused on activities at the Eltras Cafe, Bar and Karaoke, where exploitation of the victims is alleged to have occurred. The police have stated their commitment to handling the case professionally and transparently, in accordance with applicable laws.

Kewek Bridge Revitalisation: Pavements to be Widened by 2 Metres

The Yogyakarta City Government is accelerating the revitalisation project of the Kewek Bridge in Danurejan. In addition to constructing a new bridge, the city plans to widen the pavements around the bridge to integrate it with the Malioboro area. The project, which includes widening the pavements to 2 metres, is scheduled to begin in April 2026 and will be funded by both the state and city budgets.

Suspected cause of Transjakarta accident on Gunung Sahari revealed

A Transjakarta bus collided with a motorcyclist at the Gunung Sahari-Mangga Besar junction in Central Jakarta, with the operator suggesting the rider suddenly turned into the yellow box area while the bus had a green light. The motorcyclist has been hospitalised and CCTV footage has been handed to police as investigations continue.

Police Prepare Multiple Charges Against Motorcyclists Who Damaged Casablanca Elevated Road Barrier

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have arrested 11 motorcyclists from the Youth Night Style community suspected of vandalising the barrier gate of the Casablanca Non-Toll Elevated Road in South Jakarta, with approximately 20 riders believed to have been involved. The suspects, who allegedly destroyed the barrier to create social media content, face multiple charges including illegal exhaust modifications, lane violations, riding without a licence, and improper use of registration plates.

Fasting Schedule for Denpasar and Surrounding Areas Today, February 24, 2026

This article provides the fasting schedule for various regions in Bali and its surrounding areas for Tuesday, February 24, 2026, corresponding to the 6th of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. It also includes recommended prayers to recite when breaking the fast, emphasizing the importance of prayer during this time.

Ministry of Health: No confirmed Nipah virus cases in Indonesia

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has confirmed that no patients have tested positive for the Nipah virus in the country, with all 16 suspected cases reported between 2024 and 2026 returning negative laboratory results.

Queue Times for New Banknote Exchange on BI's PINTAR Platform Reach 3,662 Hours — Netizens: 'We'll Get In After Eid'

Bank Indonesia's online platform for new banknote exchanges was overwhelmed during its second registration period, with estimated queue times reaching thousands of hours as citizens rushed to secure allocations ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. The central bank has allocated Rp8.6 trillion for the programme, with each individual entitled to exchange up to Rp5.3 million in new denominations, but the surge in demand far exceeded the system's capacity.

Building Business and Community: SCG Indonesia's Social Strategy

SCG Indonesia integrates social programmes into its core business strategy, investing approximately Rp20 billion in scholarships reaching 4,600 recipients since 2012 and supporting local SMEs near its operational areas. The cement manufacturer's approach encompasses education, local economic empowerment, and community participation in environmental initiatives such as waste-to-fuel schemes, positioning ESG commitments as essential to long-term operational stability rather than mere philanthropy.

PDIP: Ideally the DPR Should Have 5 or 6 Factions, Simulation Needed

PDIP has backed NasDem's push to raise the parliamentary threshold, arguing that fewer parties in the DPR would prevent MPs from being stretched across multiple committees. The party suggested the ideal number of factions in parliament is five or six, and called for simulations to determine the precise threshold figure rather than unilateral decisions.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Explains 'Hifdzun Nafsi' Principle at Pre-Trial Hearing on Hajj Quota Case

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas attended his first pre-trial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, challenging his designation as a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving hajj quota allocation. Yaqut maintained that his sole consideration in determining hajj quotas was the Islamic principle of hifdzun nafsi — protecting pilgrims' physical and spiritual safety — citing limited capacity in Saudi Arabia.

Komnas HAM: Criticising Government Policy Is Part of Exercising the Right to Free Expression

The chairman of Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has affirmed that criticising government policy is a protected right, following terror threats received by the head of UGM's Student Executive Board after he criticised the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme.