Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 February 2026

Showing 501-1,000 of 1,763 articles

Labour Minister Assures Better Holiday Bonus Distribution for Online Ride-Hailing Drivers This Year

Indonesia's Labour Minister Yassierli has confirmed that ride-hailing application companies have committed to improving the scheme and amount of holiday bonuses (BHR) distributed to online motorcycle taxi drivers in 2025.

Doli Kurnia on Komcad Targeting Civil Servants: Should Be For All, Provided That...

Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives' Legislative Body Ahmad Doli Kurnia has endorsed the Reserve Component (Komcad) programme targeting civil servants as a means to strengthen nationalism and discipline. Whilst supporting its expansion beyond civil servants to the broader population, Doli cautioned that the programme should strengthen national character without militarising civilians or blurring the civil-military divide.

Joint Prayer by Medan Police Chief Defuses Protest Tensions

Thousands of pork traders and consumers protested outside the Medan mayor's office on Friday 27 February 2026 against a municipal circular restricting the sale of non-halal meat, which they argue limits their business operations. Police Chief Kombes Jean Calvijn Simanjuntak directly engaged the protesters, facilitating mediation with city officials and jointly praying with attendees to ease mounting tensions.

BPOM Gains WHO Listed Authority Status: Indonesia's Drug and Vaccine Competitiveness Strengthened

Indonesia's pharmaceutical regulatory body, BPOM, has achieved WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status by meeting nine WHO criteria, including efficiency and integrity in drug and vaccine evaluation. This recognition is expected to boost the competitiveness of Indonesian pharmaceutical and vaccine products globally, facilitate export development, and strengthen industry confidence by equating Indonesian product quality standards with those of developed nations.

Cap Go Meh Festival in Bogor City to be Held after Tarawih 1-3 March

Bogor City will hold the Cap Go Meh Bogor Street Festival 2026 (CGM-BSF) over three days from 1-3 March, scheduled to take place in the evening after tarawih prayers in the Suryakencana area, coinciding with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Afghanistan-Pakistan Tensions Flare as Iran Offers Mediation Support

Pakistan and Afghanistan have resumed open warfare following cross-border clashes, with Pakistan conducting airstrikes on Afghan provinces including Kabul on 27 February 2026. Iran has offered to facilitate dialogue between the two nations, whilst both sides report significant casualties and blame each other for initiating the latest round of violence amid long-standing tensions over cross-border militant activities.

Indonesia Continues to Quietly Import Spades from China and Pakistan, but at Much Lower Volumes

Indonesia continues importing agricultural hand tools including spades and pickaxes from countries such as China, Pakistan, Japan and Germany, though at significantly reduced volumes compared to the early 2020s when the issue sparked public debate. Trade data from the Central Bureau of Statistics shows that spade imports have plummeted from hundreds of tonnes annually to just kilogrammes, with 2025 figures showing only 59 kilogrammes imported compared to 59 tonnes in 2021.

Student Protest at National Police Headquarters; Officers Respond with Islamic Prayers

Students staged a demonstration outside the Indonesian National Police (Polri) headquarters in South Jakarta on Friday, 27 February 2026, with police responding to protest chants by reciting Islamic prayers rather than engaging verbally. The demonstration was held under strict police supervision, with officers maintaining disciplined formations and following directives from Metro Jaya Police Commissioner Asep Edi Suheri to remain calm and not provoke crowds during the holy month of Ramadan.

Sentenced to Two Years' Imprisonment, Delpedro: Deeply Disappointed, Illogical

Delpedro Marhaen Rismansyah and three other defendants facing charges related to instigating the August 2025 demonstrations have rejected the prosecutor's request for two-year prison sentences, which they consider unreasonable. The defendants, represented by Muzaffar Salim, plan to present their defence statements at the next hearing scheduled for 2 March 2026, emphasising that the case ultimately concerns the future of Indonesian youth and civil liberties rather than the accused themselves.

Kalideres Terminal Remains Quiet Three Weeks Before Eid

Kalideres Terminal in West Jakarta remains unusually quiet with low passenger numbers three weeks before Eid, bucking the trend of previous years when terminals would be crowded weeks in advance. Terminal workers and operators attribute the decline to weakened economic conditions and the proliferation of informal transit terminals operating outside official facilities, which divert passengers and revenue from the formal terminal.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Does Not Reduce Education Spending

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has addressed concerns that the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) is reducing education spending, clarifying that all education programmes from previous administrations remain operational and have been expanded. The government is allocating Rp 769.1 trillion (20 per cent of the 2026 State Budget) to education, with Rp 223.

US Reciprocal Tariffs Focused on Reducing Deficit Rather Than Opening Markets

Research from Indonesia's INDEF think tank argues that US reciprocal tariff policies are primarily driven by domestic concerns to reduce America's trade deficit exceeding 1 trillion dollars, rather than genuinely opening balanced market access for partner nations including Indonesia.

Prabowo Holds Limited Cabinet Meeting at Kertanegara Following Return from United States and Jordan

President Prabowo Subianto convened a limited cabinet meeting at the presidential residence in Kertanegara on 27 February following his diplomatic tour of the United States, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates. During his foreign visits, Prabowo secured a reciprocal trade agreement with the United States granting zero tariffs on 1,819 Indonesian products, met with King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss Middle Eastern peace initiatives, and engaged with UAE leadership on strategic partnerships.

Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Declines Comment on Hotel Sultan Operations

The Deputy Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning has stated the ministry will not comment on the ongoing operations of Hotel Sultan, a disputed property in the Gelora Bung Karno area, citing respect for ongoing court proceedings. PT Indobuildco, owned by Pontjo Sutowo, has demanded compensation valued at Rp 28.292 trillion equivalent to the hotel's valuation, and its legal team is challenging the execution of a court ruling that favoured the government's claim to the land.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Denies Free Nutritious Meal Programme Cuts Education Budget: All Programmes Running, Even Enhanced

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has rejected claims that the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme is reducing education funding, asserting that the narrative is incorrect and contradicts facts.

Bandung Transportation Department increases free exodus programme quota by one hundred for 2026 Eid holiday

The Bandung Regency Transportation Department has expanded its free Eid exodus programme for 2026, increasing the quota from 600 to 700 participants through a new partnership with Bank Jabar Banten, which provides two additional buses. The department will prioritise individuals already on the waiting list from the initial registration phase, with departure scheduled for 17 March 2026 heading primarily towards Central Java, aiming to reduce traffic accidents during the holiday period.

Flexible Tuition Fees at UNM Enable Young People to Access Digital Business Education

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) has introduced flexible, installment-based tuition payment options for its Digital Business degree programme to improve access to quality higher education for young Indonesians. The initiative, led by programme head Lia Mazia, aims to ensure students can focus on developing digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and business management competencies without financial strain whilst pursuing studies in the rapidly growing digital economy sector.

Bio Farma: BPOM WLA Status Facilitates Export of Indonesian Pharmaceutical Products

Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has achieved WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status, recognising its regulatory standards as equivalent to those of developed nations. This status is expected to facilitate pharmaceutical and vaccine exports, boost domestic industry confidence, and enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian health products globally.

Chants of "Killer Police" Echo at National Police Headquarters as Students Demand Severe Punishment for Bripda Mesias

Thousands of students from Indonesian universities gathered at the National Police Headquarters (Mabes Polri) in Jakarta on 27 February 2026 to demand police reform and justice following the death of 14-year-old Arianto Tawakal, a student from Tual, Maluku, who allegedly died from assault by a Brimob member, Bripda Mesias Siahaya.

KPK Uncovers Role of Customs Officer in Collecting Gratuity Funds from Importers

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has exposed a customs official with initials SA who allegedly managed gratuity payments from various companies and importers since November 2024, relating to tax arrangements on counterfeit goods. KPK investigators recovered approximately Rp5.19 billion in cash from a safe house in Ciputat, Tangerang Selatan, with six individuals already designated as suspects, including customs officials and representatives of a cargo company involved in the scheme.

Minister Trenggono Discovers Building Specification Discrepancies in KNMP Project in East Lombok

Marine and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono identified specification mismatches in the Red-White Fishermen's Cooperative (KNMP) building in East Lombok and instructed contractors to undertake immediate repairs. The 100-location KNMP programme, funded at IDR 23 billion, is targeted for completion by July 2026, with 65 buildings currently completed and others in finishing stages.

How Does Indonesia's Meteorological Agency Predict Weather for 2026 Lebaran Exodus?

Indonesia's Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has released weather forecasts for the 2026 Lebaran exodus period, predicting moderate to high rainfall across February and March 2026, particularly in West Java, Central Java, and South Sulawesi—key migration routes.

Magelang Regent Ensures Free Nutritious Meals Programme Pricing Complies with Regulations

Magelang Regent Grengseng Pamuji has affirmed that the pricing for the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) is strictly standardised and implemented according to central government regulations, with portions priced at Rp8,000 for small servings and Rp10,000 for larger ones.

New Risks Emerge from Trump Tariffs as Researchers Warn of Geopolitical Dangers

A researcher from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has warned that Indonesia's Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States poses significant geopolitical risks, despite government claims of market access benefits.

India to invest in Indonesian metal downstream industry

India's Ministry of Steel has expressed interest in investing in Indonesia's metal downstream industry, with Indian companies being encouraged to expand operations in the sector. The two countries are discussing a memorandum of understanding covering cooperation in metal downstreaming and capital goods manufacturing, which will be formalised at ministerial level and reviewed in coordination with Indonesia's Foreign Ministry.

Angkasa Pura Adjusts Parking Tariffs at Lombok Airport

PT Angkasa Pura I has announced parking tariff adjustments at Lombok International Airport effective 1 March 2026, including increases for two-wheelers, four-wheelers, six-wheelers, and overnight parking. The increases, the first since 2021, are intended to support improved parking infrastructure and services, including modernised technology, improved payment systems, and enhanced facilities.

China's Supreme Court Announces Dissolution of Two Major Online Scam Syndicates Operating from Myanmar

China's Supreme People's Court has announced the complete dismantling of two major criminal syndicates based in Myanmar that orchestrated cross-border online scams, with 16 members receiving death sentences and 39 others given life imprisonment or heavier punishments.

Governor Khofifah urges entrepreneurs to pay festive allowance by H-7 Eid

Governor of East Java Khofifah Indar Parawansa has called on all employers in the province to pay the Eid religious allowance (THR) to their workers no later than seven days before Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH. The governor emphasised that THR is a worker's right and an employer's legal obligation that contributes to worker welfare, improved industrial relations, and increased consumer spending ahead of the festive period.

Task Force accelerates infrastructure repairs to restore Sumatran logistics networks

Indonesia's Acceleration of Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force is intensifying efforts to repair critical infrastructure across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra following recent disasters. As of 23 February 2026, significant progress has been made on road and bridge restoration, with all national roads and bridges now functionally operational across the three provinces, though regional roads and bridges show varying completion rates ranging from 54 to 98 per cent.

YBM PLN Distributes 45,000 Gift Packages, Sharing Blessings Throughout Ramadan 1447 Hijriah

YBM PLN, the foundation of state-owned electricity company PLN, has distributed 45,000 gift packages to beneficiaries during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative. The programme, funded by zakat contributions from Muslim PLN employees, aims to support communities across Indonesia, with the initial phase distributing over 23,000 packages across 13 locations nationwide.

DKI Provincial Legislator Questions Governor Over Cattle Imports from Australia Rather Than Domestic Stock

A DKI Jakarta provincial legislator has criticised the provincial government's decision to import 3,100 cattle from Australia, arguing it violates Indonesia's Food Law which requires government food reserves to originate from domestic production. The import marks the first cattle shipment in 28 years and is conducted through state-owned enterprise Perumda Dharma Jaya, with a total quota of 7,500 head approved for the programme.

Cub and Sport Motorcycles Become Preferred Models in Honda's Commercial Fleet Segment

Honda's commercial fleet segment, whilst smaller than retail sales, represents a significant and consistent revenue stream for the Japanese manufacturer in Indonesia. PT Astra Honda Motor estimates the fleet segment accounts for 245,000 to 294,000 units annually out of total 2025 sales of 4.9 million units, with cub and entry-level sport models—particularly the Revo and Verza—dominating demand due to their fuel efficiency, durability, and low maintenance costs for operational use.

KPK Receives BPK Calculation in Yaqut Era Hajj Quota Corruption Case: State Loss Confirmed

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has received calculations from the Supreme Audit Board (BPK) regarding state losses in the 2023-2024 hajj quota corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The KPK confirmed that state losses occurred but declined to disclose the figure pending pre-trial hearings, whilst reaffirming that the loss calculation serves as key evidence in proving the case and that all required statutory elements have been satisfied.

Swiss Ambassador: Switzerland restricts movement of Russian diplomats amid peace negotiations

Switzerland's adoption of the EU's 19th sanctions package against Russia, including restrictions on Russian diplomatic movement, has created logistical obstacles for Russian negotiators amid ongoing peace talks over Ukraine's future. The Russian Ambassador to Switzerland claims the move signals an unfriendly gesture during sensitive negotiations, with reports suggesting subsequent talks may be relocated from Geneva to another location.

Hillside Collapse Closes Kokap Road in Kulon Progo, One Home at Risk

A landslide in the Menoreh hillside area of Kulon Progo has blocked part of the provincial road between Kokap and Girimulyo on Friday, 27 February 2026, following heavy rainfall. The disaster authority reports that whilst the volume of soil material was relatively modest, fallen trees have obstructed traffic, and one residential home located directly above the collapse site now faces potential danger.

US Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump's Tariffs—What Next for Indonesia's Oil Import Plans?

The US Supreme Court's decision to strike down President Trump's reciprocal tariffs has raised questions about its impact on Indonesian-American trade relations, particularly Indonesia's planned energy imports from the United States.

Dahnil Anzar: Free Nutritious Meals Programme Constitutionally Sound in Education Budget

Gerindra politician Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has defended the allocation of Rp 223.5 trillion from the education budget for the Prabowo government's flagship free nutritious meals programme (MBG), arguing it has strong constitutional foundations and does not violate existing regulations.

Inmate Skills Behind the Uniform: Little Police Unit Impresses President Prabowo

Inmates from Cipinang Narcotics Prison in Jakarta have demonstrated remarkable garment-making skills by producing 57 uniforms and 60 training outfits for the Junior Police (Pocil) unit that impressed President Prabowo Subianto during the inauguration of 166 Rakyat Schools in South Kalimantan.

DJP Collects Rp1.13 Trillion from Digital Sector Taxes in One Month

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) collected Rp1.13 trillion in January 2026 from the digital economy sector, with the largest contribution coming from value-added tax (VAT) on electronic trading systems totalling Rp1.02 trillion, followed by cryptocurrency taxes and financial technology lending taxes. Since 2020, the digital economy sector has generated a cumulative Rp47.

The Challenging Journey of Pakde Prayogo from Lecturer to the Skincare Industry

Prayogo Waluyo, known as Pakde, transitioned from a stable teaching career to founding HIQWEEN, a beauty brand addressing hyperpigmentation issues, alongside his wife. His entrepreneurial journey involved significant personal sacrifices, major financial losses, and the challenges of building a company from scratch, eventually scaling to 28,000 daily shipments whilst maintaining integrity and quality standards.

Resident Shocked by Rp 222,000 Parking Fee at Ananda Babelan Hospital for Just 3 Days

A resident of Bekasi was charged Rp 222,000 for three days of motorcycle parking at Ananda Babelan Hospital whilst his child was hospitalised with dengue fever, sparking viral outrage on social media. The hospital's security chief explained that non-membership parking is charged at Rp 3,000 per hour without daily caps, whilst membership parking costs only Rp 20,000 for three days, and the resident had failed to register one of his two motorcycles as a member.

Minister of Social Affairs Receives Report on Concerning Social Care Facilities, Alleged Human Rights Violations

The Indonesian Mental Health Association (PJS) filed a report with the Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf, alleging that approximately 20,000 people with mental disabilities are confined in social care facilities that restrict their freedom and violate human rights. The report documented cases of severe mistreatment, including confinement in overcrowded rooms and physical restraints, prompting the minister to pledge professional oversight and follow-up investigations of these facilities.

The Story of the Elder of Masjid Salman ITB: Inspired by Bung Hatta

Muhammad 'Imaduddin 'Abdulrahim (1931–), known affectionately as Bang 'Imad, was a founding figure of Masjid Salman at the Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) and a respected electrical engineering professor who blended academic and religious leadership. Born into a Minangkabau family of Islamic scholars with ties to Egypt's Al-Azhar University and the Langkat Sultanate, Bang 'Imad was shaped by strict Islamic discipline and nationalist fervour during Indonesia's independence struggle.

KPK Arrests Budiman at Customs Headquarters Over Evidence Tampering and Flight Risk Concerns

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of the Customs Enforcement and Investigation Intelligence Section at Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), on suspicion of corruption related to illegal goods importation. KPK officials justified the arrest by citing concerns that Budiman would destroy evidence and attempt to flee, following the discovery of Rp 5 billion in cash found in Ciputat, Tangerang Selatan.

Labour Minister: Application-based Transport Companies Committed to Improving Festive Bonus Scheme for Ride-hailing Drivers This Year

Indonesia's Labour Minister Yassierli has stated that application-based transport companies (ride-hailing platforms) have committed to improving the festive bonus (BHR) scheme for online motorcycle taxi drivers this year, with higher values and broader coverage. The minister emphasised that bonuses should reflect fairness and the flexible nature of gig economy work, with full-time and part-time drivers receiving differentiated amounts based on their activity levels.

BPOM Elevated to WHO Listed Authority Status, Indonesian Vaccine Credibility Could Reach Developed Nation Standards

Indonesia's medicines and food regulatory authority BPOM has achieved WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status, a recognition that validates its inspection and evaluation standards for pharmaceuticals and vaccines against international benchmarks.

Bali Police Establish Six Foreign Nationals as Suspects in Abduction of Ukrainian Citizen

Bali Police have designated six foreign nationals as suspects in the alleged abduction of a 28-year-old Ukrainian citizen, with investigators identifying the suspects through vehicle tracking, CCTV analysis, and GPS data. Evidence including blood traces found at a villa in Tabanan and inside a rental vehicle has linked the suspects to the case, and Bali Police are coordinating with Interpol to issue a red notice for suspects who have reportedly fled the country.

LPS Conducts Research with Higher Education Institutions to Determine Policy Direction Through Academic Approach

The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has formalised research collaborations with several universities including Gadjah Mada University and Sebelas Maret University to strengthen its policy-making process through systematic academic methodology.

Temanggung Social Services: Food Aid Distribution for January-March 2026 to Commence Shortly

The Temanggung District Social Services office in Central Java will soon distribute food assistance (bansos sembako) to 63,721 beneficiary families for the January-March 2026 period, with each family receiving IDR 200,000 per month for a total of IDR 600,000 over three months. The assistance will be distributed via bank transfer through Bank Rakyat Indonesia to ensure proper targeting and to help low-income families meet basic needs during the period leading up to Eid.

Brigade Joxzin Member Slain in Knife Attack Had Been Involved in Gang Challenges, Group Says

A member of Brigade Joxzin, Kitin Yoga Tama Rustamaji (36), was fatally stabbed whilst sleeping at his home in Bantul, Yogyakarta by unknown assailants on 25 February. The gang has revealed that the victim had been involved in recent challenges or confrontations with members of another group, though details remain unclear and the investigation is ongoing with Bantul Police.

Indonesia Golden 2045 Requires Modern Cooperatives and Productive Generations

The Director General of LPDB Koperasi has emphasised the urgent need for cooperative modernisation as a strategic instrument to strengthen Islamic economy and expand Indonesia's halal market share. With 140 million young people set to shape the nation's economic future, the government is pursuing a nationwide cooperative initiative to decentralise economic activity from cities to villages and shift financing focus from savings-and-loan cooperatives towards productive sector cooperatives.

Student Protest at National Police Headquarters, Trunojoyo Road Towards Tendean Closed

Students staged a demonstration in front of the National Police Headquarters (Mabes Polri) in South Jakarta on Friday afternoon, resulting in the temporary closure of Trunojoyo Road towards Tendean. The protesters demanded heavy punishment for unspecified perpetrators, the dismissal of the National Police Chief and Maluku Police Chief, police reform, and the release of political detainees arrested during demonstrations in August 2025.

Saudi Arabia Opens Central Kitchen in Gaza: Preparing 24,000 Daily Meals

Saudi Arabia's King Salman Centre for Humanitarian Aid (KSrelief) has officially launched a central kitchen facility in Gaza, Palestine, capable of producing at least 24,000 ready-to-eat meals daily for conflict-affected residents. The ambitious humanitarian project, a collaboration with the Centre for Culture and Heritage, aims to distribute 3.

KPK Uncovers Attempt to Destroy Evidence at Customs Service Safe House

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has uncovered a scheme by Directorate General of Customs officials to conceal evidence in a bribery investigation by moving cash from a Jakarta safe house to a secondary location in Ciputat, Tangerang Selatan. Investigators recovered Rp5.

Jakarta Stock Exchange Index Rises Slightly at the End of February 2026; Check 3 Standout Shares in the LQ45 Lineup

The Jakarta Stock Exchange Index (IHSG) recovered slightly at the end of February 2026, rising just 0.2 points to 8,235.49 after weakness during much of the trading session, driven by gains in the industrial, cyclical consumer, and raw materials sectors. Analysts attributed earlier declines to negative sentiment regarding US tariff uncertainty, warnings from S&P Global Ratings about increased fiscal pressure in Indonesia, and MSCI rebalancing at month-end.

Trafigura Wins Counterfeit Nickel Fraud Case Worth Rp11.76 Trillion

Trafigura has secured a major legal victory after a London High Court judge ruled that entrepreneur Prateek Gupta is responsible for a large-scale fraud involving counterfeit nickel shipments, ordering him to pay US$700 million (Rp11.76 trillion) in damages. The decision concludes a years-long legal battle that began in 2023 when Trafigura discovered it had been supplied with worthless or low-value cargo instead of LME-grade nickel.

When Will Ride-Hailing Driver Bonus for 2026 Be Distributed? Explanation of Scheme and Regulations

The Indonesian government is finalising regulations to ensure ride-hailing drivers and delivery couriers receive their Eid Festival Bonus (BHR) in 2026, with the Labour Minister confirming the policy will be announced alongside private sector bonuses.

WIKA Achieves ESG Score of 64/100 from S&P Global 2025

PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA), Indonesia's leading construction and engineering firm, has achieved an ESG score of 64/100 from S&P Global's 2025 Corporate Sustainability Assessment, a significant improvement from its previous score of 53/100 and far exceeding the global industry average of 31/100.

116 Pertamina Fuel Stations Provide Additional Energy for Consumers During Iftar Time

PT Pertamina Retail is distributing free iftar meals (takjil) across 116 COCO petrol stations throughout Ramadan 2026 as part of the MyPertamina Berbagi Ramadan initiative. The programme, themed 'Energy to Move Forward with Hope', aims to provide additional sustenance to travellers approaching breaking-fast time whilst reinforcing community bonds and corporate social responsibility.

Transjakarta, LRT Jakarta, and MRT Jakarta Free During Eid 2026

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung announced that all public transport services—including MRT, LRT, JakLingko, and Transjakarta—will be made free during Eid al-Fitr 2026 as part of a broader initiative to encourage residents to remain in the city and reduce congestion.

Home Affairs Minister: Post-Disaster Refugees in Sumatra Drop Significantly

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian announced that the number of post-disaster refugees across three Sumatran provinces has decreased dramatically from 2.1 million to just 11,250 people as of 25 February 2026. The remaining refugees are concentrated in Aceh (10,400) and North Sumatra (850), with West Sumatra reporting zero refugees, whilst recovery efforts across 52 affected districts show positive progress with normalisation of basic services and infrastructure.

Forestry Ministry Inspects Legality of Timber Rafts on Kapuas River

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry's law enforcement agency (Gakkum) has secured two timber rafts on the Kapuas River in Central Kalimantan to verify that the physical condition of the timber matches the accompanying legal documentation, following community reports.

Challenges Faced in Managing Rare Diseases

Indonesian medical specialists have highlighted persistent challenges in combating rare diseases, including diagnostic complexity and insufficient awareness. Prominent examples such as Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) and Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) develop rapidly and often face delays in diagnosis, averaging 4.8 years before patients receive correct identification.

KPK alleges Customs official received gratification payments after handling tax matters

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) alleges that a Customs and Excise Directorate General (DJBC) employee identified as SA has been receiving gratification payments from companies and importers since November 2024 after arranging customs matters. The alleged payments, totalling approximately Rp5.19 billion in cash and foreign currency, were stored in safe houses in Central Jakarta and later in Ciputat, Tangerang Selatan.

US-Iran Nuclear Negotiations in Geneva Reach Deadlock as Tehran Refuses to Dismantle Key Facilities

The third round of intensive negotiations between the United States and Iran regarding nuclear programmes in Geneva, Switzerland has concluded without agreement, with both parties failing to reach consensus on fundamental issues.

Libraries Are Crowded, But Books Remain Neglected? Time for Students to Engage Their Minds, Not Just Access Wi-Fi

A university librarian at Nusa Mandiri University raises concerns that whilst campus libraries are physically crowded with students, genuine reading and intellectual engagement are declining in favour of instant summaries, social media, and digital distraction. The article argues that modern libraries must prioritise deep reading culture, critical thinking, and intellectual discourse alongside digital facilities to truly serve as incubators of academic excellence rather than mere study spaces.

Jakarta Stock Exchange Index Closes Slightly Higher amid "Wait and See" Stance on Next Week's Economic Data

The Jakarta Stock Exchange's Composite Index (IHSG) closed marginally higher on Friday as market participants adopted a cautious stance ahead of significant domestic and international economic data releases expected next week. The index rose just 0.23 points to 8,235.49, whilst the blue-chip LQ45 index declined 0.42 per cent amid concerns over US tariff uncertainty, warnings from S&P Global Ratings regarding Indonesia's fiscal pressure, and month-end MSCI rebalancing.

Sudewo Corruption Case: KPK Searches Home of Pati Public Works Chief

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search of the private residence of Riyoso, Head of the Public Works Department (DPU) of Pati Regency and former acting regional secretary, on 27 February as part of an expanded investigation into corruption allegations against non-active Pati Regent Sudewo. The search was carried out with strict police security and aimed at gathering additional evidence, following Sudewo's arrest and questioning of dozens of Pati local government officials.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Affirms Free Nutritious Meals Programme Does Not Reduce Education Budget and Programmes

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has rejected claims that the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) diminishes education funding and programmes, emphasising that education receives 20 per cent of the national budget (Rp 769.1 trillion in 2026).

Young Indonesians Urged to Set Realistic Financial Goals

Financial planner Prita Ghozie emphasises the importance of young Indonesians setting realistic financial objectives and building strong financial literacy amid increased access to digital financial services.

KPK: Customs Officials Used Counterfeit Goods Smuggling Proceeds to Purchase Operational Vehicles

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) revealed that officials from Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) used funds obtained from smuggling counterfeit goods to purchase operational vehicles. The KPK discovered vehicle registration documents (BPKB) amongst cash seized from a safe house in Ciputat, Tangerang Selatan, and found that some illicit funds were kept in the operational vehicles themselves for immediate expenses.

BPOM Recognition as WHO Listed Authority Will Strengthen Indonesia's Health Diplomacy

Indonesia's drug and food regulatory authority (BPOM) has achieved WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status, becoming the first regulatory authority from a developing nation to meet the highest global standards. The recognition will enable broader pharmaceutical exports, strengthen Indonesia's health diplomacy, and position it as a global regulatory player rather than merely a domestic one.

National Vocational Training Programme 2026 Opens: How to Register

The Indonesian government has officially launched the 2026 National Vocational Training Programme designed to equip recent secondary school graduates with industry-relevant skills and bridge the gap between education and workforce demands. The Ministry of Manpower is opening registration for the first batch of 20,000 participants from across Indonesia, targeting secondary education graduates from the past three years.

Oman Foreign Minister Albusaidi Meets JD Vance in Washington to Prevent US-Iran War

Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi is scheduled to meet US Vice President JD Vance in Washington on 27 February 2026 in a crucial diplomatic effort to prevent military escalation between the United States and Iran. The meeting follows threats of expanded US military operations and comes ahead of technical negotiations scheduled at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna on 2 March, with Oman serving as a key mediator in the geopolitical standoff over Iran's nuclear programme.

Bakrie & Brothers (BNBR) Reports Net Profit of Rp 502.74 Billion, Up 49.6 Per Cent

Bakrie & Brothers (BNBR) recorded net profit of Rp 502.74 billion in 2025, a 49.6 per cent increase from Rp 336.04 billion in 2024, despite net revenue declining 3.28 per cent to Rp 3.74 trillion. The company's growth was driven by strong performances across its subsidiaries, particularly in electric vehicles (VKTR Group), infrastructure (BIIN Group), and construction (PT Bakrie Construction), positioning BNBR well for continued expansion in strategic infrastructure and emerging sectors.

Puri Agung Cengkareng Left Abandoned as Residents Push for Revitalisation

The Puri Agung commercial building in East Cengkareng, West Jakarta, has remained shuttered and abandoned since October 2021, creating economic hardship for surrounding residents and traders. Although rumours suggest plans to convert the 160-metre structure into apartments, hotels, or medical facilities, no official revitalisation efforts or formal announcements have materialised.

Prayers and Supplications Accompany Mass Burial of Unidentified Cisarua Landslide Victims

Ten unidentified victims of a landslide in Pasirlangu Village, Cisarua District, West Bandung Regency, were given a mass burial on 27 February 2026 in a single grave. The Disaster Victim Identification team had been unable to identify these victims from the 80 residents reported missing from the 24 January 2026 landslide, though 64 other victims have since been identified.

Bank Jateng Records Profit of Rp1.4 Trillion, Largest Among Regional Development Banks

Bank Jateng (Central Java Bank) reported a net profit of Rp1.4 trillion in 2025, growing 11.57 per cent year-on-year, whilst maintaining its status as Indonesia's healthiest bank among regional development banks. The bank's total assets crossed Rp100 trillion for the first time, and Governor Ahmad Luthfi praised the institution's performance and urged continued improvements in 2026, emphasising its role in corporate social responsibility and poverty alleviation programmes.

YBM PLN Distributes Gift Packages to Over 45,000 Beneficiaries During Ramadan

Yayasan Baitul Maal (YBM) PLN distributed gift packages to over 45,000 beneficiaries throughout Ramadan 1447 H, with the initial phase delivering more than 23,000 packages across 13 locations nationwide on 25 February 2026. The programme, themed "Cahaya Berkah Ramadan 1447 H" (Ramadan's Blessed Light), reflects PLN's commitment to corporate social responsibility, funding social, religious, and community empowerment activities through zakat contributions collected from Muslim PLN employees.

DEN: US Supreme Court Decision Does Not Invalidate Indonesia-US Trade Agreement, Here's Why

The US Supreme Court's decision to overturn former President Donald Trump's import tariff policy on 20 February 2026 does not automatically invalidate the trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States, according to Mari Elka Pangestu, Vice Chair of the National Economic Council (DEN). The agreement remains in effect procedurally but cannot be implemented until both countries complete ratification processes, after which it becomes effective 90 days later.

BI Reports Banks Begin Aggressive Loan Distribution, Lending Rates Continue to Fall

The Bank of Indonesia (BI) reports that Indonesian banks are beginning to distribute loans more aggressively as lending rates decline in line with BI's interest rate cuts since September 2024. Deputy Senior Governor Destry Damayanti noted that new loan rates have fallen by 88 basis points, demonstrating banks' readiness to increase lending, supported by adequate system liquidity with a loan-to-deposit ratio of 27.6% and capital adequacy ratio of 25.9%.

Etihad Airways Net Profit Surges 50 Per Cent in 2025, Reaching AED11.7 Trillion

Etihad Airways reported net profit of US$698 million (approximately AED11.7 trillion) in 2025, representing nearly 50 per cent year-on-year growth driven by fleet expansion and enhanced service quality investments. The airline carried 22.4 million passengers in 2025, a 21 per cent increase, supported by an expanded fleet of 127 aircraft and a seat load factor of 88 per cent, with plans for further expansion across Asia, Europe, and China.

Ramadan as a Moment for Financial Reflection

Ramadan, whilst traditionally a period of increased economic activity, presents an opportunity for Indonesian households to reflect on their financial health and long-term planning rather than merely increasing consumption.

East Jakarta Administration Installs Spotlight Lamps in Cawang Forest Park to Prevent Indecent Conduct

The East Jakarta municipal government is installing two spotlight lamps in Cawang Forest Park and closing two access points to prevent indecent conduct at the site. The initiative follows viral social media videos alleging that the park has become a gathering place for suspicious activities at night, prompting authorities to implement increased lighting, access restrictions, and coordinated patrols by law enforcement and civil protection officers.

BPIP Distributes 2,430 Pancasila Textbooks to Strengthen Student Character in Pamekasan

The Indonesian Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP) has distributed 2,430 primary Pancasila Education textbooks to the Pamekasan local government as part of a strategic initiative to strengthen character education among students. BPIP leaders emphasised that Pancasila education must serve as a foundational process for shaping young people's values and conduct, particularly amidst digital disruption and information challenges.

Banten Police Seize 7,471 Bottles of Illegal Alcohol Since Start of Ramadan

Banten Provincial Police seized 7,471 bottles of unlicensed alcoholic beverages during an enforcement operation (Operasi Pekat) conducted from 16 to 25 February 2026, deploying 100 personnel to ensure security and comfort for Muslims observing Ramadan fasting. The operation also resulted in the arrest of one suspect and confiscation of 7.5 grams of methamphetamine in a separate narcotics case.

Israel Rejects Board of Peace Membership Contributions; Indonesian Foreign Ministry: Must Not Hamper BoP Mandate

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has stated that administrative disputes over Board of Peace membership contributions should not impede the organisation's core mandate of reconstruction and civilian protection in Gaza. Israel has refused to fund the Trump-initiated peace initiative despite joining it, whilst Indonesia's position on whether to pay contributions or merely deploy forces remains undecided.

List of 6 Free Toll Roads for Eid Mudik 2026, Here's the Information

The Indonesian government and toll road operators will open six toll road sections totalling 198 kilometres across the Trans Java and Trans Sumatra routes free of charge during the 2026 Eid holiday period to facilitate traffic flow. The free toll sections include routes in Aceh, South Sumatra, West Java, Yogyakarta, Central Java, and East Java, with preparations including 136 rest areas, 189 electric vehicle charging stations, and 539 toll gates to support smooth traffic distribution.

Male Calf Stolen by Rejected Buyer in Karangasem After Refusing Rp 3 Million Offer

A livestock farmer in Karangasem lost his male calf after it was stolen by a prospective buyer who was upset his lowball offer of Rp 3 million was rejected. The suspect, I Wayan Merta (62), was apprehended by police and is facing charges under Article 477 of the Criminal Code for aggravated theft, which carries a maximum sentence of 9 years imprisonment.

Mayor of Kendari Visits Saudi Arabian Religious Attaché in Jakarta, Explores Religious Cooperation

Kendari Mayor Siska Karina Imran visited the Saudi Arabian Embassy's Office of Religious Attaché in Jakarta to establish bilateral relations between the Kendari municipal government and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The visit aimed to explore cooperation on social and religious activities, including a flagship programme to place one thousand Qur'an teachers across 500 mosques in Kendari.

Female Fishers in North Sumatra Face Difficulties at Sea Due to Climate Change

A representative of female fishers in North Sumatra has raised concerns about unpredictable weather patterns making it increasingly difficult for fishers to go to sea safely. Climate change has led to sudden storms and high waves that have resulted in the loss of at least 11 fishers in 2025, whilst also causing shifts in river mouths that obstruct access to fishing grounds.

Padang Civil Police Intensify Oversight of Night-time Entertainment Venues During Ramadan

The Padang Civil Police (Satpol PP) have intensified surveillance of night-time entertainment establishments to ensure public order and tranquillity throughout the Islamic month of Ramadan 1447 H/2026 M. The enforcement action, which includes raids on venues offering live music in breach of local government regulations, represents the implementation of the mayor's directive to maintain the sanctity of Muslim worship.

Former Narcotics Chief of Bima Police Brought to Jakarta for Investigation

Former Narcotics Chief AKP Malaungi of Bima Police and five other suspects have been transported to Jakarta for questioning by the Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) regarding a major narcotics trafficking case involving a former police chief and drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar. The investigation reveals that trafficker Erwin allegedly provided 488 grams of methamphetamine to Malaungi for distribution in Sumbawa and paid approximately 2.

Delpedro and Three Others Sentenced to Two Years' Imprisonment in August 2025 Demonstration Case, Deemed Disturbing to Public

The State Prosecutor's Office has demanded a two-year prison sentence for Delpedro Marhaen Rismansyah and three other defendants accused of incitement related to the August 2025 demonstrations, arguing their actions disturbed public order and contributed to riots and damage to public facilities.

Budget Commission Responds to Constitutional Court Lawsuit over MBG Education Budget Allocation

The House Budget Commission (Banggar) has defended the allocation of MBG (Student Credit) funding within the education budget following a public lawsuit filed with the Constitutional Court. The commission clarified that education spending for 2025 and 2026 complies with the constitutional mandate of 20 per cent of state expenditure, with Rp724.2 trillion allocated in 2025 and Rp769 trillion in 2026, including MBG funds of Rp71 trillion and Rp268 trillion respectively.

Airlangga States Indonesian Export Tariff to US Now 15 Percent

Indonesia's export tariff to the United States has been reduced to 15 percent following President Donald Trump's announcement of a global tariff rate after the US Supreme Court invalidated his reciprocal tariff policy.

76 Million People Estimated to Travel by Car During 2026 Eid Exodus, With West Java Leading

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation estimates that 76.24 million people will travel by private car during the 2026 Eid holiday period, with West Java accounting for the largest share of travellers at 30.97 million. Overall, approximately 143.91 million Indonesians (50.6 per cent of the population) are expected to travel during the exodus, with Central Java emerging as the primary destination, prompting the government to emphasise traffic safety and encourage the use of public transport.

Bank Aladin Syariah Partners with Alfamart for Free Warteg Programme During Ramadan 2026

Bank Aladin Syariah has partnered with Alfamart to support the Free Warteg Ramadan programme, which will distribute 60,000 meals across 34 cities in 2026 whilst engaging 102 UMKM warteg operators. The collaboration represents the bank's commitment to digital Islamic finance whilst delivering tangible social impact and community engagement through the annual initiative, which has distributed over 150,000 meals since 2021.

Indonesia urges peaceful resolution of Afghanistan-Pakistan conflict

Indonesia has called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to pursue a peaceful resolution to their armed conflict, emphasising de-escalation and dialogue to prevent civilian casualties. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry confirmed that all 43 Indonesian nationals in Afghanistan, including 15 embassy staff and family members, remain safe despite recent military strikes, with warnings issued to exercise heightened caution.

Indonesian Forces on Alert in Southern Gaza from Early April 2026

Indonesia is set to deploy military personnel to southern Gaza starting in early April 2026 as part of an international stabilisation mission, according to US mediator Bishara Bahbah. The Indonesian contingent will be responsible for maintaining security in the southern Gaza Strip under the Gaza Board of Peace, a multilateral consortium overseeing the peace transition, with the initial deployment expected in early April followed by larger contingents later.

Labour Minister Guarantees Ride-hailing Drivers Will Receive Holiday Allowance This Year with Increased Value

Labour Minister Yassierli has confirmed that ride-hailing drivers will receive their Bonus Hari Raya (holiday allowance) this year with higher values than the previous year, following intensive meetings with application-based transport companies. The ministry aims to expand the beneficiary base and ensure fair distribution based on driver activity levels, though final details await presidential consultation.

Breakthrough After 20 Years: Honorary Teachers' Incentives Officially Increased

The Indonesian government under President Prabowo Subianto has officially increased incentives for honorary teachers for the first time in 20 years, raising the amount to Rp400,000 (approximately £19) and improving the distribution mechanism to direct monthly transfers to teachers' accounts. Additionally, allowances for non-ASN (non-civil servant) teachers were raised from Rp1.

Doctor Reveals Impact of Vaping on Sperm Quality

A urologist at RS Windu Husada has warned that vaping carries significant risks to sperm quality, contrary to common assumptions that it is safer than conventional cigarettes. The nicotine and oxidative substances in vapour can impair sperm formation, affecting sperm count, motility, and fertility prospects, particularly for men planning pregnancy.

Whoosh Feeder Train Passenger Operations at Bandung Station to Move to Western Side in March 2026

All passenger operations for the Whoosh feeder train at Bandung Station will be centralised on the western side of the station beginning in March 2026. The new waiting area, located in front of the Al Mu'min Mosque, will feature expanded facilities with seating capacity exceeding 300 seats—an increase from approximately 200 seats at the current eastern location.

Third Round of Negotiations in Geneva Shows US-Iran Nuclear Deal Still Unresolved

The third round of negotiations between the United States and Iran concerning Iran's nuclear programme in Geneva concluded without agreement, as both parties failed to reach consensus on key issues. The US demanded Iran destroy its nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan and transfer all enriched uranium to America, whilst Iran rejected relocating its uranium reserves abroad and opposed suspending uranium enrichment operations and dismantling nuclear facilities.

Tattooed Body Parts Found in Gianyar, Suspected to be Missing Ukrainian National from Jimbaran

Police are investigating the discovery of human body parts found at the mouth of Wos Teben River in Gianyar, Bali, which are believed to be connected to the disappearance of 28-year-old Ukrainian national Ihor Komarav, who was reportedly attacked in Jimbaran in mid-February 2026.

Prabowo holds restricted cabinet meeting at Kertanegara following return from state visit

President Prabowo Subianto convened a restricted cabinet meeting at Kertanegara in South Jakarta on Friday evening shortly after returning from a four-nation state visit spanning the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates. During his US visit, Prabowo signed a landmark reciprocal trade agreement with President Donald Trump granting zero tariffs on 1,819 Indonesian products in the American market, including strategic commodities such as palm oil, coffee, and cocoa.

Parliamentary Budget Committee Proposes National Nutrition Agency Create Blacklist of Wayward Free Meal Kitchen Partners

The head of the House of Representatives Budget Committee has proposed that the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) create a blacklist of free meal kitchen operators that fail to comply with operational standards. The recommendation aims to improve the quality and hygiene of the free nutritious meal programme (SPPG), which is targeted to operate at over 35,000 locations and forms part of President Prabowo Subianto's priority initiatives.

BRIN Accelerates Research Commercialisation to Support Business Sector

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is intensifying efforts to commercialise research through its BRIN Goes to Industry programme, which aims to ensure innovations reach businesses and the public. BRIN Chief Arif Satria emphasised that collaboration with industry is essential to accelerate the practical application of research, with the agency currently evaluating technology licensing implementations involving 33 licensed industry partners.

Government Prepares New Labour Law, Details Emerge

The Indonesian government is drafting a new labour law as part of broader efforts to adjust national labour policies and fulfil commitments from international trade agreements, including discussions with the United States. The new legislation will address key issues such as contract work arrangements and outsourcing regulations, whilst aiming to provide legal certainty for businesses and protect workers.

Bekasi Free Mudik Programme for Eid 2026 Opens 2-3 March: Conditions and Registration Link

Bekasi City's free mudik (homecoming) programme for Eid 2026 has officially opened registration on 2-3 March 2026 through the mudikbareng.karcisku.id portal, managed by the Transportation Department. Eligible participants must hold a Bekasi city identity card or be domiciled in Bekasi, with spots limited and registration closing once the quota is reached.

Kebon Kongok Landfill Returns to Normal Operations, Temporary Waste Sites Cleared

Kebon Kongok landfill in West Lombok has resumed normal operations following the declaration that the new landfill is functioning properly, with waste deliveries from Mataram City increasing from one to three or four trips per day. The Mataram City administration is now focusing on clearing overloaded temporary waste sites (TPS) such as Sandubaya and Bintaro, a process expected to take one to two months.

Parliamentary Budget Committee cites MBG allocation in education budget as political decision

Indonesia's parliamentary Budget Committee (Banggar DPR) has characterised the inclusion of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in the education budget allocation for 2025 and 2026 as a joint political decision between parliament and the government, affirming that it complies with constitutional requirements for 20 per cent education spending. The committee defended the classification despite criticism, noting that the education allocation totals Rp724.

Delpedro Marhaen and Three Activists Charged with Two Years Imprisonment in August 2025 Protest Incitement Case

The public prosecutor has demanded a two-year prison sentence for Delpedro Marhaen, executive director of Lokataru Foundation, and three other activists accused of inciting the August 2025 mass demonstrations in Jakarta and across Indonesia. The defendants are charged with violating articles 246 and 20C of the 2023 Criminal Code for allegedly using social media to mobilise crowds illegally, spread anti-government narratives, and involve students in the protests.

Ironically, Older Americans Dominate the Stock Market While Younger Generations Are Sidelined

A fundamental shift is occurring in the United States as younger generations are projected to have lower real income and wealth accumulation than their parents at the same age, undermining the traditional American Dream.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ensures Progress of Mountainous Papua Government Centre Development is Monitored

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk chaired a coordination meeting on the development of the Government Centre Area (KPP) for Mountainous Papua Province, emphasising the need for rigorous monitoring and adherence to schedule to achieve operational status by 2028. Key priorities include completing environmental impact assessment documents by Eid al-Fitr and finalising civil service housing preparations to enable tendering in June or July as planned.

South Waduk Pluit Road Elevation Difference Causes Vehicles to Scrape Against Asphalt

Jalan Waduk Pluit Selatan in North Jakarta suffers from significant elevation differences of 10-15 centimetres between road sections, causing vehicles to scrape against the asphalt surface and creating hazardous driving conditions. Local residents report frequent vehicle damage, loud scraping sounds, and increased accident rates, with only large vehicles able to traverse the damaged road safely. The Jakarta Road and Bridge Service has been contacted for comment on permanent repair efforts.

Agriculture Ministry's Response to Saudi Arabia's Poultry Import Restrictions

Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture is leveraging Saudi Arabia's poultry and egg import restrictions, imposed by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, as an opportunity to strengthen the nation's position in global livestock trade.

DJP records Coretax activation reaching 14.6 million with 4.6 million annual tax returns filed

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has reported that 14.69 million taxpayer accounts have activated the Coretax platform, with 4.65 million annual tax return filings submitted. The DJP is urging remaining taxpayers to promptly file their annual tax returns (SPT Tahunan) to avoid administrative penalties ranging from 100,000 to 1 million rupiah.

Cabinet Secretary: 16,000 schools to be renovated in 2025, budget of Rp17 trillion

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya announced that approximately 16,000 schools have been renovated throughout 2025 with a total budget of Rp17 trillion under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy: Honorary teacher incentives increased for first time in 20 years

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya announced that the Prabowo Subianto administration has increased incentives for honorary teachers for the first time in two decades, raising them to 400,000 rupiah after remaining unchanged since 2005. The government has also increased allowances for non-permanent teachers from 1.5 million to 2 million rupiah and implemented monthly direct transfers to individual teachers' bank accounts instead of quarterly distributions through local government.

On Holiday Allowance for Ride-Hailing Drivers, Labour Minister Says Must Consult President First

Labour Minister Yassierli has stated that she must consult with President Prabowo Subianto before deciding on holiday allowance (BHR) for online ride-hailing drivers.

Property Industry Leaders Respond to Presidential Regulation on Rice Paddy Land Conversion Controls

Indonesia's property sector faces new regulatory challenges following the issuance of Presidential Regulation No. 4 of 2026, which tightens restrictions on converting rice paddy land into residential and commercial areas.

Central Java Regional Secretary Leads ASN in Office Cleanliness Drive

Sumarno, the Regional Secretary of Central Java Province, led civil servants (ASN) in a cleanliness campaign at the Regional Secretariat headquarters in Semarang, part of the broader Central Java Safe, Healthy, Clean, and Beautiful (ASRI) movement.

TNI Air Force Builds Radar Unit in Bengkulu in April 2026

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) will begin construction of a radar unit in South Bengkulu in April 2026 to strengthen air defence systems in southern Sumatra. The facility, to be located in Manna, Bengkulu Selatan district, is considered strategically important for reinforcing national air sovereignty, particularly in western Indonesian airspace bordering the Indian Ocean.

Puri Agung Building in Cengkareng Left Abandoned After Four Years of Closure

The Puri Agung commercial building in Cengkareng Timur, West Jakarta, has fallen into severe disrepair four years after ceasing operations in October 2021, becoming a derelict structure marked by peeling paint, graffiti, broken windows, and overgrown vegetation. Once a vibrant economic hub housing shops and services, the building now stands idle behind a corroded iron fence with no public access, presenting a stark contrast to the busy Outer Ring Road that runs adjacent to it.

VKTR Revenue Grows 8.5 Per Cent to Rp 1.09 Trillion in 2025

PT VKTR Teknologi Mobilitas Tbk reported revenue of Rp 1.09 trillion in 2025, representing 8.5 per cent growth from Rp 1 trillion in 2024, driven by improved pricing in the electric vehicle segment and increased delivery realisation. Gross profit increased 10.4 per cent to Rp 197 billion, though net profit declined sharply to Rp 423 million from Rp 12.29 billion previously, whilst the company continues its transformation towards commercial electric vehicles and Waste-to-Energy diversification.

JSX Unexpectedly Closes Flat After Weakening Throughout the Day

The Indonesian Composite Index (JSX/IHSG) closed essentially flat on Friday 27 February 2026, rising just 0.22 points to 8,235.48, after falling as much as 1.47% during trading. The weakness was primarily driven by declines in large-capitalisation stocks including energy and financial sector heavyweights, with technical analysis suggesting a bearish rising wedge pattern that could trigger further correction towards support levels of 7,800–7,900.

KPAI Urges Police to Investigate Other Suspects in Death of 12-Year-Old Child in Sukabumi

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged police to investigate the possible involvement of other suspects, including the biological father, in the death of a 12-year-old child (NS) in Sukabumi, West Java, allegedly caused by abuse from the child's stepmother.

Unstable Soil Suspected as Cause of South Waduk Pluit Road Subsidence and Misalignment

South Waduk Pluit Road in Jakarta's North district has experienced significant subsidence and misalignment, with residents suspecting unstable soil conditions and hollow ground beneath the surface as the primary cause. The road damage, which spans approximately 100 metres with visible cracks and breaks, has been repeatedly patched by Bina Tunas Bangsa School but continues to deteriorate, likely exacerbated by heavy construction vehicle traffic in the area.

Jokowi Responds to Constitutional Court Challenge Over Presidential Relatives Running in Election

President Joko Widodo has responded to a petition filed at Indonesia's Constitutional Court seeking to ban close relatives of the sitting president and vice president from running in presidential elections. Widodo emphasised that all citizens possess equal constitutional standing and the right to challenge laws at the court, whilst pledging to respect whatever decision the court reaches.

Cabinet Secretary: Free Nutritious Meals Allocation in Education Budget Approved by DPR Budget Committee, Chaired by PDI-P Member

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya defended the allocation of Rp223.5 trillion from the national education budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, stating that the distribution was approved by both the government and the DPR Budget Committee, whose chairperson is PDI-P member Said Abdullah.

Indonesia's BPOM Gains WHO Listed Authority Recognition After 21-Year Journey

Indonesia's pharmaceutical and food regulatory agency (BPOM) has achieved WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status for medical product regulation, particularly vaccines, marking the highest recognition for drug and food regulators.

Gap Between Car Panels Can Reveal Used Vehicle History

When purchasing used cars, inconsistent gaps between body panels can indicate previous collision repairs, though not all panel gaps necessarily denote severe damage. An automotive expert explains that light collisions typically show minor repainting and putty work within the outer panels, whilst more serious accidents display thicker repairs, structural reinforcement damage, and airbag deployment history that requires professional diagnostic scanning.

PTBA implements "EcoGrow Mom" to empower women through urban farming

PT Bukit Asam (PTBA), a state-owned coal mining enterprise, has launched the "EcoGrow Mom" programme to empower women in Tanjung Karangan village, Muara Enim, South Sumatra through urban farming and household agriculture. The initiative expands on previous tree nursery efforts and focuses on cultivating kitchen vegetables to strengthen household food security whilst promoting circular economy practices through waste recycling.

Supporting Religious Facilities Recovery, Dompet Dhuafa and Gramedia Launch Al Quran Charity Programme

Dompet Dhuafa and Gramedia have launched a joint Al Quran Charity Programme aimed at supporting the recovery of worship facilities in disaster-affected communities, targeting the distribution of 30,000 Al Quran copies to areas impacted by flooding in Sumatra and Aceh.

Arab Media Highlight Prabowo's Visit to Jordan and UAE

Arab media outlets, including Arab News and Economy Middle East, have covered President Prabowo Subianto's state visits to Jordan and the United Arab Emirates, highlighting diplomatic discussions on regional stability, the Gaza conflict, and bilateral cooperation.

Delpedro on Two-Year Prison Sentence: We Appreciate the Prosecutors' Hard Work, Although Flawed

Delpedro Marhaen, director of Lokataru Foundation, has responded to prosecutors' two-year prison sentence recommendation for alleged incitement related to August 2025 demonstrations, stating that whilst he appreciates their effort, the charges do not reflect the facts presented during trial.

BPOM Outlines Preparedness to Handle Pandemic Situations with WHO Listed Authority Status

The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has outlined the benefits of achieving WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status in managing pandemic situations such as COVID-19. With WLA recognition, BPOM can utilise multiple regulatory schemes—including Normal Evaluation Status, Special Access Scheme, Emergency Use Authorization, and Conditional Approval—to ensure vaccine and medicine availability during health emergencies.

Customs Official Arrested as New Suspect in Bribery Case Remains Silent During KPK Detention

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of the Customs Intelligence Section at Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs, as a new suspect in a major bribery scheme involving the illegal importation of counterfeit goods. Investigators allege Prasojo orchestrated the concealment of approximately 5.

Behind Grab Indonesia's On-Demand Ecosystem: Choice, Participation, and Digital Economic Growth

Indonesia's digital economy continues to expand, with on-demand services such as Grab becoming integral to daily life and creating income opportunities across diverse segments of society. Grab, which entered Indonesia in 2014, operates in over 300 cities and has contributed approximately 50% to the ride-hailing and online delivery industry, which generated Rp382.62 trillion (2% of Indonesia's 2022 GDP). The platform exemplifies the inclusive gig economy model, with 3.

IHSG Closes Up 0.22 Points at 8,235 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed nearly flat on Friday, 27 February 2026, rising just 0.22 points to 8,235.48 amid sectoral volatility and mixed performance across major indices. Banking stocks declined significantly with major banks registering losses, whilst energy and infrastructure sectors remained in the red, though the overall market capitalisation stood at Rp 14.787 trillion with transaction value of Rp 37.96 trillion.

Golkar Reminds East Kalimantan Governor Over Rp 8.5 Billion Official Vehicle

Golkar party officials have urged East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud to heed public concerns regarding the controversial Rp 8.5 billion (approximately USD 530,000) procurement of an official vehicle, despite arguments that the terrain requires such transportation. Party leadership has engaged with the governor, emphasising the need to consider public opinion amid broader government budget cuts, though noting that Mas'ud's decision to continue using his personal vehicle is commendable.

Bribery in Counterfeit Goods Imports: Budiman Bayu Ordered Money Transfer to Safe Houses

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of the Customs Intelligence Section at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), allegedly ordered an employee to receive, manage, and transfer bribes from importers to multiple safe houses since November 2024. Following a hand-catching operation on 4 February 2026, Budiman Bayu allegedly instructed the employee to move approximately Rp5.

Indonesia and UK advance climate financing for elephant conservation in Aceh

Indonesia and the UK have formalised a priority partnership to implement the Peusangan Elephant Conservation Initiative (PECI) in Aceh, which integrates biodiversity protection, sustainable forest management and community welfare across 20,000 hectares with potential expansion to 80,000 hectares.

ESDM Responds to Coal Supply Crisis at Coal Power Plants, Claims Supply is Sufficient

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has responded to reports of coal supply shortages at several coal-fired power plants (PLTU) that threaten national electricity security. Deputy Minister Yuliot Tanjung claims primary energy supplies are adequate overall but acknowledged distribution problems from mines to power plants, with coordination ongoing with PT PLN to ensure proper ordering and procurement systems prevent stock depletion.

Ministry of Human Rights Partners with KOPPETA to Strengthen Human Rights Literacy among Students from an Early Age

The Ministry of Human Rights (KemenHAM) has launched a collaborative initiative with the Community of Youth and Students Devoted to Human Rights (KOPPETA) to promote human rights literacy among primary, secondary, and upper secondary school students through the Seraya HAM programme.

Building Disaster Preparedness, Deputy Chair of MPR Emphasises Shared Responsibility

Deputy Chair of Indonesia's MPR (People's Consultative Assembly), Lestari Moerdijat, has emphasised that building disaster preparedness among communities is fundamentally linked to realising the values of the Four Pillars of Nationhood, and that disaster response must be a shared responsibility.

Fasting Compensation Payment 2026: How Much Fidyah Per Day?

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has set the fidyah (compensation for missed fasting days) at Rp65,000 per day for 2026. Fidyah can be paid in cash, food, or through official zakat organisations, and payments can be made in instalments or as a lump sum on the BAZNAS website.

Indonesia to Halt Tin Imports and Develop Future Industries

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources plans to stop exporting tin and redirect the commodity for domestic value-added industries, particularly solar panels, electronics, and semiconductors. The government has designated 18 downstream processing projects as national priorities for 2026, backed by Rp 618 trillion in investment, targeting import substitution and the utilisation of valuable by-products such as rare earth metals and critical minerals.

Jokowi Reveals Key Discussion Points from Bloomberg New Economy Forum 2026

Former President Joko Widodo highlighted the critical importance of data sovereignty and artificial intelligence autonomy at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum 2026 held in New Delhi in February 2026. Jokowi emphasised that whilst data sovereignty is essential for developing nations, AI sovereignty presents a far more complex challenge, with even major economies like the United States relying on semiconductor imports and international talent.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga announces Indonesia-US trade tariff reduced to 15 percent

Indonesia's trade tariff with the United States has been reduced from 19 percent to 15 percent following the US Supreme Court's decision to invalidate President Trump's tariff policies and plans for a global 15 percent tariff rate.

CHED ITB: Addition of cigarette excise tax layer inconsistent with RPJMN

The Center of Human and Development (CHED) at Ahmad Dahlan ITB has criticised the government's plan to add an additional layer to cigarette excise tax, arguing it contradicts the 2025-2029 Medium-Term National Development Plan (RPJMN) which mandates simplification of the tax structure.

Criteria for Civil Servants to Become Military Reserve Components

The Indonesian government has established criteria allowing state civil servants (ASN) and public employees (PNS) to serve as military reserve components (komcad) in support of national defence efforts. Prospective komcad must meet specific requirements including age limits of 18-35 years, physical and mental fitness, and absence of criminal records, with approximately 4,400 civil servants from 49 cabinet ministries selected across two cohorts beginning in April 2026.

Understanding Four Classifications of Diabetes Mellitus

A specialist in internal medicine, Dr. Wirawan Hambali, has outlined the four main classifications of diabetes mellitus: Type 1 (caused by pancreatic beta cell damage), Type 2 (the most common, accounting for 95% of cases and associated with insulin resistance), gestational diabetes (occurring during pregnancy), and specific diabetes types (triggered by complex factors including medications and genetic conditions).

KPK reveals role of Budiman Bayu in directing receipt and transfer of funds

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of Customs Intelligence Section at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, allegedly directed customs official SA to receive, manage and transfer bribes totalling approximately IDR 5.19 billion related to counterfeit goods importation.

Comprehensive Analysis of Indonesia's Capital Market Potential and Direction in Market Outlook 2026

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has unveiled a series of strategic capital market programmes for 2026 aimed at strengthening investor confidence, improving listed company quality, and deepening the national financial market. CNBC Indonesia will host the Market Outlook 2026 event on 3 March 2026, bringing together key regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss capital market reform focused on integrity and credibility.

Moscow calls for diplomatic resolution of Afghanistan-Pakistan conflict

Russia has urged Afghanistan and Pakistan to cease military operations and resolve their disputes through diplomatic channels, according to President Putin's Special Envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. The call comes amid escalating cross-border violence, with Afghanistan launching large-scale military operations against Pakistani forces and both nations reporting casualties in border clashes.

Indonesian troops deployed to southern Gaza in early April

According to US mediator Bishara Bahbah, Indonesian troops will be positioned in southern Gaza as part of an International Stabilisation Force, with the first contingent expected to arrive in early April. The deployment, comprising approximately 20,000 military personnel and 12,000 police officers from participating nations, is intended to enforce ceasefire compliance and enable the newly formed National Committee for Gaza Administration to operate with necessary security guarantees.

Jalan Waduk Pluit Selatan Road Damaged and Tilted, Residents Report Nearly Daily Accidents

Residents of Jalan Waduk Pluit Selatan in North Jakarta have complained about the road's deteriorated condition, featuring uneven surfaces and significant height differences that frequently cause motorcyclists to fall. The hazardous situation, which has persisted for some time without significant repairs, worsens during rainfall, prompting local residents to maintain first-aid kits to assist injured riders.

CSIS suggests ART could be expanded to other trading partners for optimal benefits

The Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has suggested that Indonesia's Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States could be expanded to other trading partners to maximise economic benefits. Researcher Riandy Laksono noted that whilst the current ART has prompted trade governance reforms in Indonesia, extending similar reciprocal agreements to countries such as Japan and China could broaden the benefits beyond US-based industries.

Dompet Dhuafa Delivers 20,000 Litres of Clean Water and Food Packages to Gaza

Indonesian humanitarian organisation Dompet Dhuafa has distributed 20,000 litres of clean water and food packages to displaced residents in Khan Younis and Gaza City during Ramadan 1447 AH/2026 CE, responding to an ongoing water crisis in the conflict-affected Palestinian territories. The assistance, funded by Indonesian donors, included 500 meal portions in Gaza City and 240 in Khan Younis, each containing rice and minced meat for breaking fast and pre-dawn meals.

Paramount increases offer for WBD acquisition, Netflix withdraws

WBD's board of directors has designated Paramount Skydance's acquisition proposal, valued at approximately 111 billion US dollars, as the company's "Superior Proposal" following increased bid negotiations. Netflix, the world's largest streaming company by subscriber count, has withdrawn from the acquisition race, stating that matching Paramount Skydance's offer would no longer be financially attractive. The Paramount Skydance proposal includes a cash purchase price of 31.

Prabowo Holds Limited Meeting at Kertanegara House Upon Arrival in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto arrived in Indonesia on Friday afternoon following an extensive state visit to the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, during which he met with US President Donald Trump, witnessed a major investment agreement signing, and held bilateral meetings with Arab leaders. Upon his return to Jakarta, he immediately convened a limited cabinet meeting at his official residence.

Tesso Nilo National Park: Sumatran Elephant Calf Dies, Suspected Snare Entanglement

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry's Tesso Nilo National Park management announced the discovery of a dead Sumatran elephant calf in Riau province, which authorities believe died from infection caused by snare entanglement approximately one week before discovery. A preliminary medical examination and potential criminal investigation are underway, with officials emphasising the need for heightened conservation efforts to protect endangered Sumatran elephants in their natural habitat.

Cimahi city government temporarily halts school meal programme following poisoning incident

The Cimahi City Government in West Java has temporarily suspended operations of its Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) following a poisoning incident affecting 43 students from kindergarten through secondary school and one teacher. All victims have received treatment at three hospitals, with symptoms including vomiting, nausea and dizziness occurring after consuming meals distributed by the SPPG during the fasting period.

City Administration Installs Floodlights and Increases Patrols at Cawang Park to Combat Prostitution

The East Jakarta City Administration has implemented strict measures to clean up Cawang Park following public complaints about suspected prostitution and other illicit activities. The government has installed two floodlights to improve visibility, closed two illegal entry points, reinforced fencing, and increased night patrols by police and military personnel starting at 21:00 hours.

Ride-Hailing Apps Association Clarifies 2026 THR Policy for Drivers

The Association for Digital Mobility and Delivery Applications (Modantara) has urged the government to conduct wider dialogue and adopt more prudent approaches when formulating 2026 Hari Raya Bonus (THR) policies for ride-hailing and digital delivery drivers. Modantara's Executive Director stated that ride-hailing platforms have already voluntarily prepared THR programmes scaled to their respective economic capacities whilst ensuring industry sustainability.

Commission XIII Member Hopes Perpetrator in NS Death Case Receives Heavy Sentence

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII has called for multiple charges against the suspect in the death of 12-year-old NS, who allegedly died after abuse by his stepmother in West Java, including criminal code violations, child protection laws, and domestic violence legislation that could result in a sentence exceeding 12 years.

Pelindo and West Kalimantan Government Discuss Toll Road Procurement to Support Kijing Port

Pelindo's Director General Achmad Muchtasyar affirmed the company's commitment to developing Kijing Port as an economic driver for West Kalimantan and Indonesia, emphasizing that adequate road access for container transport is essential to optimise the port's operations.

KPK: Budiman Ordered Customs Officials to 'Clean Up' Safe House After Sting Operation

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of the Customs Intelligence Section at the Directorate General of Customs, ordered customs official Salisa Asmoaji to transfer funds from a safe house in central Jakarta to another location in Ciputat, Tangerang Selatan, following a dawn raid in early February 2026. Investigators discovered over Rp 5.

PAUD Student in Bima Dismissed After Mother Questions Free Nutritious Meal Allowance on Social Media

A kindergarten student in Bima, East Nusa Tenggara, was expelled by his school after his mother posted questions on Facebook regarding the distribution of free nutritious meal allowances (MBG) to absent students. The school cited three reasons for dismissal: chronic absenteeism since November 2025, removal from the MBG programme due to poor attendance, and alleged damage to the school's reputation through parental social media posts.

Excessive Screen Time in Children May Cause Virtual Autism and Obesity

Excessive screen exposure in children poses significant short and long-term health risks, including virtual autism-like behavioural disorders, speech delays, sleep disturbances, and obesity, according to Indonesian paediatricians.

Stabilise Supply, Zulhas Urges Red and White Village Cooperatives to Actively Absorb Agricultural Produce

Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan has urged Koperasi Desa (Kopdes) Merah Putih village cooperatives to actively purchase agricultural commodities when prices fall, to protect farmer incomes and maintain food supply stability. The cooperatives are intended to serve as distribution hubs connecting farmer, livestock, and fisher production directly to broader markets and government programmes such as free nutritious meals initiatives.

Central Lombok District Government Claims Essential Commodity Stocks and Prices under Control

The Central Lombok District Government in West Nusa Tenggara asserts that essential commodity prices during Ramadan 2026 remain stable and controlled, with previously inflated prices now declining. Deputy Regent Muhammad Nursiah reported that chilli prices have fallen from Rp190,000 to Rp100,000 per kilogramme following direct market monitoring, whilst chicken and beef prices remain steady.

Biological Mother of NS Seeks Protection from Witness and Victim Protection Agency Following Child's Death in Sukabumi

The biological mother of NS, a 12-year-old boy who died allegedly due to violence by his stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java, has filed a protection request with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) after experiencing harassment and threats.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy denies education budget cuts for free nutritious meals programme

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has firmly rejected claims that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme has led to cuts in education budgets, calling such narratives false. He reaffirmed that the education budget of 20 per cent of the state budget (Rp769.

LPS Partners with UGM to Develop Financial Sector Talent

The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has partnered with Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) to develop financial sector talent through research, internships, scholarships, and educational infrastructure support. The collaboration, following a memorandum of understanding signed in December 2025, is part of LPS's broader initiative with 12 Indonesian universities aimed at strengthening human resource development aligned with the corporation's mandate.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education urges public to strengthen national brotherhood during Ramadhan

Indonesia's Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has called on the public to honour Ramadhan through spiritual practices and worship whilst strengthening national unity and brotherhood (ukhuwah wathaniyah). Mu'ti emphasised Ramadhan's significance as the month of the Quran and social solidarity, highlighting traditional practices such as communal breaking of fasts as reflections of national harmony that transcend religious boundaries.

How to Obtain Regular Pertamax Green 95 Promotions at Pertamina Petrol Stations

PT Pertamina is offering regular weekly discounts on its environmentally-friendly Pertamax Green 95 fuel through a "Green Wednesday" programme running until March 2026, accessible exclusively via the MyPertamina mobile application.

East Jakarta Municipal Government Closes Urban Park Amid Alleged Same-Sex Prostitution

The East Jakarta Municipal Government has permanently closed two access points to Cawang Urban Park in Kebon Pala district following allegations that the park was being used for same-sex prostitution and other illicit activities. Authorities sealed the entrances with concrete and welded shut unauthorised access points after discovering condoms, alcohol bottles, and evidence of misuse of the public green space.

Indonesia Strengthens Cooperation with India on Critical Minerals and Steel Industry Development

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung has announced that Indonesia will strengthen cooperation with Indian companies on critical mineral development and the steel industry.

Nearly Complete: New Tollway Project to Connect Bekasi and Bandung at Lightning Speed

The Jakarta-Cikampek II Southern Segment Package 2A tollway project, spanning 10.50 km, has reached 81.65% physical construction progress as of mid-February 2026 and is expected to be completed by September 2026. Operated by PT Hutama Karya Infrastruktur as part of a joint cooperation, the project will connect the Jakarta Outer Ring Road (JORR) E1 with the Purbaleunyi Tollway, significantly alleviating traffic congestion and improving logistics distribution between Jakarta and West Java.

Arrest of Koko Erwin: Drug Supplier to Police Officer AKBP Didik Nearly Escapes to Malaysia

The Directorate of Narcotics Crime (Dittipidnarkoba) of Indonesia's National Police arrested Erwin Iskandar, alias Koko Erwin, a suspected drug trafficker and financial supplier to former Bima City Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, at Tanjung Balai in North Sumatra on 26 February 2025 whilst attempting to illegally flee to Malaysia by sea.

Illegal Racing Perpetrators Fined 3 Million Rupiah, Motorcycles Face Confiscation

The Situbondo State Court in East Java has imposed maximum fines of 3 million rupiah against 73 illegal street racing perpetrators, with motorcycles facing seizure and auction if payment is not made within seven days. The court decision aims to deter both perpetrators and spectators who support the dangerous illegal racing activities that threaten public safety and disrupt order.

MPR Vice Chair Emphasises Urgency of Research in Energy Transition at MPR Goes to Campus

Eddy Soeparno, Vice Chair of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) from the PAN faction, has stressed the critical role of higher education institutions in addressing climate crisis challenges and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.

Food Prices in Depok Surge, Red Bird's Eye Chilli Exceeds Rp120,000/Kg

Food prices in Depok's traditional markets have surged during the second week of Ramadan 2026, with red bird's eye chilli reaching over Rp120,000 per kilogramme and other vegetables experiencing significant increases. Traders attribute the price spikes to inadequate government intervention in stabilising market prices during the holy month, with concerns that hikes may persist through Eid celebrations if authorities do not intervene.

Airlangga: Indonesia-US Trade Tariff Falls to 15%

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced that Indonesia-US trade tariffs have been reduced to 15% from the previous 19%, following US President Donald Trump's implementation of a global 15% tariff rate.

Johan Rosihan Presents Study on Protection of Small-Scale Fishermen

A legal studies presentation at Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Jakarta examined the legal and regulatory framework for protecting Indonesia's 2.2 million small-scale fishermen amid coastal investment expansion.

Alleviating Congestion from Latumenten Flyover Project, Pramono Requests Access Expansion

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has responded to residents' complaints and scrutiny from the Jakarta Regional Parliament regarding severe traffic congestion caused by the Latumenten flyover construction in West Jakarta. He has instructed the Public Works Agency to implement traffic engineering measures, including expanding alternative routes and reopening closed roads.

Viral Convoy of Vehicles with Military Licence Plates Spotted Traversing TransJakarta Skyway

A video showing a convoy of vehicles bearing Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) military licence plates traversing the TransJakarta skyway corridor between Ciledug and Tegal Mampang went viral on social media. Jakarta Metro Police are investigating the incident, focusing on the vehicles' purpose and registration details, though it remains unclear whether police will coordinate with military authorities.

Master's Student from UTA 45 Jakarta Criticises Indonesia's Marine Spatial Governance

A Master's degree student at Jakarta's University of 17 August 1945 presented a critical analysis of Indonesia's marine spatial governance framework, highlighting how small-scale fishermen—numbering 2.2 million—lack adequate protection amidst coastal investment expansion and fragmented regulatory oversight.

Indonesia Enters Elite Club of Global Drug and Food Regulatory Authorities

Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has been designated as a WHO Listed Authority (WLA) in December 2025, becoming the first developing nation to achieve this distinction and placing it among only 30 countries globally with such recognition.

US Imposes High Tariffs on Indonesian Solar Panels; MEMR Responds

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR) has responded to the United States' imposition of countervailing duties of 104.38% on solar cells and panels imported from Indonesia, shortly after both nations signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) on 19 February 2026.

Ibas Emphasises Strategic Role of Islamic Boarding Schools in Nation-Building

Deputy Speaker Ibas visited Pondok Pesantren Syarifatul Ulum during a breaking-of-fast event in Ramadan, emphasising the strategic role of Islamic boarding schools in nation-building and character formation. He highlighted that over 39,000 pesantren nationwide educate millions of students, whom he described as the moral foundation and future leaders of Indonesia, and presented awards to high-achieving students and computer donations.

Anti-Corruption Commission Apprehends Customs Intelligence Chief for Orchestrating Bribery Fund Storage

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of the Intelligence Section of the Directorate General of Customs (DJBC), as a new suspect in a large-scale bribery case involving the manipulation of import clearance procedures. Prasojo allegedly ordered subordinates to store approximately Rp 5.

BPOM Pushes for Domestic Production of Medicines and Vaccines: Here's Why

Indonesia's drug and food regulatory agency (BPOM) is committed to expanding domestic pharmaceutical and vaccine production as part of national resilience efforts. The achievement of WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status for medical product regulation, particularly vaccines, positions Indonesia as the first developing nation whose regulatory system meets the highest international standards, enabling expanded production and global distribution of Indonesian medicines and vaccines.

Key species range in TNBT shrinks: BKSDA Jambi

The Bukit Tigapuluh landscape in Jambi Province, covering 270,000 hectares and home to 10 percent of Sumatra's wild elephants, tigers, and orangutans, is experiencing habitat shrinkage due to industrial timber plantations and agricultural development. BKSDA Jambi has emphasised the need for collaborative landscape governance involving government, conservation groups, businesses, and communities to balance biodiversity protection with economic activities and mitigate human-wildlife conflict.

Business Operators' Response to BNN Statement on Alleged Vape Misuse

Indonesia's electronic cigarette industry association has objected to the National Narcotics Board's (BNN) claim that vape serves as a gateway to drug trafficking, warning that an outright ban could devastate small and medium-sized enterprises and employment in the sector.

Gibran Welcomes Prabowo at Halim Following Visits to USA, Jordan, and UAE

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka welcomed President Prabowo Subianto upon his arrival at Halim Air Force Base in Jakarta on Friday 27 February 2026, concluding a working visit to the United States, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Bloody US-Cuba Firefight at Sea as President Takes a Stand

A deadly naval confrontation between US and Cuban authorities has escalated tensions between Washington and Havana, with Cuban border patrol killing four alleged armed infiltrators after a speedboat registered in Florida opened fire.

Do Not Let Dubious Practices Tarnish the President's Leadership

The article warns against threats and intimidation directed at critics of President Prabowo Subianto's government, arguing that such tactics are orchestrated by unknown actors seeking to damage the president's reputation rather than coming from the president himself.

Russia offers nuclear and aluminium cooperation in West Kalimantan

Russian officials have proposed advanced nuclear power plant technology and aluminium processing investment to West Kalimantan, with Rosatom offering reactor systems and Russian aluminium company Rusal pledging to build processing facilities leveraging the province's substantial bauxite reserves.

Video: BPOM Now Aligns with FDA Standards; Indonesia's Drug Standards Elevated

Indonesia's Food and Drug Regulatory Authority (BPOM) has achieved WHO Listed Authority status, placing it on par with the FDA and internationally recognised regulatory standards. This status enhances Indonesia's capacity to produce pharmaceuticals and vaccines with globally recognised oversight, improving market access for domestic products in international export markets.

Indonesia enhances Komodo protection with conservation action plan

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has launched the Komodo Species and Genetic Resource Action Plan (SRAK), a ten-year conservation strategy valid until 2035 to protect the endangered Komodo dragon endemic to East Nusa Tenggara province.

Deutsche Bank Reveals Impact of Trump Tariffs on Gold Prices, Potential Rise But Limited

Deutsche Bank analysts project that the cancellation of President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs by the US Supreme Court will have a limited positive impact on global gold prices.

Eid 2026 Mudik Exodus: Be Alert to Traffic Congestion Points in Brebes

As Indonesia prepares for the 2026 Eid holiday exodus, Brebes Police have identified multiple traffic congestion hotspots along the North Coast highway (Pantura) and southern routes in Brebes Regency, Central Java, which serves as a key transit point for vehicles heading to East Java and Bali.

Opu Daeng Risadju: Colonial Resistance Activist and Champion of Islamic Learning

Opu Daeng Risadju (1880–1964), born Famajjah, was a female nationalist activist from Sulawesi who became the first woman imprisoned by the Dutch colonial government for political activism. Through her leadership of the Syarikat Islam Indonesia (PSII) party, she spearheaded anti-colonial resistance despite facing both colonial repression and pressure from traditional authorities who stripped her of her noble title.

Disaster Recovery Progress in Sumatra Revealed: Task Force Head Tito Reports Significant Decline in Displaced Persons

Indonesia's Domestic Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian reported significant progress in post-disaster recovery efforts in Sumatra, with displaced persons declining from over 2.1 million to 11,250 as of February 2026. Of 52 affected districts, 38 have returned to normal conditions whilst infrastructure including roads, electricity, and petrol stations have been largely restored, though small and medium enterprises require ongoing support.

CSIS Reveals Risks Behind Zero Percent Textile Tariff Conditions

A Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) researcher has highlighted significant risks in Indonesia's Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) with the United States, which conditions zero-percent textile tariffs on the use of American raw materials. With most Indonesian textile suppliers sourcing 65.1 percent of man-made fibres and 29.

Minister of Marine Affairs Aims to Build Multiple Merah Putih Fisheries Cooperatives in West Nusa Tenggara

The Indonesian Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, has identified West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) as a priority region for expanding Merah Putih Fisheries Cooperatives (KNMP), with the aim of reducing poverty in fishing communities. The cooperatives, equipped with ice-making facilities and cold storage units, are expected to increase fisher productivity and household incomes whilst stabilising market prices for catches.

KPK Detains Seventh Suspect in Counterfeit Goods Import Bribery Case - Budiman Bayu Prasojo

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has officially detained Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of Customs Intelligence Section at the Ministry of Finance's Directorate General of Customs and Excise, as the seventh suspect in an alleged bribery and gratification case related to counterfeit goods imports.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Explains Delays in Madrasah Teacher Allowance Distribution

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has acknowledged delays in distributing professional allowances (TPG) to madrasah teachers, citing ongoing budget allocation issues. Teachers who completed professional education programmes in 2025 face uncertainty over receiving their January and February 2026 allowances, with the ministry setting a tentative deadline of 16 March 2026 for the disbursements.

OJK Enacts Insurance Adjuster Business License for PT Bahtera Adjuster Persada

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has formally enacted an insurance adjuster business licence for PT Bahtera Adjuster Persada, following its name change from PT Bahtera Arung Persada, effective 26 February 2026. The company must now operate in full compliance with prevailing laws and OJK supervisory requirements.

70 Years of Diplomatic Relations, Indonesia–Mongolia Boosts Strategic Trade

Indonesia and Mongolia marked 70 years of diplomatic relations with a Political Consultation Meeting in Jakarta, strengthening their strategic partnership across multiple sectors including trade, defence, agriculture, education, and science and technology. The bilateral trade reached US$56 million in 2025, with Indonesia exporting US$49.

Moments of Drug Trafficker Who Bribed Police Chief Fleeing to Malaysia, Ko Erwin Shot in Middle of Sea

Drug trafficker Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, was arrested at sea by Indonesia's National Police Narcotics Directorate whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia after his activities in Bima were discovered. Ko Erwin, who had allegedly paid billions of rupiah in bribes to former Bima Police Chief AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro, was shot in the leg by police during capture near Pematang Silo waters on 26 February 2026.

KPK Uncovers Safe House Network in Customs Graft Probe

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has exposed a scheme whereby suspects in an alleged import bribery case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise deliberately maintained multiple safe houses to conceal transaction trails and illicit funds.

Minister urges village co-ops to absorb local produce

An Indonesian minister has called for Red and White Village Cooperatives to function as distribution hubs for local agricultural products, acting as intermediaries between farmers, livestock breeders, and fishers whilst stabilising producer prices.

How to Pay Zakat Fitrah for Someone Else: Intention and Guidance

The article explains that Muslims can pay zakat fitrah (obligatory alms before Eid al-Fitr) on behalf of others, such as family members, provided there is proper intention and consent from both parties. The National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has set the 2026 zakat fitrah amount at Rp50,000 per person, which can be paid in cash or kind (approximately 2.5 kilograms of rice), and can be submitted online through the official BAZNAS portal with proper documentation of intention.

Uncertainty clouds India-US trade deal after Trump imposes new 10% tariff

Following the US Supreme Court's invalidation of President Trump's reciprocal tariff policy, a temporary 10 per cent tariff on nearly all countries has created confusion for Indian exporters navigating the India-US trade negotiations.

Entrepreneurs Must Prioritise Coal for Domestic Market

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has exempted certain coal mining companies from production quota cuts in the 2026 budget plan, prioritising their output for domestic energy needs. State-owned enterprises holding PKP2B Generation I agreements and IUP permits, including subsidiaries of PT Bumi Resources and PT Adaro Energy Indonesia, have been excluded from the cuts and are required to meet domestic demand and fuel security targets.

Delpedro and Three Associates Charged with Two-Year Prison Sentence in Incitement Case

The Central Jakarta District Court has prosecuted Delpedro Marhaen, Executive Director of Lokataru, and three associates with a two-year prison sentence for incitement related to demonstrations that turned violent in August 2025.

Sri Sultan demands Free Nutritious Meal programme not carelessly executed

Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, has criticised the quality of meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, particularly during Ramadan when bread alone has been deemed inadequate nutritional intake.

Bulog Absorbs 30 Tonnes of Flood-Affected Rice Paddy from Grobogan; Farmers Urged to Sift and Air-Dry

State-owned rice procurement company Perum Bulog has purchased approximately 30 tonnes of flood-affected rice paddy from Central Java at the standard government purchase price of Rp6,500 per kilogram despite degraded quality from mud contamination.

Pos Properti seizes opportunities amid industry headwinds

PT Pos Properti Indonesia, a subsidiary of state-owned PT Pos Indonesia, is recording performance growth despite ongoing pressures in the property sector stemming from weak purchasing power, interest rates, and funding costs.

Standards, Innovation, and Industrialisation: Three Keys to Becoming an Advanced Industrial Nation

The article argues that Indonesia's 8% economic growth target for 2030 requires a strategic framework combining standards, innovation, and industrialisation as interdependent drivers of productivity. The author contends that standardisation is not merely a technical regulation but an economic policy instrument and "infrastructure of productivity" that enables innovations to scale from laboratory to factory, citing evidence that standardisation contributes 0.7-0.

Cabinet Secretary: Does the Free Nutritious Meal Programme Reduce Education Budget? My Answer is No

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya firmly denied claims that the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) reduces education spending, asserting that all previous education initiatives continue and have been expanded. The government has allocated Rp 17 trillion to renovate approximately 16,000 schools in 2025 alone and increased teacher incentives and allowances, whilst launching new programmes such as Sekolah Rakyat (People's School).

Latest Israeli Attacks Kill Eight People in Gaza

At least eight Palestinians have been killed in a series of Israeli military strikes across Gaza, including airstrikes in Gaza City's Tuffah district and drone attacks on police checkpoints in Khan Younis and near the Bureij refugee camp. The attacks occurred whilst a ceasefire agreement, originally negotiated in October 2025, remains nominally in effect.

Cucun: PKB Present Not for Seasonal Politics, Cadres Must Become Servants of the People

PKB Vice Chairman Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal has emphasised that the party must deliver tangible benefits to society year-round rather than merely during election seasons, stressing that cadres should prioritise serving the people over pursuing positions.

Workers Demand Tax-Free Holiday Allowance, Purbaya Awaits President's Guidance

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has not yet heard the Indonesian Workers' Confederation's (KSPI) proposal to exempt Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR, holiday allowance) from income tax (PPh 21), stating he will await President Prabowo's instructions.

Mahfud Md Responds to Pigai on Free Nutritious Meal Programme Critics Violating Human Rights

Former Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Mahfud Md has responded to Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai's assertion that critics of government projects including the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) violate human rights. Mahfud acknowledged that while Pigai's statement contains some truth, he countered that unprofessional government management—leading to corruption, wastage and imbalanced resource allocation—also constitutes a human rights violation.

V2 Indonesia Launches Aurowave: Professional Audio Solution Ready for Global Markets

V2 Indonesia has officially unveiled aurowave, a new professional audio brand designed to serve commercial and public spaces across Indonesia and Asia-Pacific. The integrated audio solution, launched on 26 February 2025, combines high performance with flexible design and easy installation, supported by complementary technologies including AI speech processing, professional conferencing systems, and precision LED displays.

Indonesia's Energy Ministry Reviews Energy Import Agreement Following US Supreme Court's Cancellation of Trump Tariffs

Indonesia's Deputy Energy Minister Yuliot Tanjung announced that the ministry will conduct a 90-day review of energy import agreements with the United States, including crude oil, fuel, and liquified petroleum gas, following the US Supreme Court's cancellation of President Trump's reciprocal tariff policy.

Airline Ticket Prices Remain High; Transport Minister Announces 18% Discount Scheme

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has announced an 18 per cent discount on economy-class airline tickets ahead of the 2026 Lebaran exodus, as part of government efforts to ease rising ticket costs. The Ministry is coordinating with airlines to deploy additional flights on high-demand routes, whilst simultaneously evaluating ticket price caps and floor rates, including fuel surcharge components that constitute the largest operating costs for carriers. The government estimates approximately 4.

South Sumatra Police Chief Partners with Financial Services Authority to Combat Digital Financial Crime

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has strengthened cooperation with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to combat the rising wave of digital financial crimes including AI-enabled fraud schemes, illegal online lending, and investment scams.

Bank Indonesia Tegal Prepares Rp5.3 Trillion in Cash for Eid 2026

Bank Indonesia's Tegal office is preparing Rp5.3 trillion in cash to meet demand during the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026 period, representing a 9 per cent increase from the previous year's Rp4.8 trillion. The central bank is collaborating with commercial banks and strategic partners to operate 61 currency exchange points across the Pekalongan Residency region, with bookings managed through the PINTAR digital platform to streamline the service and ensure equitable distribution.

Shock Discovery of Severed Head on Ketewel Beach in Bali, Suspected Mutilation Victim

A severed human head and multiple body parts were discovered floating in the Wos River estuary on Ketewel Beach in Gianyar Regency, Bali, on Thursday 26 June. Police suspect the remains may be linked to a mutilation case and are investigating possible connections to the abduction of a Ukrainian national, pending scientific examination. The victim is identified by tattoos of a clock and an image of the Virgin Mary on the arm, with the head showing signs of skin peeling and hair loss.

Bima Has Many Hospitals but Few Specialist Doctors, Health Minister Says Nearly All Regions Affected

Kota Bima in West Nusa Tenggara has multiple hospitals but suffers from a critical shortage of specialist doctors, a problem Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin described as widespread across nearly all Indonesian regions. The minister urged local governments to allocate scholarship funds to send medical graduates back to their regions as specialist doctors, and highlighted the Health Ministry's expansion of teaching hospitals to address the shortage of specialist doctors outside Java.

Digital Economy and Fintech Tax Collections Reach IDR 47.18 Trillion by January 2026

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxation collected IDR 47.18 trillion in tax revenue from the digital economy sector through January 2026, including value-added tax from electronic commerce transactions (IDR 36.69 trillion), cryptocurrency asset tax (IDR 1.93 trillion), fintech lending tax (IDR 4.47 trillion), and government procurement system tax (IDR 4.1 trillion). The cryptocurrency tax collection showed growth from IDR 620.4 billion in 2024 to IDR 796.

Indonesia and Malaysia to coordinate on cross-border wildlife protection

Indonesian Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni and Malaysian Ambassador Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin agreed to strengthen bilateral coordination on wildlife conservation, recognising that endangered species such as Bornean orangutans, elephants, and proboscis monkeys move freely across the shared border regardless of administrative boundaries.

Video: OCBC's Premier Banking Sharia Service, Complemented by Waqf Facilities

OCBC's Sharia Unit Head, Mahendra Koesumawardhana, has confirmed the commitment of OCBC's Sharia Business Unit (UUS) to develop Islamic financial and banking services in Indonesia. The bank is launching OCBC Premier Banking UUS solution with waqf (charitable endowment) facilities through continuous investment allocation, underpinned by three pillars: financial equity, social responsibility, and investment transparency.

One Year of Pegadaian Gold Bank Strengthens National Ecosystem

Pegadaian's Gold Bank (Bullion Bank) marks one year since its official launch by President Prabowo Subianto on 26 February 2025, having grown to manage 40.51 tonnes of gold and establishing itself as Indonesia's leading integrated gold financial services platform. The service expansion includes gold deposits, working capital loans, corporate gold custody, and gold trading, supported by new legislation and digital innovation including the Tring! application.

Agrinas to Purchase 45,000 Units of Locally-Produced Trucks: Details Revealed

State-owned food company PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara (APN) has agreed to procure 45,000 locally-manufactured trucks and pickup vehicles from Indonesian producers—Mitsubishi Fuso (20,600 units), Foton Motor's Aumark (13,500 units), Hino Motors (10,000 units), and Isuzu Motors' Canter (900 units)—as part of its Red and White Village/Ward Cooperative (KDKMP) programme.

Jokowi's Response on Electoral Law Material Testing at Constitutional Court

Two advocates have filed a constitutional challenge requesting the Constitutional Court add explicit restrictions preventing the incumbent president and vice president's family members from running in presidential elections, citing risks of dynastic politics and conflict of interest.

Industries Under BPOM Supervision Record Revenue Up to Rp10 Trillion

The head of Indonesia's drug and food regulatory agency (BPOM), Taruna Ikrar, announced that industries under BPOM supervision contribute 30-40% to GDP, generating between Rp6 trillion and Rp10 trillion annually. The BPOM oversees approximately 1.76 million industries, with 55,000 large-scale enterprises generating hundreds of trillions in revenue.

Baznas: Zakat Not Used for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia's National Zakat Board (Baznas) has clarified that zakat, infaq, and sedaqah (ZIS) funds collected from donors are not used to finance the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Baznas emphasises that ZIS funds are allocated exclusively according to Islamic law (sharia) to eight specific categories of beneficiaries and cannot be diverted for other purposes, whilst the Free Nutritious Meals programme is funded separately through the state budget.

BPOM Achieves WHO Listed Authority Status, Strengthens Indonesia's Health Diplomacy

Indonesia's pharmaceutical and food regulatory authority, BPOM, has achieved WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status by the end of 2025, marking a significant milestone in the nation's health governance. This recognition confirms that BPOM's drug and food oversight systems meet international standards equivalent to those of developed nations, enhancing Indonesia's reputation and creating opportunities for domestic health and food products to gain global market confidence.

Indian court acquits Delhi opposition leader Kejriwal in corruption case

An Indian court has acquitted former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and 23 others of corruption charges related to alleged kickbacks from liquor licence allocations, a case Kejriwal claimed was politically motivated by the Modi government. Kejriwal, a prominent critic of Prime Minister Modi, had spent several months in jail following his March 2024 arrest but was cleared on Friday after lengthy judicial proceedings, whilst his party lost Delhi elections in February 2025.

Klaten Gedhe Market Supplied with 4,700 Tonnes of SPHP Rice, February as Final Distribution Month

Perum Bulog's Surakarta branch is distributing 4,700 tonnes of stabilised supply and food price (SPHP) rice to Klaten's Pasar Gedhe in two shipments in late February to secure rice availability ahead of Eid 2026. The distribution, set at a controlled price of Rp12,500 per kilogram compared to local medium rice at Rp14,000, represents the final scheduled allocation for the month, with future distributions pending new government directives from the National Food Agency.

Strengthening Fiscal Resilience Amidst Global Conflict

Indonesia faces mounting fiscal challenges as global conflicts intensify, with war casualties reaching record highs and economic costs exceeding $19 trillion annually—representing 13 per cent of global GDP.

Metro Police Chief Issues Critical Directives for Student Protest Security, Orders Field Narrative Documentation

The Metro Jakarta Police Chief (Kapolda Metro Jaya) Irjen Pol Asep Edi Suheri issued 18 critical directives to police personnel ahead of a student protest at Police Headquarters on Friday, 27 February, regarding the death of a 14-year-old student allegedly killed by a Brimob officer in Maluku.

Crash! Electric Vehicle Crushed by Excavator Arm in Bintaro Permai, South Jakarta

An electric vehicle was damaged when crushed by the arm and boom of an excavator being transported on a trailer beneath the Bintaro Permai toll road in South Jakarta on Thursday evening. Police confirmed no casualties occurred, with the incident resulting from the truck driver attempting to manoeuvre the excavator whilst the electric vehicle driver allegedly proceeded forward. Both parties have agreed to settle amicably without compensation claims.

Controller Actively Divests Hillcon (HILL) Shares as Share Price Plummets

PT Hillcon Tbk's controlling shareholder, Hillcon Equity Management, has reduced its stake by selling 27.887 million shares on 26 February 2026 at Rp50 per share, reducing ownership from 41.61% to 41.42% of voting rights. Despite the divestment, Hillcon Equity Management remains the controlling shareholder with its stake still above 40%. The announcement coincides with a sharp 8.11% decline in HILL's share price to Rp34 per share, bringing market capitalisation to Rp501.2 billion.

Nearly Complete: Riau Regional Police Finish 22 Bridges for Rural Communities

Riau Regional Police have completed 22 bridges across Riau Province as part of the Presisi Red-White Bridge programme, with five additional bridges in final stages of construction. The Riau Police Disaster Task Force, comprising 250 personnel, has been working to improve access and safety for rural communities whilst supporting education and local economic development.

Kitchen of Free Nutritious Meals Programme to Receive IDR 500 Million Daily

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced that each Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) will receive an average allocation of IDR 500 million daily to operate the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG), with 24,122 SPPG units distributed across the country.

Rescue and Rehabilitation Task Force Head Reports Significant Decline in Sumatra Displaced Persons

Interior Minister Tito Karnavian reported significant progress in post-disaster reconstruction across Sumatra, with displaced persons numbers declining from over 2.1 million to just 11,250 as of February 2026. Of 52 affected districts, 38 have returned to normal conditions, though authorities continue addressing residual challenges including infrastructure repairs and economic recovery for small and medium enterprises.

Video: Village Cooperative Target: Village Economic Movement – Creating Employment Opportunities

Deputy Minister for Villages and Disadvantaged Regions, Ahmad Riza Patria, has confirmed there are no plans to close modern retail outlets in villages, but rather aims to prevent new retail establishments through development of Red and White Village/Community Cooperatives (KDMP).

All Flood and Landslide Victims in West Sumatra Have Left Evacuation Tents

The head of the task force for post-disaster reconstruction and rehabilitation in Sumatra reported that all flood and landslide victims in West Sumatra have vacated emergency shelters and relocated to temporary housing facilities. Across the three affected provinces, the number of evacuees has dropped significantly from over 2.1 million to 11,250 people as of 25 February 2026, with reconstruction efforts showing positive progress despite ongoing challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Four Youths Arrested in Depok and Bogor Over Drug Trafficking; 1.3 kg Synthetic Tobacco Seized

Four teenagers have been arrested by police in Depok and Bogor for involvement in the distribution of Class I synthetic tobacco narcotics, with a total of 1.3 kilograms of contraband seized across multiple locations. The operation, conducted over two days from 20-21 February 2026 by the Medan Satria Police Criminal Investigation Unit, resulted in the apprehension of four suspects aged 19, who are suspected of operating a synthetic tobacco trafficking network in border regions.

Before the Mudik Season, Do Not Neglect Headlight Maintenance

As the Mudik season approaches, vehicle headlight maintenance is critical for road safety, particularly during adverse weather conditions. According to officials from Astra Peugeot, yellowed or cloudy headlights reduce light intensity and visibility, endangering drivers especially during rain or night driving. Professional maintenance at authorised service centres, including polishing and protective coating, is recommended to preserve headlight clarity and ensure safer travel.

Arrangement of HR Rasuna Said Road East Side Using "Complete Street" Concept

South Jakarta administration is planning a comprehensive renovation of the east side of HR Rasuna Said Road using the "complete street" concept, which prioritises inclusive shared space for all road users including pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users, and motorists.

Alfamart-Indomaret Network Expands to 44,366 Outlets Amid Government Review of Retail Licensing

The Indonesian government is reviewing licensing procedures for new modern retail outlets, seeking to protect traditional shops and small businesses in rural areas whilst balancing the employment and access benefits provided by minimarket chains. Alfamart and Indomaret have demonstrated aggressive expansion, with combined growth of over 10,900 outlets since 2020, and the sector has created nearly 79,000 additional jobs over the same period.

KPK Detains Customs Officer Budiman Bayu in Counterfeit Goods Import Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of the Customs Intelligence Section at the Directorate of Enforcement and Investigation under the Ministry of Finance, as the seventh suspect in a bribery and gratification case involving the importation of counterfeit goods.

Achieving WHO Listed Authority Status: BPOM Meets Nine Criteria

The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has been officially designated as a WHO Listed Authority (WLA) by the World Health Organization, recognising its medical products regulatory system as meeting the highest global standards. This makes Indonesia the first developing nation to achieve such recognition, placing BPOM on par with leading regulators such as Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration.

43 Students and Teachers Poisoned by Free Nutritious Meal Scheme in Cimahi, SPPG Apologises

A food safety incident affected 43 students and teachers in Cimahi after consuming meals from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) scheme on 25 February 2026, with symptoms including vomiting occurring within hours of consumption. The head of the Karangmekar 2 Nutritional Service Unit (SPPG) has issued an apology and stated that food samples have been secured for laboratory testing whilst the Health and Environment Department investigates the cause of the contamination.

ASDP Plans New Wharf for Palembang-Muntok Crossing

The Indonesia Port Corporation (ASDP) is planning to construct a new wharf at Tanjung Kalian Port in West Bangka to improve ferry crossing efficiency between Palembang and Bangka. Regent Markus indicated that the new facility would accelerate crossing routes and facilitate goods flow to Bangka Island, with the local government coordinating with ASDP and neighbouring provincial authorities to ensure smooth operations during the 2026 Lebaran exodus.

Lemomo Affirms Regulatory Compliance and Commitment to Building Public Trust

Lemomo, an Indonesian e-commerce platform operating under PT Lemomo International Indonesia, has issued an official statement reaffirming its regulatory compliance and commitment to transparency in response to public discourse on digital economy oversight.

Lemomo Assures Operational Compliance with Regulations; Blind Box: Shopping Experience, Not Gambling

E-commerce platform Lemomo has issued an official statement clarifying its regulatory compliance and operational practices, emphasising that all activities constitute legitimate product purchases rather than gambling mechanisms. The company operates under PT Lemomo International Indonesia with proper licensing, and describes its blind box feature as a marketing presentation method designed to enhance shopping engagement whilst maintaining transparent minimum item values and consumer protections.

Cilincing Residents Rely on Free Parks but Lament Neglected Condition of Taman Lestari

Residents of Cilincing in North Jakarta have grown dependent on free public parks as alternatives to expensive commercial playgrounds, but the Taman Lestari park is in poor condition with safety hazards for children. The park, approximately 20 by 10 metres, features cracked cement slides, broken benches, unpaved red soil floors prone to flooding, and inadequate lighting, reflecting broader challenges in Jakarta's limited green space infrastructure for child development.

Four Million Land Plots Remain Uncertified Until February

Indonesia's Ministry of Agraria and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency reports that 122 million of approximately 126 million land plots have been certified as of February, with efforts underway to complete certification of the remaining 4 million plots.

Prosecutors Seek Two-Year Prison Sentences for Activists Accused of Inciting August Demonstrations

The Public Prosecutor's Office has sought two-year prison sentences for Delpedro Marhaen, director of the Lokataru Foundation, and three other activists, accusing them of electronically inciting the August 2025 demonstrations that descended into riots and resulted in damage to public facilities and injuries to law enforcement personnel.

Budget Commission Chair Addresses Free Nutritious Meal Programme Drawing on Education Funds

The Chair of the House of Representatives Budget Commission (Banggar), Said Abdullah, has defended the allocation of Rp 268 trillion to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme for 2026, categorised within the education budget function, stating that the budget was formally approved through the State Budget Law without concealment.

Singapore to Grant 30,000 New Citizenships Annually Over Next Five Years

Singapore's government will accept up to 30,000 new citizens annually over the next five years as part of a demographic adjustment strategy, compared to approximately 25,000 granted last year. The city-state will also increase permanent resident (PR) intake to around 40,000 per year from the previous 35,000, whilst carefully calibrating immigration levels based on fertility rates, infrastructure capacity, and social integration considerations.

INDEF: Indonesia at Risk of Being "Steered" Following Trade Agreement with the US

A researcher at the INDEF think tank has warned that Indonesia's recently concluded Agreement on Reciprocal Tariff (ART) with the United States may significantly constrain national economic policy-making and create trade imbalances.

Commerce Minister Inspects Gambir Market in Tebing Tinggi

Commerce Minister Budi Santoso inspected Gambir Market in Tebing Tinggi, North Sumatra, to assess the availability of basic foodstuffs during Ramadan and ahead of Eid al-Fitr. The minister found that prices remain stable, with chicken at 33,000 rupiah per kilogramme, beef at 130,000 per kilogramme, and local shallots at 32,000 per kilogramme, though traders raised concerns about food transport costs and increases in imported food prices.

Lestari Moerdijat: Building Disaster Preparedness to Realise National Values of Society

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat emphasised that building disaster preparedness is intrinsically linked to realising the values of Indonesia's Four Pillars of Nationhood, framing disaster response as a collective responsibility that reflects social solidarity and constitutional commitment to protecting citizens.

Implementation of PP Tunas: Safeguarding Children's Digital Security Without Stifling Freedom of Expression

As the Indonesian government accelerates implementation of Government Regulation Number 17 of 2025 on Child Safety in Digital Spaces (PP Tunas), concerns are mounting about potential impacts on youth digital rights.

Jakarta Provincial Government Distributes Basic Needs Assistance for February 2026

The Jakarta Provincial Government distributed basic needs assistance (PKD) for February 2026 to 205,170 beneficiaries on 25 February, comprising recipients of the Jakarta Children's Card (KAJ), Jakarta Elderly Card (KLJ), and Jakarta Disability Card (KPDJ). Additionally, 4,643 new beneficiaries were registered and will have bank accounts and ATM cards opened for them. The provincial government conducted data matching with various sources to verify beneficiary eligibility and current status.

Is Islamic Financing Expensive or Cheap? Here's the Explanation

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) emphasises that the cost-effectiveness of Islamic financing depends not merely on margin figures but on the choice of contract structures, primarily murabahah (cost-plus sale) and musyarakah (partnership). As of end-2025, murabahah accounts for 46.83 per cent and musyarakah for 45.

Courier Delivery Volumes Predicted to Rise Significantly

Indonesia's courier and logistics sector is expected to experience significant growth driven by expanding e-commerce and rising demand, with volumes particularly surging during peak seasons such as Ramadan and promotional campaigns. SiCepat Ekspres is strengthening its operational capacity by inaugurating a new sorting facility in West Jakarta to manage anticipated volume increases whilst maintaining service quality and delivery timelines.

Jokowi on Electoral Law Review: Every Citizen Holds Equal Constitutional Standing

Former President Joko Widodo has commented on a constitutional challenge filed by two advocates seeking to ban the families of sitting presidents and vice-presidents from standing in presidential elections. Widodo affirmed that every citizen possesses equal constitutional standing and has the right to file legal challenges to laws with the Constitutional Court, whilst expressing respect for whatever the court decides.

Jokowi Warns of Major AI Revolution Within 5-15 Years

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo has predicted a major artificial intelligence revolution within the next 5-15 years that will fundamentally transform human life, urging all nations including Indonesia to prepare comprehensively through infrastructure, human resources development, and regulatory frameworks.

National Food Agency Claims Strategic Food Prices Beginning to Stabilise and Decline

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) reports that strategic staple food prices have begun to stabilise and decline in the first week of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, with monitoring showing positive market conditions heading towards Eid al-Fitr. The government is implementing comprehensive food assistance programmes, including distributing food and subsidised rice to 33.2 million beneficiary families in March 2026, with a total budget allocation of Rp11.92 trillion.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Acknowledges Madrasah Teacher Allowances Have Not Been Disbursed: A Procedural Matter

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has acknowledged that professional allowances for madrasah teachers covering January to February 2026 have not been disbursed, attributing the delay to procedural requirements.

Tourism Growth Drives Developers to Build Integrated Commercial Zones in Batam

Rising tourist arrivals in Batam are reshaping commercial property development, with developers moving beyond conventional shops to create integrated 24-hour activity hubs. Tana Group's AURUM project in Bengkong exemplifies this shift, featuring a Sobiz (Shop, Office, and Business) complex designed as a Neo Retro-themed urban hub with an artificial lake, art installations, dining areas, and recreational facilities.

Jaecoo Offers Lock Price Scheme for J5 EV Below IDR 300 Million

Jaecoo Indonesia is maintaining the price of its J5 EV electric SUV below IDR 299.9 million whilst awaiting government clarification on electric vehicle incentives for 2026. The company is offering a lock price scheme that allows early purchasers to avoid price increases before delivery, which is scheduled to commence in April 2026.

Chinese Satellite Imagery Reveals Presence of US Stealth Fighter Jets at Israeli Air Base

Chinese aerospace technology company MizarVision released satellite photographs revealing the deployment of approximately 11 US Air Force F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets at Ofda air base in southern Israel, along with Patriot air defence batteries. The deployment represents a significant and unusual escalation of US military presence in the Middle East, with the Israeli Broadcasting Authority confirming the visual documentation of approximately 12 American fighter jets at the Israeli air base.

KPK Detains Budiman Bayu, Head of Customs Intelligence Unit at Finance Ministry Over Import Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Budiman Bayu Prasojo, head of the Customs Investigation and Prosecution Intelligence Division at the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DJBC), on charges of gratification linked to goods importation. Prasojo allegedly instructed a subordinate to collect bribes from business owners and importers since November 2024, which were stored in safe houses in Jakarta and Tangerang.

GOTO Discloses Google Investment Trail and Status of Nadiem Makarim

PT Goto Gojek Tokopedia Tbk has issued an official statement clarifying Google's investment history, corporate governance, and the status of Gojek founder Nadiem Makarim, who relinquished all positions at the company in 2019 after serving as Minister of Education, Culture, Research and Technology. Google's investments, primarily made before 2019, were conducted as part of broader funding rounds alongside other global investors and Google never held majority or controlling shareholder positions.

KPK Detains Customs Official as New Suspect in Import Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Budiman Bayu Prasojo, Head of Customs Intelligence Section at the Directorate General of Customs, as a new suspect in an import bribery scheme. The investigation centres on over Rp 5.19 billion in cash discovered in safe houses, allegedly derived from bribes paid by importers and manufacturers seeking favourable customs clearance treatment.

Chronology and Causes of Open War Between Muslim Nations Pakistan and Afghanistan

Escalating military tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have erupted into open conflict, with Pakistan launching airstrikes on Kabul and Kandahar on 27 February 2026 following attacks by Afghan forces on Pakistani border troops.

Global Institution Evaluations Become Momentum for Capital Market Governance Reform

Paramadina University held a virtual discussion on Indonesia's capital market prospects following MSCI and Moody's evaluations, examining strategies to restore global investor confidence amid economic pressures. Economists warned that Indonesia experienced significant investment portfolio outflows of approximately USD 14 billion throughout 2025 to Q3 2026, reflecting growing caution among foreign investors regarding domestic policy risks and economic governance quality.

PDIP Proposes BGN Reduce Coverage of Free Nutritious Meal Beneficiaries

PDI Perjuangan politician Said Abdullah has called for a reassessment of the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme, proposing a reduction in beneficiary coverage at each communal kitchen from 3,000 students to between 1,500 and 2,000 to improve food hygiene and distribution efficiency.

The impact of rare disease aHUS on immunity and kidney health

Doctors have highlighted the dangers of atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), a rare disease that damages small blood vessels and can rapidly progress to permanent kidney failure if not promptly diagnosed and treated. The condition, which affects all age groups but strikes hardest in infants and young children, presents diagnostic challenges as it requires elimination of similar conditions rather than a single definitive test, making early detection critical for patient outcomes.

Limited Budget Leaves Children's Play Area in Cilincing Neglected

Jakarta's Taman Lestari in Cilincing, located beneath Jembatan Lestari, struggles with deteriorating facilities including rusted equipment, broken slides, and damaged benches due to budget constraints. Although renovation plans have been proposed, they remain postponed due to competing budgetary priorities and insufficient funding, with maintenance challenges compounded by residents' lack of participation in upkeep and littering issues.

Four Migrant Workers from West Nusa Tenggara Report Torture by Employer in Libya, Demanding $7,000 Ransom

Four Indonesian migrant workers (PMIs) from West Nusa Tenggara have made public allegations of torture and abuse by their employer in Libya, with a video circulating on TikTok showing them pleading for repatriation. The Indonesian Embassy in Tripoli is negotiating with the employment agency, which is demanding $7,000 compensation per worker before releasing the workers' passports, a condition authorities deem unreasonably burdensome.

Two Red-Plated Alphard Vehicles Travel on Transjakarta "Sky Lane" with Police Escort; Police Investigating

A viral video shows two Alphard vehicles with red government licence plates using the exclusive Transjakarta bus lane on corridor 13 whilst being escorted by police motorcycle units, prompting public concern about potential protocol violations. Jakarta Metro Police Traffic Director stated they are investigating the incident to determine the purpose of the vehicles and verify their registration details. The investigation is ongoing and authorities have not yet disclosed their findings.

Mataram Residents Enthusiastically Exchange New Currency, Arriving Before Banks Open

Residents in Mataram, Lombok, have shown strong enthusiasm for exchanging new banknote denominations through Bank Mega and other participating institutions. The process, coordinated through Bank Indonesia's PINTAR application, has been swift and efficient, with citizens travelling from surrounding areas to take advantage of the currency exchange service.

Pertamina Patra Niaga invites media leaders to observe aviation fuel distribution at Halim AFT

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga invited editors-in-chief from national media and the Indonesian Government Communication Agency to observe aviation fuel (avtur) quality inspection and distribution processes at its Aviation Fuel Terminal (AFT) in Halim Perdanakusuma, Jakarta.

East Jakarta Administration Closes Two Access Points to Cawang Urban Forest Following Discovery of Contraceptive Devices

The East Jakarta municipal government has permanently sealed two access points to Cawang Urban Forest in Makasar following the discovery of contraceptive devices and viral social media videos showing suspicious nighttime gatherings. Authorities will increase surveillance through additional lighting, installation of spotlights, and joint patrols involving the Civil Service Police, police, and military to ensure the green space is used for positive community activities.

KPK Detains Budiman Bayu, Seventh Suspect in Counterfeit Goods Import Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Budiman Bayu Prasojo, a section head in the Customs Intelligence unit of Indonesia's Finance Ministry's Directorate General of Customs and Excise, as the seventh suspect in an ongoing bribery and gratification case involving counterfeit goods imports.

Trees in Cawang City Park Trimmed for Better External Visibility

East Jakarta City Government has undertaken pruning and maintenance of vegetation at Cawang City Park to improve sightlines from outside and address public safety concerns. The trimming initiative, which does not involve felling trees but rather clearing dense branches, is part of a broader security response to reports of groups congregating in unsupervised areas of the park, complemented by additional lighting and increased night-time patrols by municipal police and community safety units.

PTPP Secures New Contracts Worth Rp 2.76 Trillion in January 2026

PT Pembangunan Perumahan (PTPP), a major Indonesian state-owned construction company, secured new contracts valued at Rp 2.76 trillion in January 2026, representing a 120.8 per cent increase year-on-year. The contracts are predominantly funded by government sources (73.31 per cent) and BUMN projects (25.20 per cent), with the largest contributions coming from the building sector (43.28 per cent) and roads and bridges (26.64 per cent).

Iranian Delegation Visits UIII, Establishes Educational and Cultural Cooperation

A delegation from the Iranian Embassy visited Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) in Depok to establish educational and cultural cooperation programmes for 2026. The agreements include student exchanges, art exhibitions, the creation of a permanent Iranian calligraphy mural on campus, and UIII's participation in Iran's Contemporary Islamic Civilisation Festival.

Extraordinary OIC Meeting: Saudi Arabia Reaffirms Support for Two-State Solution

Saudi Arabia's Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji addressed an extraordinary meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah to discuss developments regarding Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.

Broadcasting Law and Press Freedom

The Indonesian Broadcasting Law No. 32 of 2022 is undergoing revision following a decade of parliamentary discussion, sparking public debate about balancing technological adaptation with press freedom protections.

Rosatom Offers Safe and Clean Nuclear Power Investment to West Kalimantan

Russian nuclear energy company Rosatom has proposed two nuclear power plant (PLTN) technology options—large modular reactors and small modular reactors (SMR)—for investment in West Kalimantan, claiming proven safety standards and operational precedent across multiple countries including Turkey, China, Egypt, and India. The company highlighted its floating nuclear technology, unique globally and operational in Russia for seven years, as particularly suitable for remote and coastal regions.

East Jakarta City Government Closes Two Illegal Access Points to Cawang City Forest Following Misuse

The East Jakarta city government has permanently closed two illegal access points to Cawang City Forest on Jalan Mayjen Soetoyo following reports of the area being misused for illicit activities. The closure, undertaken in coordination with the Parks and City Forest Sub-Department and community security pillars, includes concrete sealing of entry points, fence repairs, enhanced lighting, and nightly surveillance operations to restore the public space to its intended recreational purpose.

Vice President Gibran welcomes President Prabowo following visits to several nations

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka greeted President Prabowo Subianto upon his return to Jakarta on Friday after completing official visits to the United States, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates. During his tour, President Prabowo secured a reciprocal trade agreement with the US granting zero-tariff access for 1,819 Indonesian products including palm oil, coffee, and cocoa, whilst also advancing strategic technology partnerships and discussing Middle East peace initiatives.

Ko Erwin's Nearly Flawless Escape

The Indonesian National Police arrested Erwin Iskandar, alias Ko Erwin, a major narcotics kingpin from West Nusa Tenggara, as his traditional vessel was about to enter Malaysian territorial waters whilst attempting to flee the country.

Housing Ministry Prepares Extended Tenure Scheme for Subsidised Housing up to 30 Years

The Indonesian Ministry of Housing is introducing an extended mortgage tenure scheme allowing subsidised housing loans to be repaid over 30 years instead of the previous maximum of 15–20 years, significantly reducing monthly instalments for low and middle-income households. The programme includes a 1 per cent down payment requirement and government subsidies covering VAT and initial costs of Rp25 million, aiming to expand affordable housing access under President Prabowo's administration.

Iraqi Militia Orders Members to Prepare for Prolonged Iran-US War

Kataib Hizbullah, an Iran-backed Iraqi militia group, has instructed its fighters to prepare for a lengthy conflict in Iran should the United States launch a military attack. The militia warned Washington of "major losses" if it initiates war in the region and indicated it would abandon restraint and intervene militarily if Iran is attacked, marking a significant shift from their non-engagement during the 2024 Iran-Israel conflict.

Rupiah Closed Weaker, US Dollar Exchange Rate Rises to Rp16,760

The Indonesian rupiah closed weaker against the US dollar on Friday 27 February 2026, depreciating 0.06% to Rp16,760/US$, driven by external sentiment including improved US jobless claims and rising liquidity demand following weakness in US equities.

US dairy, pork and digital industries welcome trade agreement with Indonesia

The United States and Indonesia have reached a reciprocal trade agreement announced by President Donald Trump on 19 February 2026, which eliminates tariff barriers on over 99 percent of US products entering the Indonesian market. American industry associations, including those representing dairy, beef, and pork producers, have welcomed the accord, citing Indonesia's population of over 280 million and strategic market opportunities worth an estimated USD 400-500 million in the near term.

BKSDA Jambi States Key Species Habitat in TNBT Shrinking

The Jambi Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has warned that the ecosystem in Bukit Tigapuluh National Park is shrinking due to human activity, reducing habitat space for endangered Sumatran elephants, tigers, and orang-utans whilst increasing wildlife-human conflict. The 270,000-hectare landscape across Tebo and Tanjung Jabung Barat regencies is critical for conserving 10 per cent of lowland Sumatran elephant populations and 10 per cent of wild Sumatran tiger populations.

Seven Outstanding AI Features of Samsung Galaxy S26: The 'Next AI Phone' Revolution

Samsung Electronics Indonesia has officially launched the Samsung Galaxy S26 flagship line, branded as "The Next AI Phone", featuring advanced artificial intelligence integration designed to proactively understand user needs without complex instructions.

PKS Legislator: Constitutional Challenge to Bar President's Family from Presidential Race Aligns with Anti-Corruption Spirit

A PKS member of the House of Representatives Commission II has endorsed a constitutional challenge to the Electoral Law seeking to prohibit the sitting president and vice president's family members from running in presidential elections. The legislator views the petition as embodying the spirit of the 1998 anti-corruption, anti-collusion, and anti-nepotism movement, and suggests such restrictions could also apply to regional elections.

Coordinating Ministry for People's Empowerment invites SMEs to enliven 2026 Jejak Jajanan Nusantara Festival

The Coordinating Ministry for People's Empowerment will hold the Jejak Jajanan Nusantara Festival (JJN) from 6–8 March 2026 at the Gelora Bung Karno sports complex in Jakarta, aiming to strengthen small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and preserve Indonesian culinary heritage. The ministry is offering free booth spaces to selected SMEs selling traditional snacks from across Indonesia, along with local textile and fashion vendors, with registration open until 28 February 2026.

Golkar Warns East Kalimantan Governor Amid Public Scrutiny

The Golkar Party's General Secretary Muhammad Sarmuji has stated that the party has cautioned East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud following public backlash over his comments regarding a state vehicle purchase worth Rp8.5 billion. Sarmuji emphasised that whilst the purchase was approved in 2024 and complies with Interior Ministry regulations, the governor should measure spending decisions against the conditions faced by ordinary citizens rather than personal standards.

2027 El Niño Predicted, Government Accelerates Rice Field Expansion Programme

The Indonesian Government is accelerating its national rice field expansion programme in anticipation of El Niño occurring in 2027, with Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining food security amid climate change pressures. The Government targets 225,000 hectares of new rice fields by 2025, with 110,000 hectares currently under development across 19 provinces, and plans to increase the 2026 target to 250,000 hectares.

US Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R Ford Arrives in Israel, Attack on Iran Countdown?

The US Navy's USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier has arrived in Israel on 27 February 2026, escalating tensions between the United States and Iran amid fresh negotiations in Geneva. President Donald Trump has ordered the carrier deployment as part of a major military buildup and is considering military action against Iran, with analysts suggesting an attack is merely a matter of time.

Flamingo Era: A Story of Love, Sacrifice, and the Power of Motherhood

The "flamingo era" is a viral term describing the demanding phase of motherhood characterised by emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion as women juggle childcare, household duties, and often careers. Drawing from developmental psychology's concept of role transition, the term uses the flamingo's resilience and symbolic colouration as a metaphor for mothers who lose their vitality through fatigue but retain the potential to recover and flourish.

Woman in Viral Dine-and-Dash Case Apprehended Without ID, Jakarta Social Services Struggle to Locate Family

A woman identified as Nani Sitorus became viral after being caught multiple times leaving restaurants without paying in Central Jakarta. Upon arrest on 26 February 2026, she was found without identification documents, complicating attempts by the Jakarta Central Social Services to trace her identity and locate family members. Social services officials have transferred her to a mental health facility based on initial assessments suggesting psychological disturbance.

Prevent prostitution, Jakarta East municipal authorities install floodlights in Cawang City Park

East Jakarta municipal authorities have installed two floodlights in Cawang City Park to prevent alleged prostitution and other illicit activities in the public green space. The measures, which also include sealing off illegal access points and intensifying night patrols involving civic police and security forces, follow public complaints and social media reports of inappropriate behaviour in the park after dark.

Industry Players Submit Proposals for Implementation of Child Protection Regulation

Digital industry players have submitted six concrete proposals regarding the implementation of Government Regulation Number 17 of 2025 on Electronic System Management for Child Protection (PP TUNAS), calling for proportionate, risk-based rules with clear legal certainty.

Measles Cases in January Show Increase Over Past Three Years

Indonesia's Ministry of Health reported a significant upward trend in suspected measles cases in January, with 7,060 cases reported in January 2026, compared to approximately 2,000 in January 2024 and 5,000 in January 2025. Overall measles cases surged 147 per cent between 2024 and 2025, with 69 deaths recorded in 2025 across 16 provinces.

Live Now! Discussing the Impact of WHO Recognition on Indonesia's Healthcare Industry

Indonesia's Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) has received WHO Listed Authority (WLA) status for the regulation of medical products, particularly vaccines, positioning it alongside leading global regulatory authorities. This recognition carries strategic implications for Indonesia's pharmaceutical industry, including strengthened domestic production, enhanced export prospects, supply chain resilience, and improved standing in global health diplomacy.

East Kalimantan Health Office Strengthens Free Nutritious Meals Programme Through Regional Training

East Kalimantan's Health Office is conducting intensive regional training to reinforce food safety and nutritional standards for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in schools. The programme is positioned as a strategic national investment in children's health, intelligence and productivity, requiring strict adherence to food hygiene and nutritional standards, with trainers adapted to local infrastructure conditions across the geographically diverse province.

Indonesia reviews agreement on energy imports from the United States

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources announced a 90-day review of its energy import agreement with the United States following the US Supreme Court's decision to invalidate President Trump's reciprocal tariff policy. Deputy Minister Yuliot clarified that while the Court cancelled the reciprocal tariff programme, the bilateral energy import agreement worth $15 billion remains valid and may be subject to further implementation discussions during the review period.

Netflix Withdraws from Warner Bros. Discovery Acquisition as Paramount Skydance Leads Bidding

Netflix has withdrawn from its bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, determining that Paramount Skydance's revised offer of $31 per share no longer provides attractive financial value. The decision clears the path for a potential merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery, pending regulatory approval from federal antitrust authorities who have expressed concerns about reduced market competition in Hollywood.

Deputy Public Works Minister: Phase II Community Schools targeted for completion by end of June 2026

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Public Works, Diana Kusumastuti, has announced that Phase II of the Community Schools construction programme is targeted for completion by the end of June 2026, ahead of the 2026–2027 academic year. Currently, the Ministry is executing construction at 104 sites across 102 regencies/cities in 32 provinces, with work progressing at 7.70 per cent as of the announcement, with varying stages from foundation work to structural elements.

Situbondo District Court imposes strict maximum fine of 3 million rupiah for illegal street racing

The Situbondo District Court in East Java has taken firm action against illegal street racing by imposing a maximum fine of 3 million rupiah (approximately £150) on offenders, with 73 racers sentenced today. The court's decision aims to deter both participants and spectators of the dangerous practice, which poses safety risks to road users; motorcycles of those who fail to pay within seven days will be seized and auctioned by the public prosecutor's office.

Controversy Over Indian Pickup Imports: DFSK Ready to Meet Local Demand

A controversy has emerged over the government's plan to import pickup trucks from Indian manufacturers Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra for village cooperatives, despite domestic production capacity. DFSK, an Indonesian pickup manufacturer, has offered to supply the Red and White Village Cooperative instead, citing its 25,000-unit annual production capacity and nationwide service network.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Reports Significant Progress in Sumatra Disaster Recovery, Refugee Numbers Decline Substantially

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian, heading the Acceleration Task Force for Reconstruction and Rehabilitation following natural disasters in Sumatra, reported major progress with refugee numbers dropping dramatically from 2.1 million to just 11,250 people across three provinces as of 25 February 2026.

Drug Trafficking Suspect Koko Erwin Arrested Before Entering Malaysian Waters

Indonesian National Police's Directorate of Narcotics Crime (Bareskrim) arrested suspected major drug trafficker Erwin alias Koko Erwin just before he illegally crossed into Malaysian territorial waters. The arrest follows investigations linking Erwin to a narcotics distribution network in West Nusa Tenggara involving corruption of police personnel, including a former regional police chief.

KPK Reveals Source of Rp5 Billion in Five Suitcases in Customs Import Bribery Case

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Rp5 billion in cash discovered in five suitcases during a raid on a safe house is linked to illegal activities in customs and excise smuggling involving officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise.

Not Yet Got Your Ticket Home for Eid? Monitor This Free Return Journey Programme from the Transport Ministry

The Directorate General of Land Transport (Ditjen Hubdat) is offering a free Eid return journey programme for Minangkabau migrant workers in Jakarta to their home region in Padang for Eid 2026. Registration opens daily from 1-15 March 2026 starting at 08:00 WIB through the nusantara.kemenhub.go.id portal, with places allocated on a first-come, first-served basis until daily quotas are filled.

Indonesia's Regulation Becomes Global Trend, Effects Already Being Felt

Indonesia's regulation restricting social media access for minors has become a global trend, with countries including Australia, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and India implementing or considering similar measures. The Indonesian government introduced the PP Tunas regulation in March 2025, classifying children aged 13-18 separately for social media access, whilst major platforms like Instagram are implementing protective measures such as warning parents about harmful content searches.

Women's Empowerment Minister Condemns Baby Trafficking Network

Indonesia's Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has strongly condemned a baby trafficking operation that was recently uncovered by police, resulting in the rescue of seven infants and the arrest of 12 suspects across multiple regions. The criminal network, which exploited vulnerable families and operated across numerous provinces from Jambi to Papua, included eight intermediaries and four biological parents involved in the illegal trade.

Regarding TikTok Gifts for Purbaya, KPK: If in Doubt, Feel Free to Report

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) responded to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's receipt of gifts during a TikTok livestream with his son, advising him to consult or report to the KPK if he has doubts about whether the gifts constitute gratification.

500 UI Students Prepare Demonstration at National Police Headquarters, Criticising Repeated Police Violence

Approximately 500 students from the University of Indonesia (UI) Student Executive Board gathered on Friday afternoon to prepare for a demonstration at the National Police Headquarters in South Jakarta, protesting what they characterise as repeated instances of police brutality and demanding structural reform.

Rise of C-beauty: Chinese cosmetic brands build momentum in Southeast Asia and beyond

Chinese cosmetic brands are rapidly expanding into Southeast Asian and international markets, capitalising on social media trends and rising export momentum that has seen China's cosmetics exports grow nearly 12 per cent year-on-year to over US$5 billion in the first eight months of 2025.

Drug Trafficker Koh Erwin Arrested on Illegal Vessel Near Malaysian Waters

Koh Erwin, a fugitive drug trafficker, was arrested by Indonesian National Police (Polri) on an illegal traditional vessel whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia through illicit maritime routes from Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra. Officers identified Erwin's escape plan and intercepted him just before he reached Malaysian territorial waters. Two accomplices assisting his escape—Akhsan al Fadhli and Rusdianto—were also apprehended.

KPK Summons Owner of Nusantara Bridge in Corruption Probe

The KPK continues its investigation into alleged corruption in the acquisition of PT Jembatan Nusantara by PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, summoning company owner Adjie for questioning whilst three other suspects have been rehabilitated by President Prabowo. Adjie remains the sole suspect in the case as the investigation proceeds, with freed suspect Ira Puspadewi confirming that the matter remains unresolved despite her rehabilitation.

Indonesia's Electronic Wallet Market Increasingly Opening Up

Indonesia's e-wallet market is entering a more competitive and rational phase, with SpeedCash experiencing triple-digit growth, recording over 3.5 million registered users and a 140% increase in active users. The competitive landscape, involving major players such as ShopeePay, GoPay, DANA, and OVO, is increasingly driven by system stability, payment flexibility, and cross-channel interoperability rather than brand visibility alone.

Woman Infamous for Unpaid Ride-Hailing and Food Bills Arrested and Referred to Psychiatric Hospital

A woman who became viral on social media for allegedly not paying for ride-hailing services and food at various locations in Jakarta was arrested after stealing a customer's meal at a fast-food restaurant in Central Jakarta and referred to Duren Sawit Regional Mental Health Hospital (RSKD) for psychiatric evaluation. Preliminary assessment by authorities indicated signs of mental illness, though medical confirmation is still pending.

How OJK Upgrades Insurance Industry Governance

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is strengthening the national insurance industry through enhanced governance frameworks, including new regulations (POJK No. 26, 27, and 36 of 2025) on asset-liability management and health insurance ecosystems, as well as mandatory professional competency development requiring insurers to allocate 3.5% of human resources costs. The insurance sector demonstrated resilience in 2025 with total assets reaching Rp 1.

BEM UI Presents Five Demands During Protest at National Police Headquarters

The University of Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM UI) led a demonstration at National Police Headquarters on 27 February 2026, presenting five demands including the removal of Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. The student body called for comprehensive police reform, citing recurring incidents such as the Kanjuruhan stadium disaster and recent violence in Maluku, arguing that leadership changes alone have failed to address systemic issues within the Indonesian National Police.

KPK Questions 12 Village Heads Over Alleged Extortion by Pati Regent Sadewo

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) is questioning 12 village heads in Pati Regency, Central Java as witnesses in a corruption and extortion case against Regent Sudewo, who has been named as a suspect. The investigation has already resulted in four suspects being detained at the KPK detention facility, including Sudewo and three other village heads, charged under anti-corruption laws for their alleged involvement in extortion schemes.

Wild Elephant Calf Found Dead, Suspected Victim of Snare in Tesso Nilo National Park

The Ministry of Forestry, through the Tesso Nilo National Park Authority, announced the discovery of a dead Sumatran elephant calf in Riau province's Lancang Kuning Resort on 26 February, with preliminary findings suggesting death resulted from a leg infection believed caused by a snare trap.

259 passengers register for DKI Jakarta provincial government's free homecoming trip scheme

The DKI Jakarta provincial government has registered 259 passengers for its free homecoming travel programme, with destinations including Solo, Tasikmalaya, and Palembang. The registration, opened online on 22 February 2026, includes verification of passenger data and the option for ticket cancellations, with the first cluster departures scheduled according to established itineraries.

Production Cut: Is Coal Supply Safe for Electricity? Ministry of Energy Responds

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has addressed concerns about coal supply shortages at several coal-fired power plants (PLTUs), assuring that coal supplies should be adequate under the Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) policy which mandates 30% of total coal production be allocated for domestic use.

BGN States SPPG Units Will Receive Rp500 Million Daily; Farmers Claimed to Benefit from Cash Flow

The National Nutrition Body (BGN) states that 93 percent of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) budget—approximately Rp240 trillion of Rp268 trillion—is distributed directly to Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) across Indonesia without passing through local governments, with each SPPG receiving Rp500 million daily.

Polmed Students Deploy Solar-Powered Refrigerator for Food Security in Aceh Tamiang

Students from Politeknik Negeri Medan have developed and implemented a portable solar-powered cold storage system in Kampung Dalam Village, Aceh Tamiang, as part of the government's Impact Student Programme supporting disaster recovery efforts. The innovation addresses emergency food security needs whilst reducing dependence on fossil fuels and supporting local MSMEs, including a catering enterprise that now safely stores ingredients and cooked food even during power outages.

Prosecutor's Office Notes Before Deciding on Appeal Against Kerry Riza Verdict

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office (AGO) is reviewing several points before deciding whether to appeal the verdict against nine defendants convicted of corruption in a crude oil and refinery product management case at state-owned PT Pertamina. The AGO has noted discrepancies including the court's failure to consider state economic losses and its refusal to impose replacement money penalties on defendants who are state enterprise employees, which the prosecution had requested at Rp 5 billion.

Tax Administration Official Summoned by KPK in Customs Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Akhmad Fikri Yahmani, a head of subdivision at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), for questioning as a witness in an alleged customs import bribery case. The investigation has identified six suspects including DJBC officials and private sector actors involved in the scheme, with KPK having recovered Rp5 billion in cash during searches.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Claims UAE Ready to Increase Investment in Indonesia

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya announced that the United Arab Emirates is prepared to increase investment in Indonesia following President Prabowo Subianto's bilateral meeting with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on 26 February 2026.

Sinkhole Emerges on Ciawigebang Road in Kuningan, Route Closed

A sinkhole measuring approximately 6 metres in diameter and 4 metres deep has appeared in Karangkamulyan Village, Ciawigebang District, Kuningan Regency, West Java, on 26 February, causing the connecting road between Ciawigebang and Cihaur to collapse and the route to be temporarily closed. Regional disaster mitigation officials attributed the sinkhole to intense rainfall between 14:00 and 16:00 WIB, which destabilised soil structure.

Regarding Gifts in Purbaya and His Son's TikTok Live Stream, KPK: If in Doubt, Please Report

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has advised Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, who received gifts during a TikTok live stream with his son, to report the matter if uncertain whether the gifts constitute gratification under anti-corruption regulations.

Ten Countries Most Dependent on Chinese Goods – Where Does Indonesia Rank?

Indonesia ranks ninth globally in dependence on Chinese imports, with 31.4% of its imports originating from China, whilst Cambodia tops the list at 46.8%. The growing reliance reflects limited domestic manufacturing capacity in many developing nations, which depend on Chinese raw materials, components, and capital goods for export-oriented industries including textiles and electronics.

Expert: Additional layer of cigarette tax risks strengthening smoking culture

A professor from the University of Indonesia's School of Public Health has warned that the Ministry of Finance's planned addition of a new cigarette excise tax bracket risks fostering stronger smoking culture by expanding purchasing options, contradicting public health goals. He argues the tax structure should be simplified rather than complicated, and warns that the policy lacks transparency and should involve parliamentary approval under Law No. 7 of 2001.

Indo Tambangraya records net profit of USD 190.94 million in 2025

PT Indo Tambangraya Megah Tbk (ITMG), a major Indonesian coal mining company, reported net profit of USD 190.94 million in 2025, down 48.96 per cent year-on-year from USD 374.12 million in 2024. The decline was driven by a 20 per cent fall in average selling prices reflecting lower benchmark coal prices, though production volumes increased modestly by 3 per cent to 24.7 million tonnes. The company is returning capital to shareholders through a share buyback programme of up to IDR 2.

Doctor's Tips for Maintaining Kidney Health During Fasting

A kidney specialist from Hasanuddin University has provided guidance on maintaining kidney health during Ramadan fasting, emphasizing adequate water intake of at least 2 litres daily or 8 glasses, preferably during sahur and iftar.

Head of Task Force Tito Reveals Significant Decline in Post-Disaster Refugees in Sumatra

Indonesia's Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian reported at a ministerial coordination meeting on 27 February 2026 that the number of refugees across three Sumatran provinces affected by recent disasters has fallen sharply from 2.1 million to just 11,250 people.

Director-General of Legal Administration Reviews Preparedness of Lampung University Law Faculty for Master's Programme in Notary Studies

Indonesia's Director-General of Legal Administration conducted a site visit to Lampung University's Faculty of Law to assess readiness for reopening the Master's Programme in Notary Studies, which has been stalled since a 2019 moratorium. The programme aims to address the shortage of notaries in the Lampung region and improve professional legal services, with the university targeting student admissions by late July 2026 pending ministerial approval.

Lawyer: Islamic Boarding School Leader Sexually Abused Female Students, Vanished for Three Years Before Becoming Religious Preacher

A lawyer representing victims' parents has alleged that an Islamic boarding school leader accused of sexually abusing female students (santriwati) is not registered with Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs and has no formal pesantren education background.

Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment Organises Nusantara Culinary Festival 2026 at GBK, Free Stalls for SMEs

The Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment (Kemenko PM) is hosting the Festival Jejak Jajanan Nusantara 2026 from 6-8 March at the Gelora Bung Karno stadium in Jakarta, providing free stalls for selected SMEs to showcase traditional snacks and local fashion products. The initiative aims to strengthen grassroots economy through UMKM empowerment, local culinary preservation, and market expansion for small entrepreneurs.

PKS Criticises East Kalimantan Governor Over Rp 8.5 Billion Official Vehicle: Should Show Empathy

PKS legislator Mardani Ali Sera has criticised East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Ma'sud's procurement of an Rp 8.5 billion official vehicle, arguing that the budget allocation is ethically wrong and contrary to principles of public service. The regional secretary responded that the vehicle is necessary to navigate East Kalimantan's extreme geographical terrain and enable the governor to directly monitor conditions in remote areas.

West Nusa Tenggara Police Investigate Identity of Drug Trafficking Suspect Who Allegedly Paid Rp1.8 Billion Bribe to Senior Police Officer

West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police are investigating the true identity of a suspected drug trafficker with the initials B, alias Boy, who allegedly paid Rp1.8 billion in bribes to AKBP Didik Putra Kuncoro. The investigation is being conducted jointly with the Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Indonesian National Police, as authorities remain cautious about confirming identities given the prevalence of aliases in drug trafficking networks.

Baznas RI Distributes 225 Food Aid Packages for Palestine at Al-Aqsa

Indonesia's National Zakat Authority (Baznas) has distributed 225 food aid packages to Palestinians in the Al-Aqsa Mosque area to support communities affected by the conflict and food access limitations. Baznas Chairman Noor Achmad stated that the assistance represents the trust of the Indonesian people and a demonstration of Islamic solidarity during Ramadhan, whilst calling on Indonesians to strengthen global humanitarian solidarity through charitable contributions.

Domestic Pickup Production Can Meet Demand, Says Gaikindo Amid Import Scrutiny

Indonesia's automotive industry association Gaikindo has reasserted that domestic pickup manufacturers possess sufficient capacity and expertise to fulfil the nation's commercial vehicle demands, directly addressing concerns over PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara's decision to import pickups from Indian manufacturers worth Rp24.66 trillion.

BBPOM DKI Introduces "Safe Food City" Programme for Public Education

The Jakarta Food and Drug Supervisory Authority (BBPOM) has launched the "Safe Food City" programme aimed at educating residents about nutrition and food composition, with South Jakarta leading its implementation. The initiative, supported by the South Jakarta municipal government, seeks to ensure the availability of safe and quality food and medicines throughout the region, particularly during Ramadhan.

Video: Indonesia's Solar Panels Hit by Trump's 104% Tariff, National Economic Council Speaks Out

Indonesia and the United States have formally signed a reciprocal trade agreement aimed at protecting labour-intensive industries such as textiles, apparel, furniture, and seafood from potential 32% tariffs. However, Indonesian solar panel products face a 104% tariff when entering the US market, which the National Economic Council attributes to surging demand driven by supply diversification from China and Vietnam, requiring a strategic response from the Indonesian government.

CSIS: Indonesia-US ART Trade Agreement Difficult to Call Economically Beneficial

A Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) researcher has stated that the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) between Indonesia and the United States has not delivered tangible economic benefits to Indonesia from a static economic perspective.

Banyumas Police Seize Illegal Explosive Materials to Reduce Fatality Risks

The Banyumas Regional Police successfully intercepted approximately 9 kilograms of illegal explosive materials allegedly intended for firecrackers during Operation Pekat Candi 2026, apprehending two suspects aged 18 and 23. The operation, conducted as a preventive security measure ahead of Ramadan, reflects police efforts to mitigate risks of casualties and environmental damage from dangerous materials.

Astra's Net Profit Reaches Rp32.8 Trillion in 2025, Automotive Remains Core Business

PT Astra International reported a 3 per cent decline in net profit to Rp32.8 trillion in 2025, driven by weakening domestic automotive market and lower coal prices. Despite the slowdown, the Automotive and Mobility division remained the largest contributor with Rp11.4 trillion in net profit, bolstered by motorcycle sales and components despite a 7 per cent drop in vehicle sales to 804,000 units nationally.

Will Indonesia Still Need B50 Biodiesel Development Amid Projected Solar Fuel Surplus?

Indonesia is projected to achieve self-sufficiency in diesel fuel by 2026 following the operationalisation of the Balikpapan Refinery Development Master Plan, which will increase processing capacity to 360,000 barrels per day and generate an expected surplus. Despite this anticipated surplus, the government still plans to mandate 50 per cent biodiesel blending (B50) in the second semester of 2026, with ongoing field trials to assess feasibility across various vehicle and equipment types.

Russia Responds to Indonesia Joining Board of Peace, States Clear Position

Russia's Ambassador to Indonesia has stated that Moscow respects Indonesia's decision to join the Board of Peace (BoP) and deploy peacekeeping forces to Gaza, whilst clarifying that Russia itself does not participate in the BoP mechanism. The Russian envoy highlighted concerns that the BoP lacks explicit discussion of a two-state solution, has no Palestinian representation, and may be utilised by the United States for broader regional objectives beyond the Gaza conflict.

Bringing the zebra shark home to Raja Ampat

Conservation International and partner organisations have launched the Stegostoma tigrinum Augmentation and Recovery (StAR) project to restore the functionally extinct zebra shark population in Raja Ampat, where fewer than 20 individuals remain due to blast fishing and targeted hunting. The initiative combines community education programmes targeting school children and local fishers with a captive breeding and release effort, which has resulted in 57 sharks being released as of January 2026.

Jokowi Predicts AI Revolution Will Occur Within 5-15 Years, Nations Must Prepare

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo has predicted a major artificial intelligence revolution within the next 5-15 years, warning that virtually all human activities will become inseparable from AI technology.

Neglected Children's Playground in Cilincing Plagued by Cat Faeces and Flood Water

A children's playground in Cilincing, North Jakarta, has fallen into disrepair despite the Jakarta Provincial Government's wider push to develop green spaces and recreational facilities across the city. The Taman Lestari facility suffers from poor drainage leading to flooding, missing safety railings, cat faeces contamination, and deteriorating play equipment including unsafe slides with chipped paint, presenting serious health and injury risks to young users.

West Kalimantan Province and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Form Worker Protection Team

The West Kalimantan Provincial Government and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (social security body) have established the TOP UCJ team to enhance inter-agency coordination and expand worker protection coverage across the province. Currently only 27 per cent of the province's approximately 2.6 million workers are covered by the employment social security scheme, with a target of reaching 45 per cent by the end of 2026.

BNI Announces Stage II Winners of Rejeki wondr Lottery, Here Are the Prizes

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) announced the winners of the second stage of its Rejeki wondr loyalty programme on 24 February 2026, featuring prizes including two Mercedes-Benz E300 vehicles as grand prizes, plus Chery vehicles, motorcycles, smartphones and other electronics. The initiative, which ran from April 2025 to January 2026, was designed to reward customer loyalty and encourage adoption of BNI's digital services, particularly the wondr by BNI application.

Banyumas Police Seize 9kg of Explosive Material, Two Young Men Arrested

Banyumas Regional Police have foiled an alleged distribution of approximately 9 kilograms of explosive material suspected to be illegal firecrackers, arresting two young men aged 18 and 23 during an operation in Kedungpring Village on 25 February 2026. The arrests were part of preventive measures ahead of Ramadan to combat illegal explosive trafficking that poses serious risks to public safety and the environment.

CSIS: No Economic Benefits from Indonesia-US Trade Agreement

A Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) researcher has concluded that Indonesia's reciprocal trade agreement with the United States yields minimal economic benefits, with only 2 per cent of Indonesia's total exports gaining zero-tariff access despite 1,819 Indonesian products securing such rates.

Police hunt two suspects in advocate stabbing in South Tangerang

Metro Jaya Police are pursuing two suspects in the stabbing of an advocate in South Tangerang's Kelapa Dua District on 23 February. One suspect with initials JBI was apprehended in Semarang on 24 February, with police investigating links to unlicensed debt collection activities related to vehicle seizure.

Garuda Indonesia to Purchase 50 Boeing Aircraft, Financing Scheme Under Review

State investment body Danantara Indonesia is examining various financing options for Garuda Indonesia's planned acquisition of 50 Boeing aircraft, as part of a broader US-Indonesia trade agreement requiring Indonesia to procure 13.5 billion dollars in commercial aircraft and aviation-related goods and services.

Moscow Absent, Russia Respects Indonesia's Joining Gaza Peace Board

Russia has expressed deep respect for Indonesia's decision to join the Gaza Peace Board (Board of Peace) under President Prabowo Subianto's leadership, viewing it as consistent with Indonesia's active foreign policy supporting global peace and Palestinian protection.

PDI-P Threatens Sanctions Against Members Who Commercialise Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia's PDI-P party has issued a formal directive threatening disciplinary sanctions against party members who exploit the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for personal profit or commercial projects. The party has strictly prohibited any commercialisation of the government-funded initiative and emphasised that members must ensure the programme operates transparently and in accordance with regulations.

Health Minister Praises Rp 170 Billion Bima Municipal Hospital as Sound, Though Improvements Needed

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin conducted an inspection of the newly constructed Rp 170 billion Bima Municipal Hospital (RSUD) in West Nusa Tenggara, praising its construction quality whilst identifying several areas requiring contractor improvements.

Premium Vehicles Becoming More Affordable: New Alphard from 1 Billion Rupiah, Used Models from 200 Million Rupiah

Used premium MPVs such as the Toyota Alphard are experiencing significant depreciation in Indonesia's second-hand vehicle market, with older models now selling for as little as 275–310 million rupiah compared to their original prices exceeding 1.6 billion rupiah. This substantial price decline—often exceeding 50% of the original purchase price—has made luxury vehicles increasingly accessible to consumers seeking premium family transportation at a fraction of new vehicle costs.

Cilincing Lestari Park in Poor Condition with Damaged Facilities and Child-Unfriendly Environment

Taman Lestari in Cilincing, North Jakarta, is in a deteriorating condition with broken facilities, slippery surfaces, and muddy areas, posing safety risks to children and failing to meet public space standards. Parents report injuries sustained by their children on the poorly maintained playground equipment, including a three-metre concrete slide and broken benches, raising serious concerns about child safety in the neighbourhood's public spaces.

IKN 'Flooded' with Investment, From UAE to America

Indonesia's new capital city Nusantara (IKN) has attracted substantial foreign and domestic investment, with private investment commitments reaching 72 trillion rupiah from 57 companies as of early 2026. International backing includes a US$2.

CSIS Assesses Only 2 Per Cent of Indonesian Market Access to US Secured via ART

A CSIS economist has assessed that Indonesia's Agreement on Reciprocal Tariff (ART) with the United States secures only approximately 2 per cent of total Indonesian trade, despite providing zero-tariff access for 1,819 product lines including palm oil, coffee, textiles, and semiconductors.

1 Group 3 Tier: Indonesia's Aviation Strategy to Strengthen National Flight Services

An aviation practitioner has proposed a "1 Group 3 Tier" strategy as an alternative to the planned merger of Garuda Indonesia, Pelita Air, and Citilink, arguing that a pyramidal structure—with Garuda Indonesia as premium, Pelita Air as mid-service, and Citilink as low-cost carrier—would better serve market segments whilst preventing internal competition.

Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry and PLN Anticipate Coal Shortage for Thermal Power Plants

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry (ESDM) is coordinating with state-owned power company PLN to address potential coal supply shortages for thermal power plants, emphasising the importance of timely procurement and adequate stockpiles of at least 20 days.

Russia offers cooperation on nuclear power plant and aluminium processing in West Kalimantan

Russia's Ambassador to Indonesia offered cooperation on nuclear power plant development, aluminium processing factories, and educational programmes to West Kalimantan Province during a visit to Pontianak. The West Kalimantan Governor welcomed the proposals and confirmed the province has identified Semesak Island in Bengkayang Regency as a potential NPP site, though any formal agreement requires coordination with Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

China's Politburo calls for more proactive and coordinated economic policies

China's Communist Party Politburo has stressed the need for more proactive and effective economic policies with improved coordination, calling for continued fiscal stimulus and accommodative monetary policy. The announcement comes as China's US$19 trillion economy grew 5 per cent in 2025, meeting targets despite weak domestic consumption and pressure from US trade tensions, though economists warn the current export-driven strategy is increasingly unsustainable.

Netflix Withdraws from Warner Bros Discovery Acquisition Following Paramount's Increased Offer

Netflix has officially withdrawn from its proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery's studio and streaming assets after the WBD board approved Paramount Skydance's superior offer of $31 per share in cash, compared to Netflix's $27.75 per share proposal. Netflix's co-CEOs cited financial discipline, stating the acquisition at Paramount's higher price was no longer financially attractive and had been a "nice to have" rather than a necessity.

S&P Warns Indonesia on Debt Interest Payments; Has the Country Entered the Danger Zone?

S&P Global Ratings has warned that Indonesia's debt interest payments could breach a critical threshold of 15% of government revenue, which could prompt a negative outlook revision. The ratio has already reached approximately 17% in 2024, with debt servicing costs totalling Rp488.4 trillion against total government revenue of Rp2.850.61 trillion, raising broader concerns about Indonesia's fiscal sustainability despite its current stable outlook and BBB credit rating.

Current Condition of UIN Suska Riau Student Attacked by Fellow Student with Machete

A female student at Sultan Syarif Kasim Islamic State University (UIN Suska Riau) suffered serious injuries on 26 February 2026 when attacked by a fellow student with a machete whilst waiting for an exam. The victim, Faradila Ayu Pramesti, has been transferred to RSUD Arifin Ahmad Pekanbaru for post-operative care following surgery on her hand and forehead, and is reported to be in stable condition with full consciousness.

Indonesian-Donated Iftar Meals Distributed to Gaza

Indonesia's National Zakat Board (Baznas) has distributed 1,314 packages of iftar meals donated by Indonesian citizens to residents of Gaza, Palestine, during Ramadhan. The distribution addresses critical food shortages in Gaza amid severe logistical constraints, with Baznas Chairman Noor Achmad emphasising the initiative as a priority to ensure Palestinians can break their fast with adequate nutrition and feel tangible support from Indonesia.

Patriot Expedition Team Programme Advances Transmigration Zone Transformation

The Ministry of Transmigration is advancing its Patriot Expedition Team Programme through continued collaboration with universities to accelerate transmigration zone development across 154 priority locations in 2026. The initiative focuses on transforming these zones into productive, competitive economic centres by combining physical infrastructure development with capacity building and evidence-based planning.

South Jakarta Municipality deploys task force for food safety during Ramadan

South Jakarta's municipal government has announced the formation of a dedicated task force to ensure food safety during Ramadan, particularly targeting street food vendors selling takjil (iftar snacks). The multi-agency task force, comprising officials from trade, health, food security, and agricultural departments, will conduct routine inspections and public awareness campaigns to prevent the sale of contaminated food containing harmful substances such as formalin and textile dyes.

KPK Examines 14 Witnesses in Investigation into Alleged Extortion Orders Linked to Regent Sudewo

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned 14 witnesses as part of its investigation into alleged extortion involving non-active Regent of Pati Sudewo, focusing on alleged cash transfers ordered through village coordinators. The investigation also examines the recruitment process and mechanisms for village government positions scheduled for 2026 in Pati Regency, Central Java.

WEF President Steps Down Amid Epstein Files Scrutiny

Börge Brende, president of the World Economic Forum for over eight years, has resigned following scrutiny over his connections to deceased American financier Jeffrey Epstein, whose name appeared in recently released legal documents. Brende, a former Norwegian foreign minister, has stated he regrets not conducting more thorough due diligence regarding Epstein, though he has never been accused of any legal violations.

BKPM Strengthens Service Level Agreement to Accelerate Investment

Indonesia's Investment Ministry has strengthened service level agreements (SLAs) under licensing reform through amendments to Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025, aiming to accelerate investment realisation by ensuring clear and measurable permit processing timelines.

Two Women in Bulukumba Go Viral for Disrespecting the Quran

Two women in Bulukumba District, South Sulawesi, were reported to police and went viral on social media after allegedly ridiculing Quranic verses by mocking and joking about their meaning in the local dialect. Local police, with assistance from religious figures and local government, conducted an investigation, detained the women, provided them with religious guidance, and both have apologised and promised not to repeat their actions.

Timeline: Drug Trafficker Ko Erwin Arrested While Attempting to Flee to Malaysia

Indonesian police have arrested Erwin Iskandar (Ko Erwin), a major methamphetamine trafficker, whilst he was attempting to flee to Malaysia via an illegal maritime route. The arrest culminated an investigation that uncovered Ko Erwin's central role in a drug smuggling syndicate involving former police officers in Bima City, with large sums of money allegedly paid as protection payments to enable unimpeded drug operations.

Serang Mayor to Summon Part-Time Contract Teachers to Address Salary Issues

Serang Mayor Budi Rustandi plans to meet with part-time contract teachers (P3K) to address complaints over inadequate and irregular salary payments ranging from Rp 130,000 to Rp 960,000 monthly. The city government has provided subsidies for 330 teachers through school operational assistance funds but faces budgetary constraints in raising wages whilst reducing overall personnel spending.

AXA Financial Focuses on Health Insurance Products, Here's Why

PT AXA Financial Indonesia has prioritised health insurance products as its core focus, with President Director Niharika Yadav emphasising the company's commitment to providing accessible healthcare protection across various customer segments.

Saudi Arabia's 'New Ka'bah' Project Halted Amid Financial Review

Saudi Arabia has suspended construction of The Mukaab, an ambitious megaproject in Riyadh symbolising its Vision 2030 diversification agenda, pending a comprehensive review of spending priorities and financial feasibility. The stoppage reflects concerns over environmental sustainability, as the massive enclosed structure's year-round cooling and lighting requirements, coupled with water consumption and construction waste, conflict with Riyadh's green development initiatives in an arid region.

Police: No Mother and Child in Cayla Vehicle, Only Driver and His Girlfriend

Jakarta Central Police have identified HM (24), a resident of Sidoarjo, East Java, as a suspect for reckless driving in a black Toyota Cayla on Gunung Sahari Street on Wednesday (25/2/2026). The Head of Criminal Investigation Unit clarified that only the driver and his girlfriend from Karawang, West Java, were in the vehicle, contradicting witness accounts; the mother and child seen were actually victims of the reckless driving incident involving a motorcyclist.

Gemini brings new AI features to Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10 smartphones

Google has introduced a suite of new artificial intelligence features for its Gemini application on Android devices, including task automation capabilities and enhanced fraud detection. The features, which will initially roll out to Samsung Galaxy S26 and Google Pixel 10 smartphones in the United States and South Korea, allow users to delegate multi-step tasks such as ordering transport or compiling shopping lists to the AI system.

IPDN Professor: Indian Pickup Truck Imports Constitute Premature Policy

A professor of government studies from Indonesia's Domestic Government Institute has criticised the policy of importing Indian pickup trucks to support the Red and White Village Cooperative project by PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara, arguing that the policy reflects premature planning as the cooperatives have not yet demonstrated growth.

Disaster Recovery Task Force Enters Phase of Realising Permanent Housing Construction

The Acceleration Task Force for Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (PRR) has progressed to the construction phase of permanent housing (Huntap) for disaster survivors in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. As of 26 February, 401 units have been completed out of 17,969 planned units, with the Interior Minister emphasising the need to accelerate administrative data preparation from local governments to prevent construction delays.

Inclusive Financing Support Crucial to Strengthen Halal Product SMEs

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) has emphasised that inclusive financing support, particularly through Sharia-compliant banking schemes, is essential to strengthen halal product-focused SMEs. Sharia banks are positioned as strategic partners in providing equitable financing alternatives, business mentoring, and support for halal certification and market expansion.

Forestry Law Enforcement Takes Action Against 9 Hectare Illegal Encroachment in Wajo Production Forest, South Sulawesi

The Sulawesi Regional Forestry Law Enforcement Office and the Awota Forest Management Unit conducted an enforcement operation against illegal encroachment in a production forest area in Wajo Regency, South Sulawesi, uncovering approximately 9 hectares of unauthorised land clearing. Three individuals were apprehended, with one designated as a suspect for coordinating and supervising the illegal land conversion operation, facing up to 10 years imprisonment and fines of up to 5 billion rupiahs.

Former Narcotics Unit Chief Transferred to National Police Criminal Bureau Following Arrest of Drug Supplier Ko Erwin

Former Kasatresnarkoba (narcotics unit chief) AKP Malaungi of Bima City Police has been transferred to the National Police Criminal Bureau (Bareskrim) for further investigation in connection with a major drug trafficking case involving arrested dealer Ko Erwin Iskandar.

National Nutrition Agency claims Rp6 million daily incentive for nutrition service units is strategically sound to prevent fiscal waste

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has defended its Rp6 million daily incentive scheme for Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG), arguing that the partnership-based model is cost-efficient and minimises state fiscal risk. The agency emphasises that partners bear all development and operational risks, whilst construction timelines are significantly accelerated compared to traditional government budget procurement, with over 24,000 SPPG units currently operational.

Competition Intensifies as BRIVolution Reignite Becomes a Key Pillar

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has launched BRIVolution Reignite in April 2025 to strengthen its competitive position amid intensifying industry competition and rapid market changes. The integrated transformation strategy focuses on two main pillars: strengthening funding structures through cheaper deposits (CASA) and optimising transaction banking, whilst revamping core businesses and building new growth engines in consumer lending and wealth management. BRI reported a profit of Rp57.

BEM UI Organises Protest Demanding Police Reform at National Police Headquarters Today

Around 500 students from the University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board are staging a demonstration at National Police Headquarters in Jakarta on Friday, 27 February 2026, to demand comprehensive police reform. The protest was triggered by the fatal beating of a 14-year-old student by a Mobile Brigade officer in Maluku earlier this month, but reflects broader concerns about police accountability and human rights abuses that students say remain unaddressed.

Nippon Kinzoku to Expand Sales of Ultra-Lightweight Magnesium Alloy Foil: Supporting the Future with Environmentally-Friendly Products

Nippon Kinzoku has announced a strategic expansion of its magnesium alloy foil sales, positioning the high-performance material as a core environmentally-friendly product for diverse industries. The lightweight material, weighing approximately one-quarter of steel and one-half of titanium, offers exceptional vibration-damping properties and targets growing markets including portable computers, smartphones, XR devices, and the aerospace and aviation sectors to support carbon neutrality goals.

Jackson Tandiono Revealed as Beneficial Owner of JSKY

PT Sky Energi Utama Tbk. (JSKY) has disclosed that Jackson Tandiono is the beneficial owner of the renewable energy company, controlling it indirectly through his shareholding in PT Trinitan Global Pasifik, the holding company.

Coordinating Minister for Food Calls on Merah Putih Village Cooperatives to Actively Absorb Agricultural Produce

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has called on Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (Kopdes) to actively absorb agricultural commodities when prices decline, serving as stabilisation instruments to protect farmers' incomes and food supply stability. The minister emphasised that these cooperatives should function as distribution hubs connecting farmers, livestock producers, and fishermen with broader markets whilst supporting the government's Free Nutritious Meals programme.

Judge: State Economic Loss of Rp171.99 Trillion in Oil Case Is Assumptive

An Indonesian anti-corruption court judge has ruled that the alleged state economic loss of Rp171.99 trillion in a crude oil and fuel product management corruption case is assumptive and cannot be proven. The court instead accepted only the State Audit Board's (BPK) calculations, which totalled Rp9.42 trillion and $2.73 billion in confirmed state financial losses from the sale of non-subsidised diesel, deeming this figure to be concrete and certain in accordance with anti-corruption laws.

DBS Foundation Initiative Empowers Indonesian Women and 200,000 Young People

DBS Foundation, headed by Karen Ngui, has committed to empowering approximately 900,000 vulnerable women in Indonesia through financial literacy and business planning programmes in partnership with The Asia Foundation. The bank is also supporting around 200,000 young people with financial literacy education to encourage entrepreneurship, with both initiatives designed as long-term programmes to generate sustained economic and social impact across generations.

BRI Third-Party Funds Reach IDR1.466 Trillion, CASA Rises and Funding Costs Improve

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI) has successfully strengthened its funding structure, with third-party funds (DPK) growing 7.4% year-on-year to reach IDR1.466 trillion in 2025. The bank's CASA ratio improved to 70.6% from 67.3%, whilst cost of funds declined to 2.9% from 3.2%, reflecting improved efficiency through digital channel optimisation and robust growth across its retail and digital applications.

Joint SAR Team Evacuates Crew Member from Kool Ice Vessel in Bali Suffering from Heart Condition

A combined Search and Rescue (SAR) team successfully evacuated a Filipino crew member named Carl Mauricio Montevirgen, 45, from the Kool Ice vessel off the coast of Bali on 27 February after he suffered a heart attack. The evacuation involved multiple government agencies and naval personnel coordinating a rescue operation from Benoa Port, with the patient transferred to Siloam Hospital for emergency medical treatment.

BRI Records Profit of Rp57.132 Trillion, Commits to Supporting Government's Eight Pillars and Strengthening People's Economy

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has delivered solid financial performance in 2024, recording a profit of Rp57.132 trillion, bolstered by robust funding structures, maintained credit growth, and continuous asset quality improvements. The bank reinforces its strategic role in accelerating national economic growth through productive financing and its commitment to grassroots economics, distributing Rp178.08 trillion in People's Business Credit (KUR) to 3.8 million borrowers throughout 2024.

Danantara Enters Year Two With $2.7 Trillion Ambition and Rising Scrutiny

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara marks its first anniversary with an ambitious mandate to oversee state-owned enterprises and expand assets under management to $2.7 trillion by 2030, whilst pursuing consolidation of circa 1,000 SOEs down to roughly 200.

15th Ramadhan Jazz Festival 2026: Harmony for the Nation Through Music and Humanity at Masjid Cut Meutia

The 15th Ramadhan Jazz Festival will be held on 6–7 March 2026 at Masjid Cut Meutia in Jakarta, combining jazz music performances with humanitarian action under the theme "Harmony for the Nation". All ticket sales revenue will be donated entirely to disaster relief and community development programmes in West Sumatra, including reforestation and mosque renovations, with participation from prominent musicians and an expected attendance of around 5,000 visitors.

Civil Servants Invited to Join Reserve Component, PANRB Ministry: Participation is Voluntary

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Defence, has opened an opportunity for civil servants (ASN) to join the Reserve Component (Komcad) to support national defence efforts.

CT ARSA Foundation Commends Indonesian Fleet Command for Assisting Distribution of 100 Tonnes of Disaster Aid to Sumatra

CT ARSA Foundation has expressed appreciation to the Indonesian Fleet Command (Koarmada RI) for assisting in the distribution of 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to disaster victims in Sumatra, including Aceh, utilising two naval hospital ships. The collaboration between the foundation and the Indonesian Navy demonstrates a strong commitment to disaster relief operations, with both parties expressing hopes for continued partnership in future humanitarian efforts.

Iran's Oil Exports Surge Threefold Amid US Threats

Iran has nearly tripled its oil exports through its main Kharg Island terminal to over 3 million barrels per day in mid-February, up from an average of 1.54 million barrels daily, as an anticipatory measure against potential supply disruptions amid threats from US President Donald Trump. The surge reflects broader Middle Eastern producer concerns about potential military action affecting global energy supplies, with Saudi Arabia similarly increasing production as a precautionary measure.

Criminal Investigation Directorate Arrests Two Individuals Aiding Drug Kingpin Koh Erwin's Flight

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) has arrested two individuals who assisted notorious drug kingpin Koh Erwin (Erwin Iskandar) in fleeing the country to escape prosecution. Erwin, who allegedly made payoffs to a former police chief in Bima City, attempted to escape to Malaysia via illegal sea routes through Tanjung Balai in North Sumatra, with assistance from facilitators including Akhsan al Fadhli and Rusdianto.

162,000 Hajj Visas Already Processed, Ministry Targets Completion by Early March

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has processed approximately 162,000 pilgrim visa documents for Indonesian hajj pilgrims, with a remaining 40,000 currently under completion. The ministry aims to finalise all visa processing by early March, coordinating intensively with Saudi Arabian authorities despite technical connectivity challenges and accommodation packaging logistics.

Police Offer Moral Support to University Student Victim of Stabbing in Riau

Police officials from Riau Regional Police visited a 23-year-old university student who was stabbed at Sultan Syarief Kasim Islamic State University (UIN Suska) on 26 February, offering moral support and ensuring proper legal procedures. The victim, identified as F, is in stable condition following surgery on her forehead and hand, whilst the assailant identified as R has been arrested and detained at Pekanbaru Police Station, with authorities indicating the initial motive as romantic in nature.

BMKG: Beware of Fake and Illegal Telegram InaEEWS Accounts, System Still in Trial Phase

The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) has warned the public against fraudulent Telegram accounts impersonating its official Indonesia Earthquake Early Warning System (InaEEWS), which remain unauthorised and spread misinformation.

Early Detection System for Breast Cancer Requires Improvement

The Indonesian Health Ministry has unveiled a National Breast Cancer Action Plan (2025–2034) to address significant gaps in early detection and treatment, revealing that of 14 million women screened, only 4.1 million underwent examination and merely 6,000 of those diagnosed received treatment. The initiative aims to reduce breast cancer mortality by 2.

IMF Notes and Indonesia's "Koteka" Strategy Against Trump Effect

The International Monetary Fund has criticised US tariff policies whilst urging constructive engagement with trading partners, even as President Trump pursues multiple tariff mechanisms to circumvent court rulings. Indonesia has adopted a "koteka" strategy—maintaining tariff negotiation positions and strengthening its non-oil trade surplus—whilst ratifying its reciprocal trade agreement with the US to protect 1,819 product tariff lines from higher duties.

Video: Gold Investment Booming, Islamic Banking Business Surges

OCBC Indonesia's Islamic Banking Unit (UUS) has reported strong growth in 2025, with assets rising 20% and customer deposits increasing by nearly 27%, driven significantly by expanding gold investment services. The unit is leveraging digital services and partnership with its parent bank to reach broader customer segments and support the development of Islamic banking in Indonesia.

Women and Child Protection Minister Commends Police Criminal Investigation Directorate for Dismantling Baby Trafficking Syndicate

Indonesia's Minister for Women Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has praised the National Police Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim Polri) for successfully dismantling a baby trafficking syndicate that operated across multiple regions. Twelve suspects have been arrested, including eight intermediaries and four biological parents involved in the organised cross-jurisdictional network.

Prabowo's Roof Renewal Programme Shows Early Signs of Beginning, Here Are the Photos

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP) has launched a housing improvement programme in the densely populated Menteng Tenggulun area of Central Jakarta, targeting 52 homes for renovation to improve living standards.

Investigation into Koko Erwin Drug Case: NTB Police Officer Malaungi Transferred to National Criminal Investigation Unit

The West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police transferred Deputy Commissioner Malaungi to the National Police Criminal Investigation Unit in Jakarta to strengthen the investigation into a major drug trafficking case involving suspect Koko Erwin, who was arrested in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra on 26 February.

Police Identify Suspect in Assault of UIN Suska Student, Citing Rejected Love as Motive

Police have arrested Raihan Mufazzar, 21, for attacking a female student at Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Suska Riau with a cleaver after she rejected his romantic advances. The assault, which left the 23-year-old victim with head and hand injuries, occurred on campus whilst she was awaiting a hearing, with the attacker deliberately bringing weapons from home. Police are conducting further investigations including psychological evaluation and drug testing to assess the suspect's mental state.

KPAI Commends Police Rapid Response in Busting Baby Trafficking Syndicate: Children Saved

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has praised the National Police's Directorate of Human Trafficking Crimes for rapidly dismantling a baby trafficking syndicate, with 12 suspects arrested across multiple Indonesian regions. KPAI characterises the case as part of an organised child trafficking network that exploits weaknesses in adoption systems and population administration.

Metro Police Commends Citizens for Recording Reckless Driver in Central Jakarta

The Metro Jakarta Police have praised members of the public who recorded footage of a reckless driver, HM (25), operating a Toyota Calya vehicle dangerously and colliding with multiple vehicles on Gunung Sahari Road in Central Jakarta. Police officials have charged the driver under Article 311 of the 2009 Traffic and Road Transportation Law and encouraged public participation through the newly promoted PoliceTube platform for reporting traffic incidents, fires, and other emergencies.

MAKI Urges In Absentia Trial for Riza Chalid

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has called on the Attorney General to complete legal proceedings against Riza Chalid, a fugitive suspected of being the intellectual architect of Pertamina's crude oil mismanagement scandal, by pursuing an in absentia trial if he cannot be returned by the Eid holiday deadline.

New Budget Pattern: BGN Chief States Each Nutrition Service Unit Will Receive Rp 500 Million Daily

The head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) announced a new budget distribution mechanism whereby 93 per cent of the agency's Rp 268 trillion budget is channelled directly to Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) across Indonesia, bypassing regional governments entirely.

Human Body Parts Found at Ketewel Beach Decomposed for Over 3 Days

Human body parts discovered in the Wos River estuary at Ketewel Beach in Gianyar, Bali have decomposed significantly, with forensic examination at Prof Ngoerah General Hospital indicating the remains are more than three days old. Forensic pathologist Dr Nola Margaret Gunawan stated that comprehensive autopsy is required to determine whether the clean separation of body parts indicates intentional dismemberment, as advanced decomposition has hampered initial analysis.

Bank Panin Reports Profit of IDR 2.87 Trillion Throughout 2025

PT Bank Pan Indonesia (PaninBank) reported consolidated net profit of IDR 2.87 trillion for 2025, representing modest year-on-year growth of 0.13% from IDR 2.86 trillion in 2024. The growth was primarily driven by a 3.47% increase in fee-based income, particularly from securities transaction gains, though credit growth declined 2.56% to IDR 145.08 trillion. The bank improved its credit quality with non-performing loans declining to 2.

Pertamina Patra Niaga RU IV Cilacap Opens Tender for Column Assy 11C-1 Replacement

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Refinery Unit IV Cilacap has announced an open tender for the replacement of Column Assy 11C-1 in the Fuel Oil Complex I area, aimed at maintaining operational reliability and ensuring continued production. The procurement process is conducted transparently and accountably, with interested suppliers able to register online through the official GEPSMARTE website.

Riau Female Student Victim of Stabbing Undergoes Surgery, Condition Stable

A 23-year-old female student at Universitas Islam Negeri Sultan Syarief Kasim (UIN Suska) in Riau underwent emergency surgery after being stabbed by a 21-year-old male student who had been rejected romantically. The alleged assailant has been arrested and charged, with police investigations revealing the attack was premeditated, as the suspect brought a sharp weapon from home specifically to assault the victim.

Ministry of Transmigration Opens Opportunities for Collaboration on Food Estate Development

The Ministry of Transmigration is collaborating with PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara to develop food production centres in transmigration areas, particularly in Merauke, South Papua, with support for agricultural mechanisation and village cooperative integration. The ministry has reframed transmigration policy away from mere population relocation towards creating inclusive, sustainable new economic ecosystems that generate employment and support national food security.

Food Price Index for Yogyakarta Today, 27 February 2026: Chicken Prices Rise

Food prices in Yogyakarta have shown mixed movements on 27 February 2026, with red chillies declining whilst red bird's eye chillies and fresh chicken prices increased, according to the Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS) of Bank Indonesia. The report highlights how production, distribution, supply sources, demand-supply dynamics, and market competition influence daily price fluctuations for essential commodities.

Golkar Criticises East Kalimantan Governor Over Rp8.5 Billion Official Vehicle: Listen to the People's Voice!

Golkar deputy chairman Sarmuji has publicly criticised East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud over the procurement of an Rp8.5 billion official vehicle, urging public officials to be more responsive to public sentiment amidst budget efficiency measures.

Woman Suspected of Mental Disorder Detained After Going Viral for Not Paying for Food and Ride Hails

A 38-year-old woman who went viral on social media for allegedly not paying for food and ride-hailing services has been detained by Jakarta's Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) and Social Services agency on suspicion of having a mental health disorder. She has been brought to the Duren Sawit Special Regional Hospital in East Jakarta for psychological evaluation to confirm the suspected mental illness.

Early Year Electric Cigarette Tax Revenue Breaks Through This Amount

Indonesia's revenue from electric cigarette (e-cigarette) excise tax reached Rp 0.37 trillion in January 2026, representing a 3.42% year-on-year increase compared to Rp 0.19 trillion in January 2025. The rise is driven by a sharp 90% annual surge in production, with open-system liquid products generating the largest tax revenue followed by closed-system liquids and solid products.

KemenPPPA Appreciates Polri for Dismantling Baby-Trafficking Syndicate: Serious Crime

Indonesia's Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA) has praised the police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim Polri) for dismantling a human trafficking syndicate operating through baby sales, with 12 suspects arrested.

Promoting Low-Carbon Economy, OJK and UK Form Climate Finance Working Group

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has established a strategic partnership with the UK government to form the Indonesia–UK Strategic Partnership Working Group on Climate Financing, aimed at mobilising climate finance and strengthening the resilience of Indonesia's banking sector against climate change risks.

DBS Foundation Supports Vulnerable Communities' Economic Development for Sustainable Impact

DBS Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development and social impact through its three core pillars: Responsible Banking, Responsible Business Practices, and Impact Beyond Banking. The bank operates under the philosophy of "doing well by doing good," leveraging the DBS Foundation to provide financing solutions and social support to vulnerable communities whilst advancing Indonesia's national economic growth and sustainable development goals.

Are PDIP Cadres Involved in the Free Nutritious Meal Project?

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has issued a circular directive prohibiting all party cadres from profiting from or managing the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme. The directive, signed on 27 February 2026, appears to be a preventive measure following allegations that political party members across the spectrum have been operating MBG facilities as commercial enterprises, directly contradicting the government programme's public welfare objectives.

Metro Police Investigating Military-Plated Vehicles Using TransJakarta 'Sky Lane'

Jakarta Metro Police are investigating a viral incident involving a convoy of vehicles with military plates allegedly using the TransJakarta corridor 13 'sky lane' (busway) in South Jakarta. Video footage captured by residents showed two black vehicles bearing Defence Ministry plates, accompanied by military police motorcycles, passing through the bus lane, prompting an official inquiry into the purpose of the convoy and vehicle registration details.

Prabowo Returns to Indonesia After 11-Day Foreign Trip

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Indonesia on Friday, 27 February 2026, after an 11-day overseas tour that included official visits to the United States, United Kingdom, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Europe's Skies Heat Up: Russia Bombards Ukraine, NATO Deploys Fighter Jets

Poland, a NATO member, deployed fighter jets in response to a major Russian missile and drone assault on Ukraine, raising concerns about potential escalation towards NATO territories. Russia launched a combined attack using 427 drones and 39 missiles against multiple Ukrainian cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia, with President Zelensky warning that threats continue as Russia targets critical energy infrastructure.

Golkar Rebukes East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud Over Rp8.5 Billion Official Vehicle Purchase

Golkar party's Secretary-General Sarmuji has called on East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud, a party member, to heed public opinion regarding a planned Rp8.5 billion official vehicle purchase. Governor Mas'ud has defended the procurement as necessary for his duties and aligned with Interior Ministry regulations, though he currently uses his private vehicle as an official car. The dispute highlights the tension between administrative needs and public fiscal consciousness in regional governance.

Calya Driver Charged with Weapons Possession and Number Plate Forgery Following Wrong-Way Driving Incident

The driver of a black Toyota Calya who caused a public disturbance by driving the wrong way in Jakarta's Gunung Sahari area has been formally charged with weapons possession and vehicle registration forgery, in addition to traffic violations. Police discovered a toy firearm, a machete, a dagger, and four forged number plates in the vehicle during a search, leading to charges carrying potential sentences of up to seven years imprisonment.

Former Pertamina International Shipping Chief Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison; Will Appeal Decision?

Yoki Firnandi, former chief executive of Pertamina International Shipping, has been sentenced to 9 years in prison and fined Rp 1 billion for corruption related to crude oil and refinery products management at PT Pertamina and its subsidiaries between 2018 and 2023. Expressing disappointment with the verdict, Firnandi indicated he is still considering whether to file an appeal, claiming the trial was a "theatrical performance" and asserting he had contributed positively to the company.

4.64 Million Taxpayers Have Already Submitted Annual Tax Returns via Coretax

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes reports that 4.64 million taxpayers have filed their 2025 annual personal income tax returns (SPT) as of 27 February 2026, with Coretax account activations reaching 14.69 million users. The filing comprises 4.13 million employee personal taxpayers, 408,524 non-employee personal taxpayers, and 109,678 corporate taxpayers. Individual taxpayers have until 31 March to file, whilst corporate taxpayers have until 30 April to meet the filing deadline.

GPPMI Supports Police Chief's Transparent Handling of Brimob Officers Case in Tual

The Indonesian Youth Movement for Community Care (GPPMI) has expressed full support for National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's firm and transparent handling of alleged assault charges against Brimob (Mobile Brigade) officers accused of fatally beating a student in Tual, Maluku Province.

Drug Trafficker Koko Erwin Arrested; Regional Police Chief Assures Trial Will Be Held in NTB

Suspected major drug trafficker Koko Erwin has been arrested in Tanjung Balai, North Sumatra, whilst attempting to flee to Malaysia, according to the Regional Police Chief of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Inspector General Edy Murbowo. The arrest implicates several police officers, including AKP Malaungi and AKB Didik Putra Kuncoro, in facilitating drug operations within the NTB police jurisdiction.

The Arrival of Homo erectus in Southeast Asia Suspected of Changing Mosquito "Diet"

A new study suggests that the arrival of Homo erectus in Southeast Asia approximately 1.8 million years ago may have prompted the Anopheles leucosphyrus mosquito species to shift its feeding preference from non-human primates to humans, between 2.9 and 1.6 million years ago.

Family Denies Veterinary Student Committed Suicide, Father States: He Was Very Happy

The family of I Putu Gde Pradnya Nolan Toli, a 22-year-old veterinary medicine student at Udayana University whose body was found beneath a bridge in Buleleng on 27 February 2026, has refuted claims that he died by suicide. His father, Made Merdana, asserted that his son had no personal, financial, or family problems, noting that their final telephone conversation showed the young man in good spirits, with his thesis completed and graduation scheduled for April.

Alleged Plot to Overthrow Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim's Government, Leading Family Suspected Involvement

Malaysia's Police Inspector-General Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail has confirmed that authorities are investigating a reported coup plot allegedly involving a prominent family currently embroiled in legal proceedings.

Constitutional Court Asked to Bar Presidential and Vice-Presidential Family Members from Running in Presidential Election; Jokowi Comments

Citizens have filed a lawsuit against electoral law and petitioned the Constitutional Court to prohibit family members of the President and Vice-President from running in the presidential election. Former President Jokowi responded by stating that all citizens hold equal constitutional standing and have the right to file lawsuits, calling for respect for the Constitutional Court's eventual ruling.

Prabowo Meets President MBZ to Discuss Investment Strengthening

President Prabowo Subianto met with United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi to discuss strengthening investment and energy cooperation between the two nations. The bilateral talks, held at Qasr Al Bahr Palace, focus on sustainable economic partnerships as Indonesia and the UAE mark 50 years of diplomatic relations. The visit underscores Indonesia's commitment to strengthening global partnerships with tangible benefits for public welfare.

Parliament Urges Government to Closely Monitor Holiday Bonuses for Ride-hailing Drivers and Couriers: Must Be Transparent

A member of the Indonesian Parliament's Commission V has urged the Ministry of Transportation and Ministry of Manpower to ensure transparent and equitable distribution of holiday bonuses (THR/BHR) to ride-hailing drivers and couriers, warning that these workers are vulnerable to unfair bonus criteria without strict government oversight.

Constitutional Court Review of Ban on Incumbent President's Family in Presidential Election is Worthy of Consideration

A constitutional law expert from the University of Indonesia has affirmed that a petition challenging the eligibility of the incumbent president's family members to run in presidential elections merits serious constitutional consideration.

CFX Crypto Exchange Slashes Fees to Attract Domestic Trading

Indonesia's domestic cryptocurrency exchange CFX is reducing transaction fees by up to 50 per cent, starting March 2026, cutting rates from 0.04 per cent to 0.02 per cent initially, then to 0.01 per cent in October 2026. The move aims to compete with offshore platforms and stem capital outflow, as studies show Indonesian traders conduct 2.6 times more volume on unauthorised foreign exchanges than licensed domestic platforms.

Human head discovered at Ketewel Beach suspected to be victim of mutilation

A human head and multiple body parts have been discovered at Ketewel Beach in Gianyar, Bali, with authorities suspecting mutilation. The Gianyar Police Chief stated that investigations are ongoing in cooperation with the Bali Regional Police, with forensic analysis pending to identify the victim and determine any potential links to a Ukrainian citizen abduction case.

End of An Era: Modern Retail Leaves Indonesia with Just 3.9 Million Warung

Indonesia's warung kelontong (mom-and-pop convenience stores) have declined sharply from 6.1 million in 2007 to 3.9 million currently, with street vendor association APKLI attributing the collapse to government-simplified licensing that accelerated modern retail expansion. The government and APKLI are exploring cooperatives programmes and stricter retail regulation to revitalise Indonesia's traditional small business economy and rural communities.

Charged with Premeditated Murder, Perpetrators of Sadistic Killing of Five Members of Haji Sahroni's Family Face Death Sentence

Two defendants have been charged with premeditated murder in the case involving the deaths of five members of Haji Sahroni's family, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty under Article 459 of Indonesia's revised Criminal Code. The case was opened at the Indramayu District Court on 26 June 2026, with the two defendants, Ririn Rifanto and Priyo Bagus Setiawan, tried separately despite being presented together.

Story of Deaf Twin Sisters Hasna-Hasni Hired by Matahari Department Store

Twin sisters Hasna Alifah Salsabila and Hasni Alifah Salsabila, both deaf, have gone viral on social media after securing employment at Matahari department stores in Bandung. The pair, who share their daily experiences on TikTok, have expressed gratitude for public support and hope to motivate other deaf individuals in Indonesia to persevere.

Bekasi Residents Did Not Demand Rp 50,000 Extortion from Rubbish Truck Drivers, but Rather Voluntary Contributions

Police in Bekasi clarified that residents collecting voluntary contributions from waste truck drivers along Gang Lurah were not demanding the reported Rp 50,000, but rather accepting smaller amounts ranging from Rp 1,000 to Rp 3,000 as compensation for odour disturbance.

AXA Financial Indonesia Unit-Linked Products Deliver Competitive Returns

AXA Financial Indonesia's unit-linked investment products have demonstrated competitive performance across short, medium and long-term horizons, winning seven categories in CNBC Indonesia's Best Unit-Linked Investment Performance assessment. The company's flagship Maestro Offshore Equity Funds USD achieved a five-year return of 54.

Students Allegedly Victimised by Sexual Harassment by Islamic Boarding School Leader in Sukabumi

Multiple female students at an Islamic boarding school in Sukabumi, West Java, have allegedly been sexually harassed by the school's leader, with allegations including kissing victims and inviting them to karaoke venues. The incidents came to light when a parent discovered text messages on their 16-year-old daughter's phone discussing the abuse, leading to the identification of at least six alleged victims.

Uproar Over Rp8.5bn Official Vehicle: Golkar Urges East Kalimantan Governor to Listen to Public

Golkar's Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji has called on East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud to heed public sentiment regarding a proposed Rp8.5 billion official vehicle purchase, whilst acknowledging the challenging terrain requires special specifications. Although the governor currently uses a private vehicle for official duties, Sarmuji warned that budgetary allocations must be measured against the people's current living conditions rather than personal standards.

Kerry Adrianto Sentenced to 15 Years' Imprisonment and Ordered to Pay Rp2.9 Trillion in Restitution

A Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza, beneficial owner of PT Navigator Khatulistiwa and son of Riza Chalid, to 15 years' imprisonment plus a fine of Rp1 billion and an order to pay Rp2.905 trillion in restitution for his involvement in an alleged crude oil and refinery product mismanagement corruption scheme at state-owned PT Pertamina.

Recruitment Completed in 3 Days: AI Solution Offers 80 Per Cent Faster Selection

TalentGO.AI, an Indonesian artificial intelligence recruitment platform, has launched an AI Virtual HR system that accelerates the candidate selection process by 80 per cent, reducing typical recruitment timelines from months to just 3 days. The solution addresses longstanding inefficiencies in recruitment for small and medium enterprises, which traditionally spend approximately 150 working hours and Rp 11.5 million per hire on CV screening and interviews.

Ministry of Social Affairs Commends Police Anti-Human Trafficking Directorate for Dismantling Baby-Selling Syndicate, Supports Maximum Sentencing

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has praised law enforcement efforts by the National Police Directorate of Human Trafficking Crimes in dismantling a baby-selling syndicate, with twelve suspects arrested across multiple provinces.

Ramadan Safari 1447 H: PJT II Strengthens Organisational Solidarity and Social Commitment

State-owned water resource management company Perum Jasa Tirta II is conducting a series of Ramadan Safaris across four operational regions to strengthen internal coordination, unity amongst departments, and reaffirm its social responsibility commitment. CEO Imam Santoso emphasised that the initiative transcends ceremonial tradition, serving as a strategic platform to align operational units around the company's shared vision of optimal, sustainable and accountable water resource management.

BKPM Optimistic About Investment Surge Through Accelerated NIB Licensing by 2026

Indonesia's Investment Ministry (BKPM) is accelerating the business licensing process through faster issuance of Business Identification Numbers (NIB) to attract foreign and domestic investors and meet investment targets for 2026. The streamlined digital system, underpinned by the integrated Online Single Submission (OSS) platform, aims to reduce bureaucratic barriers and enhance the business climate across key sectors including manufacturing, renewable energy, and mineral processing.

WhatsApp Messages Reveal Sexual Harassment Modus by Islamic Boarding School Leader in Sukabumi, Students Invited to Karaoke

Multiple female students at an Islamic boarding school in Sukabumi, West Java have reportedly been victims of sexual harassment by a school leader, with the abuse coming to light after parents discovered WhatsApp messages between students discussing the incidents. The modus operandi allegedly involved the suspect kissing victims and inviting them to night-time karaoke venues.

Saudi Arabia Imposes Ban on Poultry and Egg Imports; Indonesian Agriculture Ministry Responds

Saudi Arabia has imposed restrictions on poultry and egg imports from Indonesia, a sanitary measure that has been in place since 2004 following global avian influenza outbreaks.

Indonesia and Mongolia strengthen bilateral relations with 70-year diplomatic milestone

Indonesia and Mongolia held a Political Consultation Meeting in Jakarta marking 70 years of diplomatic relations, with Deputy Foreign Ministers discussing expanded cooperation in strategic economics, defence, agriculture, education, and technology. The two countries aim to deepen engagement through business partnerships, inter-ministerial dialogue, and various capacity-building programmes, with total bilateral trade reaching 56 million US dollars in 2025.

Chronology of Man Killed by Forklift in North Jakarta Due to Blind Spot

A man was crushed to death by a forklift at a container loading and unloading site in Marunda, Cilincing, North Jakarta, after positioning himself in the operator's blind spot. The forklift operator, whose view was obstructed by a passing container truck, did not see the victim when proceeding forward, and the victim was not a company employee but was present in the operational area.

IHSG Falls 0.31% in Morning Session After S&P Warning, Earlier Plunging Over 100 Points

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) closed the morning trading session down 0.31% at 8,209.329 points on 27 February 2026, after initially plummeting over 133 points following a warning from S&P Global Ratings. S&P cautioned that rising debt servicing costs could pose risks to Indonesia's sovereign credit profile, noting that interest payments may have exceeded the critical 15% threshold of government revenue for the previous year.

Bali Cultural Department targets new discoveries from palm leaf manuscript conservation at Kura-Kura Special Economic Zone

Bali's Cultural Department aims to uncover new historical and cultural information through conservation efforts of ancient lontar (palm leaf manuscripts) housed at the Kura-Kura Special Economic Zone. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with Balinese language instructors, expects to yield valuable discoveries about local history, folklore, and traditional medicine whilst simultaneously promoting Balinese language and script preservation amongst younger generations.

BPJPH: Cross-sector synergy strengthens competitiveness of halal UMKM products

The Halal Product Guarantee Organiser (BPJPH) emphasises the importance of cross-sector collaboration in strengthening the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (UMKMs) producing halal products, as consumer awareness of halal certification continues to rise. The agency is expanding its facilitation programmes, including free halal certification (SEHATI), with allocations increasing to 1.